The price of Wisconsin hunting licenses could go up $20 if proposed increases in Gov. Tony Evers’ 2025-27 state budget are supported by the state Legislature.

The budget proposal, unveiled Feb. 18, would result in a cost of $44 for a resident deer hunting license, up from $24.

It’d be the first time since 2005 that the resident deer hunting license fee would increase. Many nonresident license fees increased in 2023.

Under the proposal, the nonresident deer hunting license would also increase $20 this year, to $220.

Small game hunting license fees would also go up, including resident annual licenses from $18 to $38 and nonresident annual licenses from $90 to $110.

Licenses can be purchased from the Wisconsin DNR.

Why is Wisconsin proposing increased prices for hunting licenses?

As the vast majority of license fees have remained stagnant since 2005, costs to the DNR have risen substantially.

Over the last 20 years, inflation has increased 59%, according to a DNR review of the issue. Costs of equipment and many items needed by the agency have jumped even more.

At the same time, the sale of licenses ― particularly for deer hunting ― has dropped, further reducing revenue for the DNR.

As a result, the DNR’s Fish and Wildlife Account has fallen into a structural deficit. This account is responsible for the agency’s fish, wildlife and law enforcement programs. It relies heavily on revenue from license sales.

The agency forecasts the account will be $15.5 million in the red in fiscal year 2026. A fee increase would help prevent further cuts in DNR services and programs.

How do Wisconsin’s resident deer hunting license fees compare to surrounding states?

Minnesota: $34

Michigan: $31 (includes $11 base hunting license fee)

Illinois: $47.25 (includes $12.75 resident hunting license fee and $5.50 habitat stamp)

Iowa: $70 (includes $22 for base hunting license and $15 habitat fee)