Fishing

Besadny Anadromous Fisheries Facility Report

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan, or the big pond as many Wisconsinites know it, is the No.

Ice fishing techniques

In Wisconsin, bluegill, perch, walleye and northern pike are the most sought after species in winter. Bluegill and perch are the most commonly caught. Minnows are preferred bait for many of the fish listed below. When fishing minnows, remember…

Tips to make ice fishing fun for the whole family

Flag up! Ice fishing in Wisconsin

When the snow flies and the wind howls, we know where to find Wisconsin anglers - on the ice! Have a fun and safe season.

Wild Rose State Fish Hatchery

Hatchery informationWild Rose is a reliable workhorse that's been delivering fishing fun and enhancing and restoring fish populations in Wisconsin for more than a century. Wild Rose State Fish Hatchery grows more trout and salmon than any other,…

Thunder River rearing station *Temporarily Closed*

  Hatchery overview Located on the South Branch of the Thunder River with a lovely waterfall at the head, the Thunder River rearing station annually produces brown trout for Lake Michigan.

Strawberry Creek Chinook facility

Hatchery information Located in Door County, Strawberry Creek is Wisconsin’s primary source of Chinook salmon eggs for stocking in Lake Michigan. Hours Strawberry Creek is open to the public whenever DNR personnel are present, typically…

St. Croix Falls State Fish Hatchery

 Hatchery informationHatchery HoursOpen 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday

Spawning (egg taking) facilities

Fish spawning (egg-taking) plays a vital role in maintaining the Great Lakes sport fishery for coho and chinook salmon, steelhead (migratory rainbow trout) and some brown trout. In early spring, for example, the Department of Natural Resources…