Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Inland trout early catch and release season starts soon
Dec 23, 2024
(WFRV) - DNR officials are reminding anglers that they can soon hit the inland Wisconsin waterways for early trout catch and release season.
According to a release from the DNR, inland trout early and release season starts on January 4 and runs through May 2 on a number of designated trout streams throughout the state.
Officials say that anglers will need to use only artificial lures and can target only inland trout species with any of the trout caught needing to be immediately released.
The DNR is encouraging all anglers to practice responsible catch-and-release fishing and to reduce their reel and handling time with the fish as much as possible. Tips for good practice can be found here.
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary closes Raptor Trail, cites recent bird flu reports
Those looking to participate in the early catch and release season will need a 2024-2025 fishing license and an inland trout stamp which can be bought online and are good until March 31, 2025.
Starting on April 1, anglers will need to purchase both a 2025-2026 fishing license and an inland trout stamp.
Those looking to keep the trout they catch will need to wait until the general hook and line season opens up on May 3.
To find fishable trout streams throughout Wisconsin, anglers are encouraged to access the T.R.O.U.T. tool and additional information on the DNR's website.