Buying Your WI Fishing License: Prices and Rules

Wisconsin Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers

Navigating the rules for fishing licenses is the first step to a successful and legal trip with Angling Only Guide Service in the Sheboygan, Lake Michigan, and Lake Winnebago regions of Wisconsin. To ensure your trip is hassle-free, we’ve put together this clear guide on obtaining the necessary licenses and stamps for your adventure.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Wisconsin?

Generally, anyone aged 16 or older must possess a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish in any waters of the state, including Lake Michigan and inland lakes like Lake Winnebago.

• Youth Exemption: Anglers under the age of 16 are generally exempt from license requirements (both residents and non-residents) but must still abide by all fishing regulations, size limits, and bag limits.
• Senior Exemption: Wisconsin residents born before January 1, 1927, are exempt from the license requirement.

Where to Get Your Wisconsin Fishing License

The process is straightforward and can be completed quickly before your charter date:

1. Online (Recommended): The easiest way is through the official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Go Wild website. You can purchase, print, and save a digital copy of your license immediately.
2. In Person: Licenses are available at various authorized agents across the state, including most Walmart stores, sporting goods stores, and many bait shops in the Sheboygan and Fond du Lac areas.
3. By Phone: You can also purchase licenses by calling the DNR’s licensing customer service line.

License Types and Prices (Annual Examples)

Wisconsin does not have a separate "saltwater" license as Lake Michigan is freshwater. All fishing on Lake Michigan, Lake Winnebago, and other local waters requires a general inland fishing license. Note that prices are subject to change by the Wisconsin DNR, but the categories remain consistent:

License Type Resident Annual Price Non-Resident Annual Price Non-Resident Shorter Term

(Approximate) (Approximate) (Approximate)

Annual Fishing $20 $55 N/A

2-Day License N/A N/A $14 (Perfect for a single charter)

15-Day License N/A N/A $24

Note on Great Lakes Trout & Salmon: To legally harvest (keep) Trout or Salmon on Lake Michigan, you must also purchase a Trout and Salmon Stamp in addition to your annual or short-term fishing license. This stamp is inexpensive but required for Great Lakes fishing.

Important: What to Bring on Your Charter

Before boarding your Angling Only Guide Service charter, please ensure you have the following:

• Your Valid Wisconsin Fishing License (paper or electronic proof).
• Your Trout and Salmon Stamp (if targeting and planning to keep Salmon/Trout on Lake Michigan).
• Photo Identification (matching your license).

Captain Jeremy and the crew are experts in local regulations, but it remains the angler's responsibility to possess the correct license. Having your license ready allows us to focus immediately on putting you on those trophy Salmon and Trout or a limit of Walleye! We look forward to seeing you on the water.