In Wisconsin, the total daily bag limit for walleye, sauger, and their hybrids combined is 5.
Understanding Walleye Daily Bag Limits in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's fishing regulations are designed to manage fish populations sustainably, ensuring the longevity of popular species like walleye. The daily bag limit specifies the maximum number of fish an individual angler can keep within a 24-hour period. For walleye, this limit is set to include not only walleye but also sauger and any hybrids of the two species.
This means that whether you catch five walleye, five sauger, or any combination that adds up to five (e.g., three walleye and two sauger), you have reached your daily limit for these species. It's crucial for anglers to understand this combined total to comply with state regulations.
While the general statewide daily bag limit for walleye, sauger, and hybrids is 5, it's vital for anglers to be aware that specific bodies of water may have special regulations that differ from the statewide rules. These special regulations can include:
- Different bag limits: Some lakes or rivers might have a lower or higher limit.
- Minimum length requirements: Fish might need to be a certain length to be kept.
- Protected slot limits: Fish within a certain length range might need to be released.
Therefore, before heading out, always consult the most current Wisconsin fishing regulations for the specific lake or river you plan to fish.
Examples of Daily Bag Limits for Various Fish Species
To provide a broader context, here’s a look at the total daily bag limits for walleye and some other fish species in Wisconsin:
| Species | Total Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|
| Walleye, Sauger, and Hybrids | 5 in total |
| Shovelnose Sturgeon | 3 |
| Ruffe, White Perch, and Gobies | 0, but one of each may be killed and possessed for immediate delivery to a Wisconsin DNR Service Center or regional office. |
Staying informed about current fishing regulations is a key responsibility for all anglers. For the most accurate and comprehensive information, including any updates to statewide or specific water body regulations, always refer to the official Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fishing regulations page.
