The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites organizations across Wisconsin to host free fishing events for the public on Free Fishing Weekend, Jan. 20-21, 2024.
Fishing clubs, civic groups, churches, trade associations and municipal recreation departments are among the many types of groups the DNR encourages each year to provide free fishing events for all ages and share their fishing skills with their communities.
Organizations planning an event can borrow basic gear for their event from one of 60 tackle loaner sites around the state. Almost half of the sites are at state parks located on water.
The DNR encourages organizations to consider a state park as a site for free fishing events. Contact park staff at tackle loaner sites to make arrangements, but please note that state park admission fees and trail passes are not waived as they are during Free Fun Weekend in June.
During Free Fishing Weekend, most Wisconsin waters are included, except for spring trout ponds. Review information about the early trout season and the trout regulations for clarification as you plan your event because some waters may be catch-and-release only. All other fishing regulations, including size and bag limits and species restrictions, will also be enforced. This includes Wisconsin’s side of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River.
Organizations are invited to register their events with the DNR for additional promotion to the public. After registering, organizations can request materials to hand out at their events, like fishing regulations, fish wildcards and posters.
The deadline to register events is Jan. 11, 2024.
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: Free Fishing Weekend
WHEN: Jan. 20-21, 2024
WHERE: Statewide
HOW TO SIGN-UP: Register your event by Jan. 11, 2024
