Michigan conservation officers share tips for safe bowhunting

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Michigan’s bowhunting season opens today, Oct. 1, and Department of Natural Resources conservation officers are sharing tips for a safe bowhunting experience.

“Bowhunting is a popular pastime in Michigan and we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable hunting season,” said Sgt. Tom Wanless, supervisor of the DNR's hunter education program. “There are some common-sense safety tips every hunter should review before heading to the woods.”

The top safety tips for bowhunting are:

• Before you go out, inspect equipment, including your tree stand. If anything is worn, frayed, cracked or peeling, replace it or get it fixed. If using a compound bow or crossbow, make sure the cables and pulleys are in good working order.
• When sharpening broadheads, be careful and take your time.
• Practice tree-stand safety. Nearly every year, a Michigan hunter is killed or seriously injured because he or she fell out of a tree stand. The DNR recommends using a full-body safety harness to get into and out of your tree stand.
• If using a tree stand, always use a haul line to raise and lower your gear.
• Keep arrows in the quiver until you are ready to use them. A common injury is to stab or injure yourself or a hunting companion while carrying arrows in your hand or nocked on your bow.
• Obtain permission from a landowner before hunting on his or her land, or using their land to access public land.
• Never take a shot at a deer that is beyond the maximum effective range at which you are comfortable shooting.
• If you are successful, field dress your deer and cool its meat immediately. Michigan’s unpredictable weather means we sometimes have warm October days. Warm temperatures can cause the meat to spoil quickly.
• When heading out to the woods, make sure you tell someone reliable where you are going and what time to expect you back. This information is valuable in helping conservation officers or sheriff's deputies to find you if you are lost.
• Also, think about carrying a cell phone, a compass, a flashlight and other small safety items when in the woods

DNR conservation officers emphasize tree-stand safety as hunters gear up for fall

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Hunting from a tree stand is a popular way for hunters to enjoy their season, but nearly every year a Michigan hunter is seriously injured or killed falling out of a tree stand. Conservation officers at the Department of Natural Resources remind hunters of the top safety tips when it comes to tree stands.

Before a hunt, know your equipment:

• Read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings before using a tree stand and harness.
• Check the stand, straps and chains before you go out for signs of wear and tear or missing parts.
• Practice at ground level with your tree stand and harness with a friend or family member.
• Learn how to properly use your harness. The DNR recommends a full-body harness.
• Waist belts or upper body-only harnesses can cause serious injuries or death in a fall. 

When scouting for a tree:

• Choose a healthy, straight tree that is the right size to hold you and your stand.
• Check the tree beforehand for insect nests or animal dens.
• Avoid using climbing stands on smooth-barked trees, especially during icy or wet weather.
• Clear debris from the base of the tree to minimize injury from a fall and to ensure a sturdy base if using a ladder stand. 

During your hunt:

• Tell a reliable person where you are hunting and when you can be expected to return.
• Wear a full-body harness and make sure it is connected to the tree at all times. If using a ladder stand or climbing sticks, attach the harness before securing the platform to the tree or stepping onto it.
• Climb higher than your stand and always step down onto your platform.
• Wear boots with non-slip soles.
• Never carry equipment when climbing – use a haul line to raise and lower equipment, unloaded firearm or bow. Do not attach the line near the trigger or trigger guard of your firearm.
• Have emergency equipment – a knife, cellphone, flashlight and/or whistle. 

"DNR conservation officers responding to tree-stand falls see the same mistakes over and over – not using a harness or a haul line,” said Sgt. Tom Wanless, supervisor of the DNR hunter education program. “Nationally, 82 percent of hunters who fall from a tree stand are wearing a harness, but it’s not connected. And 86 percent of tree-stand falls take place during the climb up or down. Harnesses and haul lines save lives.”

For more information about tree stand safety, go to the Treestand Manufacturers Association website at www.tmastands.com. For more information about hunting in Michigan, visit the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/hunting.  

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report

Ruffed Grouse

Spring continues to be a tease, and Mother Nature is presenting many challenges for wildlife.

Heavy rains over the weekend in southern parts of Wisconsin resulted in significant flooding and greening grass. The recent cold weather has quieted the frogs, although some hardy spring peepers are still calling. Other frogs which had been vocal are chorus frogs and wood frogs.

There are numerous migratory birds coming through Wisconsin now, including many waterfowl species that are enjoying high waters along the lower Wisconsin River. Nine loons were observed Sunday on Lake Eau Claire. It is likely they are waiting for the far north lakes to thaw before returning to that area. Another loon was observed at Devil’s Lake State Park last week.

Portions of the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area are now open to the public through May 27 for outdoor activities, including spring turkey hunting. In addition to turkey hunting visitors can trap, hike, bird watch, pick mushrooms and berries, bike open roads, study nature and take photographs. There will not be any fishing opportunities and horseback riding will not be allowed during this time period. The U.S. Army is opening many of the lands it still owns at the former Badger Army Ammunition Plant to public use during this time. Visit the DNR website and search keyword “Sauk Prairie Recreation Area” for property hours and maps.

Male ruffed grouse are approaching the peak of their annual breeding activities known as drumming. Males locate a downed log, tree or rock on which to display themselves. Typically the display platform is located in thick vertical cover which provides security from avian predators. The males attract females with a series of repeated, rapid wing strokes with 3-4 minutes between series. As their wings compress the air, they create a vacuum which results in a thumping noise. Wildlife biologists use this drumming behavior to create an index to the grouse population. Each year the same route is traveled and drumming grouse are counted. From year to year, population trends can be determined based on the number of drumming males heard per route. Quiet early mornings, with air temperatures between 25 and 40, are the best times to listen for drumming ruffed grouse.

Spring turkey hunting officially kicked off Wednesday, April 16. Last weekend was the youth turkey hunt and many successes were reported statewide. This week’s high water affected fishing across many parts of the state as waters filled with sediment and debris. Some of the northern inland lakes are still covered with ice but travel on these lakes is dangerous and not recommended.

The Wisconsin Conservation Congress held their annual county meetings Monday, April 14, along with the state’s annual fish and game rules hearings. The WCC is the only statutory body in the state in which citizens elect delegates to advise the Natural Resources Board and the Department of Natural Resources on how to responsibly manage Wisconsin's natural resources for present and future generations. This year over 7,000 constituents cast ballots at their local county meetings. For results of hearings, visit the DNR website and search keyword “Conservation Congress.”

Related articles

• Spring conservation hearings Monday (wiscnews.com)
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report summary for March 14, 2013 (family-outdoors.blogspot.com)
• UPDATE: Sauk Prairie land open for recreation (nbc15.com)

Wisconsin DNR is measuring winter's impact on deer and turkey

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

MADISON - As one of the harshest winters on record continues its icy grip on Wisconsin state wildlife officials are monitoring its effects on wildlife, particularly deer and turkey.

"We have received some reports of dead deer and turkey, especially in northern Wisconsin where snow is more than 30 inches deep in some areas," said Tom Hauge, director of wildlife management for the Department of Natural Resources.

While animals native to Wisconsin are equipped to handle snow and cold, too much for too long can overwhelm an individual animal's resources.

DNR biologists use a "winter severity index" to gauge winter stress levels. Points are assigned for each day with snow deeper than 18 inches and temperatures below zero. WSI measurements are recorded at 43 stations across the northern third of the state and in several east-central counties. Winter conditions are considered mild if a station accumulates less than 50 points, moderate between 51 and 80 points, severe between 81 and 100, and very severe if more than 100.

Many stations in northwestern counties have already reached "severe" on the index, said Mike Zeckmeister, DNR northern wildlife supervisor and more stations likely will record a severe winter index in coming weeks. The 2013-2014 Winter Severity Index [PDF] is available on the DNR website.

People asked to report any deer mortalities

DNR biologists are asking the public to report any observations of winter deer mortality. The reports can be submitted through the DNR website by searching for keywords "dead deer."

Concerned citizens can also search the DNR staff directory for local wildlife biologists and technicians to receive their reports. Additionally, DNR biologists are working in the field this time of year, monitoring deer and their habitats and talking to loggers, foresters, trappers and others who frequent the winter woods.

Sam Jonas, DNR wildlife biologist for Iron County surveyed a 4-mile stretch near the Wisconsin-Michigan border that runs through a wintering area and observed about 70 deer and 16 turkeys.

"The deer are browsing cedar, hemlock and other brush in area," Jonas said. "I am sure we do have some winter mortality in areas, however, the deer I have seen in this wintering area look like they are faring pretty well so far, including the fawns. Late March and April is historically when we see winter mortality so I will be doing a lot of snowshoeing into deer yards at that time to check on things."

Conditions generate questions about feeding deer

The harsh winter is generating questions from the public about feeding deer. Zeckmeister said it is a legitimate and compassionate inquiry but one without an easy answer.

"I understand people want to try to help deer through a hard winter, but feeding can do more harm than good," he said.

Feeding unmixed corn or hay can actually be harmful to deer in late winter. A commercialized pellet - or mixes containing small quantities of corn, plus alfalfa, oats and soybeans, as well as various vitamins and minerals - is the best choice. The food should be spread out to reduce fighting, kept away from roads or snowmobile trails to avoid collisions, and placed near areas sheltered from the wind.

Deer feeding is regulated under Wisconsin law and is prohibited in counties affected by chronic wasting disease. In all other counties, feeding is limited to a maximum of 2 gallons per site. Feeding sites must be placed within 50 yards of a dwelling or a business building open to the public and may not be placed within 100 yards of a roadway with a posted speed limit of 45 mph or higher.

Interested individuals can search the DNR website for "baiting and feeding regulations."

Conditions to have impact on deer permit levels

"There is no question this winter will affect decisions concerning the deer season," said Kevin Wallenfang, DNR big game ecologist. "We are watching this very closely and will adjust the 2014 antlerless deer quotas in response. Based upon what we've seen to date, northern Wisconsin deer hunters can expect to see a lot of buck-only units this fall. The availability of antlerless permits will be extremely low or at zero across the north, depending on the area."

Severe winter also having impact on turkey flocks

"This has been a tough winter for many of our resident wildlife species, and turkeys are no exception," said Scott Walter, DNR upland wildlife ecologist. "Although turkeys are very capable of surviving brief periods of cold and snow, the longer those conditions last the more likely it is that we'll see mortalities, and we've already had verified reports of weather-related mortality in at least a few northern counties. Young birds are likely to be the hardest hit, as they don't have the fat reserves that allow adults to survive up to four weeks with minimal food."

The cold forces turkeys to either increase their food intake or burn more of their fat reserves to stay warm while deep or crusted snow makes it difficult to locate food on the ground. Powdery snow more than12 inches deep makes it difficult for turkeys to travel in search of food.

Permit levels can be safely maintained despite population shifts

As a result of poor production last spring and a severe winter, hunters might see fewer turkeys during the spring 2014 season.

"The levels of harvest that typify Wisconsin's spring and fall turkey seasons have little impact on population trends, however," Scott said. "Some hunters understandably have suggested reducing harvest during the upcoming spring and fall to help turkeys recover. Reducing permit levels, however, would greatly reduce hunter opportunity while doing little to help turkey populations."

Landowners interested in habitat enhancements to buffer turkeys against the effects of severe winter weather can receive grain seed for winter plots through the National Wild Turkey Federation Conservation Seed Program, which provides outdated corn as well as sorghum, highbush cranberry and flowering crab seedlings to federation members for reduced costs.

"These programs allow National Wild Turkey Federation members to make a significant contribution to wild turkey winter survival in the Upper Midwest," said Rick Horton, National Wild Turkey Federation Midwest Conservation Field Supervisor.

More information about Wisconsin's wild turkeys is on the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, keyword "turkey."

FOR MORE INFORMATION: on northern deer herd contact Mike Zeckmeister, DNR northern wildlife management supervisor, 715-635-4090; Tom Hauge, DNR wildlife management bureau director, 608-266-2193, or Sam Jonas, DNR wildlife biologist, 715-476-7843; on turkey contact Scott Walter, upland wildlife biologists at 608-267-7861

Wisconsin: New fishing, hunting licenses on sale

Wisconsin hunting, fishing, trapping and other licenses for the 2014-15 seasons went on sale Wednesday, March 5. The new annual licenses are valid through

March 31, 2015. Hunting and fishing licenses for the 2013-14 license year will expire March 31, 2014.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages long-time license buyers in Wisconsin to consider purchasing aConservation Patron license. A Conservation Patron license gives the license holder all of the basic fishing and hunting privileges at a great price, $165 for Wisconsin residents and $75 for Wisconsin residents under age 18.

Revenue from Conservation Patron license sales is distributed amongst the fishing, wildlife and trapping programs and also helps fund fish and wildlife habitat improvement programs.

In its third year, the first-time buyer license continues to offer an affordable opportunity to explore a number of outdoor activities available throughout Wisconsin. Certain resident licenses are available for as little as $5 for those who have never purchased a Wisconsin license or those who have not purchased a Wisconsin license in any of the 10 years preceding the date of application.

Hunting and fishing licenses can be purchased through the Online Licensing Center on the DNR website, at all authorized license agents, at DNR Service Centers (Hours for service centers vary; check the DNR website for service center days and hours of operation; DNR Service Centers are not open on Saturdays), or by calling toll-free 1-877-LICENSE (1-877-945-4236).

DNR Customer Service staff is available to assist the public online and via phone from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Spanish and Hmong bilingual customer service representatives are also available. Customers may reach customer service at 1-888-WDNR INFo (1-888-936-7463) or by e-mail at csweb@wisconsin.gov. An online chat link is also available

Wisconsin Natural Resources Board approves rules to implement Deer Trustee Report for 2014 season

The Natural Resources Board approved today emergency rules to begin

implementing Deer Trustee Report recommendations on the ground, authorizing a new deer program and regulations that will be in place prior to the 2014 deer hunting season.

"This is a major milestone in the Deer Trustee Report implementation process and the future of deer management in Wisconsin," said Department of Natural Resources Secretary Cathy Stepp. "Throughout the process, DNR has been the ears while partner groups, tribes, and the public have been the voices. This has been no small feat, and many thanks go to all who have provided input - and to DNR staff who have continued to move implementation forward. We have embraced this opportunity to build on our strong deer management foundation, and look forward to implementing the rules in cooperation with deer hunters, landowners, and other partners."

The rules revise deer hunting season frameworks, management units, and revise antlerless deer hunting permits. The rule provides additional opportunities to evaluate herd size and impacts in counties in addition to using population models to estimate the size of the herd, simplifies state park deer hunting regulations, and establishes a Deer Management Assistance Program. Not all provisions will be in implemented in time for the 2014 season. Some are delayed until 2015. The permanent rule hearings and Board approval will occur in 2014, so that it can be implemented in time for the 2015 season.

For an executive summary of the Deer Trustee Report rule package, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keywords "deer trustee report."

"The Deer Trustee Report rule package is a culmination of the recommendations of Dr. James Kroll, a robust public outreach effort involving volunteer action team implementation proposals, surveys, online feedback, 35 public hearings, conservation roundtables, and stakeholder feedback," Stepp said. "This is Wisconsin's deer herd, not the DNR's, and these rules are reflective of Wisconsin's desires for enhancing deer management in the state."

The implementation of the approved rules will involve public outreach to inform hunters, landowners and others about changes and opportunities prior to deer season. From here, the department will proceed with development of draft permanent rules with anticipated public review and Natural Resources Board action in 2014.

For more information, please visit dnr.wi.gov and search keywords "deer trustee report."

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Hauge, DNR wildlife management bureau director, 608-266-2193; Eric Lobner, Deer Trustee Report implementation coordinator, 608-235-0860

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Minnesota Firearms deer harvest down 8 percent from 2012

Minnesota hunters harvested 77,008 deer during the first three days of the firearms season, down 8 percent from 2012, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 

Leslie McInenly, DNR big game program leader, said a slightly smaller harvest over the first three days is not surprising.

“Last year, opening weekend weather was almost ideal and the state’s corn harvest was virtually complete, she said. “So given Saturday’s roaring winds of up to 30 miles per hour, which tends to restrict deer movement, and more available deer refuge areas due to pockets of standing corn, the harvest is about what you’d expect.” In some areas, she said, about a quarter of the corn crop was not yet harvested.

The DNR had sold 445,385 firearms deer licenses as of Monday, about 1,000 fewer than last year but roughly 10,000 more than 2011.

Around the state, opening day hunting conditions included snow in the north and gusty winds and overcast skies most everywhere, turning nicer on Sunday. The harvest was down 19 percent in the northeast, 4 percent in the southeast and 6 percent for the remainder of the state. Because hunters have 48 hours to register a harvested deer, final opening weekend numbers for 2013 will be greater than those reported today. 

With improving weather conditions this week, the DNR still expects the final 2013 harvest to be similar to last year when about 185,000 deer were taken.

The firearms season continues through Sunday for all but northeast Minnesota, which extends until Nov. 24. There is also a late southeast firearms season that runs Nov. 23-Dec. 1.

The DNR reminds hunters who harvest a deer to tag it at the kill site. Also, new this year, hunters are required to register their deer within 48 hours after harvest and before processing.

Hunters can report violations 24/7 by calling the Turn In Poachers hotline at800-652-9093.

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• Indiana Deer Bundle (midwestdeerhunting.blogspot.com)
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Wisconsin DNR offers five ways to find a place to hunt

If you are still looking for a place to hunt this fall, or if you have questions about public

land you frequent, check out the following links for information on public lands and private lands open to public hunting. Additionally, Department of Natural Resources experts will host a live online chat to answer your questions about accessing these hunting lands, including state parks, and using DNR’s open lands mapping tools, on Wednesday, Nov. 20, starting at noon.

To join the Nov. 20 chat, visit dnr.wi.gov and search keywords “ask the experts.”

In the meantime, click on the links below to learn more about some of the public hunting access opportunities in Wisconsin.

The DNR’s Explore Outdoors Web page allows people to search millions of acres of public lands by county, by proximity to a city, by type of property or by one of 22 listed outdoor activities, including hunting. Search results allow you to read about and view detailed maps of DNR properties, including:

State Wildlife Areas are managed primarily for hunting.

Most State Parks are open to certain types of hunting for two months of the year, with new guidelines coming soon.

Most DNR-owned State Natural Areas are open to hunting.

The department’s Managed Lands website at allows you to interactively map most public lands in the state.

Voluntary Public Access (VPA) is a DNR program that provides incentives to private landowners who open their property to public hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife observation. Maps are available on the DNR website.

Through the Managed Forest Law (MFL) and Forest Crop Law (FCL) programs, some private forest lands are open to the public for recreational purposes. A new DNR Private Forest Lands Open to Public Recreation Web mapping application allows people to use an interactive tool for mapping these private forest lands that are open to public hunting and other forms of outdoor recreation.

Agricultural properties enrolled in the Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program (WDACP) are another option to consider when looking for properties to hunt. More information on WDACP as well as a list of properties enrolled in the program that are open to the public for hunting the species causing damage can be found on the DNR website. Hunters must contact the producer before they hunt.

Other resources for information on public lands open to hunting outside of DNR include the following (all links exit DNR).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service owns several large and small properties in Wisconsin that are open to public hunting. Seewww.fws.gov/midwest/news/wisconsin.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service owns and manage waterfowl production areas in Wisconsin. These properties are typically open to hunting. You can find out more about these sites including an interactive map.

The U.S. Forest Service manages the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, 1.5 million acres open for hunting in northern Wisconsin.

“Wisconsin has a wealth of lands, both public and private, that are open to the public for hunting,” said Doug Haag, DNR Realty Operations chief. “These links are not an exhaustive representation of the opportunities, rather a snapshot of DNR programs that may help people locate places to hunt. Other resources not specifically linked here include County GIS sites, County plat books, and several printed mapping products available in local sporting goods stores.”

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Michigan Firearm deer season starts soon – helpful reminders

On Friday, Nov. 15, tens of thousands of Michigan residents and nonresidents will take to the field to

enjoy deer hunting. The firearm season runs from Nov. 15-30. Once a deer has been harvested, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages hunters to get their deer “checked” at a local DNR office. Check station hours vary, so hunters should review the list of locations, times and hours atwww.michigan.gov/deercheck.

At DNR check stations, DNR staff members record the harvest location and date, gender and antler measurements. Deer heads may be collected for bovine TB surveillance in select counties, on a voluntary basis. This year, the DNR encourages hunters to submit samples for TB if they harvested a deer in the following 19 counties: Alcona, Alpena, Bay, Cheboygan, Crawford, Genesee, Gratiot, Iosco, Isabella, Midland, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Saginaw, Shiawassee and Tuscola. Data and TB samples collected at check stations help to assess the biological health of the herd and assist with future population management recommendations.

Other reminders:

• Still looking for places to hunt on public land? Visit www.michigan.gov/mihunt to search by county.
• Antlerless licenses are still available. Visit www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings for a listing of licenses available for public and private land.
• Antler point restrictions are in place for certain areas in the state. Visit www.michigan.gov/deerunder License Information to find a chart that can help you determine the restrictions for your area.
• Archery equipment, including crossbows, can be used during the firearm season.
• Don’t forget to wear hunter orange.
• There are limits on the amount of bait that can be placed around the state. Visitwww.michigan.gov/dnrlaws and click on Baiting and Feeding on the left navigation bar to learn more.
• Deer hunting hours are available in the 2013-14 Hunting and Trapping Digest, which can be found at www.michigan.gov/dnrdigests.

Lastly, don’t forget to apply for the Pure Michigan Hunt! Only $4 for each application, and hunters may apply as many times as they would like from now until Dec. 31. Win elk and bear licenses and a prize package worth more than $4,000. Check out www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt to purchase.

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Indiana Deer Bundle

What licenses can the deer license bundle replace?

You can use the bundle to replace the one antlered deer you would harvest using your archery/crossbow license OR your firearms license OR your muzzleloader license.

AND The bundle can be used to replace up to two antlerless deer you would harvest using your archery/crossbow license OR your muzzleloader license OR your bonus antlerless license.

OR You can use the bundle to replace the three antlerless deer you would harvest using your archery/crossbow license, muzzleloader license, and/or bonus antlerless license.

What are the benefits of the deer bundle for multi-season hunters?

The benefits are:

• The ability to hunt multiple seasons (except the urban season) and harvest up to three deer.
• The opportunity to hunt antlered deer in the archery/crossbow, firearms, and muzzleloader seasons until you harvest an antlered deer.
• Increased cost savings the more seasons you hunt.

What are some examples of things you CAN do with the deer bundle license?

• You can hunt for your antlered deer during archery season while filling antlerless bags. If you do not have an antlered deer come by during archery season, pick up a legal firearm and go out during that season.
• You can have three licenses available during firearms season, and if you don't fill them, take your muzzleloader out during muzzleloader season, or take your firearms out in the special antlerless season and try to harvest an antlerless deer.
• You can have a license privilege that allows you to harvest 1 antlered and 2 antlerless or 3 antlerless deer during the archery season, flip back and forth using different types of legal archery equipment (long/recurve/compound/cross) during the archery season if you prefer. If you choose not to harvest all three deer with archery equipment, you can pick up a legal firearm and hunt during firearms, muzzleloader, or special antlerless season until you reach your bag limit for the deer bundle.

Can I use the bundle as a bonus antlerless license on DNR properties?

The bundle cannot be used to take bonus antlerless deer on a DNR property during special antlerless deer season nor during any regular deer season, except where authorized. See the Indiana Hunting and Trapping Guide or contact the DNR property you wish to hunt for exceptions.

Can I use the bundle in the urban deer zone?

No the deer license bundle cannot be used in the urban deer zone to satisfy urban deer zone bag limits. It can be used in urban zones when fulfilling regular season bag limits

Can I use a crossbow with the deer bundle?

Yes, any legal equipment can be used for the seasons that the bundle can be used

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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Morning temperatures dipping well below freezing

It is finally starting to feel like fall in Wisconsin. With temperatures dipping well below freezing the morning, the frost has been hitting the trees hard leading to more leaf drop. The leaf drop is assisting archery and game bird hunters in finding their targets easier. In parts of northern Wisconsin snow has started to cover the ground, which helps in the pursuit of game. Whitetail scrapes and rubs are becoming more prevalent, and more deer movement is occurring during the day time hours.

Mixed success has been reported during the opening weekend of pheasant season. Some areas that received controlled burns in the spring made it a little harder to locate game birds. Wolf season is off to a much faster start compared to last year’s inaugural season. A second wolf was harvested in Columbia County this week, and one wolf was taken by bow and arrow in the northwoods. Wolf hunting and trapping Zone 2 is now closed, due to the zone reaching its quota. Do not forget that the Lake Winnebago sturgeon spearing license deadline ends on October 31.

There will be several Halloween hikes occurring on state properties this weekend. On Saturday October 26 there will be Halloween hikes at Copper Falls State Park, Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Devil's Lake State Park, Heritage Hill State Park, High Cliff State Park and Willow River State Park. The MacKenzie Center in Poynette will be hosting a haunted hay ride on Saturday as well. For more information on these events visit http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/getoutdoors/events.html.

Conifer, hardwood and shrub seedlings are available to purchase through the DNR nursery program beginning September 27, 2013. Landowners are required to purchase a minimum of 300 trees or shrubs and must use the stock for conservation plantings. An application is available online at http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/TreePlanting/, by calling 715-424-3700 or from your local DNR office. Nursery stock is sold at cost with variable prices depending on the species, age and quantity ordered. Cost sharing may be available to help defray the cost of nursery stock, site preparation and planting. Contact your local DNR forester for more information.

Cool, windy and wet weather (and even some snow) seemed to limit a lot of fishing activity in the northwoods in the last week. Water temperatures have now dropped into the low 50's and upper 40's, and the fall turnover is now completed on most lakes in the north. Musky anglers have continued to provide most of the fishing pressure on our northern lakes and their success has started to get inconsistent. Door County bass fishing remained hot from the county line to Washington Island. Fishing on Lake Wisconsin and the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway is also picking up due to lower water temperatures.

ORVs with orange flags are hunters with disabilities, operating under the law

Hunters enjoying Michigan’s deer hunting seasons may spot a fellow hunter on an off-road vehicle with

an orange flag. Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conservation officers remind everyone that hunters using ORVs with orange flags are operating legally and should not be harassed. 

A law approved in 2008 allows persons with disabilities who are hunting with proper permits to ride an ORV with an orange flag to identify themselves as a hunter with disabilities. 

The law is intended to prevent misunderstandings between sportsmen and sportswomen that might arise when confronted with an ORV operating in an area open to hunting. It is important for hunters to understand that under certain circumstances, ORV use is permitted, said Lt. Andrew Turner of the DNR’s Law Enforcement Division. 

Turner said the law simply allows hunters with disabilities to display an orange flag if they so choose. The law does not require a flag, and there are no size or height requirements in the law for the flag. The DNR chose orange for the flag color because orange flags are readily available, highly visible, inexpensive and commonly used for safety purposes.

“It is important to note that the law does not grant any additional privileges, such as cross-country operation, for ORV operators with disabilities,” Turner said. “It simply allows them to be identified as such.”

For more information on hunting opportunities in Michigan, visit the DNR website www.michigan.gov/hunting. 

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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fall color now peaking in central Wisconsin

Fall colors (exit DNR) are now peaking in central Wisconsin, and while colors are reported as past peak in north central Wisconsin, they are still at peak in the northeast and northwest. Heavy rains in the last week brought down a lot of leaves across much of the state, but especially in the north.

The rain and fog did put a damper on last weekend’s youth deer hunt, but there were still many reports of successful young hunters. And the leaf drop should be aiding archery deer hunters as well as grouse, partridge and woodcock hunters.

With unseasonably warm temperatures recently, the waterfowl migration has been slow but this past week did see a major flight of northern ducks into the state, including many redheads, scaup, common goldeneye, buffleheads and an initial wave of canvasbacks. Canada goose numbers are slowly picking up with increased numbers at Horicon and Theresa wildlife areas.

The southern zone duck season reopens this Saturday, and with the federal government shutdown, DNR officials have been receiving many inquiries on what areas are open for hunting. While the Horicon and Mississippi national wildlife refuges are closed, the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area and all state, county and local access points on the Mississippi River and the waters of the Mississippi and all state and local public lands remain open. Additionally, while campground and facilities within the Chequamegon and Nicolet national forests are closed, the forest lands themselves are open.

The rain coupled with some strong winds made for tough fishing conditions in the Northwoods. Musky anglers continue to provide the most fishing pressure and success has continued to be generally good, with most anglers having now switched from artificial baits to live suckers. Walleye haven't settled into a solid fall pattern yet, but there has been a surge in crappie action.

The rain did draw more trout and salmon up Lake Michigan tributaries, with fish reported in the Oconto, Ahnapee, Kewaunee, East and West Twin, Sheboygan and Root rivers. Salmon were also being reported all over Door County with every major marina having some fish inside. Perch fishing has also been good along the bay side of Door County.

The Root River Steelhead Facility had more success this week and has now processed more than 375 fish. The facility will be hosting an open house this Saturday, Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with guided tours, fish spawning demonstrations, fly casting lessons, knot and fly-tying, and tips for cooking fish.

The Gov. Tommy G. Thompson State Fish Hatchery in Spooner continues its harvest of walleye for stocking in state waters. The hatchery has more than quadrupled production of larger walleye fingerlings under the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative, which aims to stock more larger walleye by expanding production at state hatcheries and at private, tribal and municipal hatcheries.

Lots of other events are also taking place this weekend with the 9th Annual Harvest Moon Festival at the Capital Springs State Recreation Area near Madison on Friday, and on Saturday, Smokey Bear’s Spook-tacular candlelight hike at Peninsula State Park in Door County, and a candlelight hike and astronomy program at Governor Dodge State Park in Iowa County. For a listing search the DNR website for “Get Outdoors.”

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• Public meetings set for October to discuss Wisconsin Walleye Initiative (family-outdoors.blogspot.com)

Minnesota: No surplus either-sex deer permits available for 2013

For the first time since surplus permits were offered in 2007, no leftover either-sex deer permits are available for purchase after the lottery deadline, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said.

The DNR offered 38,850 either-sex permits in 58 deer permit areas this year. Every permit area received applications for at least 100 percent of the permits available.

In lottery deer areas, firearm and muzzleloader license holders who intend to take an antlerless deer must have an either-sex permit; otherwise, they are restricted to hunting bucks. The total bag limit for deer in lottery areas is one deer per year.

Availability of leftover permits has declined since the development of the hunter choice management designation, which was first used in 2011. Similar to lottery areas, hunter choice-designated areas have a bag limit of one deer; however, no limit is placed on the number of available either-sex permits and lottery applications are not required.

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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Report

Wild rice on northern lakes is ripe and will be harvestable for the next few weeks.

Last week northern Wisconsin was very wet with heavy rain on multiple days and some areas also experienced winds of 50 mph or more with the rain. Water levels in some area are very high. Meanwhile, the west central part of the state remains very dry and fire danger remains high in many counties, with burning permits suspended in some areas.

The Lower Wisconsin River continues to be at fairly low levels for the fall. However, there have been some big fluctuations in the past week, caused by discharges at the Prairie du Sac dam. The river has come up or dropped down as much as one foot in 36 hours, so paddlers are urged to take that into account when choosing sandbars for camping.

Musky have been the highlight of the past week in Northwoods fishing and action was very good. Nearly all anglers were reporting sightings, follows and strikes. Artificial baits have provided most of the action. Largemouth and smallmouth bass have also provided some very good action, northern pike fishing remains excellent and panfish activity has been sporadic with some decent crappie and bluegill found suspended around deeper water cover.

Lake Michigan trollers have been reporting decent catches with a mixed bag of large rainbows, coho, and chinook. Fishing pressure has remained steady on harbor piers with some chinook reported at Sheboygan, Port Washington, Milwaukee, Racine and Kenosha. A few chinook were caught near the mouth of the Pike River, but there were no reports this week of salmon moving up rivers.

The early goose and dove hunting seasons opened last weekend and some hunters did very well on doves during opening weekend, especially in the Columbia County area. Some goose hunters reported success, while others reported that it was pretty hard to locate geese due to the late farming season. Few fields have been cut so the birds are still spending time in retention ponds and elsewhere.

Whitetail bucks are starting to shed their antler velvet and the red coats on deer are starting to turn to the darker winter color. Fawns are also changing, their coats are starting to turn dark and they are beginning to lose their spots. Cooler weather is increasing deer movement, especially during the day, so drivers should beware.

Coyotes have been very vocal over the last several weeks, enlivening quiet nights with their barking, howling and yipping. Family groups have established rendezvous sites where family groups will meet to socialize and prepare for hunts. Coyote pups are especially vocal this time of year and will readily respond when howled at by a human.

Some of the late summer-early fall flowers that can be seen now are large-leaved aster, native sunflowers, evening primrose, goldenrod, and jewelweed. Wild rice on northern lakes is ripe and will be harvestable for the next few weeks. Numerous regulated wild rice lakes have opened in the last week. Search the DNR website for wild rice for information on what lakes are open and harvest rules.