Hunting

Hundreds of acres of national and county forest provide a vast landscape for tracking and hunting wildlife. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest offers of miles of trail for hunters who prefer to walk or hike. Many of its trails are hunter-specific and are managed to enhance the wildlife habitat for particular wildlife species. Popular species here are whitetail deer, ruffled grouse, turkey, black bear, and ducks, thought woodcock, gray squirrels, snowshoe hare, coyote, fox, and wild turkeys are not uncommon.

Located partially along the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield County Forest is a popular destination for waterfowl hunters, including many species of ducks and geese. Wildlife management helps to enhance the habitat of ruffed grouse and woodcock, and whitetail deer, turkey, bear, and small game are also common.

Even more opportunities can be found in Sawyer and Ashland County Forests. As these are somewhat smaller forests, they have more regulations, including allowed weaponry and designated hunting areas and parks, and parks where hunting is restricted entirely.

It’s important to remember that hundreds of acres of wilderness does not mean that hunting in Northern Wisconsin is not without regulation! Hunters are required to hold valid licenses, and hunters born after 1973 are also required to take hunter safety classes. Depending on the type of game you’re hunting, a permit may be required, and there may be restrictions on certain types of game in certain areas. Make sure you read up on your rules and regulations to ensure you have the proper licensing and permits before you head out!