State Benefit·Wisconsin·🌲Recreation & Parks

Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)

One-time free hunting OR fishing license for veterans separated under honorable conditions within the past 365 days.

Verified May 12, 2026againstdnr.wisconsin.gov

At a glance

Benefit type: Recreation & Parks — Wisconsin
Who it's for: Veterans
VA rating needed: No rating requirement
Estimated value: ~$20-$30
Where it applies: Wisconsin
Last verified: May 12, 2026

What is Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)?

Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned) is a Wisconsin recreation & parks benefit for veterans. One-time free hunting OR fishing license for veterans separated under honorable conditions within the past 365 days. The listed value is ~$20-$30.

Who qualifies

Veterans

Available to any veteran
Honorable discharge required
Wisconsin residency

How to apply

Apply through the official Wisconsin agency.

Open application

Who is eligible

Eligibility

Wisconsin resident. Separated from military service under honorable conditions within the past 365 days. Must have served during designated war periods (post-September 11, 2001 operations or post-March 19, 2003 operations).

What Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned) covers

Covers

One-time free hunting OR fishing license. Authorized by 2013 Wisconsin Act 20.

How to apply for Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)

How to apply

Contact WDVA to determine eligibility and receive a voucher code, then redeem at a DNR Service Center or call 1-888-936-7463 within 365 days of discharge.

Open application Verify at official source

Verified information & sources

Last verified: May 12, 2026

Official source: dnr.wisconsin.gov

Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.

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Frequently asked questions about Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)

Who qualifies for Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)?▾

Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned) is for Veterans; available to any veteran; wisconsin residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.

How much is Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned) worth?▾

The listed value is ~$20-$30. Amounts can change — confirm the current figure at the official source linked on this page.

How do I apply for Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)?▾

Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.

Where can I verify Free Hunting or Fishing License (Recently Returned)?▾

Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.

Other Wisconsin Recreation & Parks

Disabled Veteran Recreation Card

$7 annual card for fishing, small game hunting, state park admission, and trail access for veterans rated 50%+.

$7 replaces $100+ in licenses/passes

Disabled Veteran State Park/Forest/Trail Pass Fee Waiver

Free vehicle admission and trail pass fees at all Wisconsin state parks, forests, and recreation areas for veterans rated 70%+.

$53-$63/year in pass fees waived

See every benefit you qualify for in Wisconsin

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