Get an Wisconsin Fishing License

Wisconsin Fishing License Requirements

• Oversight Body: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

• Purpose: The fishing license system is in place to control angling impacts on fish populations, ensuring sustained fishing for the future.

• Age Requirement: Anyone aged 16 and over, be it a resident or non-resident, needs a fishing license to fish in any Wisconsin waters.

• Stamp Privileges: Depending on the species:

  • Trout or Salmon:
    • Inland Trout Stamp Privilege for inland waters
    • Great Lakes Trout and Salmon Stamp Privilege for specific lakes and streams
  • Lake Sturgeon:
    • Inland tag for inland waters and Lake Superior
    • Wisconsin/Michigan boundary water tag for Menominee River

• Always Keep Your License on Hand: Wardens may request to see it while you're fishing.

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Fishing License Exemptions

• Disabled individuals in groups on non-profit organization-conducted fishing excursions, given a DNR waiver.

• Anglers fishing on Wisconsin's free fishing weekends (two weekends a year).

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Types of Fishing Licenses & Fees

Residents:

• Annual: $20
• First-time buyer or after 10-year hiatus: $5
• 1-day (upgradable to annual): $8
• Junior (16-17 years old): $7
• Senior (65+ years): $7
• Spousal: $31
• Inland Trout Stamp: $10
• Great Lakes Salmon/Trout Stamp: $10
• 2-day Great Lakes: $14
• 2-day Inland Lake Trout: $14
• Sturgeon (multiple options): $3-$20
• Disabled: $7
• Veteran/Disabled: $3
• Active service Armed Forces on leave: $0

Non-residents:

• Annual: $50
• Family annual: $65
• First-time buyer: $25.75
• 1-day: $10
• 4-day: $24
• 15-day: $28
• 15-day family: $40
• Military: $20
• Inland Trout Stamp: $10
• Great Lakes Salmon/Trout Stamp: $10
• Great Lakes Fishing: $14
• Sturgeon (multiple options): $3-$65

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Where to Buy a Fishing License

• Online: At the official website gowild.wi.gov. You can create or log into an existing account. Online renewal is available.

• License Agent: Purchase in person from many license sales locations throughout Wisconsin.

• Department of Natural Resources Service Centers: Numerous centers across Wisconsin offer in-person license sales.

Remember, you need a valid driver’s license or Social Security number for online purchases.

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Always refer to the official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or other official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.