The bear damage shooting permit program is one part of Wisconsin's Wildlife Damage Program, which assists farmers when wildlife damage their agricultural crops. Wisconsin DNR Wildlife Manager's issue these special permits to farmers who are experiencing severe damage for removal of the bear causing damage. Farmers who receive the permits have the option to provide some of their tags to hunters who would like to help them shoot bear only that are damaging their crops. Again, farmers are not required to allow hunters to use their damage tags. The permits are valid both inside and outside of the regular hunting seasons, and the bear must be shot with a gun unless otherwise specifically authorized on the farmer's permit.

Note: These properties may not be open to bear hunting by the public during the open season. Please visit Damage permit hunting to get complete lists of all farmers whose lands are open to hunting by the public during the open season through the Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program.

Last Update: 8/8/2026 4:19:17 PM