Wisconsin may have fewer fish species than other states but they certainly offer some breathtaking sights. If you’re plans involve fishing the Boise Brule River or Wisconsin’s Chequamegon Bay, then you better familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and fishing license requirements before you go.

Wisconsin Fishing Regulations

The State of Wisconsin states:

  • Walleye, sauger, and hybrids from 20″ to 28″ may not be kept
  • Only 1 fish over 28″ is allowed
  • You may not fish with more than three hooks, baits or lures
  • Daily bag limits for Wisconsin fish species are:
    • Largemouth and smallmouth bass are limited to 5/day
    • Walleye are limited to 5/day
    • Panfish are limited to 25/day
    • Rock, white, and yellow bass and bullheads are unlimited

Fishing License Period

Wisconsin fishing licenses are available as:

  • 1-day fishing licenses (with the ability to add a day if needed)
  • Annual fishing licenses
  • 3-Year fishing licenses
  • Lifetime fishing licenses

Free or Reduced Fee Wisconsin Fishing Licenses

The State of Wisconsin offers free fishing licenses or reduced fishing licenses for :

  • Wisconsin residents of the U.S. Armed Forces who are on active duty qualify for a free fishing license

Wisconsin Fishing Licenses are NOT Required For

Great news, if you fall into one of these two age groups, Wisconsin doesn’t require that you have a license:

  • Fishermen under the age of 16, whether they are Wisconsin residents or not
  • Residents 92 years old and older

Buy a Wisconsin Fishing License