What are the Non-Resident Fishing License Prices in Wisconsin for 2024?

If you’re a non-resident looking to fish in Wisconsin in 2024, it’s important to understand the various license options and costs. While a resident annual fishing license is a flat $20, non-residents have several choices depending on the duration of their trip and the type of fishing they plan to do.

Annual Non-Resident Fishing License

For non-residents who plan to fish in Wisconsin frequently throughout the year, an annual fishing license is available for $55. This license allows you to fish in most waters, with a few exceptions.

Short-Term Non-Resident Fishing Licenses

If you’re visiting Wisconsin for a shorter period, there are several short-term non-resident fishing license options:

• 1-day license: $15
• 4-day license: $29
• 15-day license: $33

These licenses allow you to fish in most waters, but they do not include the privilege to fish for trout and salmon in inland waters or the Great Lakes. To fish for these premium species, you’ll need to purchase an additional stamp.

Trout and Salmon Stamps

To fish for trout and salmon in inland waters or the Great Lakes, you’ll need to purchase a trout and salmon stamp in addition to your fishing license. The cost for non-residents is $10 for the Inland Trout Stamp and $10 for the Great Lakes Salmon/Trout Stamp.

If you plan to fish for trout and salmon in the Great Lakes, you can purchase a 2-day Great Lakes Fishing license for $14, which includes the Great Lakes Salmon/Trout Stamp.

Sturgeon Fishing Licenses

For non-residents interested in sturgeon fishing, there are specific licenses available:

• Sturgeon Spearing Lake Winnebago: $65
• Upriver Lakes Sturgeon Spearing: $65
• Sturgeon Hook & Line Inland: $50
• Sturgeon Hook & Line Wisconsin & Michigan: $50

These licenses are in addition to the regular fishing license and stamps required for the type of water you plan to fish in.

Other Non-Resident Fishing License Options

There are a few other non-resident fishing license options available:

• Family Annual License (primary): $70 (includes children 16 & 17 years old)
• Family Annual License (secondary): $0
• 15-day Family License: $45 (includes children 16 & 17 years old)
• Military Fishing License: $20
• Student Fishing License: $20 (available to full-time non-resident students attending a Wisconsin college or university)

It’s important to note that some licenses, such as the Military Fishing License and Student Fishing License, are not available for online purchase and must be obtained through a DNR Service Center.

When purchasing your non-resident fishing license, you’ll need a valid driver’s license or social security number. Licenses can be purchased online through Go Wild, at sales locations, or at DNR Service Centers.

Remember, all licenses are valid from April 1 through March 31 of the following year. Be sure to check the current regulations and any special rules or restrictions for the waters you plan to fish before heading out.

With a wide range of non-resident fishing license options, Wisconsin offers opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re looking to fish for a day or the entire year, there’s a license that fits your needs.