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Wisconsin offers some of the finest freshwater fishing opportunities in the Midwest, with over 15,000 lakes and 13,000 miles of fishable streams. Whether you’re targeting trophy muskies in the Northwoods, walleyes in Lake Winnebago, or smallmouth bass in the Mississippi River, understanding when different species are most active can dramatically improve your success on the water. This comprehensive guide breaks down Wisconsin’s 2025-2026 fishing calendar, detailing what’s biting each season and providing you with the information you need to plan productive fishing trips throughout the year.
Wisconsin Fishing Seasons Overview (2025-2026)
Wisconsin’s general inland fishing season traditionally opens on the first Saturday in May (May 3, 2025) and runs through March 1, 2026. However, specific seasons vary considerably by species and water body, creating a complex but rewarding year-round fishing calendar.
Key Season Dates for 2025-2026:
- Early Inland Trout (catch and release): January 4, 2025 (5 a.m.) – May 2, 2025
- General Inland Trout: May 3, 2025 (5 a.m.) – October 15, 2025
- General Inland Fishing: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Largemouth Bass Northern Zone Harvest: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Smallmouth Bass Northern Zone Harvest: June 21, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Large and Smallmouth Bass Southern Zone Harvest: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Musky Northern Zone Harvest: May 24, 2025 – December 31, 2025
- Musky Southern Zone Harvest: May 3, 2025 – December 31, 2025
- Northern Pike: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Walleye: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Lake Sturgeon: February 8 – February 23, 2025 (Winnebago System spearing), September 6 – September 30, 2025 (hook-and-line)
Wisconsin divides the state into northern and southern fishing zones for certain species, particularly bass and musky. This zoning system accounts for different spawning times and habitat conditions across the state’s varied geography.
Seasonal Fishing Opportunities
Spring Fishing (March-May)
Spring marks the eagerly anticipated transition from ice fishing to open-water angling across Wisconsin. As water temperatures gradually rise from the low 40s into the 60s, fish metabolism increases and feeding activity accelerates dramatically.
What’s Hot in Spring:
- Northern Pike: Pike become increasingly active in early spring as waters warm, with peak fishing typically occurring in April and May just after spawn. Target shallow bays with emerging vegetation using large minnows or flashy spoons.
- Walleye: Late April through May offers exceptional walleye fishing as fish complete their spawning cycle and begin aggressive feeding patterns. Focus on river mouths, current breaks, and rocky points with jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers.
- Crappie: Spring brings some of the year’s best crappie fishing as these popular panfish move into shallow areas for spawning. Look for them around woody structure in protected bays when water temperatures reach the mid-50s.
- Yellow Perch: Early spring (March through April) provides tremendous perch fishing opportunities as schools gather before spawning. Target deeper water adjacent to emerging weedbeds with small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms.
The highly anticipated Wisconsin general fishing opener on May 3, 2025 creates significant excitement throughout the angling community. This date provides the first opportunity to target many popular gamefish species after the winter hiatus, and fishing pressure tends to be heavy on popular waters.
Early Season Fishing Tactics:
- Focus on shallow, warming bays where water temperatures rise fastest
- Use slower presentations as fish metabolism gradually increases
- Target north-facing shorelines that warm quicker in spring sunshine
- Pay attention to water clarity, which often diminishes during spring runoff
For more detailed guidance on early-season strategies, check out TeenFish’s Ultimate Wisconsin Fishing Guide for location-specific spring fishing recommendations.
Summer Prime Time (June-August)
Summer represents Wisconsin’s peak fishing season, with warm water temperatures boosting fish metabolism and feeding activity across all species. Longer daylight hours provide extended fishing opportunities, though the most productive periods typically shift to early morning and evening as water temperatures reach their seasonal highs.
What’s Hot in Summer:
- Largemouth Bass: Peak activity occurs from June through August as bass establish summer patterns around weedbeds, docks, and other structure. Topwater fishing becomes particularly effective during early morning and evening hours.
- Smallmouth Bass: Summer offers prime smallmouth action, especially on rivers and deeper, rocky lakes. Target drop-offs, current breaks, and rocky structure with crawfish imitations and soft plastics.
- Muskellunge: Trophy musky hunting reaches its prime from mid-July through August. Focus efforts around weedlines, rock structures, and points using large bucktails, topwater lures, and rubber baits.
- Panfish: Consistent action for bluegill, crappie, and perch continues through summer, though fish typically move to deeper structure as water temperatures peak. Early morning and evening periods provide the best shallow water opportunities.
Wisconsin’s numerous lake types each develop their own unique summer patterns. Shallow, fertile lakes may experience dense weed growth requiring targeted approaches, while deep, clear lakes develop distinct thermoclines that concentrate fish at specific depths. Understanding these habitat differences is crucial for summer success.
Summer Fishing Strategies:
- Target deeper structure during midday heat when surface temperatures exceed 80°F
- Consider night fishing for species like walleye and musky
- Pay attention to dissolved oxygen levels, which can diminish in shallower areas during hot periods
- Locate thermoclines using electronics to find the optimal temperature range for your target species
Looking for productive summer fishing waters? Explore TeenFish’s guide to the best fishing spots in Wisconsin for detailed recommendations by region.
Fall Fishing Patterns (September-November)
Fall brings cooling water temperatures and triggers feeding frenzies across multiple species as fish prepare for winter. This period offers some of the year’s best trophy opportunities, particularly for predatory species fattening up before the coldwater period.
What’s Hot in Fall:
- Muskellunge: Trophy musky action peaks from mid-September through October as fish feed aggressively before winter. Focus on deeper structure adjacent to shallow feeding areas with large rubber baits and jerkbaits.
- Walleye: Excellent walleye fishing resumes in September and continues through November. Fish begin moving from summer haunts to wintering areas, often staging near structural elements along the way.
- Brown Trout: Fall brings spectacular brown trout action, particularly in Lake Michigan tributaries as fish begin their spawning runs. September and October provide peak opportunities.
- Northern Pike: Pike activity accelerates in fall as water temperatures cool. Target weedlines and shallow bays with large minnows, spoons, and spinners.
Fall also brings specialized opportunities like the Lake Sturgeon hook-and-line season, which runs from September 6 through September 30, 2025, allowing anglers to target these prehistoric giants in select Wisconsin waters.
Fall Fishing Tactics:
- Follow baitfish migrations to find predatory gamefish
- Focus on main lake points and drop-offs
- Pay attention to falling water temperatures that trigger feeding sprees
- Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions
For more information on fall fishing patterns, visit TeenFish’s guide to Wisconsin fishing regulations for seasonal tactics and location recommendations.
Winter Ice Fishing (December-February)
Wisconsin’s frozen lakes provide outstanding ice fishing opportunities throughout winter, with dedicated anglers braving the cold to target a variety of species through the ice. Modern ice fishing equipment, portable shelters, and electronics have revolutionized this traditional winter pursuit.
What’s Hot in Winter:
- Panfish: Bluegill, crappie, and perch provide steady action for ice anglers throughout the winter months. Look for suspended crappies over deeper basins and perch and bluegill relating to weed edges and bottom structure.
- Walleye: Decent opportunities persist, particularly during dawn and dusk periods. Focus on structural elements like reefs, points, and the edges of flats.
- Northern Pike: Fair to good pike fishing continues through the ice fishing season. Target areas near weedbeds using tip-ups baited with large minnows.
- Trout: Many stocked trout lakes offer productive winter fishing opportunities. Focus efforts near bottom structure using small jigs tipped with waxworms or minnows.
Winter also features the unique Lake Sturgeon spearing season on the Winnebago System, running from February 8 through February 23, 2025. This cherished tradition draws thousands of dedicated spearers to the ice each winter in pursuit of these ancient fish.
Wisconsin offers free fishing weekends on January 17-18, 2026, when no fishing license is required. These weekends provide perfect opportunities for newcomers to try ice fishing without investing in a license.
Ice Fishing Safety and Tactics:
- Always check ice thickness before venturing out (4+ inches for walking, 12+ inches for vehicles)
- Fish with companions when possible
- Carry ice safety equipment including picks, flotation devices, and rope
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions
For more winter fishing information, check out TeenFish’s guide to ice fishing safety and techniques for detailed recommendations.
Species-Specific Calendar
Bass Fishing Calendar
Wisconsin’s diverse bass fisheries include both largemouth and smallmouth populations across thousands of lakes and river systems. Understanding their seasonal patterns is key to consistent success.
Largemouth Bass:
- Season (Northern Zone): May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Season (Southern Zone): May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Catch and Release: Year-round outside of harvest season
- Daily Bag Limit: 5 bass in total (largemouth and smallmouth combined)
| Month | Activity Level | Preferred Habitat | Top Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | Slow | Deep wintering areas | Slow-moving jigs, suspending jerkbaits |
| March-April | Increasing | Shallow warming areas, pre-spawn staging | Spinnerbaits, jigs, soft plastics |
| May-June | Excellent | Spawning beds, post-spawn recovery areas | Topwater, soft plastics, swimbaits |
| July-August | Very Good | Weedbeds, docks, deep structure | Topwater early/late, deep worms midday |
| September-October | Good | Flats, points, following baitfish | Crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs |
| November-December | Decreasing | Deep structure, wintering areas | Jigs, deep crankbaits, blade baits |
Smallmouth Bass:
- Season (Northern Zone): June 21, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Season (Southern Zone): May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Catch and Release: Year-round outside of harvest season
- Daily Bag Limit: 5 bass in total (largemouth and smallmouth combined)
| Month | Activity Level | Preferred Habitat | Top Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | Slow | Deep wintering holes | Blade baits, hair jigs, suspending jerkbaits |
| March-April | Increasing | Warming rocky areas, pre-spawn staging | Jerkbaits, tubes, ned rigs |
| May-June | Excellent | Spawning beds, post-spawn recovery | Topwater, swimbaits, ned rigs |
| July-August | Very Good | Rock piles, current breaks, deep points | Crankbaits, swimbaits, drop-shot rigs |
| September-October | Excellent | Flats, points, rocky areas | Crankbaits, jerkbaits, swimbaits |
| November-December | Decreasing | Deep rock piles, wintering areas | Blade baits, hair jigs, suspending jerkbaits |
For specialized bass fishing tactics appropriate for different Wisconsin waters, visit TeenFish’s Wisconsin Fishing Guide for region-specific information.
Walleye Fishing Calendar
Walleye remain Wisconsin’s most sought-after gamefish, with populations inhabiting lakes and rivers throughout the state. Their seasonal movements follow predictable patterns tied to water temperature and forage availability.
Walleye:
- Season: May 3, 2025 – March 1, 2026
- Daily Bag Limit: 3 per day on inland waters; 5 in total for Great Lakes and boundary waters
| Month | Activity Level | Preferred Habitat | Top Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | Moderate | Deep structure, basin edges | Jigging spoons, blade baits, tip-ups |
| March-April | Increasing | Pre-spawn staging areas, river mouths | Jigs with minnows, stickbaits |
| May-June | Excellent | Post-spawn recovery, shallow to mid-depth structure | Jigs, live bait rigs, crankbaits |
| July-August | Good | Deeper structure, weedlines, basin edges | Crawler harnesses, crankbaits, slip bobbers |
| September-October | Very Good | Mid-depth structure, following baitfish | Jigs, crankbaits, live bait rigs |
| November-December | Good | Deep structure, wintering areas | Jigging spoons, blade baits, jigs |
New Regulation Note: Beginning in 2024-2025, a statewide daily bag limit of three walleye/sauger per day applies to all inland waters. For anglers fishing multiple bodies of water in one day, a person may harvest walleye from two different lakes with three-fish daily bag limits as long as they don’t exceed the five-fish total daily bag limit.
For more detailed walleye fishing information specific to Wisconsin regions, check out TeenFish’s guide to Wisconsin walleye fishing.
Musky Fishing Calendar
Muskellunge, Wisconsin’s state fish, represent the ultimate trophy for many anglers. Their seasonal patterns are influenced by water temperature, forage availability, and reproductive cycles.
Muskellunge:
- Season (Northern Zone): May 24, 2025 – December 31, 2025
- Season (Southern Zone): May 3, 2025 – December 31, 2025
- Daily Bag Limit: 1
| Month | Activity Level | Preferred Habitat | Top Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | Good | Shallow bays, emerging weedbeds | Bucktails, jerkbaits, smaller lures |
| June | Good | Developing weedbeds, transition areas | Bucktails, topwater, jerkbaits |
| July | Very Good | Established weedbeds, structure edges | Bucktails, topwater, rubber baits |
| August | Excellent | Deep weedlines, structural elements | Large rubber baits, bucktails, glide baits |
| September | Excellent | Shallow feeding areas, following baitfish | Large rubber baits, jerkbaits, glide baits |
| October | Excellent | Shallow to mid-depth, following baitfish | Jerkbaits, glide baits, large rubber baits |
| November | Good | Deeper structure adjacent to shallow areas | Jerkbaits, glide baits, rubber baits |
| December | Moderate | Deeper wintering areas | Slow-moving jerkbaits, rubber baits |
Regulation Note: A musky minimum length limit of 50 inches applies on the Wisconsin River from the Lake DuBay Dam upstream to the first dam in Merrill as of 2024-2025.
For advanced musky fishing tactics and location-specific information, visit TeenFish’s guide to trophy musky fishing in Wisconsin.
Panfish Fishing Calendar
Panfish (including bluegill, crappie, and perch) represent the backbone of Wisconsin’s fishing tradition, providing consistent action and excellent table fare throughout the year.
Panfish:
- Season: Open year-round on most waters
- Daily Bag Limit: 25 in total (combined species), with special regulations on select waters
| Month | Activity Level | Primary Species | Preferred Habitat | Top Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | Good | Yellow Perch, Bluegill | Deep basins, weed edges | Small jigs, tungsten ice jigs, waxworms |
| March-April | Very Good | Yellow Perch, Crappie | Shallow warming areas | Small jigs, minnows, waxworms |
| May | Excellent | Bluegill, Crappie | Spawning areas, shallow bays | Small jigs, worms, dry flies |
| June | Excellent | Bluegill, Crappie | Spawning beds, shallow structure | Poppers, small jigs, worms |
| July-August | Very Good | Bluegill, Yellow Perch | Weedlines, deeper structure | Slip bobbers, small jigs, leeches |
| September-October | Good | Crappie, Yellow Perch | Mid-depth structure | Small jigs, minnows, micro plastics |
| November-December | Good | Yellow Perch, Crappie | Deep basins, steep breaks | Jigging spoons, small jigs, minnows |
Regulation Note: A daily bag limit of 10 panfish applies in Lake Mendota in Dane County beginning in 2024-2025.
For more detailed panfish fishing information, including seasonal hot spots, visit TeenFish’s guide to Wisconsin panfish fishing.
Key Regulations and License Requirements
Daily Bag and Size Limits
Understanding Wisconsin’s fishing regulations is essential for legal and ethical angling. These regulations help ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations.
Statewide Daily Bag Limits:
| Species | Total Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|
| Catfish | 25 in total, of which only 1 may be a flathead catfish from the Lake Winnebago system |
| Cisco (lake herring), whitefish, and hybrids | 10 in total |
| Lake sturgeon | 1 per season |
| Largemouth and smallmouth bass | 5 in total |
| Muskellunge | 1 |
| Northern pike (north of U.S. Hwy 10) | 5 in total |
| Northern pike (south of U.S. Hwy 10) | 2 in total |
| Panfish | 25 in total |
| Rock, white, and yellow bass and bullheads | No limit |
| Shovelnose sturgeon | 3 |
| Walleye, sauger, and hybrids | 3 in total on inland waters; 5 in total on Great Lakes and boundary waters |
Important Regulation Note: Species not listed have no open season. For species that are listed, it is illegal to fish for them during the closed season, including catch-and-release fishing.
For complete, detailed regulations that may apply to specific waters, consult the Wisconsin DNR Fishing Regulations before your fishing trip.
License Requirements for 2025-2026
All anglers age 16 and older must possess a valid 2025-2026 Wisconsin fishing license to fish in Wisconsin waters, effective April 1, 2025. The previous year’s licenses expired on March 31, 2025.
2025-2026 License Fees:
- Annual Resident License: $20
- Annual Non-Resident License: $50
- Resident Spousal License: $31
- One-Day Fishing License: $10 (resident), $14 (non-resident)
- Two-Day Fishing License: $14 (resident), $20 (non-resident)
Free Fishing Weekends:
- June 7-8, 2025
- January 17-18, 2026
During these designated weekends, no fishing license is required for anyone to fish Wisconsin waters, making them perfect opportunities for newcomers to try fishing without purchasing a license.
Licenses can be purchased through the Wisconsin DNR’s Go Wild portal, at authorized license agents throughout the state, or at DNR Service Centers.
For more information about license options and exemptions, visit TeenFish’s guide to Wisconsin fishing licenses.
Conservation and Responsible Angling
Preventing Invasive Species Spread
Wisconsin’s waters face significant threats from aquatic invasive species that can disrupt native ecosystems. All anglers play a crucial role in preventing their spread by following these essential guidelines:
- Inspect boats, trailers, and equipment for attached aquatic plants or animals
- Remove all attached aquatic plants or animals
- Drain all water from boats, motors, livewells, and other equipment
- Never move live fish away from a waterbody
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash, not in the water
For more information on preventing the spread of invasive species, visit the Wisconsin DNR’s Aquatic Invasive Species page.
Catch and Release Best Practices
Proper catch and release techniques significantly improve fish survival rates and help maintain healthy fisheries. Follow these guidelines when practicing catch and release:
- Use appropriate tackle to minimize stress on fish
- Keep fish in the water when possible during handling
- Wet hands before touching fish to protect their protective slime coat
- Use barbless hooks or crimp barbs for easier removal
- Revive fish thoroughly before release by gently moving them forward in the water
For more detailed guidance on proper catch and release techniques, check out TeenFish’s guide to ethical angling practices.
Planning Your Wisconsin Fishing Trip
Top Fishing Locations by Region
Wisconsin’s diverse waters offer something for every angler, from remote Northwoods lakes to urban fishing opportunities in major cities.
Northern Wisconsin:
- Chippewa Flowage (Sawyer County): Trophy musky, walleye, and crappie
- Minocqua Chain (Oneida County): Diverse fishery with abundant panfish, walleye, and musky
- Lake Winnebago System: Walleye, sauger, white bass, and sturgeon
- St. Croix River: Smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish
Central Wisconsin:
- Wisconsin River: Walleye, smallmouth bass, and catfish
- Lake DuBay: Walleye, crappie, and musky
- Petenwell Lake: Walleye, catfish, and white bass
- Castle Rock Lake: Walleye, bass, and panfish
Southern Wisconsin:
- Madison Chain of Lakes: Musky, bass, and panfish
- Rock River: Walleye, catfish, and white bass
- Geneva Lake: Smallmouth bass, lake trout, and yellow perch
- Mississippi River: Diverse fishery with walleye, bass, catfish, and panfish
For detailed information on specific fishing locations, visit TeenFish’s Wisconsin fishing location guides.
Seasonal Gear Recommendations
Successful fishing requires adapting your equipment to seasonal conditions and target species.
Spring:
- Medium-light spinning tackle for walleye and bass
- Assortment of jigs in various weights
- Live bait options including minnows and nightcrawlers
- Lightweight, waterproof clothing for variable conditions
Summer:
- Medium to heavy casting equipment for bass and pike
- Topwater lures for exciting visual strikes
- Deep-diving crankbaits for structure fishing
- Sun protection including hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Fall:
- Medium-heavy to heavy tackle for trophy fish
- Larger profile lures to trigger feeding responses
- Variety of retrieval speeds to match fish activity levels
- Layered clothing for changing weather conditions
Winter:
- Specialized ice fishing equipment including short rods and reels
- Ice auger for creating fishing holes
- Portable shelter for extended comfort
- Safety equipment including ice picks and flotation devices
For more detailed gear recommendations specific to Wisconsin fishing scenarios, visit TeenFish’s fishing gear guides.
FAQ: Wisconsin Fishing Calendar
When does Wisconsin’s general fishing season open in 2025?
Wisconsin’s general inland fishing season opens on May 3, 2025 (the first Saturday in May).
Do I need a fishing license for ice fishing in Wisconsin?
Yes, a valid fishing license is required for ice fishing unless you’re fishing during one of the free fishing weekends (January 17-18, 2026).
What are the best months for walleye fishing in Wisconsin?
May and June offer the best walleye fishing in Wisconsin, with good opportunities in September and October as well. Early morning and evening periods typically provide peak action.
When can I fish for musky in Wisconsin?
In Southern Wisconsin, the musky season runs May 3 to December 31, 2025. In Northern Wisconsin, it runs May 24 to December 31, 2025.
Are there any free fishing days in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin offers free fishing weekends on June 7-8, 2025, and January 17-18, 2026, when no fishing license is required.
What is the daily bag limit for walleye in Wisconsin?
The statewide daily bag limit for walleye on inland waters is three fish per day. The limit remains five fish per day for Great Lakes and boundary waters.
Are there special regulations I should be aware of when fishing in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin has numerous special regulations that apply to specific waters and species. Always check the current Wisconsin DNR fishing regulations before fishing a new body of water.
What’s the minimum length for muskies on the Wisconsin River?
A 50-inch minimum length limit applies to muskies on the Wisconsin River from the Lake DuBay Dam upstream to the first dam in Merrill as of 2024-2025.
Wisconsin’s diverse fishing opportunities provide year-round angling action across the state. By understanding seasonal patterns and following regulations, anglers can enjoy productive fishing trips throughout the 2025-2026 season. Remember to check specific waterbody regulations before heading out, as exceptions to general rules often apply to particular lakes and rivers.
