The forests of the north woods surrounding Minocqua are teaming with wildlife. The area is truly a hunter’s paradise with hundreds of public forest lands available for trapping as well as gun and bow hunting. Whether you’re looking for a fully outfitted excursion that practically guarantees a trophy or a more rustic hunting expedition on your own, you’ll find the perfect spot in the Lakeland area of Minocqua, Woodruff and Arbor Vitae.

The Northern Highland – American Legion State Forest just outside Minocqua provides a variety of game habitat. In fact, more than 50 percent of this forest is high-to moderate-quality deer habitat, and 45 percent is high-to moderate-quality ruffed grouse habitat.

The fall hunting season typically extends from September through December, depending on the species. Black bear, white tail, ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, bobwhite quail, gray partridge, mink, fisher, water fowl, and wild turkey all thrive in the woods of Northern Wisconsin, along with many other species for which hunting or trapping is allowed. Permits are required for many species, so be sure to plan ahead.

Guided excursions include everything from meals, lodging, transportation, and permits and licensing to the dressing of your trophy. Some outfitters even offer a video of your successful hunt.

Young hunters should consider taking hunting education classes or participate in a mentoring program. A one-on-one mentoring opportunity gives first-time hunters a chance to try hunting and enables veteran hunters to pass on their passion for the outdoors and help keep Wisconsin's hunting heritage alive.

Bow hunters, trappers, and gun hunters all love the Minocqua area for hunting. With so many different species and areas to hunt, plus all the great restaurants, entertainment, and places to stay, who wouldn’t? Plan your hunting trip to Minocqua today and you’re sure to have a great time, and hopefully come home with a trophy or two.