MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with local fishing clubs, invites families to save the date for the annual Milwaukee Youth Spring Fishing Clinics, occurring at multiple Milwaukee County parks on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
These free, family-oriented clinics are designed to introduce beginners to fishing while helping established anglers sharpen their skills ahead of the open water season.
DNR staff and local fishing clubs will provide free beginner fishing lessons, discuss how to stay safe around the water and offer fun activities, games and prizes for kids ages 15 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Clinics begin every hour at 9 a.m., with the last clinic starting at 2 p.m. All locations are accessible to youths of any ability.
- Brown Deer Park, 7835 N. Green Bay Rd., Milwaukee – Okauchee Fishing Club
- Dineen Park, 6901 W. Vienna Ave., Milwaukee – Inner City Sportsmen Club
- Greenfield Park, 2028 S. 124th St., West Allis – Milwaukee Great Lakes Sports Fishermen
- McCarty Park, 8214 W. Cleveland Ave., West Allis – Southside Sportsmen’s Club
- Mitchell Park, 524 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee – Bayview Rod & Gun Club
- Sheridan Park, 4800 S. Lake Dr., Cudahy – South Milwaukee 1400 Fishing & Hunting Club
- Scout Lake, 6201 W. Loomis Rd., Greendale – Walleyes Unlimited
Clinics will occur rain or shine, so participants are encouraged to dress for the weather. Fishing equipment is available, but participants are encouraged to bring their own if they have it. Adults are also encouraged to inquire about joining a club to expand their knowledge and help with future clinics.
Note: Please know that these clinics are held on formally designated urban waters, which means that by state statute (s. 29.053 (2) (a), Stats, they’re reserved for youths ages 15 and younger (and people with certain disabilities).
For more information about these events, contact Laura Schmidt, DNR fisheries biologist, at Laura.Schmidt@wisconsin.gov or 414-416-0591.
