Photo credit: Council to Advance Hunting and Shooting Sports
The annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is Jan. 17-18. Join in on the fun and excitement!
The weekend gives families, friends, and newcomers an opportunity to give fishing a try or introduce another to the sport. The Wisconsin DNR says fishing offers more than just a chance to hook a fish — it’s a great way to connect with nature, share time with loved ones, learn about Wisconsin’s aquatic resources, and put some delicious food on your table.
During Winter Free Fishing Weekend, residents and non-residents may fish most state waters without purchasing a fishing license, trout stamp, or salmon stamp.
All other 2025-2026 Hook and Line regulations, including bag limits, size limits, and species restrictions, remain in effect. Regulations are available online and in print in English, Spanish, Hmong, and large print.
While most trout streams are open during the catch-and-release season on Free Fishing Weekend, there are trout streams, spring ponds, and lakes that are closed to fishing. Please review the trout regulations or check with your local biologist if you have questions about specific waters. For trout streams that are open, only artificial lures are allowed, and anglers must release all trout caught.
If you plan to keep fish, review the DNR’s Safe Eating Guidelines to stay informed of potential consumption advisories impacting some waterbodies throughout the state: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/consumption
