The Wisconsin Muzzleloader Season is a dedicated segment of the state’s deer hunting calendar managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). This specialized period offers hunters an opportunity to pursue deer using traditional or modernized muzzleloading firearms. It follows the main gun season, allowing participants to utilize methods that require a different skillset and approach than standard modern firearms.
Official Season Dates and Context
The Wisconsin Muzzleloader Season is a 10-day period that typically begins immediately after the close of the state’s traditional nine-day gun deer season. For example, the season generally runs from December 1st through December 10th. Hunters should consult the official WDNR regulations for the exact dates each year, as they are subject to minor changes based on the calendar.
This season is open statewide and allows hunters to use their Firearm Deer Tags, including the Gun Buck Deer Tag and any Antlerless Deer Harvest Authorizations they possess. The ability to fill antlerless tags is important for local herd management, especially in areas with high deer populations. The Muzzleloader Season often runs concurrently with the late Archery and Crossbow season. Following the close of this period, the state often holds additional, shorter hunts, such as the four-day Statewide Antlerless-Only Hunt.
Essential Equipment and Licensing Requirements
All hunters participating in the muzzleloader season must possess a valid Wisconsin hunting license and the required Firearm Deer Tag. State law requires hunters to wear specific safety colors during any open statewide firearm season, including the muzzleloader period. At least 50% of the hunter’s outer clothing above the waist, including any head covering, must be colored blaze orange or fluorescent pink.
A legal muzzleloader is defined as a firearm that shoots a projectile loaded exclusively from the muzzle. Recent legislative updates, such as Wisconsin Act 116, include advancements like the Federal Firestick, which uses a sealed, breech-loaded powder charge while still requiring the projectile to be loaded from the muzzle. Shoulder-fired muzzleloaders must meet minimum caliber requirements: at least .45 caliber if smoothbore or .40 caliber if the barrel is rifled. The weapon must be loaded with a single ball or slug. Black powder revolvers are prohibited during the muzzleloader-only season because they can be loaded by the cylinder instead of the muzzle. Telescopic sights are permitted for use on muzzleloaders during this season.