Safety First: Our Top Priority
Hunting season in Northern Wisconsin is a cherished tradition, with thousands of hunters taking to the woods each fall. Whether it's gun deer season in late November, bow season running from mid-September through January, or various small game seasons, the likelihood of encountering hunters on or near undeveloped land parcels in Ashland, Bayfield, and Douglas County is significant during these times.
What You Need to Know
Wear Blaze Orange
This is non-negotiable. Wisconsin law requires anyone in a hunting zone during gun deer season to wear at least 50% blaze orange on their head, chest, and back. We strongly recommend wearing blaze orange or pink whenever viewing land parcels from September through January. We'll have extra vests available if needed — but please come prepared.
Advance Notice to Landowners and Neighbors
We make every effort to notify current landowners, neighbors, and any known hunters who may have permission to hunt the property. This advance notice helps prevent surprise encounters and allows hunters to plan accordingly. However, it's impossible to guarantee that all hunters in the area will be aware of our presence.
Timing Considerations
Peak Hunting Times to Avoid
The most active hunting periods typically occur at dawn — roughly one hour before sunrise to 9:00 AM — and at dusk — roughly 3:00 PM to one hour after sunset. When possible, we schedule showings during mid-day hours (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) to minimize potential conflicts.
Key Season Dates
- Bow/Crossbow Deer: Mid-September through early January
- Gun Deer Season: Nine days beginning the Saturday before Thanksgiving
- Bear Season: September
- Grouse and Waterfowl: Fall months
Making Noise and Staying Visible
- Talk in normal voices rather than whispering
- Stay on trails or roads when possible
- Move deliberately — avoid crouching or crawling movements
- Keep blaze orange visible at all times
Alternative Viewing Options
If you're uncomfortable with showings during active hunting season, we're happy to work with you on alternatives:
- Aerial property tours using drone footage and detailed mapping
- Virtual presentations with extensive photo documentation
- Winter or spring showings when hunting activity is minimal
- Weekday showings when hunting pressure is typically lighter
The Northern Wisconsin Advantage
Despite these seasonal considerations, fall can actually be an excellent time to evaluate land parcels in Northern Wisconsin. You'll get a true sense of the property's wildlife activity, see established trails and bedding areas, and understand how the land is being used. For buyers interested in hunting properties, there's no better time to assess the land's potential.
Ready to Explore Land in Northern Wisconsin?
We have extensive experience navigating seasonal considerations and will work with you to create a showing plan that meets your needs — hunting season or any other time of year.
Contact Visions First Realty
Call (715) 812-1135 | 126 W Bayfield St Suite 101, Washburn, WI 54891
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only. Hunting season dates and regulations are subject to change — always verify current regulations with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Visions First Realty, LLC makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information contained herein. Visions First Realty is an Equal Housing Opportunity provider.
