WI Ice Fishing Info

[Outdoors Junkie]

How many tip-ups and fishing rods can one person have on the ice at one time?
Statewide fishing restrictions apply: An angler may not fish with more than three hooks, baits or lures at one time. This means that an angler may set a tip-up and fish with two rods, or set two tip-ups and fish with one rod.


When ice fishing using tip-ups, is there are requirement that the angler's name be marked on the tip-up?
No, an angler does not need to put his or her name on the tip-up.


Is there a requirement regarding the spacing or distance between the tip-ups?
There are no regulations regarding the spacing or distance between tip-ups.


Is there a requirement regarding the distance between an angler and their tip-ups?
There are no regulations regarding the distance between an angler and their tip-ups or fishing rods. However, the angler must be able to respond to his or her tip-up immediately when the flag goes up. Failure to respond immediately to a line upon indication of a bite will be sufficient evidence that the line is unattended.


Do I need a permit or license for my ice fishing shelter?
No


Do I need a name and address on my ice fishing shanty or shelter, even if it is portable?
It depends. The name and address (in English) of the person owning or using any fishing shelter must be legibly painted or permanently affixed on the outside of the shelter in block lettering at least one inch square in contrasting colors, when the shelter is left on the ice and is not occupied or otherwise in use.

However, beginning April 1, 2002, fishing shelters that are occupied or otherwise in use and removed from the ice daily are exempt from this requirement. If you remove the shelter from the ice when you come off the ice, a name and address is not required.

Holes cut in the ice can be no larger than 12 inches.


Can I lock the door of my ice fishing shelter?
Yes, but only when the shelter is unoccupied. The door must be unlocked while the shelter is occupied.


How large of a hole can I make in the ice?
Up to 12 inches, but no larger.

[Spinach]

Easy to read and understand Wisconsins regs.