Wisconsin Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Wisconsin hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about WI DNR's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
April 1 - March 31
Agency
WI DNR
Draw System
preference
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Wisconsin License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Deer (Gun) Gun deer hunting license | $24.00 | $165.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $20.00 | $65.00 |
| Sports License Includes small game, deer, turkey, fishing, and pheasant stamps | $60.00 | $245.00 |
| Archery/Crossbow Required for archery/crossbow deer hunting | $24.00 | $200.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
Hunt Wild Wisconsin
Digital licenses via Go Wild web portal. Mobile-friendly site, no dedicated app required.
Wisconsin uses a web-based system rather than a dedicated mobile app. Mobile-optimized website.
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Wisconsin licenses alongside every other state - and works completely offline.
- Works offline - no signal needed
- Supports all 50 states
- Quick Display for game wardens
Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
Wisconsin Tag Draws & Lotteries
preference Point System
Applicants with the most points are guaranteed to draw before those with fewer points.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Varies by species
Most deer hunting is over-the-counter. Limited elk permits available through drawing.
Wisconsin Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Wisconsin.
Gun Deer Season Tradition
infoWisconsin's 9-day gun deer season is a cultural institution. Schools close, businesses slow. Expect crowded woods.
No Dedicated App
importantWisconsin uses Go Wild web portal instead of a mobile app. Works well on mobile browsers but requires internet for initial access.
CWD Zones
criticalWisconsin has extensive Chronic Wasting Disease management zones with mandatory testing requirements. Check regulations for your hunting area.
High Hunter Volume
importantWisconsin issues ~650,000 deer licenses annually. Public land hunting pressure is significant, especially during gun season.
Hunting Tools for Wisconsin
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Wisconsin.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Wisconsin and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Wisconsin
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Wisconsin, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Wisconsin and species
Wisconsin Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Wisconsin deer license cost?
Resident gun deer licenses cost $24, while non-resident licenses are $165. The Sports License at $60 for residents includes deer, small game, turkey, fishing, and pheasant stamps.
Does Wisconsin have a hunting license app?
Wisconsin uses the Go Wild web portal instead of a dedicated mobile app. The website is mobile-optimized and works on smartphones. You can access your license online at gowild.wi.gov.
When is Wisconsin gun deer season?
Wisconsin's traditional 9-day gun deer season typically runs from the Saturday before Thanksgiving through the Sunday after. Check DNR regulations for exact dates each year.
What is CWD and how does it affect Wisconsin hunting?
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological disease in deer. Wisconsin has extensive CWD management zones with mandatory testing, carcass movement restrictions, and baiting bans. Check if your hunt area is in a CWD zone.
Do I need separate licenses for archery and gun deer in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin requires separate licenses for gun deer ($24 resident) and archery/crossbow deer ($24 resident). Each is valid for its respective season.
Store Your Wisconsin License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Wisconsin hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.