Hunting And Outdoor Sports
DNR reminds hunters of new deer management units ahead of gun deer season
DNR reminds hunters of new deer management units ahead of gun deer season
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Wisconsin
WISCONSIN (WJFW) — The countdown is on for Wisconsin’s gun deer season, with officials from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) expecting a higher harvest this year, thanks to new deer management units and milder winters. Opening on November 22 and running through November 30, the gun deer season is a critical time for hunters across the state, and this year’s changes may significantly impact their experience and success.
As hunters gear up for the upcoming season, DNR officials are placing strong emphasis on safety as the top priority. Recreation Warden Joe Mulrooney reminded hunters of the four basic rules of firearm safety, known by the acronym T.A.B.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 and what is beyond it. K: Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until it is safe to shoot.
Following these four rules, according to Mulrooney, will help reduce hunting incidents this fall. Additionally, the DNR has implemented a requirement for all hunters to wear blaze orange gear. “Fifty percent of your clothing above the waist has to be blaze orange if you're hunting,” Mulrooney stated. He advised hunters to inspect their blaze orange gear and replace it if it is faded or in poor condition.
Deer program specialist Jeff Pritzl elaborated on how this year’s season brings more harvest opportunities due to favorable weather conditions in previous years. “Deer are out there on the landscape, coming off of two mild winters,” Pritzl noted, suggesting that deer numbers in northern Wisconsin should be higher. Furthermore, he pointed out that deer harvest opportunities are enhanced with the recent availability of antlerless permits under the newly structured deer management units.
These deer management units now consider habitat rather than solely relying on county lines. This change means it is essential for hunters to familiarize themselves with their specific Deer Management Unit (DMU) number when preparing to register their deer this season. “It's a year that's crucial for people to check the map and review the regulations,” Pritzl stressed. The DNR offers multiple resources, including online maps, to help hunters interpret which DMU they will be hunting in.
In addition to these regulations, DNR officials urging hunters to test their deer for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) to assist in tracking and understanding the illness's spread. CWD testing becomes increasingly important as the DNR seeks to manage deer populations effectively and respond to this disease that poses a threat to deer health.
As the opening day of gun deer season approaches, Wisconsin hunters are encouraged not only to abide by safety regulations but also to take advantage of the enhanced opportunities presented by the new deer management units and favorable deer populations. Engaging in preparation and education on the latest regulations can lead to a successful and safe hunting season, ultimately fostering better conservation practices and public safety.
As Wisconsin's gun deer season approaches, the DNR's focus on safety and new deer management units marks a significant shift in hunting practices. While early reports suggest a promising deer population, hunters should stay informed about new regulations to maximize their success and ensure safety in the field. The emphasis on CWD testing is equally crucial, as it highlights a growing awareness of wildlife health issues that could impact both deer and hunting communities. Overall, this season may offer a unique opportunity for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike, provided they remain vigilant and prepared.