Public Lands, Waterfowl Hotspots & Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures

Discover some of Wisconsin’s most rewarding hunting experiences in Black River Country, where expansive public lands, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty create the perfect setting for your next outdoor adventure.

From dense hardwood forests to river-bottom wetlands, this region offers prime habitat for whitetail deer, wild turkey, black bear, ruffed grouse, and waterfowl—making it a destination worth returning to season after season.

Explore Prime Hunting Lands

At the center of it all is the Black River State Forest, spanning nearly 70,000 acres of public hunting land. With a mix of oak ridges, pine stands, and remote cover, hunters can enjoy both accessibility and solitude.

👉 Plan your route and scouting strategy:
Download the forest map
https://www.blackrivercountry.net/wp-content/uploads/BlackRiverMap.pdf

Whether you’re tracking deer during the rut or flushing grouse in early fall, the forest’s diverse terrain offers something for every skill level.

Waterfowl Hunting at Its Best

For waterfowl hunters, the Dike 17 Wildlife Management Area is a standout destination. This expansive wetland system along the Black River is known for excellent duck and goose hunting during migration.

👉 Explore access points and habitat details:
http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/lands/WildlifeAreas/dike17.html

Its mix of open water, marshland, and floodplain habitat creates ideal conditions for both seasoned hunters and those new to waterfowl hunting.

Plan Your Hunt

Make the most of your trip with these essential resources:

Planning ahead ensures a safer, more productive, and more enjoyable hunting experience.

Stay & Extend Your Trip

Turn your hunting trip into a full outdoor getaway. Black River Country offers a variety of lodging options—from rustic campsites to comfortable cabins and hotels—all within easy reach of hunting lands.

  • 🌲 Camp or stay near public lands managed by the Jackson County Forestry & Parks Department
  • 🚵 Enjoy additional recreation like ATV riding, hiking, and fishing
  • 🍂 Experience stunning fall colors during peak hunting season

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, there’s more to explore beyond the hunt.

Know Before You Go

Before heading out, be sure to:

  • Review current hunting seasons and regulations through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
  • Obtain proper licenses and permits
  • Check access rules for public and private lands
  • Practice safe and ethical hunting

Being prepared ensures a successful and responsible outdoor experience.

Experience Black River Country

In Black River Country, hunting is more than a tradition—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and experience the best of Wisconsin’s outdoors.

Plan your hunt. Stay longer. Discover more.

Quick Resources

Hunters can access extensive public lands including the Black River State Forest and Dike 17 Wildlife Management Area, along with select private lands open through state programs.

Common species include whitetail deer, wild turkey, black bear, grouse, squirrels, waterfowl, and more.

Yes, the forest is open to public hunting during designated seasons with proper licensing .

Dike 17 is a premier waterfowl hunting destination, especially for ducks and geese, due to its wetland and river habitat.

Yes, visitors can choose from public campgrounds, cabins, hotels, and private lodging options throughout the region.

Yes, hunters must obtain landowner permission unless the land is enrolled in public access programs.

Seasons vary by species and weapon type. Hunters should consult Wisconsin DNR regulations for current dates and requirements.