Wisconsin’s 2025 Nine-Day Gun Deer Season Opens Nov. 22
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that the 2025 gun deer season begins on Saturday, November 22, and ends on Sunday, November 30. For information, contact Jeffrey Pritzl, DNR Deer Specialist, at [email protected] or 920-366-3450.
“The 2025 gun deer season opens later in the month than in past years. Fewer deer may be active compared to earlier openings, although cold weather and snow could improve hunting conditions.”
License Sales Update
As of October 31, 2025, sales for gun, bow, crossbow, sports, and patron licenses totaled 463,983. Out of that number, 137,394 were gun-only licenses.
Changes to Deer Management Units
Hunters should note updates to several Deer Management Units (DMUs) for the 2025 season. DMUs in the Northern Forest Management Zones have shifted from county-based to habitat-based classification.
- Review the updated DMU map to confirm the unit where you plan to hunt.
- Forest Zone DMUs are now identified by number instead of name.
- Hunters must know their DMU name or number when applying for antlerless permits.
- All harvested deer must be registered electronically by 5 p.m. the day after recovery.
Additional Resources
Hunters can also view detailed season structures by county and DMU on the official DNR website for planning and compliance.
Author’s Summary: The Wisconsin DNR announces its 2025 gun deer season details, highlighting later dates, new DMU structures, and updated registration and license figures.