Don’t Miss The Youth Deer Hunt Oct. 8-9

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging young hunters and their mentors to get out and enjoy the beautiful fall colors this weekend while taking part in one of Wisconsin’s most beloved hunting traditions.

This special hunt is available for both Wisconsin residents and non-residents and is intended to give youth hunters an opportunity to gain valuable deer hunting experience under the watchful eye of seasoned hunters. Hunters 15 years old and younger, with or without hunter education certification, are eligible to participate in the youth gun deer hunt with a mentor.

Those new to hunting can celebrate their first harvest with an official celebratory certificate. Follow the instructions on this DNR webpage to upload a photo of your first deer and describe the experience.

Youth Deer Hunt Reminders:

• Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age that has received permission from the hunter’s parent or guardian. For hunters younger than 12 and those who have not completed hunter education, the mentor must also be a hunter education graduate and hold a current hunting license.
• One mentor may not accompany more than two youths at the same time.
• Be sure to consult the youth deer hunt rules and regulations for full details.

Learn more about additional youth hunting opportunities on the DNR’s youth hunt webpage.

Any time a firearm deer season is taking place, including the youth deer hunt, at least 50% of all hunters' clothing above the waist must be blaze orange or fluorescent pink. The requirement includes archery hunters and small game hunters. Waterfowl hunters are exempt from this rule.

The DNR recommends 100% blaze orange or fluorescent pink.