The Wisconsin DNR has announced plans to give residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy many outdoor activities like fishing, visiting state parks, or riding on ATV trails without having to pay any fees or licenses.

The Wisconsin DNR will offer a fee holiday for several outdoor activities the first weekend of June (this weekend, June 7-8). Last year, some of the free activities were limited to only one of the two weekend days. This year, all of the activities listed below can be enjoyed all weekend long. Here is a list of what you can enjoy for free:

Fishing Wisconsin lakes and streams Residents and non-residents can enjoy a free weekend of fishing, without the need for a license. This includes inland trout, Great Lakes trout, and salmon fishing. Free fishing equipment is being offered for loan at many state parks around Wisconsin for those without equipment of their own. Fishing rules such as limits, size and species of fish that you can keep do still apply during free fishing weekend.

Use of DNR Trails All state trail fees on DNR-owned properties are waived, and many cooperatively-run state trails will also waive fees.

Entry to State Parks and Forests Vehicle admission stickers for state parks will be waived for the weekend, allowing free admission to enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and more.

ATV/UTV riding and trail use Owners of ATV/UTVs can ride for free. Residents do not need to have machines registered to ride this weekend and non-residents do not need to have a trail pass to ride for the weekend. All safety rules and laws still apply.



The Wisconsin DNR says this is an opportunity for individuals and families to try new activities or do something again they haven't done in a long time. In an effort to make planning your outing even easier, they've provided (this site) to organize your weekend of activities.