IRON MOUNTAIN — Wisconsin’s early season trout season will open Saturday, Jan. 4, and run through May 2 on designated early season streams, which includes the Pine River and Popple River in Florence County.

The season calls for the use of artificial lures only and trout caught will need to be immediately released. If the fish is deeply hooked, cut the line and let it go. Other tips on responsible catch and release can be found at https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/outreach/ResponsibleRelease.html.

Anyone wishing to participate will need a 2024-2025 fishing license and an inland trout stamp, which are both good until March 31. After April 1, anglers will need a 2025-2026 fishing license and inland trout stamp.

Anglers will be able to keep the trout they catch once the general hook and line season opens on May 3, provided bag limits and length requirements are met.

The annual Pete “Toad” Ice Fishing Derby is slated for Saturday, Jan. 18, coinciding with Wisconsin’s free fishing weekend. The event is hosted by the Homestead-Aurora Conservation Club and C & R Bar in Aurora, Wis., and allows participants to fish anywhere.

Advance registration can be done at Bob’s Midland Service in Aurora. Entry fee is $10 and free for children ages 12 and younger.

Communities that Care and the Healthy Youth Coalition will host a youth fishing derby Saturday, Feb. 8, outside Riverside Park Campground in Menominee. Only 100 pre-drilled holes are available. Cost is $7 per hole, with a maximum of two per buyer. Trout will be stocked in the fishing area before the event.

Registration is now open and continues until Jan. 31 or until sold out. More information is available at https://ctcmarinettemenominee.org/.

To purchase fishing holes, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-ctchyc-youth-ice-fishing-derby-tickets-1118144282649.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for an opening on the Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup, which consists of seven volunteers each serving four-year terms. Travel expenses to and from meetings are eligible for reimbursement. The group meets quarterly at varying locations around the state.

The DNR is also accepting applications for openings on the Michigan State Parks Advisory Committee, which consists of 12 volunteers, each serving up to four-year terms. The group meets six times per year either online or at locations around the state. The committee advises and makes recommendations to the chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division on state parks policy and provides guidance on state park development, management, stewardship, funding and planning.

The deadline for applications is Jan. 15. Find out more at https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/about/newsroom/releases/2024/12/17/dnr-january-meetings.