Wisconsin Hunting License Fees Set for Increase Under Proposed Budget
By Paul A. Smith and Claire Reid, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
On March 11, 2025, at 10:04 AM UTC, it was reported that the cost of hunting licenses in Wisconsin could rise by $20 if the proposed increases in Governor Tony Evers’ 2025-27 state budget receive approval from the state Legislature.
The budget proposal, revealed on February 18, would raise the price of a resident deer hunting license from $24 to $44. This marks the first increase in the resident deer hunting license fee since 2005. Notably, many nonresident license fees saw increases in 2023.
According to the proposal, the nonresident deer hunting license would also see a $20 increase this year, bringing the total to $220. Additionally, small game hunting license fees would rise, with resident annual licenses increasing from $18 to $38 and nonresident annual licenses going up from $90 to $110.
Licenses can be obtained through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). A table outlining the proposed increases in base prices for Wisconsin fishing and hunting licenses has been included in the budget proposal. These fees, suggested by Governor Evers, will be reviewed by the Legislature this year. It is important to note that the figures reflect base license prices and do not include additional fees incurred at the time of purchase. For instance, the current total price for a resident deer hunting license is $24.
The question arises: why is Wisconsin considering these increases in hunting license prices? The majority of license fees have remained unchanged since 2005, while the costs incurred by the DNR have risen significantly. Over the past 20 years, inflation has surged by 59%, as indicated by a DNR review. Furthermore, the costs of equipment and various necessities for the agency have escalated even more.
Simultaneously, the sale of licenses—especially for deer hunting—has declined, leading to a further drop in revenue for the DNR. Consequently, the DNR’s Fish and Wildlife Account has entered a structural deficit. This account is crucial for funding the agency’s fish, wildlife, and law enforcement programs, which heavily depend on revenue from license sales.
The agency projects that this account will be $15.5 million in the red by fiscal year 2026. An increase in fees would be instrumental in preventing further reductions in DNR services and programs.
In comparison to surrounding states, Wisconsin’s resident deer hunting license fees stand at $44, while neighboring states charge:
- Minnesota: $31 (which includes an $11 base hunting license fee)
- Iowa: $47.25 (which includes a $12.75 resident hunting license fee and a $5.50 habitat stamp)
- Michigan: $70 (which includes a $22 base hunting license and a $15 habitat fee)
This article originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/article/heres-much-wisconsin-hunting-license-100436804.html
