Fishing Clinics and Learning Opportunities

Throughout the year, the Department of Natural Resources works with local parks departments and fishing clubs and organizations to put on fishing clinics and other events. These are excellent opportunities to introduce fishing to people both young and old. You will need a fishing license if you fish at these events, other than those taking place on Free Fishing Weekend. Call contacts for complete information.

Ice fishing is a great way to get kids outdoors in the winter!

Southeast Wisconsin Kids' Fishing Clinics Return

Soon after the ice is off, it will be time for the 26th Annual Spring Kids' Fishing Clinics on Saturday, April 10, 2010. Once again, our partners will be offering how-to sessions at county parks around Southeast Wisconsin. See flyer [PDF, 144KB] for specific times and locations.

If you are planning an event, the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) [exit DNR] will promote all registered events through a national public relations campaign centered around National Fishing and Boating Week, the first full week of June. So also be sure to register your event with them, too!

Free Fishing Weekend: June 5 - 6, 2010

Did you miss Free Fishing Weekend this year? Well, don't wait until next June to give fishing a try! A fishing license is one of the best bargains around. Head down to your local tackle shop or buy your license on-line [exit DNR] and get out there!

Every year, the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June are designated as Free Fishing Weekend when you can fish without a license throughout the state of Wisconsin. For 2010, it's June 5 and 6.

Pack up the family or call your friends and head to the water. No fishing pole? No worries! Contact a Tackle Loaner site at one of several state parks and DNR regional offices to borrow one.

Remember, kids under 16 never need a license!

State Fish Hatchery and Facility Open Houses

Wisconsin has 17 state fish hatcheries, egg collection facilities and rearing stations and many schedule Open House activities. Stop in for a visit as you amble about Wisconsin this summer. Check State of Wisconsin Fish Hatcheries for additional information and a map showing hatchery locations.

Learn-to-Fish License Waiver

The Learn-to-Fish License Waiver offers a free, one-time, one-day fishing opportunity tied to an educational fishing program such as the Department of Natural Resources Angler Education Program.

The waiver is available to those who meet a set of requirements as outlined in the Learn-to-Fish License Waiver Information [PDF 73KB].

For more information on any of these learning opportunities, please contact the Bureau of Fisheries Management.