FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 18, 2025
Contact: Darren Ladwig, DNR Wildlife Biologist
[email protected] or 715-498-2338

DNR Accepting Applications For Special Deer Hunt At Sandhill State Wildlife Area

Applications for the 2025 Sandhill Firearm Deer Hunt are due Sept. 22. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications now through Sept. 22 for a special firearm deer hunt at Sandhill State Wildlife Area.

This managed hunt will provide a unique opportunity to hunt deer on the 9,150-acre property while helping the DNR meet deer management objectives. This hunt will be open to licensed hunters and restricted to firearms (rifle/shotgun).

“This year’s permit levels will be established to maintain the deer population at last year’s post-hunt density while also balancing the adult sex ratio of the herd,” said Darren Ladwig, DNR wildlife biologist.

The two-day hunt will occur Nov. 8-9, 2025. Hunters will be issued an either-sex permit or an antlerless-only permit valid for the Sandhill State Wildlife Area.

Successful applicants will be required to follow special hunting rules and regulations for Sandhill State Wildlife Area. The special hunting rules will be emailed to accepted applicants. Additionally, all harvested deer must be tested for CWD on-site at the in-person registration station.

Learn more and apply by Sept. 22 on the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center webpage.