2009 Whitetail Deer Hunting Season Structure

I was discussing with a colleague the seasons that we have this year for deer hunting and although we could have easily just looked them up, we thought this would be a great post for the blog. Below you will find the whitetail deer hunting seasons in 2009.

• Archery season: September 12 to January 3 (Earn-a-buck)
• Youth Season: October 10-11 (exempt from earn-a-buck)
  (Archery hunters can continue to bow hunt but must follow normal gun deer season blaze orange guidelines)
• Early firearm season: October 15-18 (antlerless-only)
• Traditional 9-day firearm season: November 21-29 (Earn-a-buck)
• 10-day muzzleloader-only season: November 30 to December 9 (Earn-a-buck)
• Late firearm season: December 10-13 (antlerless-only)
• Holiday firearm season: December 24-January 3 (Earn-a-buck)

Tips for Hunting the Whitetail Rut: Its about that time

Tips for Hunting the Whitetail Rut: Its about that time

In Wisconsin, the best time of year for whitetail hunting is somewhere between now and then. I am sure you are thinking, that sounds ridiculous. Well...it is. The "rut" or otherwise known is the pre, peak, and post breeding moments of the whitetail season.

Everyone has their opinion as to how to hunt the rut but no one person has yet to determine the actual exact peak time. You can assume that the rut phases will be somewhere between September - January but beyond that, pinpointing the exact peak is pretty much a guess as much as it is science.

With that degree of difficulty set in your mind I have compiled a few of the most common tips that everyone can assume will payoff in the field one way or another during the rut season.

1. Hunt areas where there are lots of does. If the women are there, men will come running.

2. Hunt the day. During the rut, even during the day bucks will often move towards the smell of sweet doe. Sounds crazy, but its been proven, so grab a sandwich and stay in your stand for most of the day.

3. During the rut, using a grunt call sometimes doesn't get the attention of the bucks as they are busy chasing estrus does. Therefore, put yourself in prime location to intercept a buck in his travels in looking for a doe. This is best done on rub and scrape lines.

4. Set up shop near a watering hole. Bucks may not feed as often during the rut, but they sure do get thirsty when running all day. Watering holes a great secret that seems to never be told. Probably because it works.

5. Create mock scrapes and mock rubs...for dominant bucks this is a sign that there is someone else trying to get his doe's.

6. If you were looking for women in the woods, where would you go? That's right, at the top of the hill so you can get a better view of the opposite sex. Try a ridge line, bucks may travel this in hopes of pinpointing the love of his life.

7. Ah...the sweet smell of love...there are hundred, maybe thousands of options when it comes to lures, scents, sticks, etc.. try a few doe scent options, not one will be the best, but when you diversify your scents, you reduce your risk of not seeing the big guy.

I hope these tips will help and if you have more, please feel free to leave a comment on this post and I will gladly add it to this list. The more help the better....right?

Wisconsin Public Land Giant

“Unofficially” green scores:
189 1/8 Gross
184 5/8 Net
Weighed in at 250lbs. field dressed
Shot on public land near Menomonie, Wi

Venison donation program enters 10th year

Venison donation program enters 10th year

MADISON – This year marks the 10th anniversary of Wisconsin’s Venison Donation Program. In 10 years the program distributed over 3.1 million pounds of ground venison from nearly 70,000 deer donated by hunters, processed by participating meat processors and distributed by volunteers to state food pantries.

“Wisconsin's venison donation program is an important effort that provides high quality food to Wisconsin families in need,” Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank said. “This program has been very popular. I encourage hunters to continue this charitable effort by bagging a deer for food pantries.”

Wisconsin’s Venison Donation Program is a partnership between local charitable organizations, counties, the Department of Natural Resources, meat processors and hunters. This effort has provided high quality protein to thousands of families over the years. In addition to donating deer to the program, since 2002 hunters have chipped in an additional $123,000 to the pantry program on top of the fee they pay for deer harvest permits.

A list of participating meat processors, available on the DNR Web site and searchable by county, is growing daily.

Rules of the program are simple. Hunters harvest, tag, field dress and register a deer same as they always have. After registration the hunter can drop off the carcass at a participating processor. There is no cost to the hunter other than transporting the carcass. Hunters are advised to call ahead to a processor to check on business hours and if the processor currently has space to accept the carcass.

Hunting Down Hunger

New this year is a program run by the Green Bay Packers called “Hunting Down Hunger.” Anyone who has been to a Packer game or watched the Pack on TV is familiar with the “sea of orange” and camouflage in the stands. Now hunters can wear their favorite team’s logo and their favorite fall colors by purchasing a baseball cap in orange or orange camo or a stocking hat in orange, all with the Packer logo. Five dollars from every hat purchase will be donated to hunger relief in Wisconsin. [huntingdownhunger.com [exit DNR] ].

“Through the combination of two traditional Wisconsin pastimes, the Packers and hunting, we’re hopeful fans will take aim at hunger in this very unique way,” said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Laurie Fike (608) 267-7974 or Bob Manwell (608) 264-9248

Natural Resources Board sets hearing dates for Earn-a-buck alternatives proposal

Natural Resources Board sets hearing dates for Earn-a-buck alternatives proposal
News Release Published: September 23, 2009 by the Central Office
Contact(s): Jason Fleener (608) 261-7589Bob Manwell (608) 264-9248

EDITOR'S ADVISORY: This news release has been updated with an additional public hearing that will be held Oct. 27 in Sturtevant.

MADISON – The state Natural Resources Board today approved hearing dates and locations for proposed changes to Wisconsin’s 2010 and 2011 deer hunting season structures. The changes are based on recommendations developed by a public panel created by the Natural Resources Board and charged with finding effective and hunter-supported alternatives to earn-a-buck. The proposed changes can be found in the Natural Resources Board meeting agenda available on the DNR Web site.

The public panel included representatives of hunting and conservation groups, agriculture, county forests, university, and woodland owners. The panel’s complete report is available on the advisory committee Web site at [deerherd.editme.com [exit DNR]].
The public hearings will begin at 6:30 p.m. with an informational presentation and overview of the proposed rule. Public comments and statements will be accepted beginning at 7 p.m. The following hearing locations and dates are scheduled:

• October 14, Crivitz - Crivitz Village Hall, 800 Henriette Ave.
• October 15, Onalaska - Onalaska High School Field house, 700 Hilltopper Place.
• October 21, Madison - Lussier Family Heritage Center - Main Level, 3101 Lake Farm Road.
• October 21, Rhinelander - James Williams Middle School, 915 Acacia Lane.
• October 21, Ashland - Ashland AmericInn Conference Center, 3009 Lakeshore Drive E.
• October 26, Appleton - Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton Campus, Room C190, 1825 North Bluemound Drive.
• October 26, Eau Claire - Chippewa Valley Technical College auditorium, Room M103, 620 W. Clairemont Ave.
• October 27, Sturtevant - Suite 4, State Natural Resources office building, 9531 Rayne Road.
• October 28, Pewaukee - Waukesha County Technical College, Room C051/C057, 800 Main St.
• October 28, Spooner - Spooner High School Auditorium, 801 County A.
  November 3, Stevens Point - Portage County Courthouse Annex, Conference Room 1, 1462 Strongs Ave.
  

The board requested an additional hearing location in the Milwaukee/Racine/Kenosha area. That hearing has been set for Oct. 27 in Sturtevant.

The public will also be able to comment online. The department will publish details for submitting online comments shortly.

Youth Deer Hunt October 10th & 11th, 2009

Youth Deer Hunt
This year's hunt: October 10 & 11, 2009

The youth deer hunt was made possible through the Deer 2000 and Beyond Project. The hunt is designed to give youth hunters ages 10-15 an opportunity to hunt deer and gain valuable hunting experience at a time when other hunters are not authorized to hunt deer with a firearm. Starting in 2009, hunters 10-15 years of age, with or without hunter education certification, are eligible to participate in the youth gun deer hunt with a mentor (see below for details).

On the first morning of the 2008 Youth Hunt, 12 year old Nelson Kreciak of Butternut, WI, shot this 7 point buck on his family's property in rural Price County. His step-father, John Kelto, commented: "the deer dropped where it stood with one shot of his .308 at 70 yards. I'm not sure which one of us was more excited! With a great first experience like this, I'm sure that Nelson will be a hooked on deer hunting for a long time." Congratulations Nelson!

Youth Hunt Rules and Regulations:

• Youth hunters may hunt deer with a gun on October 10 & 11, 2009 in all deer management units, except state park units and deer management unit 48.
  
• The bag limit is one buck with their Gun Buck Deer Carcass Tag plus additional antlerless deer per Antlerless Deer Carcass Tag valid for the DMU the youth is hunting.
  
• In Deer Management Units (DMU's) designated as CWD, youth hunters are exempt from the earn-a-buck requirements, but are only allowed to tag one buck and must use their one "Gun Buck Deer Carcass Tag" during the October 10 & 11, 2009 youth gun deer hunt if a buck is tagged. This exemption only applies to the two day youth gun deer hunt. During all other deer hunting seasons, youth hunters are required to follow earn-a-buck requirements in DMUs designated as CWD.
  
• Allowable types of guns are those authorized on the first day of the regular 9-day, November gun deer season.
  
• One adult may not accompany more than 2 youth hunters. If one youth is under the “mentored hunter” rules, the adult may “accompany” no more than one other youth at the same time and only if the 2nd youth is at least 12-15 years of age and has completed hunter education (see rules below for details).
  
• All other hunting regulations apply. See the 2009 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Regulations for more information.
  

For youth hunters 12 - 15 years of age (resident and non-resident) who possess a hunter education certificate of accomplishment and a gun deer hunting license:

• Hunters must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older. To “accompany” means the adult is within both visual and voice contact of the youth. The adult does not have to be a licensed hunter or a hunter education graduate to accompany 1 or 2 youth who are at least 12 years of age and have completed a hunter education course.
  
• Adults accompanying youth hunters may not “gun hunt” for deer during the youth hunt, but may possess a bow or gun and hunt for a game species that is open for them to hunt at that time.
  An adult may not accompany more than two youth hunters during the youth gun deer hunt at any given time.
  

For all youth hunters 10-11 years of age, or youth hunters 12-15 years of age who do not possess a hunter education certificate, but possess a gun deer hunting license:

• Hunters must be “mentored” by an adult who is within arm’s reach at all times during the hunt.
  
• Qualified adult mentors must be at least 18 years of age and have the youth’s parent or guardian’s permission to mentor the youth hunter.
  
• Mentors must possess a valid hunting license for the current year (any type of game).
  
• If the mentor was born on or after 01/01/73, they must be a graduate of a hunter education course or have completed basic training with the U.S. Armed Forces.
  
• Qualified adult mentors may only mentor one youth hunter who is age 10 or 11, or who has not completed hunter education at any given time.
  
• Only one firearm may be possessed between the mentor and youth who is age 10 or 11, or who has not completed hunter education, if participating in the youth gun deer hunt.
  

Mentors are encouraged to go over the four basic rules of firearm safety with the youth prior to hunting:

• Treat every gun as if it were loaded;
  
• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction;
  
• Be sure of your target and beyond; and
  
• Keep your finger out of the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.
  
• Both resident and non-resident youth hunters are eligible to participate with a mentor.
  

Additional information on Wisconsin’s Mentored Hunting Program web page.
Article: http://www.dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/hunt/deer/youthhunt.htm

Researchers to evaluate additional deer population estimation methods

Researchers to evaluate additional deer population estimation methods
By Chris Jacques, DNR Research Scientist
Wisconsin DNR 2009 Fall Hunting Forecast


The Department of Natural Resources currently uses two main methods of estimating deer populations; the Sex- Age-Kill (SAK) model and an accounting-style model.

Mathematical models used to estimate game populations rely on certain assumptions. In the case of the department’s SAK population model, one of the key assumptions is that buck harvest rates are relatively stable over time. Because buck harvest rates are impacted by season structure – such as earn-a-buck, and hunter practices – such as Quality Deer Management (QDM), accounting style models are used in large areas of eastern and western farmland management regions.

Accounting style models are sensitive to and assume that the starting number or the “balance” in the checkbook analogy can be estimated with reasonable accuracy. Researchers at DNR’s Bureau of Science Services want to evaluate techniques to use in “calibrating” the accounting model to assure the greatest possible accuracy in that starting number over time. During the 2010-2012 timeframe researchers will evaluate the usefulness in Wisconsin of a method of aerial population sampling known as “aerial distance sampling.” They’ll do this using still other population estimating techniques for calibrating the important starting point for the accounting model of population estimation.

“It’s a little like sighting in a rifle,” says Jacques. “You bring home a new gun and sight it in at say, 200 yards. That first year it drives a tack at 200 and still kills deer for a couple more seasons. But then one day you sight on a deer’s vitals at 200, squeeze the trigger and in the scope see hair clipped at the top of the back…a pure miss. The gun’s accuracy has drifted over time.

The visual you witnessed in the scope was evidence of needing to resight or in the case of our model, using additional information or data to recalibrate deer population estimates for increased accuracy.”

For more information on this research effort contact Chris Jacques (608) 221-6358.

Rifle use for deer hunting expanded in two areas

Rifle use for deer hunting expanded in two areas
WI DNR
Weekly News Article Published: September 1, 2009 by the Central Office

MADISON - Areas in which rifles are allowed for deer hunting have been expanded this year to include all of Dunn County and that portion of Shawano County south of State Hwy. 29 and west of County Hwy. J, state wildlife officials said.

The change was approved by the Natural Resources Board and now has passed legislative review. The extended areas do not appear in the printed hunting regulations because they were approved after publication deadlines. There is a note near the map, however, that indicates the possibility.

The change was initially proposed to begin with the 2010 season so map adjustments could be included in the regulations pamphlet. Implementation was pushed forward after hunters petitioned the state Department of Natural Resources to make the change in time for this year’s deer season.

Rifles are allowed for deer hunting throughout much of Wisconsin. In all or part of 25 of more populous counties, deer hunters are restricted to shotguns, which have a shorter range. New research into ballistics has shown that rifles – which are more accurate and fire a smaller projectile that is less likely to ricochet – are as safe as shotguns in hunting situations.

The change will take effect Oct. 1 and will be in place for October antlerless gun deer hunts.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Van Haren - (608) 266-3244

View all articles in this issue or check our previous Weekly News Issues.

More Trail Camera Videos

More Trail Camera Videos
Ben Halverson

Here is another video I recently pulled off the trail cam. So its not a whitetail deer, but these turkeys are still a fun game to look at. Remember to send me your videos or pictures with a short description of where you filmed it and when.

Getting The Whitetail Itch: Looking for Trail Cam Pictures and Videos

Getting the Whitetail Itch
Ben Halverson

I put out the camera the last few weeks and have been seeing a lot of fawns and does. I decided, its time to start posting these videos and hope that if you have any videos of your trail cams to send them in with a little story of where the video was taken. I dont know about you, but even the small bucks are giving me the itch to get out there and start bowhunting.

This video isnt the greatest video, nor is it the biggest buck, but its a start. Enjoy

Hunters: stay legal and ask to hunt private lands

Hunters: stay legal and ask to hunt private lands

Source: WI DNR


Got your eye on a prime hunting spot resting on choice Wisconsin private lands for your fall hunting expedition?

That’s a solid, smart first step to a successful hunt, says the Department of Natural Resources hunter education administrator. Forgetting the next step could cost you.

“‘Where am I going to go hunting?’ is one of the most important questions you need to be asking yourself now,” Conservation Warden and Administrator Tim Lawhern says. “If you want to hunt private land, you need to be seeking permission now if you haven’t already done so.”

The state of Wisconsin owns more than 450,000 acres, and leases about 17,000 more acres, of lands open to public hunting. State and federal forests provide 2 million acres, and county forests another 2 million acres open to hunting and fishing. In addition, property owners who participate in the damage and abatement and the Forest Tax Law programs must allow access to their lands, adding more public access.

Hunters who want to use private lands need to have landowner permission to avoid trespassing, and they need to behave courteously and considerately to be invited back the next year. “It all comes down to hunter etiquette,” Lawhern said.

When hunters contact the landowner to seek permission, Lawhern urges hunters introduce themselves by telling where they’re from, what they wish to hunt, and display your hunter education certificate.

“Regardless of the landowner’s answer, your response should simple be the same – thank you,” Lawhern said.

He also suggests hunters offer to help the landowner on his or her land before the hunting season, whether it’s with daily chores, haying, or some other need. “You might be surprised how far your willingness to shovel manure for a whole day will get you,” he said

After the hunt, Lawhern says, hunters should share their game with the landowner, and remember the landowner outside the hunting season. “Give them a Christmas card, a small gift, a thank you card,” he said. “Landowners always appreciate being remembered outside the hunting season.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern (608) 266-1317 or Joanne Haas - (608) 267-0798

Public invited to comment on deer population goals

Public invited to comment on deer population goals
WI DNR

MADISON – Citizens following the deer management unit (DMU) population goal setting process can review and comment on recommendations expected to go to the Natural Resources Board for consideration at the board’s Sept. 22-23 meeting in Sturgeon Bay. Comments can also be made online beginning Aug. 15 through the Deer Management Unit Boundary and Goal Review page of the Department of Natural Resources Web site or at a series of public hearings beginning Aug. 13.

“Participation in shaping natural resource management decisions is the right of every Wisconsin citizen and a cornerstone of our conservation legacy,” said DNR Secretary Matt Frank. “Public opinion is important to the DNR and these hearings and online comment opportunities are the public’s chance to be heard. By working together can we ensure the long term health of the deer herd and pass Wisconsin’s rich traditions on to future generations.”

View a video invitation outlining the hearings [Video 3:20]

Deer population goals and the boundaries of Wisconsin’s 133 DMUs are run through a public review process every three years. The last review was completed in 2005. For this round of reviews the Department of Natural Resources invited various hunting, forestry, landowner, and scientific communities to participate in a stakeholder review panel to evaluate DMU population goals and gather input from the public before drafting population goal proposals for the DNR and the Natural Resrouces Board.

“Deer populations need to be in ecological balance with their habitat if we are going to maintain our deer hunting and viewing opportunities,” according to Jason Fleener, DNR assistant big game ecologist. “Too many deer will degrade their habitat to a point where it can’t support the numbers hunters and wildlife viewers hope to see. Population goals attempt to balance a sustainable deer herd with social tolerance for high deer numbers.”

Deer management unit goals represent the desired number of deer per square mile of deer range (suitable deer habitat) at the end of all deer hunting seasons in each DMU across the state. Deer left on the landscape following the hunting seasons are the foundation of the following fall’s pre-hunt deer population. Population goals drive the number of harvest permits issued and season frameworks.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jason Fleener - (608) 2617589 or Bob Manwell - (608) 264-9248

Natural Resources Board - Special Advisory Committe Requests Your Input on WI Deer Season Alternatives

Natural Resources Board - Special Advisory Committe Requests Your Input on WI Deer Season Alternatives
WI DNR News

A committee appointed by the Natural Resources Board to develop acceptable effective alternatives to earn-a-buck has developed several packages of possible deer hunting season structure changes. Citizens can offer input to the proposals through an online survey beginning July 25 at noon. After this round of surveys, a final report will be delivered to the Natural Resources Board for consideration.

Who should respond...anyone who has an interest in the Wisconsin deer herd! Send the following link below to anyone you know who may want to respond: www.wiherdcontrol.org.

This survey will begin this Saturday, July 25 at noon and continue through noon on Tuesday, July 28.

Antlerless (Bonus) Tags for Regular Units go on Sale August 22 and August 23, 2009

Antlerless (Bonus) Tags for Regular Units go on Sale August 22 and August 23, 2009
WI DNR News

Wisconsin deer hunters who plan on hunting in Regular Deer Management Units in 2009, and wish the opportunity to harvest antlerless deer, can purchase unit-specific antlerless (bonus) tags on a first-come, first-serve basis for most of these units ($12 each for residents, $20 each for non-residents). Deer hunters should check the 2009 Deer Season Structure map first to find their unit designation (Regular units are in white): http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/hunt/deer/dmu.pdf.

Antlerless tags for even numbered Regular units will be sold beginning at noon on Saturday, August 22, but will not be sold on Sunday, August 23. Antlerless tags for odd numbered Regular units will be sold beginning at noon on Sunday, August 23. Deer Management Units with remaining antlerless tags available will resume sales on Monday, August 24 until sold out or until the hunting season ends. The first-come, first-serve system replaces the "Hunter's Choice" application process, which was last used in 2005. Hunters will be limited to purchasing one unit-specific antlerless tag per day.

Hunters are encouraged to purchase their 2009 Wisconsin gun or archery deer hunting license first before the day they purchase their bonus antlerless tags. Hunters may purchase deer hunting licenses and antlerless tags at any DNR licensing location http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/licenseagents/ or online https://jc.activeoutdoorsolutions.com/wi_public/goHome.do.

Archery deer hunters will automatically receive one free antlerless tag which is valid in any unit statewide, but may purchase additional unit-specific tags if they are available. Thirteen Regular units will not have unit-specific tags available for 2009, and most gun hunters will be limited to buck-only deer hunting in these units.

Visit the following links on the DNR web site for bonus antlerless tag availability and other details:

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cs/BonusAvailability.htm

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/hunt/deer/tagging.pdf

http://dnr.wi.gov/news/DNRNews_Article_Lookup.asp?id=1141

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/wildlife/regs/Deer09.pdf

Practice is key to successful bow hunting

Practice is key to successful bow hunting
Weekly News Article Published: July 7, 2009 by the Central Office

MADISON -- When it comes to bow hunting, a state hunter safety specialist says practice is a must – but all practice is not equal.

“Not too long ago, archery practice meant a couple of bales of straw with a paper plate or pie tin attached,” said Tim Lawhern, hunter education administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. “The quality of targets has improved, but the routine remains the same.”
The pie tin practice session remains effective to train the muscles, but fails to replicate what bow hunters face in real conditions. “Only when we can use these real life variables in our practice can we truly prepare for that shot-of-a-lifetime moment,” Lawhern said, adding practice sessions in your hunting clothes while using your gear makes the most sense.

Real-life variables to work into practice sessions address distance, shot angles, body position and obstructions.

Distance
More opportunities are blown because hunters fail to correctly judge distance, Lawhern says. “Many of today’s better-equipped hunters have addressed this issue with the purchase of a laser rangefinder,” he said. With a touch of a button on the laser rangefinder, the hunter can know within a yard the range of the target.

But, Lawhern advises, using a rangefinder is not a replacement for the ability to judge yardage on your own – and there are ways to practice. “Try tossing an object in the yard and take a guess how far away it is, then step off the distance to judge your guess,” Lawhern said. “You can do this walking in a park or in your yard working. Practice in both wooded and open areas. Perception is different in these areas.”

Shot angles

When it comes to bow hunting, there are two kinds of shot angles: vertical and horizontal.
The vertical angle is the one formed by the hunter being either above or below the deer, Lawhern says. “These angles are most associated with tree stands,” he said. “However, steep terrain can also play a factor in vertical angle.”

A good way to practice for this is to shoot from either a tree stand or a deck. If it's not possible to do this in your own yard, try the local sportsman’s or rod and gun club. Many will allow you to shoot for a nominal fee. Use the available terrain to practice as many different shot angles and distances.

Horizontal angle is the angle at which the deer is turned in relation to the hunter. “Most of the time, we refer to it as quartering away, or quartering toward,” Lawhern said. “The best way to practice for these types of shots is with one of the many 3-D animal targets available.”
Some companies make models with scoring rings or quartering shots, or ones with anatomically correct vitals painted on the side of the animal. If you are unable to get such a target, the standard version is fine.

“Just remember when shooting at an animal that is quartering, it is crucial that you keep in mind the location of the internal organs, and plan a shot that will angle through both lungs, regardless of where the scoring rings are located.”

Body position

Working various body positions into your practice routine is not difficult and doesn't require anything special. It is a matter of alternating shots from your normal stance with any other possible body positions that could occur during an actual hunt.

“These include planting your feet at various angles in relation to the target, as well as squatting, kneeling, or even sitting comfortably in your tree stand seat,” Lawhern said. “Try to imagine as many scenarios as possible and work them into your practice routine.”

Obstructions

Veteran hunters often will recall missing a target because the arrow collided first with a tree or branch.

Using any obstacle at hand, place your 3-D target in as many real-life-hunting situations as possible. “This may cost you an arrow or two, but the practice will be invaluable,” he said. "Further, make sure your shooting area is safe if you suspect you could have an arrow ricochet."

There is no way to prepare for every situation, Lawhern says. “But being able to judge distance, how and where to aim and make the shot regardless of your body position will boost your chances for success.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Lawhern - (608) 266-1317 or Joanne Haas (608) 267-0798
View all articles in this issue or check our previous Weekly News Issues.

Sponsor sign-up period open for Disabled Deer Hunts

Sponsor sign-up period open for Disabled Deer Hunts
Hunt set for Oct. 3-11, 2009

MADISON – The sign up period for landowners interested in sponsoring a deer hunt open only to hunters with disabilities is open through June 1. In 2009, the disabled hunt will take place Oct. 3-11.

Sponsor applications are available online and must be submitted to your local wildlife manager by June 1. A list of approved sponsors will be posted on the Department of Natural Resources Web site. Hunters with disabilities interested in participating in one of these hunts should contact sponsors directly to make arrangements. Sponsors are required to submit a list of participating hunters to DNR by Sept. 1.

To be eligible to participate in the Disabled Deer Hunt, hunters must possess a valid Class A Permit, a long-term Class B Permit issued for more than one year and that authorizes shooting from a vehicle, or a Class C Disabled Hunting Permit.

The gun deer hunt for hunters with disabilities was started in 1990 in Wisconsin to give disabled hunters an opportunity to hunt deer at a time of year when temperatures are generally milder and mobility is less of a problem. The hunts are sponsored by private individuals or organizations and almost entirely take place on privately owned lands.

Interest in the program continues to grow. In 2008, there were more than 100 participating sponsors enrolled and more than 62,000 acres available for the hunt.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Linda Olver - (608) 261-7588

Wisconsin Whitetail Outfitters

I have come across a few people who are looking for Wisconsin whitetail outfitters. So I decided to compile a listing for those looking. I will continue to add to this list and will add upon request from outfitters.


Buffalo County Buck Connection
S1226 State Road 88
Mondovi, WI 54755
Site: http://www.buckconnection.com/contact.htm
Phone: 715-946-3211


Buffalo County Outfitters
Scott Kirkpatrick
26214 W. 3rd Ave
Eleva, WI 54738
Site: www.buffalocountyoutfitters.com
Phone: 715-533-0943
Email: bigbucks@buffalocountyoutfitters.com


Superior Outfitters
Mike Noskoviak61108 Wiberg RoadAshland, WI 54806
Site: www.superioroutfitters.com
Phone: 715-278-3238
E-mail: superiorguides@cheqnet.net


Wolf River Whitetails
841 Sandhill RdAshville, NC 28806Site: www.wolfriverwhitetails.com
Phone: 423-307-2896
Email: robert@wolfriverwhitetails.com


High Country Reserve- Osseo
17252 US Hwy 10Osseo, WI 54758
Site: www.highcountryreserve.com
Phone: 1-888-734-1382
Email: reserve@highcountryreserve.com


Buck Hollow Ranch
W7115 Hwy 95
Neillsville, WI 54456
Site: www.buckhollowranch.com
Phone: (715)743-6406 (Bill)
Email: bill@buckhollowranch.com


Buffalo County Whitetails
Steve SegerstromS 561 Highway 37
Mondovi, WI 54755
Site: www.buffalocountywhitetails.com
Phone: 715-926-5341
Email: info@buffalocountywhitetails.com


Beaver Creek Outfitting Outfitter:
Robb Kaminskis
3806 Marion Ave
Racine, WI 53403
Site: http://www.beavercreekoutfitting.net/
Phone: 262-633-8575
Email: rkaminskis@wi.rr.com


Wisconsin Northland OutdoorsOutfitter:
Art Malin, John Myhre and Tim Duffy
7595W Pine Point Rd
Hayward, WI 54843Site:
Site: http://www.wiscnorthlandoutdoors.com/
Phone: 715-462-9402
Email: info@wiscnorthlandoutdoors.com


Dave Fredrickson Outfitting, LLC
Dave and Teresa Fredrickson
1194 South Cooke Valley Road
Independence, WI 54747
Site: www.davefredrickson.com
Phone: 715-946-3477


High Tines Outfitters
S2041 Dorns Road
Arcadia, WI 547612
Site: http://www.hightinesoutfitters.com
Phone: 608-289-5507
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Earn-A-Buck Gone for Good?

The very unpopular program called "earn-a-buck" has gone one step further toward being eliminated completely.

On Wednesday wildlife officials in Wisconsin decided to indefinitely suspended the state's earn-a-buck program outside chronic wasting disease areas.

According to the Northland Newscenter "The Natural Resources Board initially approved a one-year moratorium Wednesday, but then board member Jane Wiley introduced a resolution to go further.

She says hunters are so upset over the program it would be onlya matter of time until state lawmakers stepped in and began managing deer hunting with legislation.

She says the board needs to send the Legislature a strong message that it is serious about halting the program."

Alternatives to the Earn-A-Buck Rule?

Alternatives to the Earn-A-Buck Rule?
Ben Halverson

I decided to do more than just voice my opinion and get other hunters from other states opinions on what they feel about having the earn-a-buck rule be a part of their whitetail hunting season. I posted some questions on hunting forums and other blogs, with the hopes of getting some great feedback. I was pleasantly surprised to see so much discussion, constructive no less, about their feelings with the earn-a-buck rule.

I share with you below the comments and discussions I have become a part of.

My question to other hunters:

I recently attended the Spring DNR Hearings here in Wisconsin and was against a controversial rule called earn-a-buck, basically the rule that says in a designated earn-a-buck zone, you must shoot an "anterless" deer before you can harvest a buck.

I wanted to know if there are any other states that do this, and if not, what does your state use for herd control methods. If so, what are your thoughts to earn-a-buck hunting? I plan to place your thoughts on my blog, again at www.WisconsinWhitetail.blogspot.com and let you have the credit if you want me to use your name otherwise it will be "anonymous."
Please help, what are some other methods used by your county or state for herd control methods of whitetail deer?

Replies:

Duckbuster
Posted: Sunday, April 19, 2009 8:47 PM

I think everyone will agree with me on this. Earn-A-Buck stinks!!! Who wants to be told what you have to shoot? If someone want to harvest an antlerless deer, then let them. But, don't FORCE someone to shoot an antlerless deer if they don't want to. Let people make their own minds up. The DNR is a crock of crap. They don't give a darn about the Wisconsin hunters and what they want. Now, for the 2009 deer season at least, we're not having Earn-A-Buck. The CWD units are, but the other units are not. Maybe the DNR got it through their pea-sized brains that hunters are fed up with this bologna AND that there is hardly any deer because of this. It's about time the DNR wakes up!!!
If you are going to post this on your blog or whatever your going to do, just call me by my forum name--Duckbuster."A duck call, like a shotgun, is only as good as the man behind it."

-Phil Robertson, Duck Commander

marks65
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 5:51 AM

I don't see a problem with shooting a doe before being able to take a buck, providing for the circumstances. It should be used as a management tool to keep a population in check. From what I've seen here in MI, allowing hunters to decide what they want has caused a decline in bucks and an overabundance in does. To the extent that they held a special week long doe season last year. Now when the population is balance, then let the hunters hunt what they want, but when it's out of balance, then impose the rule. Consider what would happen to the population if all or most of the bucks were taken and all that was left were does. How long would the population be around? May GOD bless your hunting days,

the Thumb MI


Duckbuster
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 11:23 AM

Marks65, trust me, you would not want to have earn a buck. The DNR took deer management to a whole new level with this. Now, there's hardly any deer across the state due to earn a buck for the past 4 or 5 years. I guess you would have to have in order to understand it. it sucks!!"A duck call, like a shotgun, is only as good as the man behind it."

-Phil Robertson, Duck Commander

marks65
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 11:46 AM

And if you hunted here, you would better understand my view point. Until recently, you were only able to get buck tags over the counter, doe permits had to be applied for and not everyone would be approved. So you're sitting in the woods waiting for a buck, any buck to come along and all you're seeing are does. As I stated, it should only be used as a management tool to keep the population in balance and I'm not referring to 1 buck for each doe, but would a normal herd would have. When that becomes unbalanced, then impose the rule to bring the herd back into balance. Everything in moderation.May GOD bless your hunting days,

the Thumb MI

Duckbuster
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 6:11 PM

I don't know, all I know is that this earn a buck got totally out of hand here in WI. No one likes it at all. It imposes on hunters rights. And that's not right at all. The DNR does not run like a democracy should. Yes, you need laws and other rules. But their is a fine line between laws/rules and the DNR CONTROLLING you. I'm not saying the DNR is completely bad, but they do need to clean up their act a little bit over here. They should be here to improve our hunting and fishing heritage, not to hurt and diminish it. "A duck call, like a shotgun, is only as good as the man behind it."

-Phil Robertson, Duck Commander


brews4995
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 6:42 PM

The population problem didn't begin until the dnr started handing out more than one tag for a particular season. They should give you one tag for any deer that you wish to shoot, buck or doe. This wouldn't affect the bucks because the hunters that want an older buck will still let the smaller ones go. No more over the counter extra tags for antlerless deer. Is it true the auto insurance companies give the dnr money for every tag they sell so they don't have to pay on insurance claims?


Duckbuster
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 8:07 PM

I'll agree with that brew. I do think each person should get one doe and one buck tag however. That wouldn't be a big deal. For bow and gun. 2 tags for each season. I don't know much about the auto insurance. But i would be willing to bet that what you said is true. I know that auto insurance companies have a hard time with auto accidents involving deer though. "A duck call, like a shotgun, is only as good as the man behind it."

-Phil Robertson, Duck Commander

Keep the comments coming, this is leading to great discussion....I will continue to post as I get more of your comments.