Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report
Edited by Paul Holtan
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707-7921
(608) 267-7517
Fax: (608) 264-6293
E-mail: paul.holtan@dnr.state.wi.us
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/or/
DNR Outdoor Report as of November 17, 2011Wisconsin?s traditional nine-day gun deer season opens this Saturday, and if the weather cooperates prospects should be excellent for hunters, as white-tailed deer are being reported as near peak or just past peak of their mating season known as the rut, with many reports this week of bucks actively pursuing does throughout the day.
The forecast does call for the possibility of some rain in the south and snow in the north. As of Thursday, only portions of far northern Wisconsin were reporting any remaining snow cover. Much of northern, western and south central Wisconsin are reporting very dry conditions, while recent rain in the northeast and southeast have marshes and lowland very wet.
While portions of the state are included in Herd Control or CWD seasons that allow for addition harvest to curtail growth, most of the state will have limited or no antlerless harvest, under the in the 2011 deer season structure [http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/hunt/deer/dmu.htm]. The only Earn-A-Buck requirement this year is within the chronic wasting disease management zone and the rule has been modified to allow the harvest of one buck deer per unused gun and one buck deer per unused archery buck deer carcass tag without earn-a-buck requirements. Also new this year hunters may harvest deer with archery equipment during the nine-day gun deer season however they must observe blaze orange hunting clothing rules.
Hunters can get last minute questions answered by calling the toll-free DNR Customer Information line from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days per week, at 1-888-WDNR INFo (1-888-936-7463).
Waterfowl hunters continued to report increased numbers of diver ducks and Canada geese moving into Wisconsin with the cold front of the last week. Unfortunately, wildlife officials report that a collard trumpeter swan cygnet was shot and killed in St. Croix County, prompting officials to again warn waterfowl hunters to be sure of their targets. The hunter in this case turned himself in to conservation wardens. Due to the mild fall conditions, the nearly 200 pairs of swans that nested in Wisconsin this year have not really begun migrating and are still widely dispersed.
Fishing pressure continues to be very low. Musky anglers continue to be the most active, though there are still fly fishers working Lake Michigan tributaries where they were now seeing fewer coho salmon and more rainbow and brown trout. In the north, the native brook trout spawning season is nearing its peak, with males exhibiting some spectacular spawning colors. Look for the spawning fish around gravel areas in riffles in the smaller tributary streams, but watch from a distance and not disturb the fish or these fragile spawning areas.
As of earlier this week there were more than 60,000 tundra swans in the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife Refuge. The loon migration is beginning to speed up with recent cold temperatures. Birders are also reporting an ongoing phenomenon of vagrant birds from the southwestern United States showing up in Wisconsin, including a broad-billed hummingbird, a Eurasian widgeon and Pacific loons.
# # #
A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.
A new report is put on the line each week.
Statewide Birding Report
Recent cold fronts and some strong tailwinds have accelerated the pace of waterbird and waterfowl migration this past week. Couple with the ongoing phenomenon of vagrant birds from the southwestern United States has led to an exciting week for Wisconsin birders! Highlights include:
? Near peak numbers for waterfowl and swans on the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife Refuge. Based on numbers from Monday Nov., 14 there are more than 60,000 tundra swans on the refuge and likely more as lakes and ponds in the Dakotas freeze up this weekend. The peak for canvasbacks is now past, but birders can still expect to see more than 200,000. Tundra swans are also viewable at large marshes and lakes across Wisconsin including Goose Pond in Columbia County and the Madison lakes.
? Loon migration is beginning to speed up with recent cold temperatures. You can follow the path of some satellite collared loons at
http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/terrestrial/migratory_birds/loons/migrations.html.
? This fall season has brought an influx of vagrant birds found more commonly in the southern US. New rarities found include a broad-billed hummingbird in Mequon. For an update on this phenomenon read the Wisconsin eBird story at:
http://ebird.org/content/wi/news/western-rarity-parade-hits-wisconsin.
? Other rarities reported this week include a Eurasion widgeon at Potosi, Pacific loons at multiple locations on the Great Lakes, a vermillion flycatcher in Rock County, and the return of the Townsend's solitairies at Devil's Lake State Park.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest - Tuesday, Nov. 15 brought interesting weather into the northland. Numerous reports of thunder and lightning were reported with the falling snow and sleet on Tuesday afternoon. The snow did not last remain on the ground long, as of Thursday, Nov. 17 the ground is bare of snow. The next chance of snow is this Saturday with 80 percent chance of precipitation. Hunters are reporting that the rut activity is past peak but there should still be some active deer during the gun deer opener this weekend. Hunters are also reporting that some bear are still active. As of Nov. 15, fishing on the Bois Brule River is closed. Wednesday, Nov. 16, a 36-foot tall balsam fir was cut off of Stone Chimney Road and hauled to the Capitol Rotunda to be used as the 2011 Capitol Holiday Tree. Governor Walker has asked art teachers, parents, and youth all across Wisconsin to help the State of Wisconsin decorate the Capitol Christmas Tree. The theme of the tree this year will be Honoring 163 years of Wisconsin?s Veterans. Teachers or students interested in displaying ornaments on the tree must make their submissions by Dec. 1, and the ornaments must be based on the Honoring 163 years of Wisconsin?s Veterans theme. The ornaments can be mailed to: Governor Walker?s Office, State Christmas Tree Ornament Program, PO Box 7863, Madison, WI 53707-7863. The last time a tree from the Brule River State Forest went to the capitol was in 2004.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Iron County - Fresh snow fell in northern Iron County, Wednesday night just enough to help in spotting deer. Buck are in full rut; several nice bucks have been taken. Bear are still active and are feeding on the deer baits. Turkeys are also feeding on the corn, helping them put on a little more fat for the upcoming winter. Large flocks of snow birds are in the area. Muskie hunters are getting some large fish, with more than one being taken. Deer hunters are reminded to be extra careful this deer season with the new gun case laws.
Bayfield County - In Northern Bayfield County the weather had been nice and people have been seeing some nice bucks here and there, with scrapes/rubs continuing to be seen. Mid week the weather has turned cold and the ground is starting to freeze. There is some light snow in areas and they are calling for snow this coming weekend on the opening of gun deer season. Waterfowl hunting has not been the greatest in the Chequamegon Bay as of late, but with this colder weather and winds this last week of duck hunting should be good for diver ducks.
Douglas County - The deer rut is starting to shift into high gear but seems to be a little later then normal years. The deer should still be rutting for the opening weekend of deer season and should provide some good opportunities for some big bucks for the gun hunters. Large numbers of swans have been moving through the Gordon area and are providing good viewing opportunities on local ponds and rivers.
Hayward DNR Service Center area
Sawyer County - The warmer sunny days have prompted a few more people to put down the bows and shotguns to try some last minute, late season fishing. Since most have stored boats already, a lot of these people are hitting shore fishing spots and the river systems. With the cooler water temps, fishing from shore has been productive for walleye and crappie. Anglers using the large size fat heads have a better chance of getting a mixed bag of fish. The 2 to 4-inch plastic baits have been working well also. Those fishing into the evening when the sun is setting are switching to slip bobber and minnow and doing well also. With the gun deer season approaching, the woods have been seeing a fair number of people ?scouting? for the prime location. Some last minute archery hunters are seeing bucks actively pursuing does yet. Some hunters are still trying to capitalize on the scrape lines, which are not being very active while others are using bait. The hunters using bait are seeing smaller bucks with larger ones skirting/running around more so than being interested in the bait. A new law that went into effect this year will allow archery hunters to continue hunting into the gun deer season. So far, not many plan on using this option for fear of having the ?big? one just out of bow range. Those who do plan on doing the archery hunting during the gun deer season must remember the blaze orange requirement applies during the gun deer season, even if archery hunting. Water trappers are having a decent season thus far with weather holding out for them in the Sawyer County area. Without much precipitation and not too cold of nights the water levels have stayed pretty consistent and the water hasn?t been freezing, which can cause traps to become frozen and not work. Only the last few evenings during this week has some ice been forming along the edges, but not enough to affect traps. After this up-coming week?s predication of lows in the teens, only running water areas will stay open along the shorelines. A fair number of the trappers are awaiting ice-up so they can get under the ice beaver sets in.
Spooner DNR Service Center area
Baron County - A few mallards showed up this week indicating some migratory birds are moving through the area. Giant Canada geese are migrating, through in lower numbers than usual, which is interesting considering most agriculture fields are harvested this year providing plenty of spots for them to feed. Water levels are low on area lakes and rivers due to lack of precipitation this fall. The rut is on full blast and archers are harvesting some outstanding racks in the Rice Lake area. Skim ice has formed on quiet bays in the morning and with a few cold nights, ice anglers will be out soon.
Burnett County - In recent weeks the deer activity has slowed down but should be increasing just in time for the opening of the gun deer season. Deer numbers seem good in the Grantsburg area. The blown down timber from the July 1 storm is going to make deer drives and even getting to some favorite hunting location almost impossible in some areas. Waterfowl numbers are good in the area and it could be more than worth a trip to your favorite duck hunting location. There is currently no snow on the ground but there is a chance for snow on Saturday.
Washburn County - Still very few ducks in the area. A few duck hunters still getting out but they are not seeing many ducks. Bucks are on the move. Many being seen and some big ones being shot by bow hunters. Not many anglers out but the ones that are have been reporting good catches of walleyes and panfish.
Ladysmith DNR Service Center area
Rusk County - Rut activity seems to be increasing, and should continue into the gun deer season. Access to the Rusk County Forest and numerous State and Public Managed Forest Land properties should be good as the areas have not received any rain and ground conditions are dry. Snow is in the forecast for Saturday afternoon through Sunday, which should make for ideal hunting conditions. Large flocks of geese have been moving through the area and field hunting has been successful for the hunters who are pursuing geese.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - Fishing pressure has been generally light across the Northwoods as most outdoor enthusiasts seem to be keying in on the buck rut and the upcoming gun deer season. Water temperatures are near 40-degrees and cold night-time temperatures have caused some skim ice to form on many ponds and the edges of small lakes. But for the most part, lakes remain open and are several weeks away from solid ice cover for any sort of ice fishing activity. A few musky anglers have still been out trying their luck and have had minimal success. They are getting some short strikes on their suckers and seeing a few follows on slow-moving glide baits, but the cold water temperatures have made the fish very reluctant to hit. Walleye anglers have pretty much given up until we see some ice cover, but a few river anglers have reported some fair success on small fish. The brook trout spawning season is nearing its peak - typical for the mid-November period. The male brookies exhibit some spectacular spawning colors and they can often be viewed in their mating rituals on many native brook trout streams. Look for the spawning fish around gravel areas in riffles in the smaller tributary streams. Observers are reminded to watch from a distance and not disturb the fish or these fragile spawning areas - as this represents the future of that brook trout population.
Taylor County - Hunters are preparing for the annual gun deer season. The deer continue to rut and are being seen at all times of day and night. Plan your hunt now and hunt your plan. Preparation equals success. Taylor County is experiencing a major bald eagle migration this week. Eagles from the north and resident eagles are comingling resulting in large numbers being seen. Many small ponds are receiving surface ice and weather permitting some ice anglers may be out before the end of the gun deer season.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
Vilas County - Whitetail deer are moving everywhere right now. Numerous bucks have been seen chasing does during daytime hours. It looks like rutting activity will continue for opening day of the 2011 gun deer season. Archery hunters are out in good numbers taking advantage of the rut and some large bucks have been seen around the Boulder Junction area. Musky anglers are still out on area lakes getting in the final casts of the season before the lakes freeze. Skim ice has been covering some lakes due to some very cold mornings. Waterfowl hunters are reporting good success with the recent cold fronts and seeing many different species on area lakes.
Turtle-Flambeau Scenic Waters Area - With the opening of deer season only days away, hunters have been heading into the woods to find that special spot in hopes of bagging a deer. All of the state lands surrounding the Flowage lie in deer management unit 29A. That means that in order to shoot an antlerless deer, you will have had to purchase a unit 29A antlerless permit. As a reminder, you may not hunt within 100 yards of any of the 66 campsites on the Flowage. That means that most of the islands with a campsite are off limits to hunting. It appears that Mother Nature will not grace the area with snow on the ground opening weekend. The area missed out on the snow last week as well so the woods remain brown. For those die hard anglers, musky and walleye fishing remain good with open water everywhere for now. That may change by the end of the week as overnight lows drop to the teens and daytime highs barely above freezing. The piers at Fisherman?s and Sportsman?s landings will be pulled Thursday before deer season. Launching is still available, albeit without the pier. Water levels remain fairly constant at 2.75 feet below full pool.
Antigo DNR Service Center area
Langlade County - The cold nights are causing ice to form on small lakes and in the bays of even the larger bodies of water. As soon as the weather stays below freezing for a few days in a row, ice will be on the lakes. Nov. 22 is the average date for many lakes in the area to freeze. Even though deer season is right around the corner, now is also a good time to get the tip-ups and power augers in good working order. Also, with upcoming early ice conditions it's especially important to be careful on thin ice. Anglers should be careful and consider wearing flotation devices if they choose to venture onto thin ice.
Lincoln County - Waterfowl hunters have been reporting an unusually high population of diver ducks moving through the area in the last couple of weeks. There are mixed reports from the grouse hunters with fair success being had in the better habitats. So far it has been good weather to be in the bow stand, and hunters are reminded to stay safe and use a fall restraint system. As gun hunters gear up, the same applies. Also make sure that all stands are in good condition before you climb up to hunt.
Florence DNR at the Florence Natural Resource Center
Florence County - Each fall conservation wardens receive numerous complaints of deer carcasses dumped in inappropriate locations. Although, the initial reports often indicate a deer was "poached," often these deer were actually killed legally before the carcass was thoughtlessly disposed of. Deer carcasses should be buried on private land, legally landfilled, or placed for other animals to utilize on private lands. Make sure you have permission to dispose of the carcass on the land where you place it. If in doubt, check with the property owner. Also remember that any litter that may have been used to store or clean the deer such as rubber gloves, towels, ropes, tags etc. must be removed before the animal is left in the field. Keep in mind that some non-hunters as well as other hunters may not want to see the remains of your deer, so don't dump them where they will easily be viewed or dragged around by dogs or other wild animals. Please be considerate of others this season and respectful of the animal and dispose of it properly.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Bucks have really been chasing does and deer have been moving at all hours of the day. Gun hunters have a good chance of being greeted with some excellent activity when they head to the woods on Saturday. There is still some snow in northwest Marinette County, which will probably be around for the opener.
Governor Thompson State Park - Snow!! The middle of the week blessed the area with a few inches of very wet snow, some of which still remains. This change in weather excited the deer in the park, the rut has officially begun. It also brought out potential deer gun season hunters and brought them out to scout places in the park to hunt. The weather also attracted some die-hard hikers that wanted to see the park in a different color. Firewood permits are still available so park visitors may see people working to haul away the fallen timber. More items from the old buildings on the property have been listed for auction, and an open house was held Saturday for people to view the items they would like to purchase.
Peshtigo River State Forest - The state forest welcomed its first snow this week. Deer hunters are happy to hear that the rut has begun and the deer are moving. Boat Landing 11 road received some work on culverts and grading. Logging operations have begun in several areas of the forest, we urge all users to be cautious while recreating.
Green Bay DNR Service Center area
Manitowoc County - Water levels have been dropping on the Lake Michigan tributaries in Manitowoc and Kewaunee counties following several rain events last week and prior, making fishing much easier. Anglers continue to fish for coho salmon and brown trout on the tributaries with decent success.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Peninsula State Park - Hiking and biking trails are open and in overall good condition. The park encourages hikers and bikers to wear blaze orange during the hunting season(several vests are available at the Park Office). Peninsula State Park has a muzzleloader deer hunt in over half the park starting Nov. 19 through 27. Only holders of a 2011 Park Access Permit (Deer Management Unit 80C) may hunt deer in the park (muzzleloaders only). The wood yard is closed for the season but there are places to get firewood in town. The golf course is closed for the season. Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is closed for the season.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
Marquette County - The rut is still going on and hunters should see bucks chasing does on opening weekend. Hunters should plan for wetter conditions on opening weekend with most marshy areas being very wet after the rain and snow. Waterfowl hunting activity continues to be slow in the county with a limited number of ducks utilizing the public hunting grounds. Fishing continues to be slow.
Waupaca County - The rut is still in full swing, bucks should still be showing themselves chasing does throughout the gun deer season. If you see a mature doe walk or run by, get ready, there is a good chance the big one could be following close behind.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Deer are still in rut within northeastern Wisconsin, with many corn fields hiding their whereabouts because of the wet soils preventing harvest. Recent rains have created flooded lowlands in the Calumet and Manitowoc counties. Attempts will be made to remove corn but the likelihood of it standing is good, especially in low fields. Isolated areas surrounded by water are probably going to be hotspots for deer if one can find them. Deer have the advantage when the landscape is wet for it is quieter, blend in with their surroundings and creates uneasiness for hunters who probably make movements more often. Dress for the weather on the weekend for it may be a mixed sequence of wet weather and coolness. Memories come in many ways and many times these are small things of the main event in the field such as a quiet moment of seeing a chickadee landing on the bill of ones cap or seeing a fisher climb the same tree or watching a spider float in the wind onto your weapon. Mallards and some divers were utilizing areas on the Killsnake Wildlife Area in flooded timber areas as well as the canary grass flats. Concentrations of several hundred sandhill cranes, several thousand Canada geese and mallards have been seen on fields in Outagamie, Brown, Shawano and Oconto counties. For Outagamie County the best concentration is north of Oneida near the Sanger B. Powers Correctional Facility near some wetlands by Cooper and Olson Roads. While everyone has deer on their minds great opportunities still exist for hunting pheasants on stocked properties on the Holland, Killsnake and Brillion wildlife areas. The last of the stockings were completed late last week with a few hunters out looking for them. Northern shrikes are starting to show up from the north as well as some bluebirds still hanging around since the weather has been somewhat mild. Snow buntings have been seen just before the recent snow in Calumet County near roadways in small flocks in the St. John area. Continued use by raptors on both Brillion and Killsnake are showing more and more rough-legged hawks as well as over a dozen harriers. Five of these were working together to capture mice on the uplands by making dives into the grasslands while the others hovered ahead pouncing on the escapees. A few short-eared owls are still hanging around the north end of Killsnake Wildlife Area.
Winnebago County - Fall is here and everyone has been preparing for the gun deer season. Many hunters have been sighting in their firearms over the last week or so. Archery hunters in Winnebago County are having success and the rut appears to be in full swing. Buck rutting activity has picked up. With cooler weather anticipated hunters should have a good gun deer season. Hunters are reminded to follow the 4 basic rules of firearm safety to help prevent any hunting accidents. Remember to treat every firearm as if it was loaded, keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction, be sure of your target and what is beyond or in front of your target, and keep your finger outside of the finger guard until you are ready to shoot.
DNR Southeast Region
Milwaukee DNR Service Center area
Havenwoods State Forest - Crisp fall days are here! Visitors who hike the trails this time of year should keep eyes on the sky, because resident hawks are seen most days. After a flurry of migration activity, the winter birds are settling in. Don't forget to watch for bluebirds along the trails. If past years are any indication, they will stay all winter.
Kohler-Andrae State Park - The park will be open to deer gun hunting (muzzleloader only) starting Nov. 19 and ending Dec. 7. The park will also be open for the late archery season which starts Nov. 28 and ends Jan. 8, 2012. Only holders of an unfilled 2011 Park Access Permit for Deer Management Unit 77E may hunt in the park. The open hunting area includes state land west of the Black River except for state land south of Old Park Road. The Black River Trail system and the fishing pond area are open to hunters the entire hunting season. Recreational users should wear blaze orange while using these areas. The no hunting areas include all state land east of the Black River. This includes the main recreational areas within the park, the Kohler Dunes State Natural Area, the family campground, and all picnic areas. A fun creature to observe this time of year is the red squirrel. Visitors looking for red squirrels are sure to find them among the tall pines of the campground area. These omnivores feed primarily on pine seeds, although they also eat fruits, nuts, berries, mushrooms and other fungi. Squirrels often carry the cones to a specific spot to eat. A large pile of discarded cone parts, known as a midden, accumulates under the perch. There is no mistaking the scolding chatter of a red squirrel as you enter its territory.
Waukesha DNR Service Center area
Waukesha County - With the recent cold weather, waterfowl movement has increased in the area. Duck numbers on Big Muskego Lake, Vernon Wildlife Area and Turtle Valley Area have grown. Tundra swans were sighted on Vernon and Turtle Valley wildlife areas.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - In Sheboygan shore anglers have reported a few brown trout caught on spoons fished off the piers. On the Sheboygan River the water level was fairly high over the weekend, but is now dropping back down. Fishing pressure on the river has been generally light. Fly anglers have had moderate success with egg pattern flies for brown trout and steelhead.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington, shore fishing pressure has been light, and success has slowed a bit. Spawn remains the most productive bait, and most anglers have been catching browns. The water temperature near the power plant has been around 46 degrees.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, water levels on the Milwaukee River remain fairly high but are falling. Fly anglers have been catching some rainbows in Kletzsch Park and brown trout near Estabrook Park. When Milwaukee trollers are able to get out on the lake, decent numbers of browns have been hitting spoons in 40 to 60 feet of water north of the harbor.
Racine County - In Racine, water levels on the Root River rose over the weekend but have now dropped back down. The water temperature is 46 degrees. Numbers of steelhead and brown trout in the river continue to increase in downstream areas, while the coho have tapered off. Most angling success in downstream areas has been in Lincoln Park, and upstream anglers have been working between the Horlick dam and down into Quarry Lake Park. Most fish caught have been taken on pink flies. Fish were processed at the Root River Steelhead Facility on Monday, Nov. 7. The DNR is finished collecting coho eggs, and the fall weir season is now over. DNR crews processed a total of 3,828 fish and passed upstream 1,798 Chinooks, 1,258 coho, 57 brown trout, and 18 rainbow trout. A total of 573 coho were spawned.
Kenosha County - Shore fishing in Kenosha has been generally slow, but occasional browns have been taken in the harbor and off the south pier. Most fish were caught on spawn or orange spoons.
Plymouth DNR Service Center area
Theresa Marsh State Wildlife Area - Mallard numbers have increased on Theresa Marsh the past few days. Water levels rose slightly on the marsh following last week's heavy rains. This week was the final pheasant stocking before the gun deer season opens. No stocking is done during the season. Theresa Marsh refuge areas are open to gun deer hunting beginning Nov. 19 (opening day), and to other non-waterfowl hunting and trapping beginning Dec. 1. The Hwy D bridge across the Rock River, west of Hwy 41 near the south end of Theresa Marsh, is now OPEN to through traffic.
Sturtevant DNR Service Center area
Kenosha County - Hunters in Kenosha report an increase in deer movement over the last week with many bucks in pursuit of does. This bodes well for the approaching gun deer season on Saturday, Nov. 19. With a hard freeze expected this week, hunters can expect most of the underbrush to be open for added visibility during the deer season.
DNR South Central Region
Lower Wisconsin State Riverway - Most of the trees in the river valley have lost their leaves and the understory has died back in the wooded areas of the Riverway. These conditions are making for easy and enjoyable navigation of the woods. The cooler weather has seen a sharp decline in boaters and canoeists, but a few anglers were still seeing some success on the main channel and in the backwaters. Warm weather and sunny days have brought several hikers out enjoying the property, and horse back riders have gotten in a few more rides at the end of the season. Trails are in good shape and open for use. As the opening weekend of the gun deer season arrives, the 50,000 acres of public land in the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway will provide ample hunting opportunities. Close to 100 parking areas and over 25 miles of trails provide plenty of room for access along Riverway.
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Grant County - Bow hunters have reported increased deer activity in the woods and fields lately, with bucks tending several does. Bucks have been seen mid-day and crossing highways. Several nice 8-10 point bucks have been harvested in the last few days. The majority of corn and bean fields have been harvested, with a few remaining low lying corn fields yet to be picked, providing few corn field "refuge areas" for the deer. Exercise caution when driving in the evening hours, as several nice bucks have been hit on the roads recently. Nelson Dewey State Park will be open for gun deer hunting only for the first time this year. Maps are available at the park office and the DNR website. Water levels on the Mississippi remain low and there has been a noticeable increase of deer use of the lowland areas. Waterfowl hunters have reported more mallard flocks have entered the Mississippi Pools 10 and 11 along with other diving ducks -- redheads, canvasbacks and scaup (bluebills). Most of the wood ducks and teal have moved on, but mallards and black ducks are showing up in the larger open water areas. Pheasant hunters are enjoying their excursions at the Prairie du Bay and Avoca pheasant hunting areas. The cold temps last night froze up the smaller backwaters of the Wisconsin River, but the larger ponds are still open.
Iowa County - The rut is in full swing with mature bucks seen chasing lone does. Deer movement has been at all times of day and night. Raccoon fur is fully prime. Smaller, stagnant waters are icing over at night. The early November snow caused lots of damage to trees, breaking tops and branches off many conifers, and leaving logging roads littered with debris. Many of the tall grass and CRP fields also were matted down with the snow, which will reduce available cover for pheasants and rabbits this winter.
Wyalusing State Park - Mississippi River stage at Prairie du Chien Nov. 17 was 7.4 feet, down 0.1 from the previous day. With the still mild temperatures, anglers are still using the boat landing. Trails are in good hiking and hunting condition. All of the snow from last week was gone by Sunday. The park is open for the annual nine-day gun deer only for holders of a 2011 Park Access Permit for deer hunting in Wyalusing State Park (Deer Management Unit 73A). Wyalusing State Park is not open to deer hunting during other seasons or to archery hunting. No other species of wildlife may be hunted within the park. The forecast for this weekend is mostly sunny Friday with a high near 50 and breezy with a south wind between 10 and 17 mph, gusting to 25 mph. Friday night ? 20 percent chance of rain after midnight, low around 37. Saturday a 50 percent chance of rain, cloudy with a high near 54. Saturday night: Chance of rain and snow, cloudy and breezy, low around 31. Sunday: Partly sunny (mostly cloudy) high near 39. Bird sightings in the park include: bluejays, cardinals, goldfinches, mourning doves, bluebirds, red-bellied woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, red-headed woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, tufted titmice, wild turkeys, pheasants, various hawks, bald eagles. An influx of juncos showed up this week near the park office, scratching and feeding along the roadway. The large number of oak trees in the Wisconsin Ridge Campground makes it a great place to find red-headed woodpeckers this time of year. The park has had campers every night, with the exception of one night with no campers. This past weekend there were five campsites occupied. Last night (Tuesday) we had 3 sites registered. Visitation has slowed to just a few visitors daily. We will most likely have a number of campsites occupied by deer hunters this weekend.
Horicon DNR Service Center area
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - Large groups of mallard ducks can been seen around the Horicon Marsh. These ducks have been feeding in the cut corn fields near the marsh.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Columbia County - Deer activity still looks good, with the rut predicted to last into next week's gun deer season. Bucks that are rutting have been seen relentlessly chasing does. Wood duck flocks have been seen sticking around on local waters. Many small flocks of geese were spotted in the area as well, along with very small flocks of sandhill cranes here and there. Tundra swan flocks are being seen. The snow from last week (about 4 inches in northern Columbia County) has melted, and much of the pheasant cover has sprung back up. Pheasants are planted both the week before and the week after gun deer season to provide late hunting opportunities. Raccoon activity has been great along the lower Wisconsin River with good trapping success. Last weeks recent cold snap and snow did not get rid of all of the ticks. People recreating in the outdoors should still take preventive measures for themselves and there pets as some deer ticks are still roaming the woods waiting for a blood meal.
Dane County - Rough-legged hawks have been seen. Waterfowl can still be found migrating through along with swans. It appears the rut is still occurring so hunters should still see bucks chasing does on opening weekend.
DNR West Central Region
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Water levels on the Mississippi and St Croix rivers are still low, as are the duck numbers. Deer are in peak rut. Anglers are getting decent catches of sauger on the Mississippi near Redwing and Bay City trolling and jigging. Tundra swans are migrating along the river. Fisher numbers appear to be on the rise in Buffalo County. Many trail camera photos as well as trapped animals are showing up recently. The Dunnville Wildlife Area pheasant release area continues to be popular with hunters.
Willow River State Park - Bald Eagles have been seen recently. Deer gun season begins Saturday, Nov. 19 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 27. Deer hunters need to have annual or daily park admission for their vehicles and a deer hunting license. Self registration boxes are near by the open hunting areas. Parking lots are available on River Road and Nelson Farm Road. Park your vehicle elsewhere along the open areas off the road where it is safe to do so. Weekends will have the most hunting activity. Hunters may enter the park one hour before shooting hours begin. Non hunters should come to the park during the mid day hours and wear bright colored clothing. All trails near or within open hunting areas will have maps posted at the trail head. There is a map in the kiosk at the office also. Non hunters may encounter hunters going to the bridge on the Trout Brook trail or through other closed areas as hunters head for open areas. The 300 campground will be open for the first weekend of deer hunting. Anyone camping should expect to hear gunfire from across the lake during the low light hours. The park office is closed on Thanksgiving Day. Runners should take caution when they enter a newly laid section of gravel since there has been no rain to help the compaction process along. The surface could vary from solid to soft. The leaves were scooped off the Willow Falls Hill so footing is good in there any time. There is more gravel work coming. Work continues on the north side trail from Nelson Farm Road to Trout Brook.
Kinnickinnic State Park - Some minor trail work was done this week to improve access for winter trail maintenance. The entire park is open for deer hunting.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Perrot State Park - The park will be open for deer hunting from Nov. 19-27. Hunters will be using muzzleloaders and there were only 35 permits issued. Sections of the park remain closed to hunting including the campground, nature center area, picnic areas, and the entire Riverview trail. The first tundra swans were spotted last week and as the weather changes more will be on their way through the area. Some additional migratory ducks have also been seen. Juncos have been here for a few weeks and tufted titmouse are often seen around the office. The dock has been removed. Hop in your canoe or kayak and enjoy Trempealeau Bay before the snow flies. The vegetation has died back so you will be able to see many of the ducks migrating through as well as the local muskats as they prepare for winter.
Black River Falls DNR Service Center area
Black River State Forest - Last weeks snow has already melted. No snow is in the current forecast for deer season opener. Early season deer hunters in the state forest appear to be having a good year according to their comments. ATV trails are closed for the season. Trails will re-open for winter use on Dec. 15 if the ground is sufficiently frozen.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - Deer activity is up; bucks are making an appearance during daylight hours in the park. An area on the mainland to the north and east of the main office, including part of the Nordic Trail system, will be open to a limited antlerless shotgun deer hunting season, with special zone 23A access permit only, beginning Saturday, Nov. 19 through 27. Hikers are strongly cautioned to wear blaze orange if they will be using the areas open to hunting. The main island is not open to hunting and we would encourage hikers to use the trails and roadways available there. Please contact the office at 715-239-6888 if you have questions regarding the hunt. Species of birds seen or heard include: ravens, a variety of wrens, phoebes, turkey vultures, northern juncos, piliated woodpeckers, great horned and barred owls, osprey, bald eagles, and Canada geese. The South campground is open year round with electric sites, hand water pump, and pit toilets available. The camper dump station will be open as long as the weather allows.
Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area - Deer hunting is allowed in most areas within the park boundary although there are privately owned parcels and other parcels with hunting restrictions. Please stop in for detailed maps and information. There are new regulations for transporting and carrying firearms. Hikers will be out during hunting season, so please be respectful of other user groups. Hikers during those seasons should stop into the interpretive center and borrow an orange vest or jacket. Keep your dog well in sight or on a leash while hiking during hunting season. Canada geese have been flying southward and their honking encourages each other to fly harder. Snow buntings are passing through to warmer climates. A flock of snow buntings is called ?a drift.? Downy and hairy woodpeckers are enjoying the fare at the feeders as are black-capped chickadees and colorful blue jays. It?s important to leave snags and old trees standing if they are in a safe location, as many birds utilize holes for their winter roost cavities. Downy woodpeckers will enter a nest box or roost cavity at dusk and then leave it immediately at dawn. The interpretive center at Chippewa Moraine has been renamed the David R. Obey Ice Age Interpretive Center. As a US Congressman, David Obey was instrumental in ensuring that the reserve and its interpretive center would be a showplace of glacial history and in extending the National Ice Age Scenic Trail throughout the state.
Hoffman Hills Recreation Area - Deer hunting is allowed in the recreation area during the November gun deer season. Visitors hiking in the area during this time should wear blaze orange. Construction will be taking place to reroute a hiking/ski trail on the east side of the property. Please stay at least 300 feet away from heavy equipment.
Lake Wissota State Park - Fish in the waters adjacent to the park have been seeing very little pressure from anglers. For those that have not winterized their fishing equipment some of the best fishing of the year can be had now. Try the shallows with a floating stick bait early and late in the day for a chance at a nice walleye or rig a slip bobber/minnow and fish from one of our two accessible fishing piers. It is a great time to get out and enjoy Lake Wissota without dealing with the crowds. Several anglers have stopped by to inquire about the upcoming ice fishing season and fishing the Yellow River channel, which can be quite good. Camping this time of year can be a bit of a 'chilly endeavor' but for a few brave souls it is the best time to enjoy some solitude and the heat from a crackling campfire. All of the trails are currently open to hiking and it's a great time of year for a chance to see a nice sized buck on the move. All park visitors are encouraged to wear blaze orange during the 9 day deer gun season as there is deer hunting (inquire at the park office if you have questions about the hunt) in the park.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Gun deer is only allowed in the Yellow River Wildlife Area or 1,200 acres of Buckhorn State Park north of G and north of 31st St.. Bow hunting is open Nov 19-27 in the state park and wildlife areas and bow hunters must wear blaze orange while hunting during that time.
Roche-A-Cri State Park ? Hunting is not allowed in the park.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT STATE PARKS, FORESTS, AND TRAILS
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Check with the park or forest of your choice for additional activities and special events not listed. Most events are free of charge; park admission sticker required unless otherwise noted. Events and times subject to change.
Friday, November 18, 2011
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 - Gobbling Turkeys Nature Storytime. Let's talk turkey! Come in and strut your stuff as we learn about the wild turkey - our big, beautiful woodland bird. This hour of nature fun awaits three to six year olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center (located off Hwy 67 half mile west of Dundee). 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
? Big Foot Beach State Park, Lake Geneva, (262) 248-2528 - 7th annual Turkey Trot. The event will feature a 5K, 10K, and a Jr. Gobbler one-mile race. Visit the Friends of Big Foot Beach website for more details or to register.
? Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 - Drop In on Whitetail Deer. Deer are on the move this time of year. You and your family or youth group can drop in between 9 a.m. and noon to learn how deer use their senses and how they communicate. After you discover the signs they leave behind, you?ll be ready to head outside and look for deer at Havenwoods. 9 a.m. - Noon.
? Kettle Moraine State Forest--Southern Unit, Eagle, (262) 594-6200 or e-mail - Willow Basket Weaving Class. Class is full.
? Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Willow Basket Class. Learn to make a beautiful basket out of native willow that you cut yourself. Waterproof boots are helpful but not necessary. Please pre-register and pre-pay by calling (262) 878-5600. Fee is $15. Meet at the Visitor Center. 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
