Anglers throughout Door and Kewaunee counties will be able to cast a line without purchasing a fishing license during Wisconsin's annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 6-7.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is once again waiving fishing license requirements, along with trout and salmon stamp fees, for both residents and visitors during the two-day event. The annual promotion is designed to introduce more people to the sport of fishing while encouraging families to spend time outdoors.
DNR Fisheries Biologist Jacob Steckmesser said the event provides an opportunity for anyone interested in fishing to get out on the water.
"Anyone that wants to fish anywhere in the state can get out this weekend," Steckmesser said.
The weekend also coincides with several other state-sponsored outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition to free fishing, admission fees will be waived at Wisconsin state parks and forests.
"The weekend includes free entry to state parks and forests," Steckmesser said.
Local anglers will find no shortage of options, with fishing opportunities available throughout Green Bay and Lake Michigan waters, along the Ahnapee and Kewaunee rivers, and on numerous inland lakes and streams across the peninsula.
Steckmesser said the event is especially beneficial for those who have never tried fishing or have been hesitant because of licensing requirements.
"People that haven't fished before, that barriers are taken away and you can just go out this particular weekend and do it," he said.
Although fishing licenses and stamps are not required during the event, all other Wisconsin fishing regulations remain in effect, including daily bag limits, size restrictions and species-specific regulations.
For those who do not own fishing equipment, nearly 60 tackle loaner locations are available statewide, including several at Wisconsin state parks. Anglers are encouraged to contact individual locations regarding equipment availability and hours of operation.
Wisconsin hosts Free Fishing Weekends twice each year, during the first full weekend in June and the third full weekend in January.
