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OutWiGo for Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 20-21
Fisheree 01
Kent Pilz, Monticello, helps his son Kaleb, 3, with his gloves while ice fishing with David Schmid, Argyle, and Joe Zimmerman, Browntown, during the Lake Montesian Fisheree Jan. 27, 2019. Zimmerman said he likes to go ice fishing when he can while Schmid said it’s not his favorite activity. - photo by Marissa Weiher

MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (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. 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.

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.

Please remember to practice responsible catch and release if you aren’t keeping fish to eat. 

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.