Lincoln County, because of its diverse land and water features, offers a variety of hunting opportunities. The southern one-third of the county is composed of farm fields and woodlands, most of which are privately owned. Whereas the northern two-thirds of the county is mostly forested with scattered farms and private land located along the major roads and water corridors. This portion of Lincoln County (northern two-thirds) is also the area where one finds public hunting grounds.
Where can an individual legally hunt and how can access these areas? Hunting, as well as many other non-motorized activities such as hiking, berry picking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, are allowed on all county lands entered into the County Forest Crop Program, private and industrial lands entered into the Forest Crop Law or Managed Forest Lands Law and designated State of Wisconsin Lands.
These lands can be accessed from any road found on the official County Road Map. Access beyond these official roads, by motorized vehicle, is a matter of rules and policies approved by each entity. (Refer to Chart). The many wooded roads that dissect these lands are open to foot access, and as the chart indicates, some are open to motorized access.
Wildlife available to hunt during open seasons are big game (deer and bear), small game (ruffed grouse, squirrel, rabbit and turkey), and waterfowl. All are relatively plentiful, but are dependent upon weather conditions and population cycles. Predator hunting also takes place in Lincoln County with coyote, red fox and bobcat being the usual animals hunted. However, caution must be taken, as there is a resident population of Eastern timber wolves in Lincoln County that is protected by both federal and state laws.
