WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |DNR ideas for hunting, fishing changes

DNR ideas for hunting, fishing changes

LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) - A new crane hunting season and an expanded season are just some of the possible changes that could be in the works for Wisconsin hunters and anglers.

The Department of Natural Resources holds hearings every spring in all 72 counties in Wisconsin to get input on proposed changes in hunting and fishing practices.  Those in attendance vote on the issue which can help influence changes to or adding new rules and regulations. 

There are a number of issues up for discussion for people who enjoy hunting and fishing activities.

For the first time, hunters will be asked whether Wisconsin should have a sandhill crane hunting season. The population of the big birds has grown, and they're being blamed for high levels of crop damage. Right now, most duck hunters are required to stay close to shore, but one of this year's questions asks if open-water hunting should be allowed on Lake Wissota and some other lakes.

The state Conservation Congress wants input on whether to issue more antlerless deer permits to those hunting on private land, and fewer for public land. The idea is to prevent over-harvest of deer on public land, and under-harvest on private land. Another idea allows trail cameras on DNR public land. Residents will also be asked whether all hunters should be allowed to use crossbows to hunt bear and turkeys, and during the gun-deer season.

As for anglers, there are questions dealing with allowing trolling on all state waters, whether fishing should be allowed year round and charging the same price for in-state and out-of-state fishing licenses. Anglers will also be asked if the largemouth bass season in northwest Wisconsin should open in May, instead of the existing late opening designed to protect spawning bass.

All of these questions are advisory, which means even if residents approve them they won't necessarily be enacted.

You will be able to vote on all of the questions at hearings in every county, on April 9.