Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 20-21

MADISON, WI (OnFocus) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds Wisconsinites to get outdoors and wet a line this Free Fishing Weekend, which allows anglers to fish without purchasing a fishing license or trout and salmon stamp Jan. 20-21.

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.

“Free Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity for people of all ages to try ice fishing without the added step and expense of getting a fishing license,” said Theresa Stabo, DNR Angler Outreach Program Specialist. “If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to wander among the ice shanty towns on Wisconsin lakes, this is your chance. Bundle up the family or rally friends to fish the ‘hardwater’ and find out. If the bite is on, you might even catch a tasty panfish or walleye dinner.”

Winter Fishing Reminders

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.

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

Prepare To Fish

Visit the DNR’s Fish Equipment for Loan webpage to find a loaner site with ice fishing equipment. Locations with ice fishing equipment will have an “IF” next to their name. Essential gear is available; however, sites do not offer ice augers. Hours and available equipment vary, so contact the site in advance and create a plan to pick up the gear.

Continue The Fishing Fun

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

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