Fishing Wisconsin – Angler & aquatic educationFree Fishing Weekend – June 6–7, 2020
In light of COVID 19 and the Safer at Home order, all DNR-sponsored in-person fishing clinics are canceled for the duration of the public health emergency. This is a fluid situation that we are monitoring closely. We look forward to the time when it will be safe to join with our partners and host in-person Free Fishing Weekend clinics. We appreciate your patience during this difficult time.
Peace and quiet on Free Fishing Weekend,
alone or with a family member.
Free Fishing Weekend
All the waters of the state will be open to free fishing; however, all usual regulations will be in force.
Social distancing and Free Fishing Weekend
At this time we are not scheduling Free Fishing Weekend events, as we do not know how long this social distancing advisory will continue.
Please know that you and a family member or roommate can still venture out for fresh air and to wet a line in your own community on that weekend. Measure the length of your fishing pole and use it as a friendly guide to maintain a distance of 6′ from the nearest angler or passerby.
Dates to remember
Free Fishing Weekends are always held the third full weekend in January and the first full weekend in June. For 2021, the dates will be January 16 & 17 and June 5 & 6.
Get loaner fishing gear when our offices re-open
Once we’re back in gear, we’ll have fishing poles available for you to borrow at many state parks, DNR offices and partner locations. Contact a Tackle Loaner site to find out what specific equipment is available and arrange to pick it up, or just drop in at one of the parks listed.
Get a license
New to fishing, but want to make it a habit after Free Fishing Weekend? Try our “First-time buyer” resident license for only $5. Discounts for non-residents too!
Here is more information about purchasing a fishing license so you’ll be ready to fish any time of the year!