It’s getting to be that time of year when we celebrate a Wisconsin Fall tradition that has created generations of legendary experiences, stories, and memories for millions of visitors to the North woods. Deer hunting is right around the corner and there are a few changes that hunters in Price County should be aware of,
For 2025, Wisconsin’s Natural Resources Board approved its most significant Deer Management Unit (DMU) reorganization in over a decade. In the northern forest region, where Price County lies, management units are now numbered (e.g., 101–126), moving away from purely county-based boundaries. These new units follow roads and rivers, making precise identification critical when acquiring harvest authorizations.
Wisconsin hunters can purchase Bonus Antlerless Deer Harvest Authorizations via the DNR’s Go Wild online portal or licensed agents. Here’s how it works:
- Sales Schedule:
- August 18, 2025 (10 a.m.) – Northern & Central Forest Zones
- August 19, 2025 (10 a.m.) – Central Farmland Zone
- August 20, 2025 (10 a.m.) – Southern Farmland Zone
- August 21, 2025 (10 a.m.) – All zones open Wisconsin DNRgowildagent.wi.gov
- Pricing:
- Youth (under age 12): $5
- Wisconsin Residents: $12
- Non-Residents: $20
- Limits: One bonus authorization per person per day, per unit, and specific to land type (public or private). Some zones might include farmland authorizations with your license at no extra cost.
- What You’ll Need:
- The 2025 Deer Management Unit number
- The zone and whether hunting on public or private land
Price County boasts one of the largest public land hunting opportunities in Wisconsin with thousands of acres of state and federal forests plus thousands more of privately owned MFL property. We strongly recommend seeking permission to access MFL land from the property owners to ensure safety and learn is other hunters may be on the parcel. Remember, many of these public lands are also home to public ATV and snowmobile trails so always be sure of your target and what is beyond!
To add some comfort to your hunting adventure, great lodging options from hotels to campgrounds and private cabin rentals can be found on our Where to Stay page for any of the following 2025 deer hunting seasons:
- Archery & Crossbow: September 13 – January 4, 2026 (extended through January 31 in Metro subunits & some Farmland Counties)
- Youth Deer Hunt: October 11–12
- Gun Deer Hunt (for those with disabilities): October 4–12
- General Gun Deer Season (Firearm): November 22–30
- Muzzleloader: December 1–10
- Antlerless‑Only (Gun & Bow): December 11–14
- Holiday Antlerless‑Only Hunt: December 24 – January 1, 2026
Plan your trip today, please keep safe hunting practices in mind and best of luck this season!