With willow cats barred from Minnesota bait shops along the Mississippi River, Wisconsin vendors have picked up the slack. The Main Channel shop in Alma, Wis., was out of willow cats Monday, said ...

The 2025-2026 general inland fishing season in Wisconsin opens statewide on Saturday, May 3. Anglers aged 16 or older need a fishing license, available online, at sales locations, or DNR centers.

A $5 option is available for first-time buyers. To buy a license, visit a sales outlet such as a sporting goods store or bait and tackle shop or purchase one online at gowild.wi.gov.