Wisconsin

A nonresident annual fishing license in Wisconsin costs $55.00. For comparison, Wisconsin residents pay $20.00. Short-term options: One-day license available; reduced annual after purchasing 1-day: $12.75 resident, $40.75 nonresident. The license year runs April 1 - March 31.

Purchase your Wisconsin fishing license online at https://gowild.wi.gov/. Valid ID; Go Wild online system; first-time buyer discount; spousal license $31. Licenses are administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Under 16 exempt; Residents 65+ $7; Youth (16-17) $7; First-time buyers $5. Always check the official Wisconsin website for the most current exemption details and any additional categories that may qualify.

Trout stamp required for inland trout waters; Great Lakes trout and salmon stamp; Two-line stamp available. Be sure to purchase any required stamps or endorsements before heading out, as they are often checked during enforcement.

Fishing seasons in Wisconsin: General fishing opener in May; year-round for some species; specific seasons by zone. Bag limits: Walleye: varies by lake (3-5/day); Bass: 5/day; Panfish: 25/day most waters; check regulations. Always consult the current Wisconsin fishing regulations for the most up-to-date season dates and limits, as they can change annually.

Proposed fee increase ($20 to $30 resident, $55 to $65 nonresident) not yet enacted; specific regulations for boundary waters. For the complete set of rules including gear restrictions, size limits, and special waters, visit the official Wisconsin fish and wildlife website.

Wisconsin has the following border water or reciprocal agreements: Minnesota-Wisconsin boundary waters agreement (specific rules for St. Croix River, Mississippi River); Lake Superior/Michigan shared with Minnesota/Michigan. District of Columbia is not directly included in these agreements, so a standard nonresident license is required.

For the most current regulations, license prices, and season dates, visit the official Wisconsin fishing page at https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/outreach/FishingLicenses. To purchase a license online, visit https://gowild.wi.gov/.