Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging residents and visitors to take advantage of the state’s extensive public lands for hunting this season. According to the DNR, there are more than 6 million acres of public land available throughout Wisconsin, with most areas open to hunters. In addition to these state-managed properties, private landowners have opened an additional 28,000 acres through the Voluntary Public Access (VPA) program.

To help hunters find suitable locations, the DNR offers several online mapping tools designed for use on mobile devices. These resources allow users to identify state-owned lands as well as federal and county properties that may be available for hunting. The department also includes Open Managed Forest Law/Forest Crop Law properties in its listings but urges hunters to confirm access before planning a trip.

One of the key resources is the Public Access Lands Tool, which provides detailed information about DNR-managed sites and nearly all federally or county-owned lands. Hunters should verify that hunting is permitted at each site prior to visiting.

Another resource is the Fields and Forest Lands Interactive Game Bird Hunting Tool. This tool helps users locate habitats favored by species such as woodcock and ruffed grouse, including young aspen and alder stands. It also identifies pheasant-stocked public grounds and dove fields open for public access.

For those interested in exploring VPA lands specifically, the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program Interactive Map offers details about privately owned parcels that are accessible thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Landowners participating in this program receive financial incentives in exchange for allowing year-round public hunting access. The DNR advises hunters to review property-specific guidelines before visiting these sites.

After researching locations online, hunters are encouraged by the DNR to scout habitats in person ahead of their hunt and look for wildlife signs that indicate animal activity. The department suggests preparing multiple options due to possible changes in weather or increased pressure from other hunters.

The DNR reminds all participants that public lands are shared spaces used by a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. “Hunters are reminded that public lands are for everyone, and it is likely that other hunters and recreational users could be on the property.”

To promote safety and stewardship during hunting trips on public land, the department recommends several best practices:

- Know property boundaries and hunt only where legal.

- Follow leave no trace principles; avoid altering or cutting tree limbs.

- Be adaptable with backup plans if needed.

- Remain aware of others using the land, including fellow hunters, recreational users, and DNR staff.

- Adhere strictly to firearm safety rules summarized by TAB-K:

“T - Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

A - Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.

B - Be certain of your target, what’s before it and what’s beyond it.

K - Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.”

The agency also notes that all hunters except waterfowlers must wear blaze orange clothing during any active gun season.

Further information regarding regulations, season dates, hunting hours, and additional resources can be found on the DNR’s Hunter Resources webpage.