Marinette Fishing License Guide for Menominee River Boundary Rules
A Marinette fishing license is not a separate city permit. Most anglers use a Wisconsin fishing license, but the Menominee River near Marinette has Wisconsin-Michigan boundary-water rules that can change the license decision for visitors.
This guide explains Wisconsin license costs, boundary-water license rules, Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp decisions, Green Bay and Menekaunee Harbor access, Stephenson Island, Boom Landing, Sixth Street, Red Arrow Park, boat launch permits, paper proof, Free Fishing Weekend and local mistakes to avoid.
WI Resident Annual
Standard Wisconsin resident annual fishing license.
Nonresident Annual
Standard Wisconsin nonresident annual fishing license.
Great Lake Stamp
Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp when required.
Daily Launch
City of Marinette daily boat launch permit fee.
Quick Answer: What License Do You Need in Marinette?
If you are 16 or older and fishing Wisconsin waters in Marinette, you usually need a Wisconsin fishing license. If you are fishing the Menominee River boundary water, Wisconsin and Michigan resident anglers generally use their own state resident license, while nonresidents may use either a Wisconsin or Michigan sport fishing license for the boundary waters.
You usually need:
- Wisconsin resident or nonresident fishing license if you are fishing Wisconsin waters and are 16 or older.
- Your own state resident license if you are a Wisconsin or Michigan resident fishing WI/MI boundary waters.
- Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp if fishing Green Bay or Lake Michigan trout or salmon where required.
- Paper license and stamp proof when fishing boundary waters or outlying waters.
You may not need a Wisconsin license if:
- You are 15 or younger.
- You were born before 1927.
- You are a nonresident fishing WI/MI boundary waters with a valid Michigan sport fishing license.
- You fish during Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend, while still following all other rules.
What This Marinette Fishing License Guide Covers
This page is written for searches like “marinette fishing license,” “Menominee River boundary fishing license,” “Wisconsin Michigan boundary water fishing rules,” “Menekaunee Harbor fishing,” “Stephenson Island boat launch fishing,” “Boom Landing Menominee River,” and “Green Bay salmon trout stamp Wisconsin.”
Menominee River Wisconsin-Michigan Boundary-Water License Rules
The Menominee River is the key local rule issue for Marinette. It forms part of the Wisconsin-Michigan boundary, so the license rule is not the same as a simple inland lake.
Wisconsin resident
If you are a Wisconsin resident fishing the Wisconsin-Michigan boundary waters, use your Wisconsin resident sport fishing license.
Michigan resident
If you are a Michigan resident fishing the boundary waters, use your Michigan resident sport fishing license.
Other-state visitor
If you are not a Wisconsin or Michigan resident, boundary-water rules allow a sport fishing license issued by either Michigan or Wisconsin for the boundary waters.
| Boundary Rule Topic | What the Rule Means | Marinette Example |
|---|---|---|
| License choice | Wisconsin and Michigan residents use their own state resident license; other-state anglers can use either state license on boundary waters. | A Wisconsin resident fishing near Marinette should not rely on a Michigan resident license. |
| Lines and hooks | Up to 3 lines per person with a total of 3 hooks or baits may be used, and lines must be attended at all times. | Do not set unattended lines near Stephenson Island or Boom Landing. |
| Crayfish | Crayfish may not be possessed or used for bait on Michigan-Wisconsin boundary waters. | Do not bring crayfish bait for Menominee River boundary-water fishing. |
| Dip nets on Menominee River | Specific dip-net rules apply April 1 to May 14 for certain species, with exclusions near dams and the Hattie Street Bridge to Menominee Dam area. | Do not assume dip netting is allowed everywhere from Marinette to the dam. |
| Lake sturgeon | For the Menominee River from Grand Rapids Dam downstream to the end of the breakwalls in Green Bay, daily possession limit for lake sturgeon is 0 and only catch-and-immediate-release sturgeon fishing is allowed. | Do not harvest lake sturgeon below Grand Rapids Dam toward the Green Bay breakwalls. |
Marinette Fishing License Cost: Wisconsin Resident and Nonresident Fees
Marinette anglers use Wisconsin DNR fishing license products for Wisconsin waters. Fees below are the common Wisconsin products that matter for Marinette, Menominee River, Green Bay and Lake Michigan-area fishing plans.
| License or Stamp | Resident Cost | Nonresident Cost | Best Marinette Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $20.00 | $55.00 | Best for regular fishing around Marinette, Green Bay, Menominee River and inland waters. |
| First-Time Buyer Annual Fishing | $5.00 | $28.75 | Useful if eligible as a first-time buyer or returning after not buying this license type for 10 or more years. |
| 1-Day Fishing License | $8.00 | $15.00 | Good for one selected day. Stamps may still be required for premium trout or salmon fishing. |
| 4-Day Fishing License | Not a standard resident option | $29.00 | Good for out-of-state visitors fishing Marinette for a short trip. |
| 15-Day Fishing License | Not a standard resident option | $33.00 | Good for longer visitor stays around Marinette County, Green Bay and Menominee River. |
| Junior Fishing, age 16–17 | $7.00 | Use applicable nonresident/family option | For Wisconsin resident teens age 16 or 17. |
| Senior Fishing, age 65+ | $7.00 | Not a standard nonresident senior option | For Wisconsin residents age 65 or older. |
| Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp | $10.00 | $10.00 | Check this for Green Bay or Lake Michigan trout and salmon fishing where required. |
| 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing | $14.00 | $14.00 | Simple two-day Great Lakes option because it includes the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. |
| Sturgeon Hook & Line Wisconsin & Michigan | $20.00 | $50.00 | Relevant if your exact sturgeon plan requires a Wisconsin/Michigan sturgeon approval. |
Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp Rules for Marinette, Green Bay and Lake Michigan
Marinette anglers may fish the Menominee River, Green Bay waters, harbor areas and nearby Lake Michigan-connected waters. The Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp is important if your plan includes Great Lakes trout or salmon where the stamp is required.
Menominee River regular fishing
Start with the correct Wisconsin/Michigan boundary-water license situation, then check species-specific boundary rules for size and possession limits.
Green Bay trout or salmon
If you plan to fish trout or salmon in Green Bay or Great Lakes-connected waters, check the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. The stamp costs $10.
Short two-day trip
The 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license costs $14 and includes the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. This can be useful for a short Great Lakes trout or salmon trip.
| Marinette Fishing Plan | License or Stamp to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing Menominee River for bass or walleye | Boundary-water license rule + species table | Menominee River is a Wisconsin-Michigan boundary water with special rules. |
| Fishing Menekaunee Harbor or Green Bay for trout or salmon | Fishing license + Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp | Great Lakes trout and salmon rules can require the stamp. |
| Two-day Green Bay trout or salmon trip | 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license | This license includes the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. |
| Using a City of Marinette boat launch | Boat launch permit separately; fishing license separately | Launch access does not equal permission to fish. |
| Fishing during Free Fishing Weekend | License, trout stamp and salmon stamp waived for that weekend | Bag limits, size limits, boundary rules and species restrictions still apply. |
Paper Proof for Menominee River Boundary Waters and Outlying Waters
Wisconsin DNR proof rules are stricter for fishing licenses and stamps used on boundary waters or outlying waters. For those waters, original hard-copy documents or hard-copy reprints are acceptable proof, while Wisconsin driver’s license, conservation card and digital display are not listed as acceptable proof for those boundary/outlying-water fishing licenses and stamps.
Print before you go
Print your fishing license and stamp proof before fishing Menominee River boundary waters, Green Bay or other outlying waters.
Keep it dry
Use a waterproof sleeve or zip bag near Menekaunee Harbor, Stephenson Island, Boom Landing or river launches.
Carry stamp proof too
If your trip requires a Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp or sturgeon approval, carry proof of that approval with your license.
Marinette Fishing Access Points and Boat Launches
City of Marinette and local tourism sources list several access points useful for Menominee River, Green Bay, harbor and shoreline fishing plans. Use these for access planning, but use DNR and boundary-water rules for the legal fishing decision.
| Access Point | Local Detail | License Reminder | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephenson Island | City of Marinette lists Stephenson Island as a boat launch; local tourism places it between the bay of Green Bay and Hattie Street Dam. | Check Menominee River boundary-water rules if fishing the river side. | Good local search target for Marinette river fishing access. |
| Boom Landing | City of Marinette lists Boom Landing; local tourism describes it near Marinette Marine on the Menominee River. | Boundary-water license and paper-proof rules can matter. | Local tourism notes two launch sites and a fish cleaning station. |
| Sixth Street Boat Landing | City of Marinette lists Sixth Street; local tourism describes it at 6th Street and Water Street. | Use the correct license before launching or fishing. | Local tourism notes parking, one boat launch, pavilion and bathrooms. |
| Menekaunee Harbor | City of Marinette lists Menekaunee Harbor. Local tourism describes it at the mouth of the Menominee River and Bay of Green Bay. | Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp may matter for Green Bay trout/salmon plans. | Local tourism notes boat slips, two boat launches and a handicap kayak launch. |
| Red Arrow Park | City of Marinette lists Red Arrow Park as a boat launch; local tourism describes Red Arrow Boat Launch on the Bay of Green Bay. | Check Great Lakes, Green Bay and species rules before keeping fish. | Useful for anglers combining shoreline, launch, beach or family park time. |
| Menominee River State Recreation Area | Wisconsin DNR describes fishing in the Menominee River and notes smallmouth bass fishing, rustic canoe launches, Saler Landing and Pemene boat landing. | Boundary-water rules and species tables still matter. | Better for scenic river fishing, paddling and upstream Menominee River trips. |
City of Marinette Boat Launch Permit vs Fishing License
City launch stickers and daily launch permits are for using city launch facilities. They do not replace Wisconsin DNR fishing licenses, Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water rules, stamps or sturgeon approvals.
Boat launch permit
The City of Marinette lists annual boat launch stickers at $25 and daily permits at $5. Annual stickers are available at listed city and local locations, and daily permits can be purchased at the boat landing.
- For city launch facility use.
- Separate from fishing license.
- Does not include Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp.
- Does not replace boundary-water fishing rules.
Fishing license and stamps
Wisconsin DNR licenses and stamps are for the legal act of fishing. You may need the correct license, stamp and paper proof even if your city launch permit is valid.
- Required for most anglers age 16 or older.
- Resident and nonresident prices differ.
- Boundary-water license rule may apply on Menominee River.
- Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp may apply for Great Lakes trout/salmon.
Season Dates and Boundary Rules Marinette Anglers Should Check
Season dates can vary by inland waters, Green Bay, Wisconsin-Michigan boundary waters, rivers, impoundments and species. Use this table for planning, then verify the exact water before keeping fish.
| Species or Rule Area | Planning Rule | Marinette Note |
|---|---|---|
| General Inland Fishing | Wisconsin’s 2026–2027 general inland fishing season is listed as May 2, 2026 to March 7, 2027. | This is not a substitute for boundary-water or Green Bay-specific rules. |
| Walleye and Sauger, Wisconsin-Michigan rivers and impoundments | Wisconsin DNR lists Wisconsin-Michigan boundary waters, rivers and impoundments as continuous for walleye/sauger season, but possession limits can vary by period. | Check the current boundary-water table before keeping walleye or sauger on the Menominee River. |
| Bass on boundary waters | Boundary-water tables include catch-and-release and harvest periods for smallmouth and largemouth bass. | Menominee River is known for smallmouth bass, but harvest rules still need verification. |
| Lake Sturgeon on Menominee River | Boundary-water regulations list a 0 daily possession limit and catch-and-immediate-release only from Grand Rapids Dam downstream to the end of the breakwalls in Green Bay. | Do not harvest lake sturgeon unless exact current regulation clearly allows it. |
| Green Bay trout and salmon | Check Great Lakes/outlying-water trout and salmon rules, stamp rules and current regulation guide. | Menekaunee Harbor and Green Bay fishing may create Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp questions. |
| Free Fishing Weekend | Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend is listed for June 6–7, 2026 and January 16–17, 2027. | License and stamps are waived, but boundary-water, size, bag and species rules remain active. |
Free Fishing Weekend in Marinette
Free Fishing Weekend is a good time for beginners, families and visitors to try fishing around Marinette before buying a full license.
June 6–7, 2026 Free Fishing Weekend
During Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend, residents and nonresidents can fish without a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp.
- Fishing license is waived for the weekend.
- Trout stamp is waived for the weekend.
- Salmon stamp is waived for the weekend.
- Bag limits still apply.
- Size limits still apply.
- Species restrictions still apply.
- Boundary-water and waterbody exceptions still matter.
How to Choose the Right License Before Fishing in Marinette
Use this simple process before fishing Menominee River, Menekaunee Harbor, Green Bay, Stephenson Island, Boom Landing, Sixth Street or Red Arrow Park.
Confirm the exact water
Menominee River, Green Bay, Menekaunee Harbor, inland waters and boundary waters can have different license and harvest rules.
Confirm your residency
Wisconsin residents, Michigan residents and other-state visitors can have different boundary-water license choices.
Check species before buying
Trout, salmon, sturgeon, walleye, bass and pike can each trigger different stamp, season or harvest rules.
Separate launch permit from fishing permission
Pay city launch fees if using a city launch, but still buy the correct fishing license and stamps separately.
Print paper proof
For boundary waters and outlying waters, carry the hard-copy license and stamp proof instead of relying only on a phone or conservation card.
Verify current regulations before harvest
Use Wisconsin DNR regulations, the searchable hook-and-line guide and the Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water table before keeping fish.
Common Marinette Fishing License Mistakes
These local mistakes are common around the Menominee River, Green Bay, Menekaunee Harbor and City of Marinette boat launches.
Thinking Marinette has its own fishing license
For normal recreational fishing, Marinette anglers use Wisconsin DNR license products, not a separate city fishing license.
Confusing launch permit with fishing license
A $5 daily launch permit or $25 annual sticker is for city launch use. It does not replace a fishing license or stamp.
Ignoring Wisconsin-Michigan boundary-water rules
Menominee River has boundary-water rules. Wisconsin and Michigan residents generally use their own state resident license, while other-state visitors can use either state license on boundary waters.
Forgetting paper proof
Boundary and outlying-water fishing licenses and stamps should be carried as original hard-copy documents or hard-copy reprints.
Buying only a regular license for Great Lakes trout or salmon
Green Bay or Great Lakes trout and salmon fishing may require the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. The 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license includes it.
Keeping sturgeon without checking the exact rule
Menominee River sturgeon rules are strict. From Grand Rapids Dam downstream to the end of the breakwalls in Green Bay, the daily possession limit is 0 and only catch-and-immediate-release sturgeon fishing is allowed.
Menekaunee Harbor and Menominee River Map
This map is centered around Menekaunee Harbor Park and Boat Launch in Marinette, Wisconsin. Use official DNR, boundary-water and City of Marinette sources for final access, permit, season and harvest confirmation.
Marinette Fishing License FAQs
These questions match local search intent around Marinette, Menominee River boundary-water rules, Green Bay, Menekaunee Harbor, boat launch permits and Free Fishing Weekend.
Is there a separate Marinette fishing license?
No. For normal recreational fishing in Marinette, anglers use Wisconsin DNR fishing license products. City access points and boat launches do not create a separate city fishing license.
Do I need a Wisconsin fishing license in Marinette?
If you are 16 or older and fishing Wisconsin waters in Marinette, you usually need a Wisconsin fishing license unless a specific exemption or Free Fishing Weekend applies.
Can I fish the Menominee River with a Michigan license?
Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water rules allow Michigan residents with a Michigan resident sport fishing license to fish boundary waters. Nonresidents may fish the boundary waters with either a Michigan or Wisconsin sport fishing license.
Can a Wisconsin resident use a Michigan resident license on Menominee River?
No. Wisconsin and Michigan residents must hold a resident sport fishing license from their respective state when fishing Michigan-Wisconsin boundary waters.
Do I need a Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp in Marinette?
You may need the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp if fishing Green Bay or Great Lakes trout and salmon where required. The stamp costs $10.
What is the 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license?
The 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license costs $14 and includes the Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp. It can be useful for a short Great Lakes trout or salmon trip.
Is a Marinette boat launch permit the same as a fishing license?
No. A City of Marinette boat launch permit is for launch facility use only. It does not replace a Wisconsin fishing license, Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water license rule, Great Lake Salmon/Trout Stamp or sturgeon approval.
How much is a City of Marinette boat launch permit?
The City of Marinette lists annual boat launch stickers at $25 and daily boat launch permits at $5. These are separate from fishing license fees.
Where can I launch or fish around Marinette?
Common Marinette access points include Stephenson Island, Boom Landing, Sixth Street, Menekaunee Harbor, Red Arrow Park and Menominee River State Recreation Area access points such as Saler Landing and Pemene boat landing.
Do I need paper proof on the Menominee River?
For fishing licenses and stamps used on boundary waters or outlying waters, Wisconsin DNR proof rules list original hard-copy documents or hard-copy reprints as acceptable proof. Do not rely only on a phone, Wisconsin driver’s license or conservation card for those waters.
Can I fish in Marinette during Free Fishing Weekend without a license?
Yes. During Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend, residents and nonresidents can fish without a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp. Bag limits, size limits, boundary-water rules and species restrictions still apply.
Can I keep lake sturgeon from the Menominee River near Marinette?
For the Menominee River from Grand Rapids Dam downstream to the end of the breakwalls in Green Bay, boundary-water regulations list the daily possession limit for lake sturgeon as 0 and allow catch-and-immediate-release sturgeon fishing only.
Where should I verify exact Menominee River rules?
Use Wisconsin DNR fishing regulations, the searchable hook-and-line regulation guide, and the current Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water regulation table before keeping fish on the Menominee River.
Official Wisconsin DNR, Boundary-Water and Marinette Sources
This article includes the important license, boundary-water and Marinette access details directly on the page so users do not have to leave just to understand the basics. Use the official links below for final purchase, official updates, exact regulation lookup, launch-permit details and access verification.
- Wisconsin DNR Fishing Licenses
- Official Go Wild License Portal
- Wisconsin DNR Resident Licenses
- Wisconsin DNR Nonresident Licenses
- Wisconsin DNR Acceptable License Proof Rules
- Wisconsin Fish and Wildlife Stamps
- Wisconsin Fishing Season Dates
- Wisconsin Fishing Regulations
- Searchable Wisconsin Hook-and-Line Regulations
- Wisconsin Walleye, Sauger and Boundary-Water Season Notes
- Michigan-Wisconsin Boundary Water Regulations
- Wisconsin DNR Menominee River State Recreation Area
- City of Marinette Boat Launches
- Discover Marinette Fishing, Boat Launches and Bait Shops
- Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend
Editorial verification note: Information reviewed against Wisconsin DNR, Go Wild, Michigan-Wisconsin boundary-water regulations, City of Marinette and Discover Marinette sources on July 16, 2026. This website is independent and educational. It is not the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Go Wild, Michigan DNR or the City of Marinette, and it does not sell, issue, renew, refund, enforce or verify fishing licenses.