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Open the Outdoors
Some simple recommendations to avoid problem bears [PDF]. Photo courtesy of Emery Orlikowski of Green Bay
- Contact information
- For information on bear hunting, contact:
- Scott Roepke
Assistant bear biologist
Bureau of Wildlife Management
608-261-7588
Bear hunting
The black bear is viewed as both a symbol of Wisconsin's wildness and as choice prey. Seeing a black bear in the wild is an exciting experience for many and an equal thrill for those who prize the black bear as a big game species. The Wisconsin black bear population is thriving and expanding its occupied range in the state. In 2010, 8,910 harvest permits were available and hunters responded by harvesting more than 5,000 bears, the highest bear harvest documented in Wisconsin history!
- Black bear population status and distribution map
- Black bear management
- Crossing Paths with Bears - June 2009 Natural Resources Magazine
- Summary of current dog depredations by wolves
Season information
- Bear season dates
- How to get a Wisconsin bear hunting license
- Bear management zones [PDF]
- Bear and deer management zones [PDF]
- Bear hunting and baiting regulations
- Bear registration stations
- How to collect a bear rib sample [PDF]
- Bear tooth aging
- Class A bear license transfer to youth hunters
- Deceased customer preference approval transfer request [PDF]
Preference point status: There are three ways in which hunters can determine the number of preference points that they have accumulated. To find out about how many points you have accumulated:
- contact the Bureau of Customer Services and Licensing 608-266-2621;
- visit the online licensing center; or
- contact your local DNR Service Center.
Drawing information
Applications for a Class A bear license can be made at any license sales agent, DNR Service Center, online, or by calling 1-877-945-4236. Please note paper applications are no longer available. The deadline for bear season applications is always December 10.
Status of preference points in drawing [PDF]
Preference point status: There are three ways in which hunters can determine the number of preference points that they have accumulated. To find out about how many points you have accumulated:
- contact the Bureau of Customer Services and Licensing 608-266-2621;
- visit the online licensing center; or
- contact your local DNR Service Center.
