FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 27, 2021
Fall 2021 Wolf Hunt Update
MADISON, Wis. – Following a circuit court’s ruling enjoining the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from implementing the wolf harvest law, the DNR today announced that licenses have not been issued to state hunters and trappers for the Fall 2021 wolf hunt.
In accordance with the court order and the department’s ongoing plans, the DNR will continue working towards promulgation of rules and the completion of a wolf management plan to guide management decisions.
If you suspect wolves in the depredation of livestock, pets or hunting dogs, or if wolves are exhibiting threatening or dangerous behavior, contact USDA-Wildlife Services staff immediately. If in northern Wisconsin, call 1-800-228-1368 or 715-369-5221; if in southern Wisconsin, call 1-800-433-0663 or 920-324-4514.
For more on wolves in Wisconsin, visit the DNR website for additional information on wolf management and wolf conflict abatement.
Fall 2021 Wolf Hunt
The statewide quota for the Fall 2021 wolf season has been set at 130 wolves. The Department set an objective of no significant population change based on the consideration of all of the relevant factors set forth in statutes and in our administrative code and asked agency scientists to determine a quota to meet this objective using the best available science. Prior to setting the quota, there was an extensive public input period followed by thorough review of the information gathered.
State-licensed hunters and trappers will be authorized to harvest 74 wolves within the six zones established in the department's regulations. The department will honor the Ojibwe Tribes' treaty right within the Ceded Territory of 56.
The table below shows how the quota will be distributed between the six hunting zones, taking into consideration the Ojibwe Tribal Declaration.
In light of the state quota of 74 wolves, the department will use a license ratio of 5:1 to offer the opportunity to 370 successful applicants to purchase a state wolf hunting license.
The department plans to notify successful applicants on Oct. 25, 2021, at which point licenses will also go on sale.
The department's decision is consistent with state statutes and department regulations, which authorize the department to make the final decision on the quota and the number of licenses. The department’s analysis can be accessed here.
The application period for the Fall 2021 wolf harvest season was open March 1 through Aug. 1.
The application fee is $10.
Season Dates: Nov. 6 - Feb. 28 or when all harvest zones are closed.
License fee: $49 (resident) | $251 (non-resident)