Get Ready For Hunting Seasons Opening In September

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Right now is the time to double check the dates, zones, proper licenses and more for the seasons about to open.

Hunters will once again head to Wisconsin’s wild spaces as several hunting seasons open across the state in September. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters to prepare.

There are six dates throughout the month when seasons open. Hunters are encouraged to double-check season dates and that they have acquired all necessary licenses and stamps before going out for a hunt.

Sept. 1

• Common gallinule
• Early Canada goose
• Early teal
• Mourning dove
• Rail
• Snipe

Sept. 4

• Bear

Sept. 14

• Cottontail rabbit (Northern Zone)
• Deer (Archery and Crossbow)
• Ruffed grouse (Zone A)
• Squirrels
• Turkey
• Youth waterfowl

Sept. 16

• Regular goose

Sept. 21

• Duck (Northern Zone)
• Woodcock

Sept. 28

• Duck (Southern Zone)

The DNR also reminds us of mobile-friendly online resources, including hunting regulations, season dates, hunting hours and more, available on the DNR’s Hunting webpage.

You can find information on species population levels and hunting opportunities on the DNR’s fall hunting forecasts.

A list of public lands open to hunting is available using the Public Access Lands webpage. This web resource lets hunters plan their next adventure from the comfort of their home!

The Fields and Forest Lands Interactive Game Bird Hunting Tool provides hunters information on managed dove fields, as well as habitat for hunting ruffed grouse and woodcock.

As Wisconsin’s most popular hunting seasons ramp up, it’s important for all hunters to do their part to keep Wisconsin a safe place to hunt by following these firearm safety rules:

• T – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
• A – Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• B – Be certain of your target, what’s before it and what’s beyond it.
• K – Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must have a hunter education certification to purchase a hunting license unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law. Click here to register and take a hunter education course.

Have a successful and safe hunting season!