Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding hunters with disabilities to secure a spot for the upcoming Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters with Disabilities, which will be held from October 4 to October 12, 2025. Eligible participants are required to contact and confirm their participation with a hunt landowner sponsor before September 15, 2025.

This annual event provides thousands of acres of accessible land for hunters who qualify under the program. The DNR encourages interested hunters to reach out directly to sponsors as soon as possible since the number of available spots varies by property.

Brooke VanHandel, assistant deer and elk specialist at the DNR, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This special hunt offers hunters with disabilities the opportunity to deer hunt during a time and in a place that is more accessible for them. We are so thankful for our landowner sponsors who are willing to partner with hunters and open their properties to allow more individuals to participate in Wisconsin’s deer hunting tradition.”

To register, eligible hunters or their assistants must provide their name, contact information, and DNR customer ID number. Participants must have a valid Class A, C or D disabled permit or an appropriate Class B permit. Each hunter may only sign up for one sponsored property per year and must also possess a gun deer license.

The DNR has stated its commitment to making outdoor activities inclusive: “Wisconsin's outdoors are for everyone. The DNR is committed to providing various hunting, fishing and recreational permits and unique opportunities designed to help give people with disabilities the opportunity to partake in Wisconsin's abundant natural resources.”

Additional details about eligibility requirements and registration procedures can be found on the DNR’s Deer Hunting for Hunters with Disabilities webpage.

The department notes that early communication with potential sponsors is recommended because some properties have limited capacity while others can host more participants.

The Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters with Disabilities has been organized annually as part of ongoing efforts by the DNR to ensure access and inclusion within state-managed outdoor programs. By working closely with private landowners willing to open their properties, the department aims to continue expanding opportunities so that all residents can take part in traditional hunting experiences.

For further information regarding this program or other accessible outdoor opportunities provided by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, prospective participants are encouraged to visit official online resources or contact local representatives directly.