Hunting, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , Wisconsin

It may come as a surprise to some visitors to learn that hunting is permitted in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.  Unlike the congressional acts that established national park areas like Yellowstone and Yosemite, the legislation that created Apostle Islands National Lakeshore provided for regulated hunting within park boundaries. These activities are managed to ensure that game species are not overexploited and that hunting does not unreasonably impact the safety or experiences of other visitors.

Hunting is allowed in the national lakeshore. Hunting activity may occur from September (after Labor Day) through December. A muzzle loader deer hunt (by permit only) is held on several islands during the month of October. Interested hunters must apply for the permit lottery between June 15 and July 15. For detailed information and an application form write to Park Dispatch, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, 415 Washington Avenue, Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814 or apis_ resource_issues@nps.gov. All hunting is conducted in compliance with state law.

Hunting is prohibited on lands and waters within the lakeshore between May 15 and September 12. Consequently, most hunting activity occurs outside of the lakeshore