Take Me Fishing

"Remember your first fish? Remember sharing great times with grandparents, parents, your children, or your buddies on the water? Those memories are what hooked us on fishing and I am asking you to share those memories with people who haven’t fished before or just haven’t been out in awhile. By taking someone fishing, you’re not only helping them create their own fond memories, instill a sense of responsibility and stewardship for our precious natural resources and assure the future of fishing for all of us."
Matt Frank, DNR Secretary

The Department of Natural Resources has joined forces with the national Take me Fishing [exit DNR] campaign which encourages everyone to participate in the leisurely, family-friendly experience of fishing and enhance their appreciation of the natural world.

Over the next year, Wisconsin, alongside 29 states nationwide, will participate in an effort to reach out to former and new anglers, and encourage them to buy a license and get out on the water.

Anglers' Favorites

: Get your fishing license today!
Visit DNR's Online Licensing Center [exit DNR] for information on license types, fees and purchasing options. You may even order a license online, print it at home, and head out to the water.
: Visit Take Me Fishing for an array of boating and fishing resources in Wisconsin.

"Take Me Fishing" Multimedia

Escape [Length: 1413Kb]
Licensed [Length: 709Kb]
View "Wedding", a national campaign message. [VIDEO Length 37]
View "Miss My Boy", a national campaign message. [VIDEO Length 36]

Whether you are new to fishing or are an advanced angler, grab your loved ones and your fishing gear and head to the water. The fish are biting!

Frequently asked questions by Wisconsin anglers:

With summer nearly upon us, there's no better time to take to the water.

What if I don't have a boat?
Where can I go fishing?
Where can I learn to fish?
What equipment do I need?
What should I know before I take my kids fishing?
I want to fish from a boat, what do I need to know?
Are there any safety precautions I should take?

What if I don't have a boat?

No problem! You don't need a boat to go fishing - you can fish from shore or have fun wading in the water! Check out our shore access inventory to find a place to fish near you.

Shore fishing is available year-round on Lake Michigan. See what fisheries biologist, Matt Coffaro has to say about what might be biting and where you'll find it.

Where can I go fishing?

With so many lakes, rivers and streams in Wisconsin, it's hard to decide where to fish. Check out this statewide list of places to fish. For kid-friendly fishing, visit places to take kids fishing.

You might also want to check out our shore fishing and boat access inventory for places to fish from shore or launch your boat.

Where can I learn to fish?

Learn how to fish and fish for free all day on June 7-8, Wisconsin's Free Fishing Weekend. Dozens of free fishing clinics are offered at state parks and other locations, statewide. If that weekend doesn't work for you, DNR, along with local park departments and fishing clubs, host a variety of fishing clinics and events for all ages. Visit Fishing Clinics for upcoming events.

Here's some additional tips, techniques and lessons on how to fish [exit DNR]

Fishing tackle can be simple

What equipment do I need?

It can be overwhelming to look down the rows of fishing tackle and try to figure out what you need. Between bobbers, baits, reels and rods, the decisions might seem endless. No need to worry.

Just visit Fishing Equipment [exit DNR] to set your mind at ease. You'll find everything you need to know for the kind of fishing you plan to do. We also loan out fishing gear and tackle at 49 locations statewide, including many state parks.

What should I know before I take my kids fishing?

Fishing with children ought to be a truly enjoyable experience. Not only will they learn how to fish, but it provides them with an opportunity to develop a love for the places where fish live. When you love something, you learn to respect and protect it.

Visit Fishing For Kids for some ideas to make sure your kids have fun and you do too!

Have your kids check out some fish-filled fun on EEK! or Little Lunkers [exit DNR] to start learning before they go.

I want to fish from a boat, what do I need to know?

Fishing from a boat can be a lot of fun because it allows you to cover larger areas of water. When fishing slows down for the day you can always enjoy other activities such as tubing or just relax in the sun.

Boating does require more preparation. Life jackets, emergency supplies and knowledge of laws, regulations, and boating safety are all important parts of a happy boating experience.

Check out Boating in Wisconsin, so you know before you go and also find boat a boat launch in your area. Additional boating resources. [exit DNR]

Are there any safety precautions I should take?

Although fishing is not a dangerous sport, be prepared for bad weather, pesky insects and accidents to keep your family safe and comfortable if the unexpected happens.
Be careful with your fishing equipment. Don't leave tackle lying on the ground and always look behind you before you cast to make sure it's clear.
Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable so plan ahead. Wear proper clothing to protect you from the heat or cold and bring an extra set of clothes and rain gear. Make sure to bring sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and plenty of drinking water to prevent dehydration.
Don't let the insects take a bite out of your fun. Dress appropriately and use insect repellant if necessary.
Don't forget to bring a first aid kit and other safety items such as flashlights, maps, and a cell phone or radio.

More Information on Being Prepared

Visit Fishing Essentials [exit DNR] for more information.

Last Revised: Wednesday May 07 2008