Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR
Wisconsin DNR is hosting Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 20-21 to share the fun and excitement of winter fishing. No fishing license or trout and salmon stamps are required.
Anglers can fish in state waters where there is an open fishing season. All other fishing regulations apply, including limits on the size and number of fish that can be kept and any seasons when anglers must release certain fish species.
As a reminder, anglers cannot fish spring trout ponds during the winter Free Fishing Weekend.
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
Winter Fishing Reminders
Remember, no ice is 100 percent safe. Always tell someone where you are fishing and when you’ll return before heading out on the ice. Also, check in with local bait shops for current ice conditions. If conditions are questionable, opt to cast to open water from shore.
Dress appropriately for the weather, and remember safety gear:
- Warm layers that are water-resistant
- Sturdy waterproof boots with spike-style creepers for traction
- Extra hat and gloves
- Rescue throw rope
- Ice claws
Please remember to practice responsible catch and release if you aren’t keeping fish to eat. Some tips for proper release include:
- Reduce reel time with fish
- Keep fish in the water as much as possible
- Use a rubber net and wet hands or gloves (if possible)
- Keep handling time to 60 seconds or less and keep unhooking tools readily available
- Cut the line if a fish is deeply hooked
- Treat fish gently – use both hands when handling fish and place them in the water to recover before releasing
