Wisconsin’s nine-day firearms deer season opens this Saturday.

The lack of snow can effect deer visibility, leading DNR Deer Program Specialist Jeff Pritzl to believe harvest numbers may come in a little bit behind last year. Last year 203,295 deer were registered.

It’s anticipated to be a dry weekend with temps in the 40s mid-day.

The Wisconsin DNR recommends hunter to go into the woods with a safety plan: wear harnesses in tree stands, always point your muzzle in a safe direction, and know your target.

Group Hunt Safety Tips:
• Make & follow a plan. Each member knows their role.
• Each member has a safe zone of fire.
• Control firearm muzzle! Point in safe direction.
• Identify the target, know what’s before & beyond.
• Don't shoot at movement or sound. Use safe backstops. pic.twitter.com/WODzxoyvQ9

— Wisconsin DNR (@WDNR) November 17, 2023

With growing elk populations in Wisconsin the DNR also reminds hunters to brush up on the differences between elk and deer, so they don’t accidentally take an elk. Elk have black legs and a dark furry neck, a short tail, and stand one to two feet taller than a white-tailed deer.

As Wisconsin’s elk population continues to grow, the chances of seeing elk in the field increase. Make sure you're certain of your target this season.

Learn the differences between deer and elk using our comparison guide:https://t.co/XOuHdp7vga pic.twitter.com/x9fvoWxjvl

— Wisconsin DNR (@WDNR) November 12, 2023

Don’t forget, you have until 5 p.m. the day after you recover a deer to register it. Also, take note of CWD regulations for 2023.

Testing your deer for CWD not only informs you of your deer’s status but it also provides valuable data on the disease’s distribution in our state.

Learn the ways you can help the herd by testing your deer for CWD at:https://t.co/d4R54SciCy pic.twitter.com/Acxuj1YdQH

— Wisconsin DNR (@WDNR) November 13, 2023