How much is a Wisconsin fishing license?

A Wisconsin resident annual fishing license costs $20. Non-resident annual licenses are $50. Four-day non-resident licenses are $24.

Do I need a trout stamp in Wisconsin?

Yes, an Inland Trout Stamp ($10) is required for fishing in designated trout waters. A separate Great Lakes Trout/Salmon Stamp ($10) is needed for Great Lakes fishing.

Does Wisconsin have free fishing days?

Yes, Wisconsin offers free fishing weekends in January (ice fishing) and June.

Wisconsin Fishing License Guide (2026)

Wisconsin requires fishing license for anyone 16+. The DNR manages all licensing through the Go Wild portal. Wisconsin has over 15,000 lakes and 13,000 miles of trout streams.

16+

Min Age

Yes

Free Days

$20

Resident/yr

$50

Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type	Price
Annual Resident	$20
1-Day Resident	$8

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type	Price
Annual Non-Resident	$50
Annual Non-Resident Family	$65
4-Day Non-Resident	$24
15-Day Non-Resident	$28

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp	Price	Required?
Great Lakes Trout/Salmon Stamp Required for Great Lakes trout and salmon	$10	Optional
Inland Trout Stamp Required for inland trout waters	$10	Optional

See the complete Wisconsin cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

Go Wild Portal ↗

Instant digital license

🏪

Authorized Sales Locations

Sporting goods stores, bait shops

Explore all Wisconsin purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jan

Winter Free Fishing Weekend (through Jan 18 )

All waters · Great for ice fishing

Jun

Summer Free Fishing Weekend (through Jun 7 )

All waters

License Validity

WI licenses are valid from April 1 to March 31.

Full Wisconsin free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

Senior Discount (65+)

Seniors 65+ qualify for reduced-rate license.

🎖️

Active Military

Free license for active duty military on leave.

Full Wisconsin exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 500

Fine Range

citation

Offense Type

Forfeiture with fines of $50-$500.

Learn more about Wisconsin fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

1

Visit the Official Portal

Go to DNR Online Licensing ↗
2

Select Your License Type

Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.
3

Complete Payment & Download

Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.