As the crisp air returns and football season kicks off, it also marks the beginning of one of Wisconsin’s most cherished traditions: hunting season. Archery deer season begins in September, followed by the youth deer hunt in October, and the gun deer season in November. Like so many others, I am getting excited to head out to my tree stand in hopes of getting a deer.

I love waking up before the sunrise, putting on layers, and heading out to the quiet woods. The anticipation of the hunt and the memories you make with family and friends year after year are experiences I would not trade for anything!

In addition to being a ton of fun and a treasured tradition in our state, hunting is a significant part of Wisconsin’s economy. According to the group Hunting Works for Wisconsin, nearly 900,000 Wisconsinites hunt. Their impact supports 34,000 jobs and generates $4 billion in economic activity each year. From outdoor gear stores to local bars and restaurants, meat processors, and small businesses in rural communities, the impact of hunting season is felt across our state.

In the Governor’s proposed budget, he included hunting license fee hikes of 90% across the board. These included a 94% increase in the cost of a resident deer hunting license and a 125% increase for a resident small game license. That was simply unacceptable. When the Joint Committee on Finance did our version of the state budget, we held the line on license fee increases. No sportsman or sportswoman saw an increase from the state in what it costs them to go hunting.

We also invested additional funding into the meat processor grant program to help expand capacity at processing facilities and reduce turnaround times. That means once you get your deer, you will hopefully have your meat back a little faster.

As we head into fall, I am looking forward to everything the change in season brings, but especially the chance to get back out into the woods. Whether it is your first time in a stand or you have been hunting since you could hold a rifle, I hope you have a safe and successful season.

The Wisconsin DNR has many resources and helpful tips for this upcoming season on its website. Visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/hunt to purchase your hunting license, view hunting dates and regulations, sign up for a hunter education course, and more.

Good luck to all of our hunters this fall and happy hunting!

If you need assistance with any state-related matters, please call my team at the State Capitol – 608-266-0703 – or email me – Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. My team is ready and willing to help navigate your state government, clear obstacles, and receive your input.