Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced it is now accepting applications for a special firearm deer hunt at the Sandhill State Wildlife Area. The application period will remain open until September 22, and the hunt is scheduled to take place on November 8 and 9, 2025.

The managed hunt will be held on the 9,150-acre Sandhill property. It is intended both to offer hunters a chance to participate in a unique event and to help the DNR achieve its deer management goals for the area. Participation in this hunt is limited to licensed hunters, and only firearms such as rifles or shotguns may be used.

Darren Ladwig, wildlife biologist with the DNR, said that permit levels for this year’s hunt are being set with specific population objectives in mind. “This year’s permit levels will be established to maintain the deer population at last year’s post-hunt density while also balancing the adult sex ratio of the herd,” Ladwig stated.

Hunters who are selected through the application process will receive either an either-sex permit or an antlerless-only permit that can be used within Sandhill State Wildlife Area during the two-day event. Those accepted must adhere to special hunting rules that apply specifically to this location; these regulations will be sent by email prior to the hunt.

All harvested deer from this special event must undergo chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing at an on-site registration station. This measure aims to monitor and control potential disease spread among local deer populations.

Further information about how to apply for this managed hunt can be found on the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center webpage. Applications must be submitted by September 22.