Whitetailed Deer The rugged hills and deep valleys of Vernon County provide excellent habitat for the Whitetailed Deer. Intermixed farm fields provide year round food sources and help keep the herd population stable and in good health. Bowhunting season starts in mid September and continues through December. The gun season starts the Saturday before Thanksgiving and last nine days. Most land is under private ownership so permission is required, however many public hunting grounds throughout Vernon County provide excellent opportunities. A number of Cabin and Bed and Breakfast operators offer hunting opportunities on their properties as well. So if Whitetails are in your future, check out Vernon County, where the trophy of a lifetime is waiting. Turkey Hunting "Land of the Gobblers" When the Wild Turkey was targeted for reintroduction in Wisconsin during the 1970`s, Vernon County was chosen as the first region to receive the new transplantings. Since that time the population has rapidly increased and turkeys now flourish in all regions of the county. Visitors traveling the roads of Vernon County will commonly see the Wild Turkey going about their daily business of foraging on local farm fields. A spring and fall season offers the outdoors person the opportunity to match wits with this King of Game Birds. Permits are issued on a lottery system through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The spring season generally starts around mid April and runs through mid May, and the Fall season runs through the month of October. Many Vernon County businesses cater to the needs of Turkey enthusiasts and can provide info on season structure and areas to hunt. Romance was the site of the first reintroduction and is rightfully named "Wild Turkey Capital of Wisconsin". A turkey hunting adventure is a great way to explore the hills and valley of Vernon County and is sure to provide a lifetime of memories. Badgerland Pheasant Farm, LLC Just 1 1/2 miles out of Westby you will be able to hunting at a new pheasant farm. Reservation are required and restrictions apply. Call Corky for reservations 608-634-4534 and visit Farm Vacations and Hunting Vacations Great for families to get familiar with working dairy farms. These farms may also have other opportunities including fun chores, hunting, and nature hiking.