Wisconsin DNR to Host OutWiGo Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 20th-21st

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting Free Fishing Weekend January 20th – 21st, 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. Please review the trout regulations and the 2023-2024 Hook and Line regulations for more information.

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.

Remember, no ice is 100% 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.

Continue the fishing fun after Free Fishing Weekend by purchasing a fishing license. The next Free Fishing Weekend will take place June 1st – 2nd, 2024.