New hunting and trapping rules in effect for 2010 seasons

NEW HUNTING AND TRAPPING RULES IN EFFECT FOR 2010 SEASONS

August 31, 2010

MADISON - Hunters and trappers looking forward to the 2010-2011 seasons will have some new rules to follow as they pursue their fall pastimes. Several of the new rules were requested and supported by hunters and trappers at the annual Spring Rule Hearings. Others have come to life in response to changing wildlife management needs and new technologies.

Most of the newer rules are found in the "What's New" section of the fall seasons regulations pamphlets and are also listed in a new fact sheet available online on the Hunting and Trapping Regulations page of the Department of Natural Resources website. A few of the newer rules were not finalized until after the paper copies of the regulations went to press but are updated on the DNR website. Hunters and trappers are encouraged to study the regulations pamphlets and check the DNR website under the type of game they intend to pursue to be sure they are aware of any new rules.

Hunters and trappers can also call the DNR Information (1-888-WDNR INFo) line 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. 7 days a week with questions.

A sample of new rules of interest to deer hunters includes:

The free archery antlerless deer carcass tags that come with a regular archery deer license and patron's license is NOT VALID in 19 deer management units designated as "Regular Units - Buck Only.

Archery deer hunters no longer must wait three days from the date of license purchase to go hunting - the license is good immediately when purchased during the open season.

Scopes or telescopic sights with magnification are now legal on muzzleloaders during the 10-day Nov. 29 - Dec.8 muzzleloader season.

Whole deer carcasses can now be transported out of the CWD Management Zone or into Wisconsin from CWD areas of other states where CWD has been detected under certain restrictions.

Deer and bear may now be quartered for easier removal from the field, also subject to certain restrictions.

Whitefish Dunes and Potawatomi state parks are now open for deer hunting during the nine-day firearm deer season.

Fall turkey hunters may now use dogs anywhere in the state.

The bobcat season has been extended through January and split into two separate time periods. Trappers will be able to also use cable restraints for bobcat in the January portion of the season if they have a permit for the second bobcat time period.

Several changes to the waterfowl season structure include eliminating the Burnett Subzone closed area making it now huntable as part of the exterior zone and implementing new property rules at the Mead and Zeloski Marsh properties.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Scott Loomans - (608) 267-2452

Last Revised: Tuesday, August 31, 2010