Wisconsin Deer Season and CWD Watch
Last checked against Wisconsin DNR on Jul 13, 2026.Official Wisconsin DNR dates
Open now
Archery/Crossbow, GeneralSep 12, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027Extended archery to Jan 31 in metro subunits + select farmland counties.
Next opener47days
Firearm, 9-day gunSat, Nov 21 to Sun, Nov 29, 2026
Next deadlineNo dated deadlineOver-the-counter deer license, no draw; buck tags valid statewideCheck with Wisconsin DNR
Season dates, in date order
| Method | Portion | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery/CrossbowOpen now | General Extended archery to Jan 31 in metro subunits + select farmland counties. | Sep 12, 2026 | Jan 3, 2027 |
| FirearmNext | 9-day gun | Nov 21, 2026 | Nov 29, 2026 |
| Muzzleloader | Muzzleloader | Nov 30, 2026 | Dec 9, 2026 |
| Antlerless | Statewide antlerless | Dec 10, 2026 | Dec 13, 2026 |
| Antlerless | Holiday hunt (select farmland counties) | Dec 24, 2026 | Jan 1, 2027 |
Deadlines
- Over-the-counter deer license, no draw; buck tags valid statewide
Chronic wasting disease
2,000+ positives in 2026, ~87% in the Southern Farmland Zone (Zone 3 epicenter). Free testing at 240+ locations.
Regulations change every year and can change mid-season. This page is informational only. Confirm every date, permit and CWD rule with Wisconsin DNR before you hunt. FDR is not affiliated with any state natural-resources agency.