MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding bear and turkey hunters that applications for the 2026 black bear and spring turkey hunting seasons are due by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025.

Hunters can apply for harvest authorizations or purchase preference points toward future drawings, or edit an existing application, through Go Wild or an authorized license agent up until the deadline.

Black Bear Harvest Authorizations

The drawing for 2026 black bear harvest authorizations will occur in February.

Applicants selected in the drawing will be notified by email or postcard, depending on their notification preferences selected in the application process. They may purchase their 2026 Class A bear license beginning in March 2026. Applican

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