New Major Regulations For 2026 Wisconsin Fishing Opener Next Weekend

The Wisconsin fishing opener is coming up on May 2nd, and anglers should be aware of new regulations that are in place at the statewide level. Muskie anglers and sturgeon anglers should pay close attention.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has an interactive map for new fishing regulations by district. In most cases, this has to do with changes to limits or slot sizes. At the statewide level, there have been changes to the Muskellunge Inland Season.

Muskellunge Season Changes

The statewide inland muskellung season now opens the first Saturday in May (this year it's May 2nd) and runs through December 31, 2026, on open water only.

New Designated Waters For Catch and Release Sturgeon

The fishing regulations this year have designated waters for catching and releasing sturgeon. That includes portions of the Namekagon River, St. Croix River, Bear River, Little Turtle River, Flambeau River, Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, South Fork, East Fork Chippewa River, and West Fork Chippewa River. Read more about those regulations on pages 72 and 73 of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Fishing Handbook.

Changes To Smallmouth Bass Harvest

The Smallmouth bass harvest has changed in Lake Michigan and tributaries to Green Bay and Lake Michigan. This includes a catch-and-release period for all waters within 5 miles of the Door County shoreline. Read more in the fishing handbook.

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Be sure to check your specific lake for any changes in limits, sizes, or invasive species. Remember to wear a life jacket, and have fun! Good luck!