Wisconsin Fishing License Cost (2026)
A Wisconsin resident annual fishing license costs $20. Non-residents pay $50 for an annual license. Short-term, senior, and combination licenses are listed below, plus current trout stamp prices and where to buy.
2026 License Fees
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual fishing | $20 | $50 | |
| 4-day fishing | — | $24 | |
| 1-day fishing | $8 | $10 | |
| Annual senior (65+) | $7 | — | Resident only |
| First-time buyer annual | $5 | — | Resident, never previously licensed in WI |
| Husband & wife annual | $31 | $65 | |
| Family annual | — | $65 | Non-resident family — covers spouse + minor children |
Trout Stamp
Resident: $10 · Non-resident: $10
Trout stamp required for inland trout fishing in addition to a base fishing license. A separate Great Lakes trout/salmon stamp ($10) is required for Lake Michigan and Lake Superior.
Who Needs a License?
Anglers under 16 are not required to have a license. First-time buyers and resident anglers age 65+ pay a discounted rate.
Season & Regulations
Wisconsin's general inland fishing season for game fish (walleye, pike, bass) opens the first Saturday in May and closes the first Sunday in March. Panfish and rough fish are open continuously on most waters.
For complete bag limits, slot limits, and water-specific rules, see the Wisconsin fishing regulations ↗.
Where to Buy
- Online: https://gowild.wi.gov/ ↗
- In person: Sporting goods stores, bait shops, and county auditor / clerk offices that act as license agents.
- At DNR offices: Any Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources office.