Story perspectives

2025 Wisconsin Bear Hunt Falls Short of Targets

10/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Wisconsin's bear hunting season in 2025 produced 3,724 bears killed, below the 4,075 target.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reported a 28% hunting success rate, down from the five-year average of 32%.
In Vermont, the bear population remains above the goal, estimated at 6,800 to 8,000 bears.
Officials are researching the causes of growth, noting high hunter harvest rates and increased human-bear conflicts.
Officials are considering regulatory changes, including higher bag limits and lower non-resident license fees.

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Story summary

Wisconsin's bear hunting season in 2025 produced 3,724 bears killed, below the 4,075 target.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reported a 28% hunting success rate, down from the five-year average of 32%.
In Vermont, the bear population remains above the goal, estimated at 6,800 to 8,000 bears.
Officials are researching the causes of growth, noting high hunter harvest rates and increased human-bear conflicts.
Officials are considering regulatory changes, including higher bag limits and lower non-resident license fees.