Wisconsin DNR Reminds Prospective Hunters to Sign Up for Education Courses

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is urging prospective hunters to enroll in Hunter Education classes as soon as possible ahead of the fall hunting season.

Classes, run by volunteer instructors, tend to fill up quickly as fall approaches. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must obtain Hunter Education certification to purchase a hunting license in Wisconsin.

The DNR offers three course types:

Traditional courses meet multiple times over one to three weeks, featuring classroom lectures and hands-on lessons. This option is recommended for those new to firearms.

Internet + Field Day combines online coursework with a 6-8 hour in-person session for hands-on training and exams. It’s suited for those with some firearm experience.

Online-only courses are available to students 18 and older, for those already proficient with firearms.

Students under 18 must take a course with hands-on training.  Those unable to complete a course can still hunt under the Mentored Hunting Law by purchasing a mentored hunting license and hunting with a licensed mentor.

The DNR reminds hunters that fall 2024 deer seasons include:

• Archery and Crossbow: Now – Jan. 5, 2025
• Gun: Nov. 23 – Dec. 1
• Muzzleloader: Dec. 2 – 11

The fall turkey season runs now through Nov. 22 statewide, with additional dates in specific zones.