HALES CORNERS, WI — Gun-deer hunting season is just days away and people are getting ready for the big hunt.
Hunter Jesse Kaufmann says the nine-day, gun-deer hunting season for his family is a time-honored tradition.
“My grandpa’s been huntin’. It was passed down to my dad and my whole family is into it,” Kaufman said.
Last year, Jesse's first kill, his first of two, happened the minute hunting season officially started.
“[I’m] Looking to see if I can bag the big one again within the first minute,” Kaufman said.
This year, things are a little different as the COVID-19 spread will impact hunters’ approach to the season. Jesse said they’ll carry masks, hand sanitizer and spacing outdoors won’t be a problem.
“It’s just when we go back to our hunting shack is where we are going to have to be a little bit more careful because it’s not a big space,” Kaufman said.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said deer hunting licenses are up six percent this year. They are also urging people to be safe.
“It’s something that’s good for our mind, body and soul, but it’s also not a time for us to let our guard down,” said Eric Lobner with the DNR.
The Wisconsin DNR is asking hunters to take precautions including not traveling very far to hunt and only hunting with people they live with as a way to do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. Also, this hunting season, The DNR is encouraging hunters to try to sleep in their own room, tent, or trailer and limit the number of people who have to use shared spaces.
"We’re still seeing lots of people coming in, said Adam Rabe, store manager at Sharper's in Hales Corners.
Outside of ammo and boots, Rabe said people are also looking for more neck gators and tents to keep safe and distant during the hunt.
“The biggest difference is how you’re going to approach if you’re going hunting with somebody,” Rabe said.
Wisconsin gun-deer hunting begins Saturday. For more information, visit the DNR’s website.