The nine-day 2026 Wisconsin gun deer season opens on Saturday, Nov. 21
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the nine-day 2026 gun deer season opens on Saturday, Nov. 21, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 29. Following three consecutive mild winters, herd survival and reproductive rates across much of the state remain high.
Hunters preparing for the season should stay informed about recent updates to Deer Management Units (DMUs) introduced in 2025. DMUs within the Northern and Central Forest Management Zones now operate on a habitat-based system rather than county boundaries, and updated boundaries exist between the Central Farmland and Northern Forest Zones. Understanding these numerical designations is essential when requesting antlerless permits. Detailed management maps and county breakdowns are available via the DNR's online hunting regulations resources.
The DNR encourages participating in Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance. Free CWD testing is available for all deer harvested within Wisconsin, with a focus on designated priority areas. Options for submitting samples include self-service drop-off kiosks, partner meat processors and taxidermists, home lymph node extraction, or scheduling an appointment directly with DNR staff via the Wildlife Switchboard (DNRWildlifeSwitchboard@wisconsin.gov or 608-267-0866).
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.