IRON MOUNTAIN — Today is the deadline to submit applications for Wisconsin’s 2023 black bear and spring turkey hunts.

For either species, hunters can apply for harvest authorizations or purchase preference points toward future drawings at GoWild.wi.gov or through an authorized license agent.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. today.

The drawing for 2023 bear harvest authorizations will take place in early February for seasons beginning Sept. 6. Last year’s bear drawing results and zone-specific wait times are available on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ website.

Applicants selected in the bear drawing are notified by mail shortly after the drawing and may purchase a license beginning in March.

Successful spring turkey applicants will also be notified by mail. Wisconsin turkey licenses go on sale March 1 for hunting periods that begin April 19.

More information about turkey hunting in Wisconsin is available on the DNR’s website.

Ice anglers have been getting out on some area lakes during the past week. Up to 6 inches of ice has been reported, according to Fay Whisler at Whisler Outdoors in Florence, Wis.

“Walleye action has been good,” Whisler said. “Using sucker minnows under tip-ups has resulted in some nice catches.”

The perch bite on the early ice has also been decent. The best luck was in the late afternoon jigging with minnows.

Wisconsin’s statewide antlerless-only deer hunt opened Thursday and continues through Sunday. In addition to a deer hunting license, hunters need an unfilled antlerless harvest authorization. High-visibility clothing is required.

Visitors planning to buy an annual pass to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising may want to do so before the price goes up.

Entrance fees to the park will increase Jan. 1, including $30 for a 12-month pass.

“Passes bought this December at the current price of $20 will be good through next December,” said Susan Reece, chief of interpretation.

Purchase passes at www.recreation.gov/sitepass/pictured-rocks-nl.