Fort McCoy readies for fishing season to opener

By Fort McCoy Fisheries ProgramApril 24, 2009

Surveying fish populations
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

The Fort McCoy fishing season will begin Saturday, May 2, and runs concurrent with the Wisconsin general inland fishing season.

"Fishing expectations are high again this year. Anglers enjoyed some great ice fishing. Some have had some good days this spring, as well, for the early catch-and-release season. With this, we believe fishing experiences to be good as the regular season begins," said John Noble, installation fisheries biologist. "Based on some sampling surveys, we expect to hear reports of anglers harvesting big fish so it should be exciting."

Many anglers are aware of the requirements in place to fish Fort McCoy; however, they are reminded to have their fishing licenses prior to fishing. Noble said anglers should be sure to purchase the necessary state licenses and Fort McCoy fishing permits early. Fort McCoy no longer sells fishing or hunting permits at the Permit Sales Office.

Permits must be purchased from one of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Automated License Issuance System (ALIS) agents. Anglers are advised to make sure they ask the ALIS agent for Fort McCoy fishing approval to be added to their Wisconsin License purchase so they meet legal requirements to fish at Fort McCoy.

People who aren't sure they want to invest in a fishing permit for Fort McCoy or even would like to fish at Fort McCoy can fish for free during Wisconsin's Free Fishing Weekend, Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7.

For more information about fishing at Fort McCoy, call 608-388-3337