WHERE CAN I FIND A PLACE TO HUNT DEER????

Where can you find a place to hunt? Wisconsin is home to a number of excellent public hunting areas - be sure to check property webpages or contact a property manager for more information. Public Access Lands Atlas Those in search of public hunting and trapping grounds this fall are reminded to check out the department’s Public Access Lands atlas. The atlas includes all DNR properties, as well as nearly all federal and county-owned lands. Hunters are reminded to contact landowners beforehand to verify that hunting is allowed on a given property. You can download and print these maps free of charge from your home computer. For more information, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword “atlas.” Voluntary Public Access – Habitat Incentive Program The Voluntary Public Access – Habitat Incentive program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS, provides financial incentives to private landowners who open their property to year-round wildlife-dependent recreation. These lands are open to public use under certain guidelines. VPA lands are displayed on interactive maps on the VPA webpage or through the PAL application. Search keyword “VPA” to learn more. Lands are clearly posted with a ‘Private Lands leased for Public Access’ sign. Property access is limited to foot traffic only and only portable, temporary blinds and stands can be used. Feedback about user experience is essential to the continued success of this program - users are encouraged to complete an evaluation survey found at each VPA property, or use the QR code found on the sign posting to access the online version of the survey. For a code of conduct (available in three languages), maps and additional information, search keyword “VPA.” Managed Forest and Forest Crop Law Programs Managed Forest Law and Forest Crop Law are landowner-incentive programs that incorporate sustainable forest practices, like timber harvest and wildlife management, while improving public access to these lands. Landowners who enroll may choose an “open” or “closed” designation for public recreation. Lands open to public recreation are available only for hunting, fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, and sight-seeing. Hunters are encouraged to contact their local DNR Forester to learn more about these programs – search keywords “forest landowner,” then click “find professional help” and use the Forestry Assistance Locator to find a DNR forester who has responsibility for that area of Wisconsin. A mapping tool shows the approximate location of all MFL–Open and FCL lands in Wisconsin. Here, landowner info, acreage, and enrollment information is also available. To access the mapping tool, search keywords “MFL open land.” For more general information regarding these programs, search keywords “managed forest law” and “forest crop law” for an FAQ and other helpful information. Wisconsin’s State Parks State parks provide a range of recreational opportunities, since year, in general, fall and archery hunting are also allowed in the open areas of state parks during the open season. Be sure to visit dnr.wi.gov and search keywords “hunting state parks” to learn more and find a park near you. FFLIGHT The Fields and Forest Lands Interactive Gamebird Hunting Tool gives hunters an interactive summary of young aspen and alder habitat to find woodcock and ruffed grouse hunting areas, pheasant-stocked public hunting grounds, and dove fields found on public hunting lands throughout Wisconsin. Features available within the program help hunters locate DNR public parking areas, overlay township descriptions, and provide access to maps and aerial photos of prospective hunting areas. Users can also print maps and find GPS coordinates to assist in navigation and estimate acreage and walking distance. The mapping application is compatible with all major desktop and mobile web browsers (internet access is required). Mobile users can use FFLIGHT on-the-go to find habitat suitable for the species they wish to pursue. To learn more, search keyword “FFLIGHT.” How can you connect with the department? The department uses current technology to reach users of all ages and backgrounds and provide for convenience, whether they are already in the field or looking for new places to explore. Be sure to visit DNR’s Facebook, Instagram (WI_DNR), Twitter, Youtube and LinkedIn pages to learn more and connect with staff.