Wisconsin Whitetail News

Hunting Gear You Need to Replace Immediately

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Tue, 3 Sep 2019 15:32:00 -0500

Deer hunting season is here. It's that time of year when we take all the information we have gained from the previous seasons and try to apply that knowledge to the upcoming challenge ahead. For most of us, we have taken the time to scout land, place strategic tree stands in our favorite locations and practiced our shooting skills. Once opening day arrives, its likely you are going to find something in your pack of hunting gear that needs replacing. Instead of waiting for opening day, here are a few tips you should take to prepare yourself for the upcoming hunt.

Arrows Will Go Bad

Many hunters prepare for the archery season by practicing. While that's a great plan to execute that once in a lifetime shot on a monster whitetail, arrows that have been driven into a target can go bad. Are you using arrows you have shot several rounds of target practice with? If so, replace them. Carbon arrows can certainly go bad. While you may not see anything wrong with your arrows, carbon can lose its spine by getting pounded into a target. A tip for not spending hundreds of dollars each season is to buy a set of practice arrows. Using the same arrow type for practice will give you the same result in the field without the fear of using a damaged practice arrow. Buy a box of six arrows and use three to practice with. Or use two and use the other four for the field.

Gloves are a Hands Best Friend

Last season was last season. We hunted through rain, snow, sleet and heat. Before we talk about our boots, the least expensive item that should be on your list this year are gloves. So what if you love your gloves and have never needed to replace them. A good set of gloves will give you the best chance of staying dry, warm and keeping your finger on the trigger a lot longer in tight hunting situations. A good set of gloves doesn't cost hundreds of dollars and they certainly protect a valuable asset to your hunt.

Scope Covers

Whether it be for your crossbow or rifle scope, having a good set of scope covers will give you a security blanket in the field. Even if you have a good set, a new set will cost you little and the replacement helps keep your hunting gear dry and clean to help see clearly on that dream whitetail.

Take a moment to comment on other items you feel would need to be replaced each year to help have a successful hunt.

DNR Spring Hearings Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Thu, 4 Apr 2019 13:06:00 -0500

On Monday, April 8, starting at 7 p.m. in each county of the state [PDF], individuals interested in natural resources management will have the opportunity to provide their input and testimony on proposed rule changes and advisory questions relating to conservation and fish and wildlife management in Wisconsin.

This year’s Spring Hearings will offer additional opportunity for the public to weigh in. The DNR and WCC will provide an online option for input for those people who aren’t able to attend a hearing in person or for those who’d rather provide input at the hearing using their smart phone. The online version of the Spring Hearing questionnaire [PDF] will be posted on the Spring Hearing website (dnr.wi.gov search keywords “spring hearings”). The input form will go live at 7 p.m. on April 8 and remain open until 7 p.m. on April 11.

The Spring Hearing input process allows the public the opportunity to comment and register their support or opposition to DNR proposed rule changes as well as Congress proposals that could someday become the rules that regulate fishing, hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation activities in Wisconsin. This year the DNR will be presenting 49 proposed rule change questions for input. Citizens may also submit ideas to address conservation needs or concerns they observe through the WCC resolution process and vote for WCC delegates to represent them on the Conservation Congress. However, providing input on resolutions or participating in the WCC election will continue to require in-person participation.

People interested in attending the hearings are encouraged to review the questionnaire online prior to the April 8 hearings and should arrive at the hearing location early to register before the hearings begin at 7 p.m.

Source: Wisconsin DNR

Wisconsin DMAP Enrollment by March 1, 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 08:35:00 -0600

MADISON - Landowners, hunters and land managers looking to improve habitat for deer and other wildlife are encouraged to enroll in Wisconsin's Deer Management Assistance Program.

DMAP provides informational resources and professional assistance regarding wildlife habitat management techniques for properties of any size to help participants improve habitat for wildlife.

"If you're interested in seeing more deer on your property, DMAP is a great option," said Bob Nack, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources DMAP coordinator. "The program provides individual property management plans and access to a community of other landowners working toward the same goal of improving wildlife habitat on their properties."

Enrollment is always open, but properties of 160 acres or more are encouraged to enroll prior to March 1, 2019, to receive priority access to program benefits, including a site visit and walk-through in 2019 with a professional wildlife biologist and forester.

DMAP participants receive access to statewide workshops on habitat and deer management, including professional presentations, property tours and hands-on demonstrations. In addition, they receive a unique opportunity participate in research projects and collect data on the deer they harvest and wildlife they observe.

As one DMAP cooperator stated, "DMAP has been providing me with the resources and education that is helping me manage my property for quality wildlife habitat and a healthy forest."

Be sure to check out an episode of the Wild Wisconsin: Off the Record podcast, titled "What can active management do for your deer hunt?" on YouTube, iTunes, Stitcher and PodBean to hear more from DNR staff and DMAP enrollees.

For more information regarding DMAP and to apply, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword "DMAP."

To receive DMAP email updates and other information, click on the email icon near the bottom of the page for "subscribe for updates for DNR topics." Follow the prompts and select the "Deer Management Assistance Program" option, found under Wildlife Management.

Article Source: https://dnr.wi.gov/News/Weekly/

Wisconsin Elk Hunting: Four Participants Awarded

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 2 Jul 2018 10:20:00 -0500

Following a 30-day application period and a great deal of anticipation, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources staff conducted the random drawing for four lucky residents who will participate in the first managed elk hunting season in state history.

"This is an historic time for the department and I would like to sincerely thank all those who applied for an elk license," said Kevin Wallenfang, DNR deer and elk ecologist. "It was a privilege to call all the winners and personally congratulate them - each one recognizes that this will be a unique and exciting experience."

Over 38,000 Wisconsin residents entered the drawing for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity - four hunters were selected to receive a license for Wisconsin's inaugural elk hunt. Successful applicants were from Merrill, Kenosha, Appleton and Green Bay. In addition to license fees, over $13,000 in donations was received to benefit elk management in Wisconsin.

An additional license will be awarded through a raffle conducted by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. The raffle winner will be drawn Aug. 11, and tickets can be purchased on their website [EXIT DNR]. All Wisconsin residents may enter the raffle, including hunters that applied in the state drawing. Raffle tickets may be purchased for $10 each; the same cost as the state application fee.

Proceeds from elk license applications and the RMEF drawing are earmarked for elk management in Wisconsin.

"Offering this hunt has taken Wisconsin's elk management program to a whole new level," said Wallenfang. "There has been high interest and excitement since we announce the hunt, and it has brought a level of awareness to a lot of people who didn't even know that we have elk in our state. It's an important opportunity to inform and build advocacy for our elk reintroduction effort, while providing a limited, but exciting, recreational opportunity. We anticipate more tags in the future as the herds grow."

The 2018 hunting season will occur only in the Clam Lake elk range in parts of Sawyer, Bayfield, Ashland, and Price counties in far north-central Wisconsin where the original restoration effort was initiated with 25 elk from Michigan in 1995. The herd is projected to comfortably surpass 200 animals this year.

Prior to purchasing an elk hunting license, all winners will be required to attend a Wisconsin elk hunter orientation offered prior to the hunt. The class will cover a hunting area overview, field sampling and health testing, regulations and more.

"The hunt will occur after the rut and the area is dense forest with openings, so it won't be easy," said Wallenfang. "But we estimate about 70 adult bulls in the Clam Lake herd, so it will be a hunt to remember for those lucky winners."

For more information regarding elk in Wisconsin, go to dnr.wi.gov and search keyword "elk." To receive email updates regarding current translocation efforts, visit dnr.wi.gov and click on the email icon near the bottom of the page titled "subscribe for updates for DNR topics," then follow the prompts and select the "elk in Wisconsin" and "wildlife projects" distribution lists.

Post Published by Wisconsin DNR - https://dnr.wi.gov/news/releases/article/?id=4545

Wisconsin Deer Hunting In July

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 2 Jul 2018 10:13:00 -0500

Well we have hit a new month in 2018 and its the one month where deer hunters in Wisconsin are doing a variety of summer scheduled plans. This includes enjoying our Independence Day with family and friends tops the list while remembering those that provided us this freedom to do so. We thank those that served and hope you know we appreciate everything you have done for us.

Moving into the later stages of July, deer hunters know that the season is quickly coming around the corner. It's the time that scouting for the elusive whitetail begins to heat up. As summer days get hotter there are a few more things you can do to prepare for the upcoming season even though being in the woods this time of year can be brutal at times.

Here are a few checklist items you should be doing in July to prepare for the upcoming 2018 deer hunting season:

1. Camera's placed on watering holes - patterns of deer travel during the summer months will include more stops at watering holes.

2. Camera's placed on crops - if you are lucky enough to have crops around your deer stand, placing cameras in July on food sources will continue to heat up as crops start to produce more food sources.

3. Repairing Deer Stands - If you didn't already do so this spring, you should be checking deer stands for any repairs or tightening. This task actually should be done a couple times during July and August as storms and wind will often cause deer stands to move. If you want to reduce your footprint in September, July and August are a good time to get into the woods quickly to repair stands.

3. Shooting and More Shooting - I know many of you shoot year round and thats a great way to stay in archery shape. For those who haven't shot since last fall, its time to dust off the bow and get shooting. Shooting a few arrows a week or even a day can help get you into archery shape. I know many hunters who also don't get their gun out the week before gun season. While this practice may be applicable due to time constraints, its worth noting that taking a few shots a month will help create confidence and better shot placement than just a couple shells right before gun season opener.

4. Share the woods with a young one - Spending time in the woods with children is tough during the fall. Kids are full of sports, school activities and homework. Weather during the fall, winter and spring can also make it difficult to share outdoor experiences with kids. Take a moment during a day in July and spend some time with your children in the woods. Have them help with deer stand repair, show them summer deer trails that are popping up and enjoy natures gift. Its a great way to spend some quality time and enjoy the outdoors together.

5. Check your hunting clothing for replacement - Its important to check your hunting clothing now. Let's be honest here...many of us grow a couple inches each year whether it be vertically or horizontally. Make sure your clothes fit and make sure they are still in optimal working conditions. Doing this in July helps save you money. You can get last year's models for less money if you need to replace your outfit and you are buying in the off-season so take advantage of discounts.

6. Replenish supplies - similar to number five, make sure your supplies for the upcoming season are ready to go. Items that you can replace, upgrade or repair can be done at a discount during the off-season. Check your bow for items that could be repaired: String, silencers, peeps etc...replacing bow equipment during the off-season could save you hundreds of dollars. It also gives you time to practice with the new equipment if you choose to replace or upgrade.

I hope this post helps and if you have any other suggestions, please do not hesitate to comment below.

Have a great Fourth!

WWN

County Deer Advisory Councils to gather feedback on season recommendations

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 2 Apr 2018 08:45:00 -0500

Antlerless quota, permit levels, and season structure; final meetings in April

MADISON -- County Deer Advisory Councils will release their preliminary antlerless deer quota, permit level, and season structure recommendations for the 2018 deer hunting season next week. An online public comment period will begin April 2 and run through April 12 to collect feedback on these preliminary recommendations.

To view your county's recommendations and provide feedback, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword "CDAC."

Antlerless quota recommendations and hunter success rates from previous hunts help determine the number of antlerless tags available for the 2018 deer hunting season, and help the Department of Natural Resources and councils work to reach deer population objectives within their county.

"The impact that CDACs are having on deer hunting in Wisconsin is impressive and growing," said Kevin Wallenfang, DNR big game ecologist. "The public has a real voice in local deer management, and the council members weigh their decisions heavily on public feedback. So, if you have an interest in helping to shape the deer season in your county, this is an important opportunity."

Wallenfang says that CDACs are considering a variety of factors like harvest data, population trends, and winter severity when they discuss harvest objectives and tag levels for 2018.

After the public comment period has ended, each council will reconvene during the week of April 16-19 to evaluate public feedback and determine final recommendations for the 2018 deer seasons which will be adopted by the Natural Resources Board in May. All meetings are open to the public and provide the opportunity for attendees to address the council. Meeting details for each county can be found at dnr.wi.gov and search keyword "CDAC."

Contact(s): Kevin Wallenfang, DNR big game ecologist, 608-261-7589
Source: https://dnr.wi.gov/News/Weekly/#art1

Let the Baiting Begin: Wisconsin Whitetail Baiting Bans Lifted for 15 Counties

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 16:22:00 -0500

Feeding and baiting whitetails have been a hot button discussion item for the past 10 years. With CWD being the focal point, baiting was pinpointed as a primary source of spreading the deadly disease. What are your thoughts on baiting whitetail deer?

Release from Wisconsin DNR: "Deer baiting and feeding bans have been lifted for Barron, Burnett, Calumet, Clark, Dodge, Jackson, Kenosha, Manitowoc, Milwaukee, Polk, Racine, Sheboygan, Washburn, Washington and Waushara counties, while bans remain in place within 28 counties. Know the rules where you hunt - visit dnr.wi.gov and search keywords “baiting and feeding” to learn more."

Source: Wisconsin DNR

Looking for a place to hunt in Wisconsin?

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 10:40:00 -0600

Visit the Interactive map found on the Wisconsin DNR website to find place for you to deer hunt in the upcoming season.

Check out the Interactive hunting season DMU map

http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt/dmu.html

Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan recommendations open for public comment starting Tuesday, Dec. 20

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 10:36:00 -0600

MADISON - Wisconsin's citizens have continued to embrace a larger role in deer management, and Tuesday, Dec. 20 marks the beginning of an opportunity to provide input regarding Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan recommendations.

Over the past several months, the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, and Wisconsin Conservation Congress have sponsored a stakeholder-based CWD Response Plan review committee to discuss and review the DNR's 15-year Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan. The plan covers action items like CWD surveillance and monitoring, hunting season tools, captive deer regulations, biosecurity and safety, research, and public involvement.

Review committee recommendations will be released for online public comment from Dec. 20, 2016 to Jan. 3, 2017. To view the recommendations and provide feedback online, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' website at dnr.wi.gov and search keyword "CWD response plan."

Following the close of the public comment period, public feedback will be shared with each County Deer Advisory Council for review and discussion during January CDAC meetings. Citizens can also send public comments directly to council members before January CDAC meetings or present their comments during the public comment section of these meetings.

A list of council members and meeting locations for each county can be found at keyword "CDAC" - click "find" to search for county information.

Council recommendations will be provided to the response plan review committee in late January to help finalize the committee's review of the response plan. The final recommendation package will be sent to the Natural Resources Board for approval in March 2017.

For more information regarding chronic wasting disease in Wisconsin, search keyword "CWD."

Article Date: Central Office December 14, 2016
Article Source: Wisconsin DNR
Contact(s): Kevin Wallenfang, DNR deer and elk ecologist, 608-261-7589; Bob Nack, DNR big game section chief, 608-264-6137

2016 Deer Management Zone Map

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Thu, 6 Oct 2016 15:55:00 -0500

Image of the 2016 Wisconsin Deer Management Zones.

2015 Wisconsin Archery Harvest Counts

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 09:09:00 -0600

Here are the 2015 Wisconsin Archery deer kill numbers.

		N
		Deer Type		Total (ALL)
		Antlered	Antlerless	Total (ALL)
Deer Management Zone	County
Central Farmland	ADAMS	123	124	247
	BARRON	512	387	899
	BROWN	363	295	658
	BUFFALO	924	619	1543
	CALUMET	156	108	264
	CHIPPEWA	509	410	919
	CLARK	336	332	668
	DOOR	310	215	525
	DUNN	636	445	1081
	EAU CLAIRE	217	222	439
	FOND DU LAC	520	389	909
	GREEN LAKE	419	301	720
	JACKSON	411	301	712
	JUNEAU	193	185	378
	KEWAUNEE	292	162	454
	LA CROSSE	402	269	671
	MANITOWOC	460	304	764
	MARATHON	1089	766	1855
	MARINETTE	191	251	442
	MARQUETTE	591	487	1078
	MCCoy	63	81	144
	MONROE	486	390	876
	OCONTO	372	321	693
	OUTAGAMIE	553	385	938
	PEPIN	196	174	370
	PIERCE	386	334	720
	POLK	695	545	1240
	PORTAGE	566	434	1000
	ST. CROIX	431	359	790
	SHAWANO	984	725	1709
	SHEBOYGAN	382	276	658
	TREMPEALEAU	695	449	1144
	WAUPACA	1149	802	1951
	WAUSHARA	656	414	1070
	WINNEBAGO	290	234	524
	WOOD	344	280	624
	Total (ALL)	16902	12775	29677
Central Forest	County
	ADAMS	382	253	635
	CLARK	392	95	487
	EAU CLAIRE	137	52	189
	JACKSON	201	21	222
	JUNEAU	172	50	222
	MONROE	117	45	162
	WOOD	240	59	299
	Total (ALL)	1641	575	2216
Northern Forest	County
	ASHLAND	83	9	92
	Bad River	11	.	11
	BAYFIELD	268	14	282
	BURNETT	341	102	443
	DOUGLAS	286	63	349
	FLORENCE	98	12	110
	FOREST	105	8	113
	IRON	19	1	20
	Lac Courte Oreilles	1	.	1
	Lac du Flambeau	1	.	1
	LANGLADE	242	14	256
	LINCOLN	284	70	354
	MARINETTE	357	103	460
	MENOMINEE	1	.	1
	OCONTO	209	78	287
	ONEIDA	293	28	321
	PRICE	276	25	301
	Red Cliff	3	2	5
	RUSK	382	96	478
	SAWYER	253	12	265
	TAYLOR	450	218	668
	VILAS	190	24	214
	WASHBURN	299	168	467
	Total (ALL)	4452	1047	5499
Southern Farmland	County
	COLUMBIA	635	425	1060
	CRAWFORD	402	212	614
	DANE	523	404	927
	DODGE	537	390	927
	GRANT	574	353	927
	GREEN	244	178	422
	IOWA	497	401	898
	JEFFERSON	300	222	522
	KENOSHA	81	50	131
	LAFAYETTE	222	157	379
	MILWAUKEE	38	33	71
	OZAUKEE	180	152	332
	RACINE	96	41	137
	RICHLAND	537	350	887
	ROCK	266	222	488
	SAUK	664	530	1194
	VERNON	619	426	1045
	WALWORTH	184	141	325
	WASHINGTON	436	356	792
	WAUKESHA	422	339	761
	Total (ALL)	7457	5382	12839
Total (ALL)		30452	19779	50231

Wisconsin Deer Hunting: Winter Severity Index through Dec. 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 11:30:00 -0600

Winter Severity Index through Dec. 2014

http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/wildlifehabitat/documents/wsiest2.pdf

This map depicts the Winter Severity Index (WSI) across Wisconsin. WSI is calculated by adding the number of days with a snow depth of at least 18 inches to the number of days when the minimum temperatures were 0◦F or below. WSI points accumulate through the winter. WSI of 50 or less is considered mild, 50 to 79 is moderate, 80 to 99 is severe, and over 100 is very severe. Most WSI readings are taken by WDNR biolo- gists across northern Wisconsin, but some readings are from National Weather Service stations. The stations used are displayed on the map.A statistical procedure uses that data to estimate WSI in the areas in between stations. Questions can be directed to

DanielJ.Storm@wisconsin.gov.

SOURCE: WI DNR - dnr.wi.gov

Wisconsin 9-Day Preliminary County Deer Registrations

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 11:17:00 -0600

For those Wisconsin Deer Hunters looking for the 2014 deer harvest numbers for the 9 day gun season...look no further. Here is the Wisconsin DNR pdf link:

http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt/documents/20149day.pdf

Check out your county today to see how you and your fellow deer hunters did this past season.

Deer hunting rule changes for 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Mon, 19 Jan 2015 11:15:00 -0600

Deer Trustee Report implementation: What is the Deer Trustee Report?
Starting in 2011, an extensive review was conducted of Wisconsin’s deer management program. The result of this undertaking known as the Deer Trustee Report included over 60 recommendations designed to improve Wisconsin’s deer management programs and the hunting experience. After significant effort by the public, the DNR and other partners and stakeholder groups, rule changes have been made that will go into effect beginning with the 2014 deer hunting seasons.
Where can I access more information on these new changes?
Along with information found on the DNR deer hunting and Deer Trustee Report web pages, multiple communication tools have been and will continue to be used right up through the deer seasons. Examples include brochures, hunting regulations, on-line chats, paid advertising, social media, sport shows, seminars, posters and more.
Where can I voice my opinion on all of the new deer hunting rule changes?
Located on the Deer Hunter Forum web page on the DNR website, there is a "Feedback" box where you are encouraged to provide comments.
Deer Management Zones and Units: What criteria were used to determined which Management Zone a county is located?
The basic outline of the zones has been used for decades as a way of identifying basic deer habitat types and herd productivity within Wisconsin. The predominant habitat type (forest or farmland) within a county determined which zone and season structure it would follow.
Why is there no December 4-day antlerless-only deer hunt in the Southern Farmland Zone?
The new season structure is a compromise with people who did not want the Holiday Hunt expanded to new areas of the state, but were used to the December 4-day antlerless-only deer hunt. The department received many comments from the public regarding reducing firearm hunting pressure in the Southern Farmland Zone; this rule was responsive to public requests.
Can hunters shoot bucks with a bow in Northern Forest and Southern Farmland Zone units during the December 4-day antlerless-only season?
Yes. The December 4-day antlerless-only deer hunt occurs only in Central Forest and Central Farmland Zone units. The regular archery season and crossbow season will occur in the Southern Farmland or Northern Forest Zones during those corresponding 4-days, during which bucks and antlerless deer can be harvested with bows and crossbows. In the Central Forest and Central Farmland Zones, bucks cannot be harvested during the December 4-day antlerless-only season, regardless of whether they hunt with gun, archery or crossbow.
What is the advantage of reforming the Deer Management Units based on county boundaries?
County-based Deer Management Units were created in-part to enable greater public input on herd management at a more localized level. Management Zones help enable management between habitat types including nine counties that are split between the Northern Forest Zone, the Central Farmland Zone and the Central Forest Zone.
How did research scientists combine previous year's data from the previous Deer Management Units to create data for new county units?
The department has historically collected deer harvest information by both county and Deer Management Unit and thus created retrospective county harvest histories. We have created county-based population estimates and estimated deer range by county. Using this data and input from the public, we set harvest quotas for the 2014 deer seasons.
Will the change to county-based Deer Management Units affect where deer can be registered?
Counties are now considered Deer Management Units in most cases so unit boundaries have changed. In 2014, as in the past, all deer must be registered in either the Deer Management Unit of kill or an adjacent unit before they may be transported out of the area. When electronic registration is in place, antlerless deer will need to be registered in the Deer Management Unit of kill before they may be transported out of that unit and antlered bucks may still need to be registered in the Deer Management Unit of kill or an adjacent unit before they may be transported out of the area.
If a hunter plans to harvest a deer in multiple Deer Management Units during the 2014 deer season will they need to buy separate tags?
At purchase, hunters will receive one buck tag that is valid in any Deer Management Unit and Deer Management Zone statewide and one antlerless tag that is valid in any Farmland Zone unit. If a hunter would like to harvest an antlerless deer in a Forest Zone this year they must purchase a bonus antlerless tag for that unit, if available. If a hunter wants more than one antlerless tag in a Farmland Zone, they can purchase additional tags for $12 (residents) or $20 (non-residents) each until sold out.
How was the number of land-type-specific tags (public or private) issued determined in each Deer Management Unit?
As they have in the past, the total number of tags issued in each unit was determined based on anticipated hunter success and the number of deer that local wildlife managers feel need to be removed from the area. The allocation to private and public lands was determined, in some cases, based on percentage of land area in public and private ownership in each county. We also applied, as best as we could, information about past harvest history on public and private land. However, this was difficult considering we had never applied success rates at a county level. Throughout the coming years, success rates and other important information will become more clear and we will adjust accordingly.
As state park units have now been eliminated, are there still limits to the number of hunters that may hunt in state parks?
No, these will be open-access properties now. However, this isn't as big of a change as it may seem. There were many other parks that were open to hunting like other public hunting lands and did not have a unique Deer Management Unit designation. Some state parks had, and still have weapon restrictions such as muzzleloader-only seasons, though. This type of special regulation is still likely to reduce hunting pressure in those parks.
Permits and tags: Which tags will be issued with the purchase of a deer hunting license?
In 2014, hunters who purchase an archer, crossbow or gun deer hunting license will receive one buck tag valid in any unit statewide, plus one antlerless tag that can be filled in any Farmland Zone unit.
What if a hunter purchases both an archer and crossbow license?
Hunters who purchase both licenses will only receive one buck tag valid statewide, plus one Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag; however, they may fill those tags with either weapon.
If a hunter first purchases an archer license and then upgrades to include a crossbow license (or vice versa) which back tag will they be required to wear?
Whichever license is purchased first will be the back tag they will be issued and wear. They will not be issued a second back tag. When they buy the upgrade they will be issued a separate license that denotes the upgrade and they must carry that that license while hunting.
What tags will be issued with the purchase of a conservation patron license?
Conservation patron license holders will receive one Gun Buck Deer Carcass Tag and one Bow Buck Deer Carcass Tag that can be filled with either a conventional bow or crossbow. They will also receive two antlerless tags valid for use in any Farmland Zone unit.
What tags will junior deer hunters receive?
They will receive one buck tag valid statewide and one antlerless tag valid statewide for each license.
If a 17 year old buys a junior hunting license, but turns 18 before or during the deer season, can they still use the statewide antlerless deer tags they received with their junior hunting license?
Yes, because the statewide antlerless tags were obtained while the person was under 18 years of age the tags are valid.
What tags will Class A and C disabled permit holders receive?
They will receive one buck tag valid statewide and the same Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag as everyone else; however, this antlerless tag will be valid statewide and they must simply show their disabled permit at the time of registration, as before.
What tags will qualified resident U.S Armed Forces members receive?
A U.S. Armed Forces member who exhibits proof that they are a Wisconsin resident or was a resident when they entered active service will receive one buck tag valid statewide and the same Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag outside of the Farmland Zones to tag an antlerless deer, including buck-only units, but only under the authority of a gun deer license and only during a season open to hunting deer with firearms.
Can class A and C disabled or qualified military personnel on leave tag a doe with their buck tag as before?
No. The law requires that we provide Class A and C disabled, and military personnel the opportunity to hunt either sex deer statewide during any firearm deer season under the authority of their gun deer license. By providing both a gun buck tag and an antlerless tag which are both valid statewide, we have fulfilled that requirement. Their buck tag is now valid only for bucks.
Will active duty military service members still be offered bonus antlerless tags for units that are sold out?
Yes, we will continue to handle this as we have in the past. Residents who are in active service with the U.S. Armed Forces outside this state and on furlough or leave will still be able to purchase a bonus antlerless deer tag for any unit and land-type (public or private) which has an antlerless quota, even if they are already all sold out.
Why is a statewide archery antlerless tag no longer included with the purchase of an archer license?
The decision was meant to keep tagging options consistent between archers and gun hunters, especially in the forested zones where deer herds are less productive or other Deer Management Units where the objective is to increase the herd.
Are antlerless tags weapon specific in 2014?
No. All antlerless tags may be filled with any weapon, during any season with the appropriate license.
Does weapon type matter while hunting during the Holiday Hunt in the Southern Farmland Zone?
The allowed weapon type depends on the type of license a hunter possesses. Since the gun, archery and crossbow deer seasons are all open during the 9-day period of the December Holiday Hunt, a person can hunt antlerless deer only with any of these weapon types if they have the appropriate license and an unfilled antlerless deer carcass tag.
Is regular hunting or hunting under an agricultural deer damage shooting permit allowed on the Friday prior to the November 9-day gun deer season?
Yes. The prohibition of possessing a loaded or uncased firearm on the Friday prior to the November 9-day gun deer season has been eliminated. This allows hunting with a firearm for any animal with an open season or under damage shooting permits.
Antlerless quota and permit setting: How was quota setting be carried out in 2014?
Antlerless quotas were determined much like they were in the past. The process started at the local level as managers evaluated 2013 hunter success, winter severity and other factors, and ultimately ended with the approval of quotas by the Natural Resources Board in late May.
Will quota setting be the same in 2015?
Starting in 2015, local County Deer Advisory Councils will meet and provide quota and other deer hunting recommendations to the DNR and Natural Resources Board for consideration in the quota-setting process. This is designed to provide greater input to local stakeholders and groups regarding deer management in their counties. The final approval of antlerless quotas will end with the Natural Resources Board, as always.
Bonus Buck regulations: Where is bonus buck allowed during the 2014 deer season?
Bonus buck is available to hunters only in the Southern Farmland Zone.
Can Bonus Buck Authorization stickers earned in 2013 be used in 2014?
Yes, all Bonus Buck Authorization stickers earned in 2013 can be used in 2014. Hunters can use Bonus Buck Authorization stickers in any Southern Farmland Zone unit and on any property type (public or private).
Can hunters earn new Bonus Buck Authorization stickers in 2014?
Yes, hunters can earn additional Bonus Buck Authorization stickers in 2014. However, they may only use one new Bonus Buck Authorization sticker during the 2014 season.
Can Bonus Buck Authorization stickers earned in 2014 be used in 2015?
Any unused 2014 Bonus Buck Authorization sticker may or may not be valid for use in 2015. We do not yet know what the final rule will be or if the bonus buck rule will still be in effect during 2015. Bonus buck will be addressed in the permanent Deer Trustee Report rule this fall.
Can hunters earn 2014 Bonus Buck Authorization stickers for harvesting antlerless deer in units outside the Southern Farmland Zone?
No, hunters can only earn Bonus Buck Authorization stickers by harvesting an antlerless deer in a Southern Farmland Zone unit.
What carcass tag will be used on a bonus buck?
A hunter can tag a bonus buck using any unfilled 2014 antlerless deer carcass tag (the free Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag or any unit-specific Bonus Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag) regardless of the zone, unit and land-type specified on the tag, but must first attach a 2013 or 2014 Bonus Buck Authorization sticker to the back of the carcass tag. For example, a hunter may attach their 2013 or 2014 Bonus Buck Authorization sticker to a Portage County, private land-specific Bonus Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag and use it to legally hunt and tag a bonus buck in any Southern Farmland Zone unit on any land-type (public or private).
Can hunters still harvest and tag an antlerless deer in the Southern Farmland Zone and continue to stay in the field and hunt for a bonus buck?
No. Under the new rules, a hunter must now first register their antlerless deer harvested in the Southern Farmland Zone in-person at a DNR registration station and obtain a Bonus Buck Authorization sticker. They can then go back out hunting for their bonus buck with their Bonus Buck Authorization sticker and an unfilled antlerless deer carcass tag in their possession. The carcass tag is required (see previous question).
What should I do if I have a valid 2013 Bonus Buck Authorization sticker that I earned last year, but affixed it to a CWD Management Zone antlerless tag that isn't valid anymore?
Bring your 2013 Bonus Buck Authorization sticker with your DNR customer ID number written on it to any DNR customer service center and you will be issued a replacement 2013 sticker.
Crossbow regulations: What tags will come with the purchase of a crossbow license?
A crossbow license comes with one Bow Buck Deer Carcass Tag valid in any unit statewide and one Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag valid in any Farmland Zone unit in 2014. Hunters may purchase a $3 upgrade which authorizes the use of both crossbow and vertical bow to fill the tags, however, the purchase of an upgrade does not come with a second set of tags.
If someone wants to hunt with a crossbow, do they need to purchase both an archer license and a crossbow license?
No. To hunt with a crossbow during the crossbow deer season, a hunter must purchase a crossbow-specific license. However, if a hunter wishes to hunt with both a bow AND a crossbow they must purchase both an archer and a crossbow license. The first license will be sold at the regular price and the second will be just $3.
If someone wants to hunt with a crossbow during a season open to hunting deer with a firearm (including muzzleloaders), do they need to purchase a crossbow license?
No. Anyone who possesses a regular (gun) deer license, can use any legal firearm, bow or crossbow to hunt deer with that license during any season open to hunting deer with a firearm.
If someone purchases both an archer and a crossbow license, what tags will they receive?
With the purchase of both licenses, hunters will receive one Bow Buck Deer Carcass Tag valid in any unit statewide and one Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag valid in any Farmland Zone unit. These tags may be filled using either weapon. The purchase of both archer and crossbow licenses only authorizes the use of both weapons and hunters will not receive a second set of tags.
Can junior deer hunters hunt with a crossbow?
Yes, but they must purchase a junior crossbow-specific license to use a crossbow during the archery and crossbow deer seasons. A crossbow license is not needed to hunt with a crossbow during a firearm deer season if the youth has a gun deer license, which also allows hunting with a bow or crossbow during a firearm deer season.
Do Conservation Patron licenses allow crossbow use?
Yes.
Do disabled permits still authorize crossbow use?
No, all hunters wishing to hunt with a crossbow, including the disabled and those over 65 years of age, must purchase a crossbow-specific license. Disabled hunting permits issued in the past which formerly allowed the use of a crossbow to hunt deer under an archer license are no longer valid because the law which allowed them to do so has been repealed by the legislature. The DNR has sent post cards to all of these permit holders advising them of this change.
Can hunters over the age of 65 still hunt with a crossbow using a regular archer license?
No, all hunters wishing to hunt with a crossbow, including the disabled and those over 65 years of age, must purchase a crossbow-specific license. The law that formerly allowed them to do this has been repealed by the legislature.
Are there specific transportation requirements relative to crossbows.
Crossbows that are not cocked do not need to be cased during transportation, whether it is in or on a vehicle, ATV, UTV, Snowmobile or other motorized vehicle. A cocked crossbow can be placed in or on any of these vehicles and transported only if it is first unloaded (arrow/bolt removed) and the cocked crossbow is encased in a carrying case.
Bonus antlerless tags: Why do bonus antlerless tags cost more than they have in the past?
One of the recommendations in the Deer Trustee Report was to sell antlerless permits at a consistent amount. Therefore, charging $12 per tag added value to the resource. The Deer Trustee Report authors thought free tags reduced the value of the experience of harvesting antlerless deer.
Can bonus antlerless tags still be purchased at one tag per day per customer?
Yes, where available antlerless tags were sold beginning on August 18 in the Northern Forest and Central Forest Zones, August 19 in the Central Farmland Zone and August 20 in the Southern Farmland Zone. Sales for all remaining bonus antlerless tags for all zones and units began on August 21. Remaining tags can be purchased at a rate of one tag per day per customer until the unit is sold out or the hunting season ends. At purchase, the hunter will specify the zone, unit and land-type (public or private) that they want their tag to be valid.
Are additional bonus antlerless tags weapon specific?
No.
As in the past, can qualified farmers request one free bonus antlerless tag for each bonus antlerless tag they purchase?
Yes, but this request must occur at the time of purchase of the initial bonus antlerless tag and it must be for the same Deer Management Unit and land-type as their first tag.
When the bonus antlerless deer tags went on sale in August, did the prices differ between Management Zones?
No. Where available, bonus antlerless tags are the same price, regardless of the zone and unit - $12/tag for residents and $20/tag for non-residents. There no longer are Herd Control $2-antlerless tags or free CWD Management Zone antlerless tags.
Public and private lands tags: Will the antlerless tags included with the purchase of a deer license need to be specified for use on public or private land?
Not in 2014. The Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag which is issued with a deer hunting license will be valid for both public and private land in any Farmland Zone unit. Starting in 2015, hunters will be required to specify zone, unit and land-type (public or private) for all antlerless tags including those that are issued with the purchase of a deer hunting license.
Do bonus antlerless tags require the purchaser to indicate public or private land?
Yes. In 2014, only bonus antlerless tags will be specific to private or public land.
How do the antlerless tags that come with each deer hunting license look different from the bonus antlerless tags which are purchased and designated as public or private?
It will strictly be through the wording directly on the tag, so the tag will need to be read as always. The title at the top of the tag, as well as a description of where it is valid, will note the difference. The free antlerless deer tags are titled "Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag." A bonus tag will say "Bonus Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag" at the top and will also include the zone, unit and land-type describing where the tag is valid.
What is the penalty for someone who harvests a deer in the correct zone and unit but does not have the correct land-type specified on their tag?
This has not changed with the new rules. The penalty would be $222.90 plus the cost of a bonus antlerless deer tag they should have purchased for that land-type ($12 or $20).
If a person buys a private lands antlerless tag, are they restricted to only shoot a deer that is actually on private land or are they able to shoot a deer that is on public land so long as the shot originates on private land?
If a hunter has a private lands tag, both the hunter and the deer must be located on private property and vice versa. A hunter with a private lands tag cannot shoot a deer standing on public lands even if they are standing on private land.
If a person plans to hunt on private land and public land, are they required to have two antlerless tags, one for private and one for public lands?
It will depend on what Deer Management Zone they are hunting. In a Forest Zone, when antlerless permits are available the answer is yes, but only if they wish to hunt for antlerless deer on both public and private land. In 2014, in a Farmland Zone unit, a person with an unfilled Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag can hunt for an antlerless deer on both public and private lands. Buck tags are valid statewide, including both public and private lands.
If a hunter purchases a public lands tag, can they switch it to a private lands tag after the purchase?
No, they will need to purchase a private lands tag. All sales are final once the archery deer season opens.
If a hunter possesses a private lands bonus antlerless tag, can that customer hunt any private lands within the unit?
No. Trespassing laws exist and hunters still need landowner permission prior to hunting on private land. There are lands enrolled under open Managed Forest Law, Forest Crop Law and Voluntary Public Access programs that allow public hunting access, but these lands are considered public lands for purposes of where antlerless deer tags are valid. Hunters must possess a public lands antlerless tag to harvest antlerless deer on these open lands.
Are there more antlerless tags available for private land than public land?
This varies throughout the state and is based on antlerless harvest needs.
If a hunter with a valid private lands tag shoots a deer on private land and the deer runs onto public land but does not die, may the hunter shoot that deer when found and if so, what type of tag is required, public or private lands?
It is not legal to hunt and/or shoot a deer in a unit or on a land-type for which one does not have a valid tag, even if they first wounded that same deer in the unit or on the land-type their antlerless tag was valid. Doing so could be considered hunting deer without the appropriate approval. To allow this would be to allow anyone to hunt in the wrong area and simply claim that they wounded the deer earlier in the area their tag was actually valid. If the deer is still alive when they find it, and if gun deer hunting and no other member of the hunting party has a tag for the unit and land-type the deer is now located in, the hunter should contact the local warden for advice on what to do. If the deer is already dead when the hunter finds it in an adjacent unit or property type, it would be legal and the hunter must immediately validate and tag the deer with the tag that was valid for the areas where the deer was shot. This is no different than what could have happened in the past when someone was hunting near the boundary between two Deer Management Units.
If hunting on private land that is open to public hunting because of an agricultural damage deer shooting permit, which tag is needed, public or private?
Lands for which deer damage permits have been issued are still treated as private lands, unless they are also enrolled as open to public hunting under the Managed Forest Law or Forest Crop Law. A damage permit might require the land to be open for public deer hunting, but it is neither a lease agreement like lands enrolled in Voluntary Public Access nor a contract like those for open Managed Forest Law or Forest Crop Law lands. For hunters using the bonus antlerless carcass tags, the hunter would need the appropriate public or private lands antlerless tag for the property type they are hunting.
For people enrolled in open Managed Forest Law or Forest Crop Law programs, will they need a public or private lands antlerless tag to hunt on their own land?
It will depend on whether or not all of their land is enrolled in one of these programs or not. Opened Managed Forest Law, Forest Crop Law and Voluntary Public Access lands open to public hunting are considered public lands for hunting purposes. These landowners must have a tag valid for antlerless deer on public lands to hunt for antlerless deer on portions of their property enrolled in open Managed Forest Law or Forest Crop Law programs. If they also own Managed Forest Law or Forest Crop Law lands closed to public hunting, or part of their land is not enrolled in one of these programs, such as agricultural lands, they will need to have a tag valid for hunting on private lands to hunt for an antlerless deer on those portions of their property.
Can hunters "group hunt" using a public lands antlerless tag? For example, if someone in a group of three has a public land antlerless tag for the correct area, will everyone else be able to participate under group hunting rules?
Yes. The Deer Trustee rule did not change group hunting regulations. If the antlerless tag is valid for the area the group is hunting (correct unit, zone and land-type) and if all group members comply with all group deer hunting requirements, anyone in the group may participate in group hunting and fill an open antlerless tag. All members of the group must be using firearms and each must hold a regular gun deer license in addition to contact and tagging requirements. A person hunting with a bow or crossbow cannot shoot a deer for someone else to tag, or tag a deer shot by another.
Registration and transportation of deer: How long will a hunter have after harvesting a deer before they are required to register it?
All deer must be registered by 5 p.m. the day after the animal is recovered and the carcass tag is validated, EXCEPT during the period that covers the November 9-day gun deer season, hunters have until 5 p.m. the day after the season closes to register ALL deer harvested during that period, including deer killed with bows or crossbows.
Does the requirement to register deer by 5 p.m. the day after the close of the November 9-day gun deer season apply to only those hunting under the authority of a gun deer license?
This requirement applies to all deer killed during the November 9-day gun deer season regardless of the weapon type or license type used.
With the implementation of electronic registration, will the registration requirements for harvested deer change?
In 2014, since all hunters will register harvested deer in-person as usual, they will still be able to register both antlered and antlerless deer either in the Deer Management Unit (county) of kill or an adjacent unit. With the full implementation of electronic registration, each antlerless deer killed during all deer hunting seasons must be registered before being transported from the unit of kill and each antlered buck killed during all deer hunting seasons must be registered before being transported from the unit of kill or an adjacent unit.
What is the requirement for transporting registered deer?
Beginning this year a person may not possess another hunter's deer while afield, even if the deer is tagged and registered, without the tag holder being present, except that anyone can possess and transport another person's registered deer on a public highway for purposes of transportation to, and possession at, a dwelling or a business without the tag holder being present. A dwelling includes both permanent and temporary residences, and would include hunting cabins and camp sites. This allows a person to leave their registered deer at a hunting camp, meat processor or someone else's residence when they are not there.
Does that mean it's okay if I leave my tagged deer hanging in my hunting camp and go home?
Yes, a cabin or a campsite is considered a dwelling for the purpose of this rule and as long as it is your dwelling (camp or residence) you can leave and store your deer there. The deer would not be considered possessed by another when you leave your deer at your own dwelling. This is true whether the deer is registered or not but don't forget to register your deer by the required season deadline.
What is the purpose behind the new restriction for transporting or possessing someone else's deer; what is still allowed?
A change was made to allow the department to continue to enforce the laws which prohibit killing and possessing a deer in violation of the state's group deer hunting laws. Under the modified rule, it is simply necessary for a person who tags a deer to register that deer before it is given to another person to have and be in control of. The rule still allows a person to have and control a registered deer tagged by someone else at a dwelling (residence, camp site or cabin), and to transport someone else's registered deer on a public roadway or area where it is not legal to hunt, even when the person who tagged the deer is not present. Beginning in 2015, being able to register deer electronically (phone or computer) will make registering deer even easier. What is not allowed is to be in control of, or to transport someone else's deer (registered or not) while still afield unless that person is also present.

The restriction against "possessing" someone else's deer while still afield only applies when another person has taken primary or exclusive control of that deer. Simply being present at the same location where someone else has left their deer, does not mean the person whose tag is on the deer has transferred possession and control of that deer to you, or that you are now automatically considered to be in "possession" of that deer. Standing near a tagged deer carcass, while the tagger walks back to their vehicle, home or camp to get a rope or help to drag out the deer, or sitting alone in a vehicle parked in the field while has someone else's deer loaded in that vehicle, is not illegal. This is a common occurrence and is still allowed.
Chronic Wasting Disease management: Is the CWD Management Zone gone?
Yes, the area formerly known as the CWD Management Zone has been dissolved. Instead, counties where CWD has been found or a county within 10 miles of the location where CWD is found in either a captive or wild deer population are now referred to as CWD affected areas. Baiting and feeding of deer is prohibited in these counties as well.
Is there a separate map showing the CWD affected area?
Yes, a map identifying the counties designated as the CWD affected area can currently be found on the DNRs CWD web page. These are the same counties where Baiting and Feeding of deer is currently prohibited.
In the past the department has given someone a replacement buck tag if they shot a CWD-positive buck. Will they now do the same if they shoot a CWD-positive doe?
Yes, a replacement tag will be issued for all harvested deer that test positive for CWD, regardless of sex. Please see the 2014 Deer Hunting Regulations for further details.
Are we charging a fee for CWD tags?
CWD, Regular and Herd Control tags no longer exist. All that remains are Farmland Zone Antlerless Deer Carcass Tags issued with each deer hunting license purchased and additional bonus antlerless deer tags which may be purchased starting on August 18 in the Northern Forest and Central Forest Zones, August 19 in the Central Farmland Zone and August 20 in the Southern Farmland Zone. Sales for all remaining bonus antlerless tags for all zones and units will be sold starting at 10 a.m. on August 21. All purchased bonus antlerless tags, regardless of the unit for which they are valid, cost $12 for residents and $20 for non-residents.
Would an unused 2013-14 free CWD Management Zone deer carcass tag be valid during the 2014 deer season even though they are no longer being issued?
No, all previously issued CWD Management Zone deer carcass tags will not be valid in 2014. The expiration date on those tags was March 31, 2014.
Do you foresee continued testing for CWD considering the growing area in which it is found?
Yes, the department intends to continue testing for CWD. The major focus will likely continue to be in southern counties, but the department will also continue to do weighted surveillance in counties where CWD has not been detected. Hunter service testing will continue to be an option for adult deer and hunters/landowners are encouraged to report sick deer to DNR staff. Contact information for reporting can be found on the sick deer web page on the DNRs website.
Will deer harvested in CWD-affected areas still need to be registered in-person? Do they also need to be registered through electronic registration?
The department may require that any deer harvested in an area affected by CWD or other disease threats, or areas where samples are needed for department research purposes, to be exhibited and registered at registration stations designated by the department. In 2014, unless the hunter is notified to participate in electronic registration, all hunters must register their deer in person by 5 p.m. the day after the deer is located and tagged, except during the 9-day period of the November gun deer season when all harvested deer regardless of weapon type must be registered by 5 p.m. on the day after the close of this season.
How will CWD testing be handled going forward?
The department will continue CWD monitoring efforts as before. After the full implementation of electronic registration, some registration stations may be maintained throughout the state specifically for the purposes of collecting CWD samples as well as other biological data.
Are there any restrictions about crossing state lines or transporting a deer harvested in a CWD affected county out of a CWD-affected county?
The restrictions on moving deer from a CWD affected county are the same as the rules that had been in place the past few years regarding moving deer from the former CWD Management Zone. The head and spinal column cannot be moved any farther than an adjacent county outside the CWD affected area unless the carcass is taken to a licensed meat processor or licensed taxidermist within 72 hours. Anyone wanting to transport a deer from a CWD affected area out-of-state should contact the state the deer will be transported to as to determine what restrictions exist regarding the transport of deer in the other state.
Electronic registration: Is electronic registration be available to hunters in 2014?
For most hunters, no. In 2014, in-person deer registration stations will be maintained. Unless notified by the department, all deer hunters during all seasons are required to register their deer in-person as they always have. As usual, over 600 registration stations will be open throughout the fall, including about 120 operated by DNR wildlife management staff during the first two days of the November 9-day gun deer season to collect aging data and for disease monitoring.
When is electronic registration expected to be fully implemented?
The current timeline calls for full implementation by 2015. This means the use of phone and internet registration is expected to be available to all hunters during the 2015 deer season.

SOURCE: Wisconsin DNR http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/dtrfaq.html

Wisconsin DNR: Operation Deer Watch kicks off August 1

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 9 Aug 2013 08:30:00 -0500

Reporting deer observations helps biologists assess annual deer herd production

MADISON -- In an ongoing effort to include public input in deer management, and to effectively monitor and evaluate Wisconsin’s deer herd, the Department of Natural Resources is continuing its annual citizen-science survey, Operation Deer Watch.
This unique collaboration of data from the public, along with deer observations collected by DNR staff, provides insight on the reproductive status of Wisconsin’s deer herd in 2013. The number of does, bucks, and fawns seen are indicators of annual deer herd production.

“This is a fun and useful opportunity for the public to be the daily eyes and ears for the deer herd in their area.” said Brian Dhuey, DNR surveys coordinator. “Citizens annually provide thousands of observations that the department utilizes in monitoring the herd.”
To get involved, begin recording all bucks, does, and fawns seen between dawn and dusk during the period of Aug. 1 to Sept. 30. Daily observations can be tracked using a tally sheet that is available at dnr.wi.gov, search keywords “deer watch.” Observations can be submitted at the same web site.
“This year, 14,000 deer hunters were selected at random and sent a letter inviting them to participate in Operation Deer Watch,” said Dhuey. “However, if you were not one of the hunters selected to participate we still encourage your participation to help provide insight into Wisconsin’s deer herd.”
For more information, videos, and results of previous years, search the DNR website for keywords “deer watch.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Brian Dhuey, DNR surveys coordinator, 608-221-6342 or Jay Watson, DNR research technician, 608-221-6360.

Source: http://dnr.wi.gov/news/Weekly/Article_Lookup.asp?id=2649

New 2013 Hunting Equipment Proves Evolution

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 16:00:00 -0500

As I progress through the review of the hunting equipment shows that I attended, I noticed that the theme for this year is more of an evolution of product vs an growing innovation of new products.

Hunting clothing is getting better with even more durable material, elastic material for greater fit and better moister wicking material for comfort.

Arrowrests have evolved from the full arrow capture and drop down to a full arrow capture, drop down and now adds color options, silencing enhancements and multi bow adjustability.

I look forward to bringing you the 2013 line up of hunting equipment goodies. Let me know if you want me to review a specific product this summer.

Continue having a great summer!

Who Killed Wisconsin Deer Hunting

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:12:00 -0600

In our recent Wisconsin deer hunting seasons, we have witnessed the ups and downs of harvest numbers, DNR thrashing and a Kroll report.

The debate that seems to follow is, are we hunting to preserve a tradition, or have we gone to far to preserve a large inflow of income to a sport that requires large racks, lots of points and spreads that make hunting magazine readers go absolutely crazy?

We have yet to determine what is the best way to manage our whitetail herd and yes, we have made strides to fighting back against the "numbers" game where more tags sold means more money.

More money did more than just devastate a herd, it killed the sport from those who use it as a management game. Land owners that had over 100 acres once worked their land to manage and cultivate large whitetail bucks for the sport along with increasing the joy of the hunt. Now, with the so called slimming herd, land owners all the way down to those who manage 5 acres are taking care of their "precious."

So what do we have now? We have deer no longer moving because they are being fed, baited and controlled by land owners vs nature controlling the herd along with a government backed entity to ensure the game does not get overran.

I open this for this comments, but my question remains: Is the DNR responsible for the deer herd decline or are we the hunters at fault for the smaller deer herd because we just created a micro managed deer herd?

Looking for the Wisconsin Deer Hunting Kroll Report

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Wed, 2 Jan 2013 10:55:00 -0600

We've heard numerous news reports, chats online and friendly banter between colleagues on this whole Kroll report on our deer hunting herd.

If you looking for the information from that report. Follow the links below:

Kroll Report - Executive Summary
Kroll Report - Final Report

Breeding Behavior of Male and Female White-tailed Deer Relative to Age Class

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:00:00 -0500

Here is a great read from the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Although the breeding system of white-tailed deer is commonly described as a dominance-based hierarchy, recent studies have documented the breeding success of all age classes of bucks in white-tailed deer. It has been suggested that the breeding success of young bucks is the result of exclusively mating with young does, while older bucks concentrate their efforts on mature does, presumably because these does are more experienced and more likely to recruit one or more fawns. Additionally, older does may not tolerate mating attempts of younger bucks, preferring to mate with dominant bucks. The occurrence of multiple paternity in many white-tailed deer populations indicates that female choice may play an important role in determining the distribution of buck breeding success.

We are sampling litters of fawns and assigning paternity using a panel of genetic markers. Our preliminary results indicate that yearling bucks successfully mate with does of all ages. The mean age of female mates was 5.1, 4.8, and 5.0 for 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5+ year-old bucks, respectively. Additionally, we documented 2 incidents of multiple paternity involving yearling bucks.

The breeding success of young bucks may be restricted to the peak of the breeding season when the most does are in estrous and mature bucks cannot monopolize access to all does. The lack of an association between buck age and doe age is more evidence that overall male-to-male competition may not play an important role in gaining access to does. This ongoing research should provide further insights into breeding behavior and success of while-tailed deer.

Cooperative funding was provided by King Ranch, Inc., Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, and the Quality Deer Management Association.

Source: http://www.ckwri.tamuk.edu/fileadmin/user_upload/docs/Deer_Research/publications_and_Presentations/Current_Research_Abstracts/Breeding_Behavior_of_Male_and_Female_White.pdf

Jason A. Sumners, Randy W. DeYoung, Rodney L. Honeycutt, Stephen Demarais, Mickey W. Hellickson, Kenneth L. Gee, and Robert A. Gonzales

Operation Deer Watch survey ends but observations can be reported until Oct. 15

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 15:17:00 -0500

Sunday, Sept. 30 marked the end of the Operation Deer Watch survey in Wisconsin, but people still have until Oct. 15 to report their sightings. Department of Natural Resources wildlife researchers conduct they survey each fall, asking the public to report observations of does, fawns and bucks to help in estimating the reproductive status of the state deer herd.

“We have gotten a great response from the public with 1,371 observations reported so far from 576 individuals,” says Brian Dhuey, DNR wildlife research scientist. “Of those, 161 also supplied an email address to have a summary of their observations emailed to them at the end of the survey period.”

Wisconsin's Deer Herd: Priority to Hunters and the DNR

So far, observers have reported 789 bucks, 512 unknowns, 1,512 does without fawns, 313 fawns without does, 546 does with one fawn, 397 does with two fawns, and 55 does with three fawns. Observations have come in from 112 of 139 deer management units in the state. DMU 77M has the greatest number of observations (92), followed by DMU 59B with 69 observations.

While the survey period is over, wildlife watchers can still report their observations from the survey period that ran from Aug. 1 through Sept. 30 through Oct. 15. Observations can be reported by going to the Wisconsin DNR homepage and keyword search “deer watch.”

People cans also send in tally sheets to: Wildlife Surveys, Attn: Brian Dhuey, 2801 Progress Road, Madison, WI 53716.

Researchers will combine the data from the survey with similar data collected from DNR staff. They will use this information along with harvest and age information to estimate deer densities in most of the states deer management units at the end of the hunting season.

Source: http://dnr.wi.gov/news/BreakingNews_Lookup.asp?id=2530

News Release Published: October 3, 2012 by the Central Office
Contact(s): Brian Dhuey, 608-221-6342 or Jes Rees, 608-221-6360

Wisconsin Wolf Season Under Way

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 13:11:00 -0500

As a notice, the DNR has now states that if a quota has been met in any zone before the season ends that they will close the season early. To make sure the closure of season is communicate, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will provide the following:

Check out the Wisconsin Wolf Hunt Statistics Here on the Wisconsin DNR Website. Four wolves and counting as the season gets underway.

Link to watch the seasons kill numbers: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt/wolf.html

posted notice of the closure on the website;
announced the closure on the telephone reporting system (1-855-299-9653); and
issued a press release announcing the closure.

Notice on the WI DNR website: NOTE: It is the hunter or trapper's responsibility to determine the closure status of a wolf zone [PDF] prior to attempting to hunt or trap wolf in that zone.

More than 7,000 applications sold in first six days for wolf hunt

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Tue, 7 Aug 2012 13:16:00 -0500

MADISON – As of Tuesday morning, August 7, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has sold 7,286 applications for wolf hunting permits. This included 7,150 that were purchased by Wisconsin residents and 136 purchased by nonresidents.

Hunters and trappers interested in participating in Wisconsin’s inaugural wolf hunting and trapping season must apply for a permit between Aug 1 and Aug 31, 2012. The permit application fee is $10 and applications can be purchased through the Online Licensing Center on the DNR website, at all authorized license agents, at DNR Service Centers (Hours for service centers vary; check the DNR website for service center days and hours of operation; DNR Service Centers are not open on Saturdays), or by calling toll-free 1-877-LICENSE (1-877-945-4236).

The wolf hunting and trapping season will run October 15 to February 28, 2013. For more information search for "wolf" on the DNR website.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Cosh, DNR spokesperson – 608-267-2773
Source: Wisconsin DNR; http://dnr.wi.gov/News/Weekly/#art7

Wisconsin Deer Managment: Kroll Report

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 10:19:00 -0500

Every deer hunter in the state of Wisconsin seems to be chatting about the Kroll Report. Bellow, you will find the link to the report. What are your thoughts?

http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/wildlifehabitat/documents/krollreport.pdf

Outdoor Group Acquires Scott Archer/CBE

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:52:00 -0500

The Outdoor Group which is the parent company of Elite Outdoors, LLC and Elite Archery since 2009 has since announced on March 8, 2012 that it has finalized the acquisition of assets and business of Scott Archery and Custom Bow Equipment.

This acquisition combines Elite Archery's experience in ultimate bow manufacturing, innovation and marketing with Scott Archery's excellence of top quality releases and custom hunting gear and target sights.

Both Scott Archery and CBE will maintain its current location of Clay City, KY and key member of Elite Outdoors will collaborate with their new partners at Scott Archery and CBE to continue developing and innovating new archery releases and sights.

Fawn research intended to answer hunters' questions about deer mortality

noreply@blogger.com (Wisconsin Whitetail News) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:45:00 -0500

Weekly News article published: April 24, 2012 by the Central Office

MADISON – Dozens of volunteers assisted state wildlife researchers in capturing and placing radio-collars on 132 yearling and adult deer in January, February and March. Now the call is going out again for volunteers to help locate fawns born to does that were fitted with implant radio transmitters designed to signal when fawns have been born in mid- to late May.

“With the whitetail birthing season just around the corner, volunteers are again needed to sweep the woods looking for the newborns,” said Chris Jacques, Department of Natural Resources research scientist. “When located, fawns will be fitted with expandable radio collars so we can follow them through their first year of life to determine causes of death, whether it be due to nutrition, environment, vehicle, hunters or predators. This is real applied research and last year’s volunteers found the work rewarding.”

Some hunters have questioned assumptions about fawn recruitment used by wildlife biologists for estimating deer populations. Recruitment is the net addition of new fawns to a population each year and is an important input in estimating deer population numbers. At the end of this three-year effort to monitor fawns, researchers hope to fine tune their inputs to population estimates based on real-world data collected in this research effort.

Volunteers will be assigned to search teams working in the vicinity of Shiocton in Shawano County and Winter in Sawyer County. When transmitters have been expelled (presumably when a fawn has been born), a search team will form a line and comb the woods, somewhat similar to a deer drive, in search of bedded fawns. Opportunistic searching in high quality fawning habitats also will be conducted across both study areas. Captured newborns will be fitted with a radio collar of their own and left for the doe to raise normally.
If a fawn dies, the collar will emit a unique signal that researchers will again use to locate the animal to determine cause of death. The collars are designed to expand as the deer grows and eventually drop off as the animal approaches its first birthday.

Impact of predators on deer populations of special interest to hunters

“Determining causes of death in fawns is vital to the accuracy of our deer population estimates,” said Jacques. “Of special interest is the impact of predators on fawn deaths. We have a suite of predators in Wisconsin, including black bears, bobcats, coyotes, and gray wolves, that may have some impact on yearly fawn production. What we are less certain of are the relative roles that each of these predators may play on fawn recruitment over the course of an entire year.”

During 2011, thanks to the help of volunteers across the state, researchers enjoyed tremendous success capturing fawns. A total of 104 fawns, including 68 (48 radio collared, 20 ear-tagged) in the Shawano area and 36 (30 radio collared, six ear-tagged) in the Winter area, were captured.

“Though we have collected just one year of field data, preliminary evidence indicates that predation (primarily by black bears and bobcats) is likely having some measurable impact on fawn survival across northern Wisconsin, having accounted for 14 of 22 (64 percent) deaths during the first month of life,” according to Jacques. “The predation impact across east central Wisconsin appears to be considerably lower, having accounted for just six of 18 (33 percent) recorded fawn deaths. Vehicle collisions and fawn abandonment appear to be primary causes of death, accounting for half of all recorded fawn deaths in the eastern farmland region. Fawn survival through December 2011 in the northern and east central study areas was 27 and 63 percent, respectively, indicating that the northern forest region is a much tougher place to scratch out a living for fawns than the eastern farmland region of Wisconsin.”

This work is possible only with the involvement and work of dozens of volunteers representing hunting groups such as the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, Safari Club International and Whitetails Unlimited, the University of Wisconsin- Madison and UW-Stevens Point, the AFL-CIO Union Sportsmans Alliance, and hundreds of Wisconsin citizens.

“Anyone who has looked for newborn fawns or been startled to discover a fawn lying motionless in the forest or field next to them knows what a challenge it is to find them,” says Jacques. “They have excellent natural camouflage and instinct to remain absolutely still when approached. The transmitters will give us a better idea of where they are but it will still take time on the ground to locate them.”

For more information and to sign up as a volunteer search Deer Research on the DNR website.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Chris Jacques – (608) 221-6358 or Bob Manwell - (608) 264-9248