Warden offers tips for 2020 fishing season

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Warden Meghan Jensen wants anglers to make sure they are prepared as they head out to their favorite fishing spot as the general inland fishing season in Wisconsin.  

As anglers prepare for this year’s season opener, Jensen reminds anglers of the following information:

• Make sure you have purchased your fishing license.  Fishing licenses are valid April 1 - March 31.

• Review the regulations for the current season.  The DNR Fishing Regulations provide important information on what is legal/illegal while fishing including daily bag limits, size limits, water-specific regulations, and so much more.

• If you’ll be using a boat make sure it is ready to go with current registration and required gear and equipment is in good working order, including life jackets for everyone on board.  Not sure what is all required for boats? Check out the DNR’s Boating Regulations.

Saturday will also be the start of the catch-and-keep inland trout season.  Whether you prefer to walk the streams or fish one of the local ponds, Jensen said Trempealeau County offers some great trout fishing opportunities for the whole family to enjoy.  

As with the general fishing opener, Jensen has a few reminders for anglers who will be out fishing for trout.

• In addition to your fishing license, anyone who intends to fish for, or keep, trout must also have an inland trout stamp.

• The trout season opens at 5 a.m. on May 2.

• Check out the regulation booklet specifically for trout fishing to learn what the bag and size limits are for the body of water you’ll be fishing.

• Looking for a one-stop-shop for trout fishing information?  Check out the T.R.O.U.T - Trout Regulations and Opportunities User Tool on the WI DNR website - dnr.wi.gov Keyword: TROUT.

• If you catch a sucker while trout fishing, you can return it back to the water alive or keep it.  It is illegal to dispose of any fish improperly.

The weather is warming up, the sun is out longer, and Jensen said fishing is a fun way to get outside and enjoy nature.  As you head out to your favorite fishing spots, remember these tips and if you have additional questions you can contact the DNR Customer Service line at 1-888-936-7463.

DNR wardens across the state rely on outdoor enthusiast to report DNR violations.  If you see a DNR violation, please contact the DNR Hotline at 1-800-847-9367 so that the nearest warden can be informed about the violation.