Through surveys and measuring a lot of fish, DNR fisheries biologists develop and recommend regulations that help protect, preserve and improve Wisconsin fish populations given the current fishing pressure.
In Wisconsin, there’s always something to fish somewhere, 365 days a year. There are limited open seasons for certain species and waters. Before you head out, check the season dates for your favorite species and favorite waters.
Here’s why we have fishing regulations:
- To maintain the number and sizes of fish
- To consider anglers’ desires and expectations (like more fish for dinner or larger fish to catch and release)
- To make access to fishing as fair as possible
Our current fishing regulations make sure Wisconsin anglers have good fishing opportunities both now and in the future.
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Please note that lake trout regulations on Lake Superior have changed. . Effective Aug. 15, 2021 at 11:59 p.m., the WI-2 lake trout season in the Apostle Islands region will be closed. See the lake trout harvest page for more information. These regulations may be subject to change so check back regularly.
Learn more about Wisconsin’s fishing regulations here.
