Welcome to your ultimate guide for Wisconsin sports betting! In this article, we provide essential information about the current status of sports betting in Wisconsin, including its legality, available options, potential future developments, and much more. Get ready to explore the exciting world of sports betting in the Badger State.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Wisconsin?
Although Wisconsin has not passed any formal legislation to allow sports betting within its borders, several of the state’s federally-recognized Native American tribes are currently authorized to operate sportsbooks in the state after renegotiating their gaming compacts in recent years.
In August 2021, the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs approved a new agreement between the state of Wisconsin and the Oneida Nation, which permitted sports betting on tribal lands. Wisconsin retail sports betting officially launched in November 2021, as the tribe began accepting in-person wagers at Oneida Casino in Green Bay.
Mobile sports betting arrived in the Badger State in February 2022 with the launch of the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app. However, the mobile sportsbook is only able to be used by those who are physically present at the designated Oneida Casino and Oneida Nation locations in the Green Bay area.
In 2022, two additional tribes, the Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin and the Forest County Potawatomi, renegotiated their gaming compacts and were given the green light to open sportsbooks as well. The St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake and the St. Croix Casino Danbury began offering retail sports betting in April 2022; however, they have both since temporarily shut down operations.
The Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee and the Potawatomi Casino Hotel Carter launched retail sportsbooks as well in March 2023, and it is expected an on-site mobile app will be made available before the end of the year.
Wisconsin Sports Betting Rules & Regulations
As previously mentioned, no law has been passed legalizing sports betting in the state of Wisconsin. Instead, the practice is authorized by gaming compacts between the state and its federally-recognized Native American tribes. Provided below is a general summary of the sports betting rules currently in place according to the gaming compact amendments and those currently being enforced by the tribes themselves.
- Sports betting is only available to individuals who are 21 years or older.
- Wagers are available on both college and professional sporting events; however, betting options are not offered on games involving in-state schools (e.g., the University of Wisconsin or Marquette University).
- Retail sports betting is available across the state at tribal casinos or properties owned by the Oneida Nation, Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, or Forest County Potawatomi.
- Mobile sports betting (via the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app) is only viable at the following Oneida Casino and Oneida Nation locations: Main-Airport Casino, West Mason Casino, IMAC Casino, HWY. 54 One-Stop, Four Paths One-Stop, Westwind One-Stop, Packerland Casino & One-Stop, HWY. 29 Travel Center Casino & One-Stop, HWY E & HWY EE One-Stop, and Larsen One-Stop.
- New users of the Oneida Casino Sportsbook mobile app will need to activate their account in person at Oneida’s Main-Airport or West Mason Casino. Photo ID will be required to verify the identity of the customer, and cash will be needed to make an initial deposit.
- Wagering on political events or elections is not allowed, but betting options are offered on entertainment award ceremonies (e.g., the Academy Awards).
What Are the Best Wisconsin Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?
Oneida Casino Sportsbook is the only mobile sports betting platform currently available in the Badger State. However, it is likely that additional options will become available in the not-so-distant future.
Oneida Casino Sportsbook
The Oneida Casino Sportsbook app went live in early 2022, offering on-site mobile betting to users in the Green Bay area. Wagers are offered on professional and college football, basketball, and baseball as well as hockey, boxing, MMA, tennis, golf, and all the world’s top soccer leagues. Odds are updated on the app in real-time, and you’ll be able to choose from multiple betting formats (moneylines, point spreads, parlays, futures, etc.).
Unlike traditional mobile sportsbooks in the U.S., Oneida Casino Sportsbook doesn’t provide a welcome offer or sign-up bonus to new customers. In addition, remote registration is not available, as you’ll need to activate your account and make all financial transactions at Oneida’s Main-Airport Casino or West Mason Casino. If you’re willing to take the necessary steps to get everything set up and in place, the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app provides a solid mobile betting experience.
Other Mobile Sportsbooks
The Potawatomi Sportsbook in Milwaukee is also expected to launch an on-site mobile sports betting app in the near future. The Potawatomi Sportsbook app is likely to operate very similarly to the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app, but it will be a more convenient option for sports bettors in the southeastern part of Wisconsin.
Many industry experts and state officials believe statewide online sports betting is inevitable, but new legislation would need to be passed for some of the top U.S. sportsbooks to launch their platforms in Wisconsin. DraftKings Sportsbook is currently available in a handful of Midwestern states and would certainly be interested in entering the Wisconsin market should an opportunity ever arise.
One of the biggest names in the industry, Caesars Sportsbook is also a likely candidate to make its way to the Badger State at some point in the future, and the platform is well known for its top-tier customer rewards program and user-friendly interface. However, statewide online and mobile sports betting is expected to remain unavailable in Wisconsin for the foreseeable future.
How Can I Bet on Sports in Wisconsin?
Despite some restrictions and uncertainties about the future, Wisconsin sports bettors have plenty of different options available to them today. Here are a few of the best opportunities to consider:
Online Sportsbooks
As previously mentioned, the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app allows users to place wagers from their mobile devices when physically present at Oneida Casinos and designated Oneida Nation locations in the Green Bay area. In addition, the Forest County Potawatomi plans to launch an on-site mobile sports betting app as well in the near future. Unfortunately, online sports betting from anywhere in the state is not yet available.
Retail Sportsbooks
The Oneida Nation, Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, and Forest County Potawatomi have all launched retail sports betting at tribal casinos in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and several other Wisconsin cities. You can visit any of the state’s authorized retail sportsbooks to place in-person wagers on all your favorite sports and leagues.
Visit Neighboring States
Wisconsin bettors may also choose to visit neighboring states that have already legalized online or in-person sports wagering. Michigan, Illinois, and Iowa have all launched both mobile and retail sportsbooks and allow visitors to place bets within their borders.
For example, residents of Madison, Milwaukee, or other southern Wisconsin cities are just a short drive away from Illinois, where they can sign up and bet on professional and college sporting events (including University of Wisconsin games) using DraftKings, FanDuel, or several other available online sportsbooks.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Like many other U.S. states, Wisconsin permits daily fantasy sports (DFS) to exist in a legal gray area, as there is no law allowing or forbidding these types of platforms. As a result, fantasy players can sign up with DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and several other DFS sites to enter daily and weekly contests for a chance to win their share of enormous prize pools.
Offshore Sportsbooks
Offshore sportsbooks are online platforms that operate outside the jurisdiction of the United States. Wisconsin residents may use offshore sportsbooks to place online bets on a wide range of sports and leagues from all over the world.
However, it’s important to note that using offshore sportsbooks carries certain risks. Since they are not regulated by U.S. authorities, there may be limited legal recourse or consumer protections in case of any issues. Additionally, the reliability and security of these offshore platforms can vary, so it’s crucial to do thorough research and only choose reputable and trusted operators.
Where Can I Bet on Sports in Wisconsin?
Since 2021, three of Wisconsin’s federally-recognized Native American tribes have begun accepting in-person wagers on sporting events at their casinos across the state. Further information about each of the current retail sports betting locations in the Badger State is provided below.
Oneida Casino (Main-Airport)
- Retail Sportsbook: Oneida Casino Sportsbook (Main-Airport)
- Address: 2020 Airport Dr, Green Bay, WI 54313
- Phone Number: (800) 238-4263
In November 2021, the Oneida Nation launched its sportsbook operation inside the tribe’s main Wisconsin casino near Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport through a partnership with International Gaming Technology (IGT). Oneida Casino’s breathtaking Sportsbook Lounge opened a few months later in February 2022, and the amenity features wall-to-wall television coverage of sporting events, betting machines, couches, and a fully-stocked bar.
Sportsbook tellers are available every day to accept wagers and offer assistance, and betting action is currently offered on professional sporting events, amateur and college sporting events (except Wisconsin teams), the Olympics, professional sports league drafts, and nationally-televised award shows (e.g., the Oscars or the Emmys).
Oneida Casino (West Mason)
- Retail Sportsbook: Oneida Casino Sportsbook (West Mason)
- Address: 2522 W Mason St, Green Bay, WI 54303
- Phone Number: (800) 238-4263
The Oneida Casino West Mason location is just three miles away from the Oneida Casino Main-Airport location, but it provides an equally appealing in-person sports wagering experience. Self-service betting kiosks are available 20 hours every day (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.), and you’ll have access to all the same betting markets and sporting events as the Main-Airport location.
Potawatomi Casino Hotel Carter
- Retail Sportsbook: Potawatomi Sportsbook (Carter)
- Address: 618 State Hwy 32, Wabeno, Wisconsin 54566
- Phone Number: (800) 487-9522
Potawatomi Casino Hotel Carter began accepting in-person wagers on sporting events in early 2023 after a multi-year partnership was formed between the Forest County Potawatomi and Kambi, one of the world’s leading independent providers of premium sports betting technology and services.
On-site self-service kiosks are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and a wide range of wagers (spreads, totals, moneylines, parlays, futures, props, etc.) are accepted on the NBA, NFL, college basketball, college football, MLB, NHL, PGA Tour, NASCAR, F1, Premier League, and many other sports and leagues taking place all over the world.
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino (Milwaukee)
- Retail Sportsbook: Potawatomi Sportsbook (Milwaukee)
- Address: 1721 West Canal Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233
- Phone Number: (800) 729-7244
Milwaukee’s first retail sportsbook launched at the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in March 2023. The site provides 17 self-service sports betting kiosks, which are available 24/7, as well as four odds boards, several high-definition TVs, and a full-service bar to provide the ultimate game day experience.
Potawatomi Sportsbook also gives sports bettors the opportunity to make their selections ahead of time on the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino website and simply scan their QR code at the kiosk when they arrive. This is an excellent option for those who are in a rush or just looking to get in and out.
St. Croix Casino Danbury
- Retail Sportsbook: The Red Zone at St. Croix Casino Danbury
- Address: 30222 State Road 35 77, Danbury, WI 54830
- Phone Number: (800) 238-8946
The Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin launched The Red Zone at St. Croix Casino Danbury in April 2022, which features four betting kiosks, a comfortable lounge area, seven big-screen TVs, and a fully-stocked bar. Unfortunately, the Red Zone suspended operations in early 2023 but is expected to begin accepting wagers before the end of the year.
St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake
- Retail Sportsbook: The Book at St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake
- Address: 777 Highway 8/63, Turtle Lake, WI 54889
- Phone Number: (800) 846-8946
The Book at St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake also began offering retail sports betting in April 2022 and allowed customers to place bets on a variety of different markets using self-service sports betting kiosks. An extensive dining menu, a plethora of craft beers from both Minnesota and Wisconsin, and plenty of high-definition TVs made The Book the ideal location for watching your bets play out and your favorite teams compete on game day.
Just like the Red Zone, The Book at St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake also stopped accepting wagers in early 2023, but loyal patrons will still be able to take advantage of the site’s bars, restaurants, and Pay-Per-View events while they wait for retail sports betting to resume in Turtle Lake.
How To Sign Up & Start Betting in Wisconsin
Are you ready to join the exciting world of Wisconsin sports betting? Here are the steps you can take to start betting online using the Oneida Casino Sportsbook mobile app:
- Download the Mobile App
You’ll first need to download the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app to your mobile device. The app is available for iOS devices in the App Store and Android devices in the Google Play Store.
- Begin the Sign-Up Process
Begin registering for an account by entering all requested personal information (e.g., name, address, and date of birth).
- Join the Oneida Players Club
Visit the Oneida Casino Main-Airport location, West Mason location, or Irene Moore Activity Center (IMAC) location to join the Oneida Players Club.
- Activate Your Account
Visit a Sportsbook Cashier at Oneida’s Main-Airport or West Mason Casino to activate your account. You’ll need to provide photo ID (e.g., driver’s license) and have cash ready to make your first deposit.
- Start Placing Bets
Place bets on the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app when located at any Oneida Casino or designated Oneida Nation location in the Green Bay area.
- Make Deposits & Withdrawals
Any future deposits to or withdrawals from your mobile betting account can be made at Oneida’s Main-Airport Sportsbook or West Mason Sportsbook.
What Teams Can I Bet on in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is a state known for its passionate sports culture, with several college and professional teams receiving unwavering support and a great deal of attention every season. A few of the state’s most popular programs and organizations are discussed below.
Wisconsin Badgers
Representing the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Wisconsin Badgers are known for their strong football, basketball, and hockey programs. Their fierce rivalries with other Big Ten Conference teams add an extra layer of intensity to their games, and they are by far the state’s most popular team at the collegiate level. Unfortunately, you cannot bet on the Badgers in the state of Wisconsin, as wagers on in-state schools are off-limits.
Marquette Golden Eagles
Known for their competitive men’s basketball program, the Marquette University Golden Eagles have produced top-notch talent and are a consistent contender at the NCAA Division I level. The Golden Eagles have a dedicated following and their games provide high-stakes moments, adding excitement to the world of college basketball. You will need to visit nearby states (e.g., Illinois, Iowa, or Michigan) to bet on Marquette throughout the season, since betting options on in-state schools are not offered.
Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are the pride of Wisconsin and one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Led by legendary quarterbacks like Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, the Packers have a passionate fan base that fills the iconic Lambeau Field for every home game. You can bet on Green Bay all season long by visiting any of the retail sportsbooks currently operating in the Badger State.
Milwaukee Bucks
The NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks have captured the hearts of fans with their recent success. Led by the remarkable talent of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks clinched the NBA championship in 2021, bringing a wave of excitement and pride to the state.
The electrifying atmosphere at Fiserv Forum during Bucks games is something to behold, and the team continues to inspire with their dynamic style of play. You can use the Oneida Casino Sportsbook app to place a wide range of bets on the Bucks, including but not limited to straight bets, futures, teasers, and parlays.
Strategies & Tips for Wisconsin Sports Bettors
While there is no foolproof method that guarantees big winnings in sports betting, there are plenty of general guidelines to follow and useful strategies to implement to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips and tricks for Wisconsin sports bettors:
- Practice Patience & Discipline: Avoid impulsive betting and stick to your pre-determined strategies. Bet selectively and have the discipline to resist the urge to chase losses or make ill-advised wagers. Patience and discipline are key traits for long-term success in sports betting.
- Evaluate Momentum: Analyze teams’ recent momentum and form leading up to a game. Consider factors such as recent winning or losing streaks, confidence levels, and performances against similar opponents. Momentum can play a significant role in team performance and can be a useful indicator in betting decisions.
- Monitor Line Movements: Keep an eye on line movements and betting trends. Sudden shifts in odds or heavy betting activity on a particular side can indicate important information or sharp money. Understanding line movements can help you gauge market sentiment and make more informed betting decisions.
- Learn From Your Mistakes: Reflect on your past betting mistakes and learn from them. Identify any recurring patterns or biases that may have led to poor decisions. Continuous improvement and self-reflection are key to evolving into a successful sports bettor.
- Enjoy the Process: Remember that sports betting is meant to be enjoyable. Approach it as a form of entertainment and embrace the excitement of the games. While winning is the goal, maintaining a positive mindset and enjoying the experience can enhance your overall satisfaction.
Wisconsin Sports Betting FAQ
Yes, sports betting is legal in Wisconsin through gaming compacts with three of the state’s federally recognized Native American tribes. The Oneida Nation, Saint Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin, and Forest County Potawatomi are all authorized to offer sports betting at their casinos and properties across the state.
Yes! The Oneida Casino Sportsbook app currently allows sports wagers to be placed at designated Oneida Casino and Oneida Nation locations in the Green Bay area.
Individuals must be at least 21 years or older to bet on sports in the state of Wisconsin.
Yes! You can currently bet on college sports in the state of Wisconsin, with the only exception being games involving in-state schools (e.g., the University of Wisconsin or Marquette University).
The Oneida Casino Sportsbook app is currently the only option for mobile sports bettors in Washington. However, it is expected that the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino will launch an on-site mobile app for its retail sportsbook as well in the near future.