WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) asks anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) while fishing.
The first full weekend of June is all about fishing in Wisconsin and a perfect pairing for DNR’s Free Fishing Weekend (June 6-7) and the Clean Boats, Clean Waters’ annual Drain Campaign (June 6-7). The campaign focuses on the importance of boaters and anglers always draining water from their live wells, boats and other equipment before leaving boat launches and fishing access points.
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Unfortunately, some of Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers are known to contain diseases such as viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) or small invasive species like spiny water fleas and zebra mussel larvae. Wisconsin has various laws in place to prevent the introduction and control of the spread of AIS and diseases in Wisconsin.
To prevent moving water, and potentially AIS, from one lake or river to another, Wisconsin law requires boaters and anglers to drain live wells, bilge, motors and containers before you leave the boat launch or fishing spot. Since water cannot be used to transport fish away from the shore, put your fish on ice instead, which is also a healthier alternative.
If you are using live bait, Wisconsin fishing regulations state that minnows can only be purchased from a licensed Wisconsin bait dealer. Up to two gallons of water may be used for transporting minnows. Minnows may be used on a different waterbody as long as no lake or river water or previously used minnows have been added to the container. If lake or river water or previously used minnows were added to the container, the minnows can only be used on the same water body.
No other fish can be held in the minnow container, and dead bait must be preserved in ways that do not require freezing or refrigeration. Never dispose of unwanted bait in a lake or river. If you have worms that you will not use before they die, dispose of them in a closed container in the trash, never on the ground.
Before and after you cast your line, protect our fishing future by doing your part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Remember to:
- Inspect all fishing equipment for attached aquatic plants, animals or mud.
- Remove all attached plants or animals.
- Drain all water from containers and equipment (maximum of 2 gallons of water allowed for minnows).
- Never move live fish away from a waterbody (fish out of water = dead).
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
Last Update: May 20, 2026 10:51 am CDT
