WISCONSIN’SHUNTING HERITAGEIS UNDER ATTACK
The next two election cycles will decide its future
WISCONSIN’SHUNTING HERITAGE IS UNDER ATTACK
The next two election cycles will decide its future
What’s at stake in WISCONSIN
- Delisting the Gray Wolf
- Fewer Whitetail Deer
- Pet & Livestock Depredations from wolves.
- Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
- Second Amendment freedoms restricted
- Wisconsin DNR Audit
- License Fee Increases
- Sand Hill Crane Hunting
- Policy driven by activists, not science
- Hunters sidelined from the political process
WISCONSIN Grassroots Opportunity
500,000 Wisconsin Hunters and 2A Advocates won’t vote in 2026 unless activated. Enough to swing any election.
Hunter Nation is the only trusted messenger.
Join us at an upcoming event!
These pressures are shaping elections, policy, and reducing deer harvest.
Wisconsin Events
Date & Time: May 14, 2026 07:00 PM
The coalition has one clear and unwavering mission: to support passage of the Pet and Livestock Protection Act and secure the permanent delisting of the gray wolf, without judicial review.
Wisconsin Previous Events
Wisconsin Wolf Seasons & DNR Population
2012 / 2013 - Wolf Harvest Season - 201 Total Quota
- Wolf Harvest Season: 10/15/2012 – 2/28/2013
- Harvest Quota: 201 (24.7% of Estimated Wolf Population)
(116 state / 85 tribal) - Wolf Harvest: 117 in 69 days - 58.2% of Total Quota, License Quota Reached
- Wolf Population (2012): 815
- Wolf Hunting & Trapping Licenses: 1,160 of 20,272 applications
- Click to Read WI-DNR - Wisconsin Wolf Season Report 2012
2013 / 2014 - Wolf Harvest Season - 275 Total Quota
- Wolf Harvest Season: 10/15/2013 – 2/28/2014
- Harvest Quota: 275 (34.0% of Estimated Wolf Population)
(251 state / 24 other) - Wolf Harvest: 257 in 70 days - 93.5% of Total Quota, License Quota Reached
- Wolf Population (2013): 809 (Population decrease of 6)
- Wolf Hunting & Trapping Licenses: 2,151 of 16,672 applications
- Click to Read WI DNR - Wisconsin Wolf Season Report 2013-14
2014 / 2015 - Wolf Harvest Season - 156 Total Quota
- Wolf Harvest Season: 10/15/2014 – 2/28/2015
- Harvest Quota: 156 (23.6% of Estimated Wolf Population)
(150 state / 6 other) - Wolf Harvest: 154 in 52 days - 98.7% of Total Quota, License Quota Nearly Met
- Wolf Population (2014): 660 (Population decrease of 149)
- Wolf Hunting & Trapping Licenses: 1,500 of 14,339 applications
- Click to Read WI DNR - Wisconsin Wolf Season Report 2014-15
- Wolf Harvest Season: 2/22/21–2/28/2021
Quota Reached in under 3 Days on 2/24/2024 - Harvest Quota: 200 (14.9% of Estimated Wolf Population)
(119 state / 81 tribal) - Wolf Harvest: 218 - 60 hours - 109% of Total Quota, License Quota Exceed
- Wolf Population (2020): 1,340 (Pop. increase of 680 – 6 years since last hunt)
- Wolf Hunting & Trapping Licenses: 1,548 (Purchased), 2,380 (Awarded), 27,151 (Applications)
- CLICK TO READ Wisconsin DNR Announces February Wolf Harvest Season - WI-DNR - Press Release
- Click to Read WI-DNR - Wisconsin Wolf Season Report 2021
When a season that used to take 50–70 days is effectively over in 60 hours with similar license participation, responsible predator management requires a full re-evaluation of the population estimate and its margin of error.
- Wolf Harvest Season: Nov. 6, 2021 plan to Open (NOT IMPLEMENTED)
- An additional 130 wolves were quoted for a fall hunt in 2021 (74 state / 56 tribes)
- Click to Read - Wisconsin DNR Announces November 2021 Wolf Harvest Quota
- Dane County Judge Jacob Frost issued preliminary injunction to block wolf hunt on October 22, 2021. As part of the ruling, Frost ordered the DNR to set wolf quotas of zero in each management zone for the season scheduled to begin November 6, 2021
Wisconsin DNR Population Estimates
Wisconsin Estimate Wolf Population
- 2020 – 1,340 – 365 packs
- 2021 – 1,175 (-165) – 305 packs
- 2022 – 985 (-190) – 296 packs
- 2023 – 1,277 (+292) – 363 packs
- 2024 – 1,328 (+51) – 354 packs
- 2025 – 1,226 (-102) – 336 packs
(likely range 1,087-1,379)
Total Deer Harvest & Firearms Deer Harvest
- 2020: 339,901 | Gun: 225,272
- 2021: 309,392 | Gun: 209,288 (−7.1%)
- 2022: 340,282 | Gun: 241,171 (+15.2%)
- 2023: 300,651 | Gun: 208,828 (−13.4%)
- 2024: 327,390 | Gun: 222,637 (+6.6%)
- 2025: 320,730 | Gun: 182,084 (−18.2%)
OUR MISSION
Protect Wisconsin's hunting heritage and mobilize the voters who decide its future.
WHY HUNTER NATION
Hunter Nation is the united voice of the American hunter. We educate, engage, and mobilize hunters to protect the hunting way of life.
National Impact:
- Reached 12M+ hunters nationwide
- Turned out 2.35M hunters in 2024 battleground states
- Low-propensity hunters exceeded 2024 presidential victory margins in 5 key states
Policy & Election Wins:
- Hunter Nation won a historic victory for Wisconsin hunters with 2021 Wolf Hunt
- Delisting of Gray Wolf Passed House within Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025 (H.R. 845)
Wisconsin Readiness:
- Proven activation models prepared for 2026 deployment in Wisconsin
Meet Chris Vaughan - Wisconsin State Director
As an avid hunter, fisherman, husband and father of three boys, my interest in Hunter Nation has grown into a passion. I want to ensure my family has the same rights and opportunities to experience our outdoor heritage. I witnessed firsthand the effects of Wisconsin's state government on our hunting and fishing rights in 2020. During that year, Hunter Nation successfully fought for and won cases to allow a wolf hunt, reopen hunter safety education courses, and restore access for fishing business owners who were unfairly prohibited from operating. These actions were crucial in preventing the closure of hunting and fishing for many Wisconsin residents. Hunter Nation's core values—God, Family, Country, Constitution, and our Outdoor Heritage is my way of live and I will defend it for you as Hunter Nation's Wisconsin State Director
Wisconsin Contact
WISCONSIN
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Join Chris and help Wisconsin Hunters Today!
Hunter Nation is leading the effort to delist the Gray Wolf to allow state management. Your help is needed! Together, we can Protect Our Hunting Heritage.
We need YOU to join the fight.
Join Hunter Nation Today!
We are building a grassroots army to promote and protect The Traditional American Values of God, Family, Country, and the Hunting way of life.
Hunter Nation – 2026 May Newsletter
🏹 Hunter Nation Monthly Update: State Chapter News, Conservation Fights & More.
From the fight to delist the gray wolf to grassroots action across the country, see what Hunter Nation chapters are doing to protect hunting, conservation, and the outdoor way of life.
Deconstructing the Wisconsin DNR’s 2023 Wolf Management Plan
Wisconsin’s 2023 wolf management plan replaces clear population limits with a vague framework that shifts control away from science and toward bureaucracy and social pressures. Without firm accountability, predator numbers risk expanding beyond sustainable levels, impacting deer herds and rural communities. Critics argue this approach sidelines those closest to the land while elevating political influence. Protecting wildlife management now requires stronger advocacy to restore balance, transparency, and state-driven conservation rooted in real-world outcomes.
The Secret War on Wisconsin’s Hunters and How We Fight Back
A growing battle over wildlife policy in Wisconsin is putting hunters at the center of political decisions that reshape conservation. Long-standing science-based management is being replaced with vague frameworks that limit accountability and restrict hunting opportunities. From wolf population control to predator management, activists and policymakers are driving changes that impact rural communities. The path forward demands action—speaking out, showing up, and uniting to ensure hunting remains a key part of conservation.
Wisconsin’s Wolf Issue: Beyond Predator Management
Wisconsin’s wolf debate is about more than headlines and activist pressure—it is about real predator management, healthy deer herds, and protecting rural livelihoods. While public attention stays fixed on wolves, hunters and farmers know coyotes are a major threat to fawn survival, livestock, and the future of hunting. True conservation is not driven by emotion, but by science, strategy, and the boots-on-the-ground role hunters play in maintaining balance across Wisconsin’s landscape.
Hunter Nation Hosts Sportsmen Town Hall in Pound, Wisconsin
Hunter Nation recently hosted a Sportsmen Town Hall in Pound, Wisconsin, bringing together hunters, conservationists, and policymakers for an important discussion about the future of hunting and wildlife management. Held at Equity Hall Bar & Grill, the event allowed local sportsmen to share their perspectives directly with elected officials and community leaders. Discussions focused on conservation policy, responsible wildlife management, and the growing political influence of hunters as a voting bloc. With strong participation from state and local leaders, the town hall highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement and collaboration. Events like this help ensure that the voices of Wisconsin’s outdoor community remain central to protecting hunting traditions for future generations.
Rebuilding the Base: Turning Shooters Into Hunters to Save the Tradition
Hunter participation may be stabilizing, but long-term growth depends on a new approach. Traditional youth-focused efforts are not bringing in enough new hunters. The real opportunity lies at the shooting range, where millions already own firearms but have never hunted. By focusing on adult recruitment, mentorship, and practical skill-building, the path from shooter to hunter becomes clear. Rebuilding the tradition will require intentional effort, turning interest into action and ensuring the future of conservation.
The Conservation Funding Crisis: How Fewer Hunters Threatens Wildlife Management
America’s conservation system relies on hunters and anglers, but declining participation is putting that model at risk. While excise taxes still generate strong funding, most now comes from non-hunting shooters, creating both a gap and an opportunity. Fewer hunters mean reduced revenue, weaker wildlife management, and economic strain on rural communities. Sustaining conservation will require strengthening participation, supporting license sales, and turning financial contributors into active hunters to keep the system working.
The Empty Stand: New Projections Show a Crisis in Hunter Replacement
A growing decline in hunter participation signals a serious threat to wildlife management and conservation. Long before aging demographics became the focus, recruitment has failed to keep pace, shrinking hunters’ role nationwide. As numbers fall, so does the ability to manage wildlife populations, leading to increasing ecological and agricultural challenges. This is more than a generational shift—it’s a structural issue. Reversing the trend will require expanding recruitment beyond tradition and actively bringing new participants into the field.
Hunter Nation Wisconsin: Wolves, Lobbying, and Action – Feb 2026
Hunter Nation Wisconsin has been busy advocating for hunters and wildlife. From lobby day in Madison to testifying before the Senate on wolf management, and engaging voters at the Utah Hunt Expo, Hunter Nation continues to champion sporting heritage and ensure hunters’ voices are heard across the state.
Wisconsin’s Wolf Fight: A Grassroots Battle for Hunters’ Voices and Wildlife Balance
Wisconsin’s wolf fight is about far more than predator policy—it is about whether hunters, landowners, and rural families still have a real voice in wildlife management. As courts, agencies, and outside activist groups shape the debate, Hunter Nation is standing for science, balance, and accountability to protect deer herds, rural livelihoods, and our hunting heritage.
Standing for Science: Hunter Nation Supports Senate Bill 665 and the Fight for a Real Wolf Population Goal in Wisconsin
Hunter Nation is standing for science, common sense, and responsible wolf management in Wisconsin. Senate Bill 665 would require the DNR to establish a clear, science-based wolf population goal—something every sound wildlife management plan should include. For hunters, farmers, and rural families, this bill represents a long-overdue step toward restoring balance, protecting our hunting heritage, and ensuring Wisconsin’s wildlife policies are guided by accountability, not unchecked growth.
Hunter Nation Takes Center Stage: On Wisconsin Outdoors Features Organization’s Impact on Elections and Wolf Management
On Wisconsin Outdoors puts Hunter Nation squarely in the spotlight in its January/February 2026 issue, highlighting the organization’s proven impact on hunter voter turnout and science-based wolf management. From cover messaging to in-depth advocacy coverage featuring Wisconsin State Director Chris Vaughan, OWO details how mobilizing hunters at the ballot box has translated into real policy influence. With nearly half a million Wisconsin hunters engaged in the 2024 election, the feature underscores a simple truth: when hunters participate consistently, heritage, wildlife management, and accountability win.
A Legislative Victory for American Hunters: The Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025 Passes Congress
Hunter Nation is proud to celebrate a landmark victory for American hunters with the passage of the Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025 (H.R. 845). This historic legislation restores science-based wildlife management by delisting the recovered gray wolf and returning authority to the states—where it belongs. Championed by Congressman Tom Tiffany and Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, the bill is the result of years of relentless advocacy, expert testimony, and nationwide grassroots mobilization led by Hunter Nation. It represents a decisive stand for hunters, ranchers, and rural communities, proving that when sportsmen unite, policy can be changed and conservation can prevail.
Wisconsin State Updates & News December 2025
December Wisconsin State Updates & News The nine-day gun season concluded November 30th and harvest numbers once again in the Northern Forest region decreased by over 16% according to the Wisconsin DNR. Overall, the preliminary numbers show a decrease from 2024 as well, but the season is still open. There are several reasons attributed to the reduced harvest – decrease in the number of hunters, changes in deer management and changing deer population dynamics. However, we saw increased harvest numbers…
Hunter Nation Mobilizes Wisconsin Sportsmen in Green Bay: Town Hall Draws Engaged Crowd to Advance Wolf Management and Voter Turnout
When hunters, anglers, and trappers gathered at Stadium View Bar & Grill in Green Bay on November 14, the message was clear: Wisconsin’s sportsmen are ready to fight for their values—and they’re showing up at the ballot box to make it happen. Hosted by Hunter Nation, the town hall brought together grassroots advocates and elected leaders to tackle two critical issues: returning wolf management to the state and mobilizing Wisconsin’s 521,000 hunters as a powerful voting bloc.
Hunter Nation applauds Senator Rob Stafsholt and Representative Chanz Green for advancing wolf population goal legislation in Wisconsin
MADISON, WI – Hunter Nation commends Senator Rob Stafsholt (R–New Richmond) and Representative Chanz Green (R–Grand View) for introducing legislation that requires the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to include a clear statewide wolf population goal in its wolf management plan. This important bill responds to the DNR’s recently approved wolf rule, which moved forward without a numeric population goal despite concerns raised by legislators and stakeholders. This critical legislation addresses a significant gap in Wisconsin’s current wolf management framework.
Wisconsin State Updates & News
Wisconsin’s DNR recently reported a drop in the state’s wolf population, estimating 1,226 wolves in 2025—102 fewer than last year and below the biological carrying capacity of 1,242. Even with a claimed 95% credible interval, these numbers raise serious concerns about the agency’s management. Meanwhile, Hunter Nation members successfully documented 3.4% of the statewide population in just four locations, further highlighting inconsistencies in the DNR’s approach. Adding to the frustration, a state audit revealed the DNR spent less than half of its Fish & Wildlife Account on programs benefiting hunters and anglers. Hunter Nation will continue fighting for accountability.
Congressman Tiffany & Hunter Nation’s Keith Mark Talk Wolves, CWD & DNR Policy at Event in Green Bay
Hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts packed Stadium View Bar & Grill Friday night for Hunter Nation’s Green Bay Town Hall featuring Congressman Tom Tiffany and Hunter Nation Founder Keith Mark — a powerful evening focused on protecting Wisconsin’s outdoor heritage and the traditional values that define America’s hunting community.
Hosted by the Hunter Nation Wisconsin Chapter, the event brought together hunters from across the state to discuss issues including wolf management, Wisconsin DNR policy, chronic wasting disease (CWD), and the growing need for hunters to become active participants in elections. It was an evening of fellowship, open discussion, and a reminder that hunters are not just keepers of tradition — they are a political and cultural force defending freedom itself.
Conserving America’s Heritage: Supporting the Make America Beautiful Again Initiative
The Make America Beautiful Again initiative is a bold step forward in conserving and restoring our nation’s lands, waters, and wildlife. Launched in honor of America’s 250th birthday, this effort reminds us that protecting our natural heritage is central to our national story. By prioritizing collaborative conservation strategies—such as wildlife recovery, habitat restoration, wetlands revitalization, and public lands access—the initiative delivers real results for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities. It also cuts red tape to accelerate projects, proving that conservation can unite Americans across the political spectrum.
Hunter Nation: Governor Evers’ Wolf Plan Represents Overreach and a Betrayal of Wisconsin Citizens
Hunter Nation is leading the charge to get the gray wolf removed from the Endangered Species List, with management being returned to each state, with no judicial review. A key component of that is no judicial review. For decades we have seen the damage the well funded anti-hunting Left can do with lawfare. All they do is find a liberal, activist judge who will agree with their woke, anti-science approach to conservation, so they can pick the winners and losers, regardless of data and science. While the Left’s agenda favors the wolf, it has, and is destroying wildlife herds everywhere they roam unmanaged! This destruction includes plummeting populations of deer, elk, moose and more. The livelihood of ranchers and farmers are being threatened as unmanaged wolves kill and harass their livestock. The number of wildlife and livestock deaths are only part of the equation. The harassment of those not killed leads to plummeting recruitment numbers with less offspring being born. Eventually, there won’t be enough game to hunt and are rural economies will crumble.
Hunter Nation Wisconsin Engages Patriots in De Pere
Hunter Nation Wisconsin Engages Patriots in De Pere Hunter Nation’s Wisconsin State Director, Chris Vaughan, had the honor of speaking at the Northeast Wisconsin (N.E.W.) Patriots event held at the Cedar Creek of De Pere Event Center. The gathering brought together passionate Wisconsin patriots, hunters, and conservation-minded citizens to learn more about how Hunter Nation is standing up for their values in the policy arena. Chris spoke about the mission and growth of Hunter Nation, including how the organization continues…
Hunter Nation Praises Senators Johnson, Lee and Barrasso for Introduction of Bill to Delist Gray Wolf from Endangered Species Act
Hunter Nation Press RElease Hunter Nation Praises Senators Johnson, Lee and Barrasso for Introduction of Bill to Delist Gray Wolf from Endangered Species Act Grassroots Hunting group urges Congress to pass legislation that returns control of recovered species back to states. April 04, 2025 Mission, KS– Hunter Nation, the leading grassroots organization for America’s hunters, thanks US Senators Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Mike Lee of Utah and John Barrasso of Wyoming for standing up for American Hunters, farmers, ranchers…
Wisconsin State Update – Spring 2025
Hunter Nation Wisconsin State Update – Spring 2025 Wisconsin State Updates & News Hunter Nation Wisconsin State Director, Chris Vaughan, testified before the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Sporting Heritage, arguing for a science-based wolf management plan rather than an unchecked protection policy. Testimony in opposition to CR 23-047 called for a statewide wolf population goal and a defined harvest quota to ensure responsible conservation. Despite anticipated legislative approval, Governor Tony Evers is expected to veto any pro-hunting…
Hunter Nation Launches Supreme Court Ad Series Featuring Brett Favre
Hunter Nation Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hunter Nation Launches Supreme Court Ad Series Featuring Brett Favre Ads also feature Congressman Tom Tiffany calling on Hunters & Gun Owners: “Don’t let Wisconsin turn into Minnesota or Illinois” March 20, 2025 Mission, KS – Hunter Nation has launched a powerful new ad campaign featuring NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback Brett Favre, and Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07), urging hunters and gun owners across Wisconsin to vote for Judge Brad Schimel in the April…
Hunter Nation Launches $1.8 Million Hunter-focused Voter Activation Campaign to Elect Brad Schimel to Wisconsin Supreme Court
Hunter Nation Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hunter Nation Launches $1.8 Million Hunter-focused Voter Activation Campaign to Elect Brad Schimel to Wisconsin Supreme Court Targeted Multi-Medium Ads feature Donald Trump Jr., Ted Nugent, Brett Favre, other celebrities and influencers urging hunters and 2nd Amendment activists to vote for Judge Schimel on April 1st. March 13, 2025 Mission, KS – Hunter Nation, Inc., one of the nation’s leading grassroots hunting advocacy organizations, is launching a $1.8 million-plus advocacy campaign to rally…
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