Tick-tock, Wisconsin hunters and trappers — your window to apply for a special slice of fall outdoor adventure is quickly closing. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding folks that they've got just under two weeks left to throw their hats into the ring for bobcat and fisher permits, not to mention a chance to quickly get back to hunting sharp-tailed grouse after a seven-year hiatus. If any of those opportunities sound like your idea of a perfect autumn pursuit, make sure you hit the Aug. 1 deadline.
Now, this isn't your run-of-the-mill, stroll into the woods and hunt whatever you please kind of deal. We're talking about a special permitting system here, where hunters need to correctly apply by the deadline to even have a shot. It's all about a preference point lottery system, which is basically the DNR's way of saying good luck, may the odds be ever in your favor. As per the details released, "harvest permits are awarded through a preference point lottery system" — to win, to apply by Aug. 1 is a must, the Wisconsin DNR stated on its news release.
But it's not all about luck. The possible return to sharp-tailed grouse hunting is thanks to some serious habitat TLC in the Northwest Sands region. Those birds haven't been on the legal hunting list since 2018, but extensive habitat restoration has given the grouse population a leg up every year since 2021. Hunters looking to be part of this revival have until Aug. 1, to apply for a limited permit drawing. If you're successful, mark your calendar for a season that runs from Oct. 18 to Nov. 9 — and yes, all those preference points you've been hoarding will come in handy.
Detailed info about the application and the upcoming season can be found at the Wisconsin DNR website.
