MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers the 2026 – 2027 general inland fishing season will open statewide Saturday, May 2. Several new regulations and season structures are now in effect, and anglers are encouraged to review the regulations before hitting the water.

With more than 15,000 inland lakes, 42,000 miles of perennial streams and rivers, 1,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline and 260 miles of the Mississippi River, there are plenty of great places to wet a line over opening weekend and all season long.

No matter where anglers decide to fish, all Wisconsin residents and nonresidents age 16 or older are required to purchase a fishing license. Annual resident licenses cost $20 each, or purchase a spousal license for $31 so you and your spouse can fish together. All fishing licenses and stamps can be purchased online via Go Wild, at a registered sales location or at DNR Service Centers.

What’s New For 2026 – 2027?

Several new regulations, season structures and bag limits have been implemented this season. These changes include:

The statewide inland trout season opens April 4 and run through Oct. 15, 2026.
The muskellunge season opens May 2 on all inland waters of the state. There is no longer a separate season for the Northern Zone.
- The muskellunge season structures for the Great Lakes, Green Bay and Michigan/Minnesota boundary waters are unchanged.
A catch-and-release season for lake sturgeon will occur on select waters from June 6, 2026 through March 7, 2027.
New lake and species-specific bag and length limits are in place on specific waters across the state.

Anglers can find a full list of the 2026 – 2027 fishing regulation changes along with the full 2026 – 2027 hook and line fishing and trout fishing regulations on the DNR’s Fishing Regulations webpage.

Protecting The Resource

As anglers head out to their favorite fishing locations across the state, the DNR would like to share these reminders:

Help minimize the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plants and animals from boats before and after launching, draining all water from compartments and never moving live fish away from any waterbody.
To prevent the spread of fish diseases, remove all water, aquatic vegetation and/or mud from fishing equipment before leaving their fishing location. All fishing equipment, including boats, trailers, boots, waders, nets and float tubes, should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before being used again.
If not keeping your catch, follow proper fish handling protocols to ensure a safe release.
Follow safe boating procedures and always wear a life jacket when on the water.
Review all the rules and regulations for the waters you intend to fish.

Anglers can also find additional information on the DNR’s Fishing webpage or by contacting their local fisheries biologist.

Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

Published on: Apr 7, 2026 at 3:55 pm