Muzzleloader deer hunting continues statewide Nov. 27 to Dec. 6
MADISON – People venturing out into Wisconsin woods and fields over the next few weeks should note that while the traditional nine-day deer hunting season in Wisconsin closes on Sunday, Nov. 26, a statewide muzzleloader season runs from Nov. 26 through Dec. 5, and a statewide antlerless only hunt will be held Dec. 6-9. Gun deer hunting in deer hunting in the chronic wasting disease (CWD) management zones continues through Dec. 9. That CWD zone hunt is unlimited Earn-a-Buck through the season.
The muzzleloader season is open statewide except in some state parks units.
Keith Warnke, deer ecologist for the Department of Natural Resources, says a steady growth in the number of deer registered during muzzleloader seasons is an indication of the growing popularity of muzzleloader hunting.
In 2006 muzzleloader hunters registered 10,235 deer, up from 8,553 in 2005, Warnke says. In 1991, the first year a special muzzleloader season was held, only a few more than 200 deer were taken.
Hunters who plan on participating in the muzzleloader deer hunting season should check the 2006 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Regulation Pamphlet for muzzleloader restrictions and deer tagging options.
Tim Lawhern, DNR hunter safety administrator, says muzzleloader hunters need to be aware of the possibility of misfires, in which powder does not ignite, or “hangfires,” in which there is a delay in the discharge.
“It is very important that muzzleloader hunters keep their powder dry. Misfires or hangfires can and do happen. When this does happen they should point the muzzle in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds. By doing so, should the muzzleloader go off, it will not harm anyone.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith Warnke - (608) 264-6023 or Tim Lawhern, DNR law enforcement - (608) 266-1317
