• Wisconsin’s annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is scheduled for Jan. 17-18.
• Residents and non-residents can fish most state waters without a license or stamp during the event.
• All other fishing regulations, including bag and size limits, will remain in effect.
• The DNR reminds participants to prioritize ice safety and offers loaner equipment at various sites.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is hosting its annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 17-18 to share the fun and excitement of winter fishing.

Winter Free Fishing Weekend gives families, friends and newcomers a chance to give fishing a try or to introduce another to the sport.

Fishing offers more than just a chance to hook a fish — it is a way to connect with nature, share time with loved ones, learn about Wisconsin’s aquatic resources and put some delicious food on your table.

During Winter Free Fishing Weekend, residents and non-residents can fish most state waters without purchasing a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp (see exceptions regarding trout waters).

All other 2025-2026 Hook and Line regulations — including bag limits, size limits and species restrictions — remain in effect. Regulations are available online and in print in English, Spanish, Hmong and large print.

While most trout streams are open during the catch-and-release season on Free Fishing Weekend, some trout streams, spring ponds and lakes are closed to fishing. Review trout regulations or check with your local biologist if you have questions about specific waters.

For trout streams that are open, only artificial lures are allowed, and anglers must release all trout caught. If you plan to keep fish, review the DNR’s Safe Eating Guidelines to stay informed of potential consumption advisories impacting some waterbodies throughout the state.

Winter fishing reminders: Before any winter adventure, ice safety should be a primary consideration, as no ice is ever 100% safe.

Dress appropriately for the weather, and remember safety gear: Wear warm layers that are water-resistant; sturdy, waterproof boots with spike-style creepers for traction; and extra hat and gloves. Take along rescue throw rope and ice claws. And remember, the DNR does not monitor ice conditions. However, local bait shops and fishing clubs are good sources for current conditions and fishing tips.

No ice fishing gear? No problem. To help get you started, the DNR offers loaner ice fishing equipment at 19 tackle loaner sites around the state. Locations with ice fishing equipment will have an “IF” next to their name. Essential gear is available, although sites do not offer ice augers. Abandoned holes can be opened with a sledgehammer or spud bar. Hours and available equipment vary, so contact the site in advance and create a plan to pick up the gear.

Join a local clinic or workshop: The DNR Events Calendar is updated regularly with new events and opportunities to learn how to fish from experienced anglers.

Need help finding a spot to fish? The new Wisconsin Fish Finder is a one-stop shop for fishing regulations, launch locations and access points, stocking information and more. Anglers can also find additional information on the DNR’s Fishing webpage or by contacting your local fisheries biologist.

Yes! Wood duck, bluebird and bat houses will be available. Here’s the latest.

Some calls have been coming in regarding wood duck, bluebird and bat houses.

The good news is: Yes, all three houses will be available this year. I found a person to cut roughcut pine for me, which is used in the building of bat houses.

Now, the bad news: Houses will not be available until mid-January or so. I am cutting out and drilling the parts right now and we will start our assembly in January. Watch this column to see when they will be available.

Some people get different types of houses, so I want to have a good supply in stock before I make that announcement.

Woodland Dunes to present ‘Bird-Friendly Window Technologies’ program

The next in Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve’s Adult Learning Series will be “Bird-Friendly Window Technologies” from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7.

Cost is a sliding-scale fee of $3-$10 per person.

Join the presentation about the importance of bird-friendly window technology. Reduce window threats by learning about some of the different types that can be used on home windows to keep feathered friends safe.

Staff will conduct a lesson to show how to make your very own zen wind curtain. Materials will be provided for each participant to create one standard-sized window curtain to take home.

Registration is required by Monday, Jan. 5. To register, email Jess at jessicaj@woodlanddunes.org or call 920-793-4007.

Marking 25 years of Scoping the Great Outdoors

I can’t believe another year has gone by as this is the last column for 2025. I have been writing this column since Oct. 8, 2000, a tick more than a quarter century. That is hard to believe! But in those years, I have made many very good friends. It’s hard to go into a store and not have someone stop me to talk about the outdoors. That’s fine, because I always like talking about hunting, fishing or just the general outdoors!

Thanks for all the kind words! And as long as good health stays with me, I plan to keep writing for many years to come.

That’s it for this week, so have fun in the great outdoors.