Feb. 23 to Feb. 25, 2024 at The Alliant Energy Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Most frequent questions and answers to coming to the Wisconsin Fishing Expo.
Are pets allowed at the WI Fishing Expo?

No pets are allowed, per venue rules. Registered service animals are permitted.

Are there additional fees for the show features?

Certain participation attractions, like the Trout Pond and Bumper Boats features, may charge for their activities. The majority of exhibits do not.

Are there childcare services?

No childcare services are offered.

Are wheelchairs available and/or scooters available?

No, sorry; if a member of your party requires a wheelchair, it is best to bring your own.

Can I bring a backpack? Do you check backpacks/large bags?

Yes, attendees are allowed to bring backpacks (subject to inspection at any time). Backpacks and large bags can be checked at the coat check.

Can I come back the same day? Can I come back another day on the same ticket?

Attendees are allowed to return the same day with a hand stamp. Tickets are good for one day only.

Can I try out the products, boats and vendor offerings?

Check with each exhibitor. But most will have readily accessible displays.

Do I have to print out my ticket before I get to the show?

You can bring a printed ticket, but our ticketing system will send an email to your phone/smart device and we can scan the code right off of your email on that device.

Can I gift my ticket to someone else, even if it has my name on it?

Yes, however keep in mind that our tickets can only be used once. There is no sharing tickets.

Do you have activities for children?

Yes! We have a good number of youth-focused activities. See our Kids page!

Are food and beverages available at the show?

Yes! Alliant Energy Center catering services will have a number of food and beverage options, including bar-service (ID required), located around the facility. Additionally, select Expo vendors may offer sampling for their packaged food products. No crock-pots here!

Do you take credit and debit cards at the show's onsite ticketing?

Yes, our ticketing system will accept debit and credit cards. Cash will also be taken for entry at the doors. Follow our Facebook page for potential “early-bird” discounted advance ticketing offers.

How do I get to the Wisconsin Fishing Expo?
Where are the entrances into the Alliant Energy Center?

The Center has four major entryways. The main gate is located off of Rimrock Road on the southeast side of the facility and is the suggested entrance for patrons as it is always open when the facility is in use. Additional/secondary entrances are the Nolen Gate located off of John Nolen Drive on the East side of the facility, Olin Gate located off of Olin Avenue on the North side and the Rusk gate, located off of Rusk Avenue on the South side. Additional/secondary entrances may be closed if there is limited activity on the AEC campus.

Please see our Parking and Directions page.

Is the show handicap accessible?

Yes, the show is handicap accessible, with ample Handicap-Only parking located on the north-east side of the Expo hall (near the entrance doors) as well as an elevator at the intersection of the main lobby/atrium, and the east-west corridor. 

Is there parking and is there a fee?

 Yes, Dane County offers more than 5,800 parking spots surrounding the Alliant Energy Expo Hall, and they charge a fee for their use. Parking fees are subject to change, please contact the Alliant Energy Center for the latest information on parking rates.

Is smoking permitted in the facilities or around the campus?

All the buildings are smoke-free (no cigarette, e-cigarette, vaping) but the Alliant Energy Center Expo Hall has have designated outdoor spaces for smoking.

Are there ATMs on the Alliant Energy Center campus?

Yes, if you need to withdraw money while visiting the Alliant Energy Center, they have an ATM in Exhibition Hall by the Information Desk or in the Coliseum’s West Lobby.