Wisconsin Bear Hunting Licenses to Increase in 2025

Connor Merritt

Wisconsin bear hunting enthusiasts have something big to look forward to this season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a 14% increase in black bear hunting licenses for 2025 to meet a 6% higher harvest quota. This move, approved unanimously by the Natural Resources Board on Jan. 22, reflects the state’s commitment to managing a healthy bear population while maintaining hunter opportunities. 

Wisconsin Bear Hunting Licenses for the Upcoming Season 

In total, 13,110 hunting licenses will be issued for the upcoming season, with a harvest quota of 4,075 bears across the state. The DNR estimates that Wisconsin’s black bear population before the 2025 hunt will stand at approximately 24,403 bears. 

The decision to increase the quota follows a strong 2024 bear hunting season, during which 4,301 bears were harvested — 12% above the set quota. This marked a significant rebound from 2023, when only 3,005 bears were taken, the lowest harvest since 2008.  

Experts attribute the 2023 decline to an abundant mast crop, which provided ample natural food sources and reduced bear movement toward baited areas. The 2024 season, with more typical conditions, saw a 37% hunter success rate. 

The Current Bear Population in Wisconsin 

Randy Johnson, the DNR’s large carnivore specialist, reaffirmed that the state’s bear population remains stable and that the increased quotas align with Wisconsin’s long-term wildlife management objectives. 

Interest in Wisconsin bear hunting remains strong. In 2024, over 101,000 people applied for a preference point, and 33,733 applied for a hunting license. The 2025 drawing will take place this winter, with preference points expected to remain like previous years. 

The 2025 bear season is set to run from Sept. 3 to Oct. 7, with bear baiting beginning April 15 and dog training permitted from July 1 to Aug. 31. Hunters eager for the challenge should start preparing now. 

This story was originally reported by Paul A. Smith for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Read the full article here. 

Read more about bear hunting on iSportsmanUSA.