Wisconsin deer hunters: big changes are coming in 2025. In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Pritzl – Deer Specialist of the Wisconsin DNR to unpack exactly what you need to know before the season starts.
We cover the evolution of deer management units, how biological data and social factors shape regulations, and the role advisory councils play in decision-making. You will see how the 2024 map compares to the 2025 map, why metro subunits exist, and what the latest archery vs firearm hunting trends reveal.
We dig into county-specific tags, differences between public and private land regulations, and how new rules can influence the way you hunt. We also break down herd population goals, how qualified people can actually get involved, and the challenges of managing deer numbers across the state.
If you want to understand the 2025 Wisconsin deer hunting regulations from the ground up and be ready for opening day, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen Here:
Watch Here:
Links:
- 2025 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Map
- 2024 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Map
- 2025 Wisconsin Deer Hunting Regulations
- Paul Smith article “DNR begins process to modify deer management units, mostly in northern Wisconsin“
- WI DNR Atlas Map (Take your time, add the layers to see the deer layers)
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Can’t get over how much detail you packed in, county tags, metro subunits, regulation updates, everything gets covered no nonsense explanation. I hunt in Wood County so this really hit home. Last year the county was split along Hwy 13 into Central Farmland and Central Forest, but now for 2025 it shifted again. Central Farmland is above Hwy 54 and the lower part of Wood County dropped into zone 204 Central Forest. That is going to change how I plan my sits this fall since I hunt both north and south of 54.
Not thrilled about having to grab two different doe tags now but like you said, it’s not the end of the world.
Curious how you see land access (public vs private) shaping how regulations are adopted across different counties. Nicely covered in this episode.
Thanks Carrie Z!
Your blog is a constant source of info for me. Appreciate your passion, and it’s clear that you genuinely care about making a positive impact on your listeners.
Just wanted to let you know you’re appreciated!
Jeff’s explanation on herd population goals was so clear. It’s refreshing to hear that level of detail without all the jargon.
Really enjoyed how you broke down the changes coming in 2025 and why those metro subunits matter. Makes it way easier to wrap your head around
It’ll be interesting to see how this changes in a few years again. It’s a lot to take in, apprecaite the episode.
Appreciate the work you put into this episode, Carrie.
Thanks for sharing, really good info.