Brule Hatchery Closure Just The Beginning If Wisconsin Keeps Losing Anglers

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced that the Brule State Fishing Hatchery won't operate this season, citing budget constraints. The Fish and Wildlife account that funds these operations has been losing millions over the last several years. The main reason: people aren't fishing.

The Brule River Hatchery has been stocking trout for the river for decades.

Fishing License Peaked Briefly In 2021 During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Licenses were on a decline for quite some time as younger generations purchased fewer licenses. That was until 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic saw a spike in sales, but the trend returned downwards since.

Wisconsin Public Radio reported last year that the Fish and Wildlife Fund was facing a 16 million deficit going into 2026. That's the funds used to pay for about 20% of its workforce, which adds up to about 500 positions.

Read More: Wolf Numbers Thrive as Moose Population Plummets On Isle Royale

Fewer Youth Are Hunting + Fishing

Unless we come up with a way to get younger people to experience the outdoors, cuts will keep coming. According to WDIO, the department says that without an ongoing source of funding, they'll continue to face deficiencies. That's going to lead to more tough decisions.

$5 First Time Licenses Offered Through Wisconsin DNR

I think what Wisconsin is already doing is a good step. If you're an adult and it's your first time buying a hunting or fishing license in the Badger State, you only pay $5. It's designed to remove any financial obstacles to try out something new. My first deer hunting, turkey hunting, and fishing licenses were all only $5 a piece.

So how do we get more people outdoors? What are your thoughts? How do we make hunting and fishing more appealing and accessible to a larger population?