Are You Ready?
I think it’s safe to say most of us don’t like waking up at 4am... unless it’s the opening day of deer hunting season. The 2019 fall season is just around the corner and I want to make sure you're starting to prepare.
Bonus doe tags will be on sale starting Tuesday, August 20th at 10 a.m. through the Go Wild website or at the many license sales locations around our community. Below are a few pre-hunting tips:
- Know your areas hunting regulations
- Scout for public land
- While doing this, you can take part in the Department of Natural Resources Operation Deer Watch.
- Central and southern farmland counties have the highest deer numbers
- We all know the perks of having private hunting land, but some may not know if you wish to hunt on both public and private land you must obtain a licenses for each land type.
- Set up your trail cameras
- Make sure your bow/firearm is on target
- Pack an emergency kit: cell phone, lighter, flashlight, first aid, compass, water purifiers, etc.
- Know your zone; La Crosse County is in Central Farmland Zone 2.
Help Monitor Chronic Wasting Disease
Wisconsin’s deer herd is an invaluable resource to our state. Our hunting season is a billion dollar industry and is part of our culture and heritage, but CWD puts that in jeopardy. That’s why it’s important to get your deer tested for the disease; the Department of Natural Resources offers free testing at various sampling stations in each county.
In 2017, Wisconsin Act 41 amended Wisconsin Act 240 prohibiting baiting and feeding deer following a positive test for CWD or TB. Due to this, baiting and feeding is prohibited in La Crosse County.
Deer Registration
Don’t let the excitement get to you by forgetting to register your deer by 5 p.m. the day after recovery. Below are a few ways you can register your deer:
- Online by clicking here. I would recommend this method of registration as it is the easiest and fastest.
- Calling 1-844-426-3734
- Visiting an in-person registration station; click here to find yours.
Regular Deer Season Dates
- Archery & Crossbow: Sept. 14 – Jan. 5, 2020
- Youth Gun Deer (15 & under): Oct. 5 & 6
- Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters with Disabilities: Oct. 5 – 13 (on specific properties).
- 9-day Gun Deer: Nov. 23 – Dec. 1
- Muzzleloader: Dec 2 – 11
- Statewide Doe-only Hunt: Dec. 12 – 15
Whichever season you choose, be safe and enjoy your hunt - Da Turdy Point Buck is waiting for you!
See you at the Kornfest Parade,
Steve
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