Get outdoors with the Free Fishing Weekend

The Wisconsin DNR is hosting a Free Fishing Weekend, Jan. 18-19, to share the fun and excitement of winter fishing. During Free Fishing Weekend, anglers of all ages can wet a line in any Wisconsin waters open to fishing, without a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp.

All other 2024-25 Hook and Line regulations, including bag limits, size limits and species restrictions, remain in effect. 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.

Review the trout regulations or check with a local biologist, if there are questions about specific waters. For trout streams that are open, only artificial lures are allowed and anglers must release all trout caught.

If planning to keep a fish, review the DNR’s Safe Eating Guidelines, to stay informed of potential consumption advisories impacting some waterbodies throughout the state.

Before any winter adventure, ice safety should be a primary consideration, as no ice is ever 100 percent safe. Dress appropriately for the weather and remember safety gear.

No ice fishing gear? No problem! To help get an angler started, the DNR offers loaner ice fishing equipment at 19 tackle loaner sites around the state. Locations with ice fishing equipment will have an “IF” next to their name. Essential gear is available, although sites do not offer ice augers. Abandoned holes can be opened with a sledgehammer or spud bar.

Hours and available equipment vary, so contact the site in advance and create a plan to pick up the gear.