Wisconsin falconry license

First-year fees

$75 falconry permit

3-year permit (Ch. NR 18 Wis. Admin. Code)

A hunting license is required to fly at game; state turkey/pheasant/duck stamps are not required for falconry, but a federal duck stamp is required for migratory waterfowl. Import permits from DATCP are required for birds entering Wisconsin.

Exam & minimum age

Exam: 105 questions, 80% to pass. 105 randomized multiple-choice questions (80%+ to pass), offered quarterly at locations around the state in two 3-hour sessions; results emailed in 1-2 weeks. Register by email with the DNR falconry coordinator.

Minimum age: —

Classes: Apprentice → General → Master

Birds by class & trapping

The apprenticeship runs two years (Master takes at least seven); class structure and limits follow Ch. NR 18 Wis. Admin. Code alongside the federal framework. Annual reports are due July 31.

Falconry permit holders may hunt upland game birds and animals Sept 1 – Mar 31 beyond the regular seasons (Ch. NR 10), with normal bag limits except hen pheasants (daily bag of one by falconry statewide). Cottontail rabbits and fox/gray squirrels may be hunted year-round by falconry. Wild turkey requires a harvest authorization during open season.

Notes from the official sources

Nonresident falconers need a valid Wisconsin nonresident small game license, and a nonresident raptor trapping permit (valid through Jan 31 of the following year) to trap wild birds in Wisconsin. Facilities and equipment are inspected by a local conservation warden before application.