Countdown to Deer Hunt 2024: Anticipation Builds in Calumet County
CALUMET COUNTY, WI – The highly anticipated Deer Hunt 2024 is just days away, with an estimated 550,000 hunters preparing to descend upon the woods in pursuit of Wisconsin’s nearly two million deer population. As the state readies for the opening day, experts from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are analyzing the conditions which could impact the upcoming hunt.
According to Jeff Pritzl, DNR State Deer Program Specialist, the late start of the gun season this year is a significant factor. Typically, a later opener correlates with reduced deer movement during daytime hours, likely suppressing the overall harvest by 10-15%. Pritzl advises hunters to adjust their expectations, noting the possibility of decreased daytime activity among deer compared to previous years.
This year has also brought favorable conditions for deer, thanks to a mild winter that has boosted fawn production. Notably, the region has experienced a relatively dry season, enhancing hunter accessibility to lowland areas. Such conditions could play to hunters’ advantages, especially if frozen grounds occur during the opening weekend.
Additionally, the 2024 agricultural season has progressed ahead of schedule, with much of the corn harvested before the hunt, which could further attract deer. Pritzl encourages crisp weather with a touch of frost and perhaps some snowfall, as these conditions not only enhance deer movement but also improve visibility and sound for hunters.
While last year’s harvest figures showed a 17.6% decline, Pritzl believes this season may align closely with previous numbers, suggesting a potentially balanced outcome. Deer Hunt 2024 officially kicks off early Saturday morning and runs through December 1, promising an exciting season for hunters across the state.
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Photo credit wtaq.com
