By DNR Conservation Warden Christian Fischer – Ashland Warden Team
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s October 2026 eNewsletter.
Lessons From the Field: New Warden Shares Safety and Regulation Reminders from Encounters on Patrols
I appreciate the opportunity to be in this newsletter to share life-saving safety tips and other information I have learned from encounters with enthusiastic hunters during my first two waterfowl patrols as a member of the Ashland Warden Team.
As a still-new conservation warden, and like all my warden teammates, my mission is to help you make your hunt safe and enjoyable so you return home with engaging stories.
Top Easy-To-Do Safety Action
When it comes to hunting from a boat, or even standing in the water, the Number one safety action to follow is to wear your life jacket – also known as a personal flotation device.
The hazards of boating can be exacerbated in a hunting situation, where flooded waders can sink even the strongest swimmers. This is even more true later in the season, with colder temperatures increasing the risk of death or serious injury.
When you load your boat and check your gear, ensure that you have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device readily accessible for each person in the boat.
If your boat is 16 feet or longer, ensure you also have a throwable personal flotation device immediately accessible. Remember, Wisconsin law requires each personal flotation device to be properly sized for the wearer and in working order.
Light It Up, Current Decal
Boat lighting is especially important for hunters operating watercraft in the early hours of the morning.
- Before racing to claim your spot on the water, take a minute to test all the required lights on your boat. Check that your white stern light illuminates and is visible from all sides when affixed.
- Ensure your red and green navigation lights are functional; properly rigged to port and starboard, respectively; and are unobstructed by blind materials or other gear.
- If you have docking lights or other accessory lamps, make certain they do not confuse or obscure those required by law.
This is also a good time to verify your registration decal is up to date and that your hull numbers are legibly printed in a contrasting color.
Gun Ready for Transport?
Before starting your motor, verify that your shotgun is completely unloaded. That means no ammunition in the chamber and no ammunition in an internal magazine.
You may carry shells within a removable magazine. However, if you choose to do so, you may not load the magazine into the firearm until the boat is stopped and the motor is off.
While clearing your firearm, check your ammunition to ensure that you only have non-toxic shot in your possession. Verify that your shotgun cannot hold more than three shells.
Firearms are not required to be in a case, but it is a good way to add an extra layer of firearm safety as well as protecting the gun from damage. A cased shotgun is protected from scratches during travel and kept out of the elements, which can help prevent rust and corrosion.
Safety Is Worth Your Time – And All Others Around You
The safety of hunters, boaters, and all other recreators is a top priority for the wardens, and it should be for you, too.
Before you go hunting, browse through the most current regulations to refresh yourself on the rules that I didn’t cover above.
If you have any questions about boating, hunting, or anything else in the great outdoors, you can always contact your local warden or reach out to me. We’re happy to provide the answers you need for a safe and effective hunt.
Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you in the field!
