Bobcat, fisher trapping seasons open Saturday

Bobcat, fisher trapping seasons open Saturday

The Wisconsin DNR reminds fisher and bobcat trappers to prepare for the opening of their seasons across the state. 

Harvest of bobcat and fisher are managed through a special permitting system. Harvest permits, or harvest authorizations, are awarded through a “preference point” lottery system. For more information on 2026 permits, visit the Furbearer Drawing Results webpage.

The fisher trapping season runs from Oct. 17 through Jan. 3, 2027. Meanwhile, bobcat season is broken into two periods: Period 1 runs from Oct. 17 through Dec. 25, and Period 2 runs from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31, 2027. Both seasons include North and South zones.

Applicants who successfully draw a fisher harvest authorization, or successful bobcat applicants who intend to trap, must also purchase a trapping license. Prior to purchasing a license, all first-time trappers are required to complete the Wisconsin trapper education course unless actively engaged in farming. It is recommended that you first attend a trapper education course prior to applying for a bobcat or fisher tag to ensure all requirements are fulfilled prior to the start of harvest seasons.

Wisconsin allows trapping by nonresidents from states that allow Wisconsin residents to purchase non-resident licenses and trap in that state. This includes all states except Hawaii, Minnesota and Washington D.C. 

Nonresident licenses also require the successful completion of the Wisconsin Trapper Education Course. Non-resident trappers are subject to all seasons and online regulations that pertain to the state of Wisconsin.

The DNR also issued a couple of reminders: trapping seasons in a particular zone may close before the listed closing date if the harvest quota for a specific species is reached, and bobcat permits tags will be printed in black and white this season, not pink as they have historically been.

Trappers can visit the DNR’s Trapping webpage for zone status updates and more information about trapping in Wisconsin.