A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
Hunting season is here! This fall, head to Lincoln County, where the Northwoods start and your next hunting tradition begins. From deer and bear to turkey and waterfowl, there is something for every hunter. Follow along as we share what you can hunt, when each season begins, and where to go!
What You Can Hunt
Lincoln County truly has something for every hunter—from big game and small game to upland birds and waterfowl.
If big game is what you’re after, deer and bear hunting offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to get out in the woods and start a new fall tradition. Looking for small game? Cottontail rabbit, squirrel, and coyote hunting are also great ways to enjoy the Northwoods throughout the fall and even into the winter months.
As far as upland birds go, species like ruffed grouse, woodcock, and turkey are all on the list in Lincoln County. Not to mention, duck hunting is another amazing way to get outdoors. Head out early in the morning and make the most of the waterfowl season!
When to Hunt
Hunting season in Lincoln County starts in early September and extends well into winter, with different opening dates depending on the species you are after.
For deer hunters, archery and crossbow season opens September 12, 2026, and runs through January 3, 2027. Gun deer season opens November 21 and runs through November 29, followed by muzzleloader season from November 30 through December 9.
Bear season begins September 9 and runs through October 13, 2026, but keep in mind that bear hunting dates can vary by hunting method and zone, so be sure to always double-check regulations before heading out!
For small-game hunters, cottontail rabbit and squirrel season opens September 12, 2026, and runs through February 28, 2027. Coyote hunting is open year-round!
Upland-bird hunters can head out for ruffed grouse and turkey beginning September 12, 2026. Both seasons run through January 3, 2027! Woodcock season opens September 19 and runs through November 2, 2026. After ducks? The Northern Duck Zone season opens September 26 and runs through November 24, 2026.
Where to Go
Now let’s talk about where to go! Did you know that Lincoln County has more than 100,000 acres of public forest land? It’s true, and it’s open to hunting.
First up is the Lincoln County Forest, offering more than 100,000 acres of public land alone. This is a great place to start your hunt! During open seasons, you can hunt deer, bear, grouse, rabbit, squirrel, turkey, and waterfowl throughout the forest.
If ruffed grouse is your target, make sure Underdown Recreation Area is on your list—it’s part of County Forest land. The entire area is designated as a Ruffed Grouse Management Area (RGMA) and includes mowed hunter walking trails.
Another spot to add to your list is Merrill Memorial Forest. This 920-acre wildlife habitat area has public hunting opportunities, walking trails, and an 80-acre wetland area. It is a great place to not only hunt but also enjoy some peace and quiet.
Next is New Wood Wildlife Area, offering a vast 4,635 acres publicly open to hunting! It has a mix of forest, wetland, and open areas that are prime for big game, small game, and even upland birds.
Bill Cross Wildlife Area, spanning 1,522 acres, provides amazing public hunting opportunities, too! This area features well-maintained trails and a diverse habitat—including access to the Wisconsin River—along with aspen and hardwood forests.
Speaking of the Wisconsin River, if you’re after waterfowl, the river runs the full length of the county, and much of it weaves through publicly accessible lands.
Finally, the MFL Open Lands add even more acreage to hunt across the county! These privately owned properties are enrolled in the MFL program and open to hunting when designated as “open.” Check out the DNR’s maps to locate these properties here.
There’s no better time to head north and enjoy the outdoors! Starting a new hunting tradition or keeping an old one going? Lincoln County is ready to welcome you this fall. Start planning your trip today and get ready to make some unforgettable memories out in the woods!
–Hailey Marien, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin)
