Wisconsin Inland Fishing Season Opens May 2, New Rules

Wisconsin anglers can head back to inland waters May 2 as the DNR rolls out new fishing rules, updated season dates, and reminders on licenses, safety, and protecting lakes and streams.

Wisconsin Inland Fishing Season Opens May 2, New Rules

Wisconsin’s 2026-27 general inland fishing season will open statewide on Saturday, May 2, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The season includes several new regulations and season structures that anglers are being urged to review before heading out on opening weekend.

For anglers in New Glarus and across Green County, the opener marks the return of one of Wisconsin’s most popular spring traditions, with the DNR noting that the state offers more than 15,000 inland lakes, 42,000 miles of perennial streams and rivers, 1,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, and 260 miles of the Mississippi River. Residents and nonresidents age 16 and older must have a fishing license. An annual resident fishing license costs $20, while a spousal license costs $31.

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