Early goose hunting season runs through Sept. 15

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters that the 2025 early goose season opened Sept. 1 and runs through Sept. 15. This early hunting opportunity is available to hunters throughout the state.

The early goose season has an increased daily bag limit of five Canada geese and is uniformly regulated across Wisconsin.

The 2025 population estimate for Wisconsin-breeding Canada geese is 131,567 birds. This estimate is slightly lower than in 2024, but still over 20 percent higher than the long-term average.

While afield, goose hunters must carry either an electronic or physical copy of their small game license, early Canada goose permit, Harvest Information Program (HIP) registration, as well as proof of purchase of a state waterfowl stamp and federal Duck Stamp at all times. Acceptable methods of proof include a paper copy, a DNR-approved PDF displayed on a mobile device or a Go Wild Conservation Card, along with a Wisconsin driver’s license.

More information on goose hunting in Wisconsin, including how to find places to hunt and the 2025-2026 regulations, can be found on the DNR’s Waterfowl Hunting webpage.