The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the application period for the 2021 elk hunt is open through May 31. Following several successfully managed Wisconsin elk hunts, the agency is planning the fourth elk hunt in state history this fall.
Wisconsin's northern herd elk population, centered around Clam Lake, rose to 300 animals in 2020. The DNR anticipates growth in the herd again this year.
"The elk have fared well in the north over the past year," said Josh Spiegel, the DNR's Wildlife Biologist in Sawyer County. "Currently, we've had mild winters back-to-back and animal body conditions look healthy. We continue to see a strong breeding class of cows and significant recruitment of younger animals into the population."
Once widespread across North America, elk were eliminated from Wisconsin in the 1880s. Thanks to the support of many partners and the backing of Wisconsinites, the herd is back.
Elk hunting season is open October 16 through November 14 and December 9-17, 2021. Successful applicants can hunt during either period. Only Wisconsin residents are eligible to receive an elk tag.
Categories: Wisconsin, Rural Lifestyle