MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The 2026 archery and crossbow deer hunting season opens Saturday, Sept. 12.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says deer populations are up this year and that should lead to high harvest numbers. 

If you're planning to head out, the DNR wants to make sure safety is your top priority. 

"Hunting incidents are preventable, and that starts with using the four basic rules of firearm safety, otherwise known as the TAB-K formula, and this also translates over into the archery season with the use of archery equipment, as well. So, T -- treat every firearm as if it were loaded, A-- always point your muzzle in a safe direction, B -- be certain of your target, what's before and beyond it and K -- keep your finger outside of the trigger guard until it is safe to shoot," said Renee Thok, hunter education administrator with the Wisconsin DNR. 

The archery and crossbow season will run through January 3, 2027. 

The much more popular gun season for deer hunting will begin Nov. 21.