Wisconsin fishing licenses are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR). This guide explains how to buy, renew, or reprint your Wisconsin fishing license online through the official GoWild system, what licenses cost, how Great Lakes fishing works, and what Wisconsin fishing rules require.
Visit the official WI DNR fishing license page →
Quick Wisconsin Fishing License Information
| Category | Wisconsin Fishing License Details |
|---|---|
| Issued By | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR) |
| Online System | GoWild (gowild.wi.gov) |
| Online Purchase Available? | Yes |
| Digital Licenses Accepted? | Yes |
| Minimum License Age | 16 years old |
| Resident Annual License | $20.00 |
| Nonresident Annual License | $50.00 |
| License Year | April 1 – March 31 |
| Trout and Salmon Stamp Required? | Yes — for designated trout waters and Great Lakes tributaries |
| Great Lakes Fishing Covered? | Yes — with base license |
Always verify current pricing through the official WI DNR GoWild website before purchasing. Wisconsin license fees can change periodically.
How to Buy a Wisconsin Fishing License Online
Wisconsin fishing licenses can be purchased online through the official GoWild system at gowild.wi.gov, operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Licenses are typically issued immediately after purchase and can be displayed digitally on your phone.
- Visit GoWild — Go to gowild.wi.gov, the official WI DNR online licensing portal.
- Create or log in to your account — Enter your Wisconsin ID or driver’s license number and personal information.
- Select your license type — Choose resident, nonresident, annual, short-term, or combination license. Add a trout and salmon stamp if needed.
- Complete payment online — Pay using a debit or credit card.
- Download or display your license — Wisconsin accepts digital fishing licenses displayed on a mobile device.
Access the official WI DNR GoWild licensing system →
What Is GoWild?
GoWild (gowild.wi.gov) is the official online licensing system operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. It is used to purchase, renew, and manage Wisconsin fishing licenses, hunting licenses, and related outdoor permits.
If you are searching for “Wisconsin DNR fishing license,” “WI DNR fishing license online,” “GoWild fishing license,” or “Wisconsin fishing license renewal,” the official portal is gowild.wi.gov.
Wisconsin Fishing License Costs
Wisconsin fishing license costs vary based on residency, age, and license type. The following prices reflect common Wisconsin fishing license options issued by the WI DNR.
| License Type | Resident Fee | Nonresident Fee | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $20.00 | $50.00 | April 1 – March 31 |
| 15-Day Fishing License | N/A | $28.00 | 15 days |
| 4-Day Fishing License | N/A | $18.00 | 4 days |
| 1-Day Fishing License | $8.00 | $8.00 | 1 day |
| Senior Annual License (age 65+) | $8.00 | N/A | April 1 – March 31 |
| Trout and Salmon Stamp (add-on) | $10.00 | $10.00 | With license year |
| Patron License (fishing + hunting combo) | $45.00 | N/A | April 1 – March 31 |
| Lifetime Fishing License | Varies by age | N/A | Lifetime |
License fees can change. Always verify current pricing through the official WI DNR GoWild website before purchasing.
See our fishing license cost by state guide for nationwide comparisons.
Wisconsin Trout and Salmon Stamp
Wisconsin requires a separate Trout and Salmon Stamp for anglers fishing designated inland trout streams, trout lakes, and Great Lakes tributaries. A standard Wisconsin fishing license alone does not cover trout or salmon fishing in these waters.
The trout and salmon stamp costs $10.00 for both residents and nonresidents and is available through the GoWild online licensing system.
Popular trout fishing destinations in Wisconsin include the Driftless Area streams of southwestern Wisconsin, the Brule River, and numerous cold-water trout streams throughout the northern part of the state. Lake Michigan and Lake Superior tributaries are popular for salmon and steelhead fishing in season.
See our trout stamp cost guide for more on trout stamp requirements by state.
Wisconsin Great Lakes Fishing License
A standard Wisconsin fishing license covers recreational fishing on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior within Wisconsin’s jurisdiction. No separate Great Lakes-specific fishing license is required for most recreational anglers.
However, anglers targeting trout, salmon, and steelhead in Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, or their tributaries need the Trout and Salmon Stamp in addition to a base fishing license.
Anglers should always review current WI DNR regulations for Great Lakes species-specific rules, size limits, and seasonal restrictions before fishing.
Wisconsin Patron License
Wisconsin offers a Patron License — a combined fishing and hunting license available to residents at $45.00. This is Wisconsin’s equivalent of a combination license and is one of the most cost-effective options for Wisconsin residents who both fish and hunt.
The patron license covers the same fishing privileges as a standard annual fishing license and is available through GoWild.
Why Buying Online Is the Fastest Option
- Immediate access — Licenses are typically issued instantly after purchase
- No travel required — Skip the trip to a bait shop or DNR service center
- 24/7 availability — Buy anytime, including the morning of a fishing trip
- Digital convenience — Wisconsin accepts licenses displayed on a mobile device
- Easy renewals and reprints — Access your GoWild account anytime
How to Renew a Wisconsin Fishing License Online
Wisconsin fishing licenses expire on March 31 each year. The new license year begins April 1. Renewal is available online through GoWild. Anglers are encouraged to renew before April 1 to avoid any gap in coverage.
- Visit gowild.wi.gov
- Log in to your WI DNR GoWild account
- Select your renewal license type
- Complete payment online
- Download or display your renewed license
For additional guidance, see our fishing license renewal guide, renew fishing license online guide, and fishing license expiration guide.
How to Reprint a Wisconsin Fishing License
If you lose your Wisconsin fishing license or need another copy, you can usually reprint or redownload it through your GoWild account.
- Visit gowild.wi.gov and log in to your account
- Locate your fishing license in your purchase history
- Select your license
- Download or print a replacement copy
Saving a PDF copy on your phone is recommended for backup access while fishing in remote northern Wisconsin areas.
See our reprint fishing license guide and replace lost fishing license guide.
Who Needs a Wisconsin Fishing License?
Most anglers age 16 and older need a valid Wisconsin fishing license while fishing public waters.
- Wisconsin residents age 16+ need a resident fishing license
- Nonresidents age 16+ need a nonresident Wisconsin fishing license
- Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin residents age 65+ qualify for a discounted senior annual fishing license at $8.00
- Trout and salmon anglers fishing designated trout waters or Great Lakes tributaries need the trout and salmon stamp
- Certain disability exemptions may apply — review current WI DNR eligibility rules
Related guides:
- Do You Need a Fishing License?
- Do Kids Need a Fishing License?
- Fishing License Age Requirements
- Senior Fishing License Guide
Wisconsin Nonresident Fishing License
Out-of-state anglers fishing in Wisconsin must purchase a nonresident fishing license through GoWild. Wisconsin is a premier fishing destination attracting nonresident anglers for walleye, muskie, northern pike, bass, panfish, and trout fishing on thousands of lakes and rivers throughout the state.
Popular destinations for nonresident anglers include the Northwoods lakes, the Wisconsin River, the Mississippi River border waters, Lake Michigan shore fishing, and the famous muskie lakes of northern Wisconsin.
Nonresident options include an annual license at $50.00, a 15-day license at $28.00, a 4-day license at $18.00, and a 1-day license at $8.00.
Fishing across state lines? See our fishing license reciprocity guide.
Wisconsin Fishing License Expiration
Wisconsin annual fishing licenses expire on March 31 each year. The new license year begins April 1. Wisconsin uses a fixed annual licensing year rather than a rolling 365-day period.
Anglers who purchase late in the license year — in January, February, or March — receive less than a full year of coverage. A 1-day or short-term license may be more cost-effective for late-season purchases.
Related guides:
Wisconsin Fishing License Rules and Exemptions
- Carry your license while fishing — Wisconsin requires proof of licensing when requested by a conservation warden
- Digital licenses accepted — WI DNR allows fishing licenses displayed on a mobile device
- Trout and salmon stamp required — for designated trout waters and Great Lakes tributaries
- Free Fishing Days — Wisconsin offers annual Free Fishing Weekend days; see our free fishing days guide
- Follow species regulations — bag limits, size limits, and seasons vary by species, lake, and region
- Lake-specific regulations exist — many Wisconsin lakes have special size or bag limit rules; always check current WI DNR rules for the specific lake you plan to fish
Before fishing, review current regulations through the official WI DNR fishing regulations page.
Related guides:
- Fishing Regulations by State
- Free Fishing Days in Every State
- What Happens If You Fish Without a License?
Where to Buy a Wisconsin Fishing License In Person
Wisconsin fishing licenses are also available from authorized WI DNR license agents throughout the state.
- Walmart sporting goods counters
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
- Bass Pro Shops
- Cabela’s
- Local bait and tackle shops
- Authorized WI DNR license agents statewide
Vendor participation varies by location. Calling ahead before visiting is recommended.
See our guide on where to buy a fishing license near you.
How This Wisconsin Fishing License Guide Is Maintained
Wisconsin fishing license fees, regulations, exemptions, and digital licensing rules can change periodically. This guide is reviewed and updated using official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR) information and current Wisconsin fishing regulations. BuyFishingLicense.org is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with the WI DNR or any government agency. If you notice outdated information, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Wisconsin fishing license?
A Wisconsin resident annual fishing license costs $20.00. A nonresident annual license costs $50.00. A 1-day license costs $8.00 for residents and nonresidents. A senior resident license for anglers age 65 and older costs $8.00. A trout and salmon stamp costs $10.00 for residents and nonresidents. Always verify current pricing through GoWild before purchasing.
Where can I buy a Wisconsin fishing license online?
Wisconsin fishing licenses are purchased online through the official WI DNR GoWild system at gowild.wi.gov.
What is GoWild?
GoWild is the official online licensing portal for Wisconsin fishing licenses, hunting licenses, and related outdoor permits, available at gowild.wi.gov. It is operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Do I need a trout and salmon stamp in Wisconsin?
Yes, for fishing designated inland trout streams, trout lakes, and Great Lakes tributaries. A standard Wisconsin fishing license does not cover trout or salmon fishing in these waters. The stamp costs $10.00 for residents and nonresidents.
When does a Wisconsin fishing license expire?
Wisconsin annual fishing licenses expire on March 31 each year. The new license year begins April 1.
How do I renew my Wisconsin fishing license online?
Log in to your GoWild account at gowild.wi.gov, select your renewal license type, complete payment, and download your renewed license. Wisconsin licenses expire March 31 each year.
What is the Wisconsin Patron License?
The Wisconsin Patron License is a combined fishing and hunting license for Wisconsin residents costing $45.00. It is one of the most cost-effective options for residents who both fish and hunt.
Do kids need a fishing license in Wisconsin?
No. Children under age 16 do not need a fishing license in Wisconsin.
Can nonresidents buy a Wisconsin fishing license online?
Yes. Out-of-state anglers can purchase Wisconsin nonresident fishing licenses online through GoWild at gowild.wi.gov.
Can I show my Wisconsin fishing license on my phone?
Yes. Wisconsin accepts fishing licenses displayed on a mobile device while fishing.
Related Wisconsin Fishing Guides
- Online Fishing License Directory
- Where to Buy a Fishing License Near Me
- How Much Is a Fishing License?
- Fishing License Cost by State
- Trout Stamp Cost Guide
- Fishing License Renewal
- Reprint Fishing License
- Free Fishing Days in Every State
- Does Walmart Sell Fishing Licenses?
- Senior Fishing License Guide
- Lifetime Fishing License Guide