MADISON, WI (WTAQ) - For the first time, Wisconsin is offering a free ice fishing weekend.

The DNR says it will take place January 19th and 20th – and both residents and non-residents will not need licenses and trout stamps to take fish from Wisconsin’s inland waters during that time.

For years, the state has offered a free fishing weekend in June.

Last year, the governor and Legislature passed a bill to create the free ice fishing weekend. It’s part of a larger effort to get more Wisconsinites to take part in outdoor recreation.