Learn how to hunt bears or teach someone to hunt

Conservation partners are encouraging novice hunters, who want to learn about bear hunting in Wisconsin, to apply for the Learn to Hunt Bear program. The program is intended to promote awareness and understanding of bear hunting in Wisconsin, particularly for those who are interested in hunting bear on their own in the future.

The program includes multiple classroom and field sessions, culminating with a bear-hunting experience. Participants will learn about bear biology, population management, habits, habitat, hunting techniques, regulations and safety.

Anyone who has not previously participated in the program or received a bear harvest authorization, is encouraged to apply. Participants must be at least 10 years old, with no maximum age.

The number of Learn to Hunt Bear programs offered varies annually, and will influence the number of participants selected. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application by June 1.

Interested participants should complete the online application by May 1. The application, program guidelines and more information, can be found at dnr.wisconsin. gov.

Experienced bear hunters are also needed to become Learn to Hunt Bear program instructors. The number of participants in the program is dependent on the number of volunteers who can instruct novice hunters. Potential instructors need at least five years of bear hunting experience, and must consent to a background check.

The DNR will work with instructor groups to develop a Learn to Hunt Bear program in their area or help individual volunteers find an existing group to work with. Interested volunteers should notify Emily Iehl, DNR Hunting & Shooting Sports Program specialist, at emily.iehl@wisconsin.gov, by April 18.