I will admit, I am not a professional fly fisherman. However, it’s fun to try and I hope to continue to learn more about it in the future! Plus, my home state of Wisconsin has some great fly fishing spots! So whether you are a beginner or an expert, I’ve rounded up the best places to go fly fishing in Wisconsin!
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Best Time of Year for Fly Fishing in Wisconsin
The best time to go fly fishing in Wisconsin depends on the species you’re targeting. However, speaking from my experience I have had the most luck in late spring (May) and early fall (Septemeber).
| Season | Types of Fish |
|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) | Ideal for trout fishing as water temperatures rise and insect hatches increase. |
| Summer (June-August) | Great for smallmouth bass and muskie in warmer waters. |
| Fall (September-November) | Excellent for big trout and aggressive feeding patterns before winter. |
| Winter (December-February) | Some anglers enjoy winter fly fishing for trout in spring-fed streams that don’t freeze. |
Top Fly Fishing Spots in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering diverse fishing opportunities in its many rivers, streams, and lakes. With its abundant trout, smallmouth bass, and muskie populations, anglers can find great fishing spots across the state.
1. Driftless Area (Southwest Wisconsin)
The Driftless Area is the most popular fly-fishing spot in the state and is a mecca for trout anglers. You’ll find spring-fed creeks and limestone streams filled with brown, brook, and rainbow trout.
Notable rivers and streams include:
- Kickapoo River – A mix of public and private waters with excellent trout fishing.
- West Fork of the Kickapoo River – Known for its deep pools and abundant trout population.
- Timber Coulee Creek – Crystal-clear waters with reliable hatches and wild trout.
- Castle Rock Creek – A heavily managed trout stream with trophy-sized fish.
- Big Green River – Known for its excellent dry fly action and public access points.
2. Wolf River (Northeast Wisconsin)
The Wolf River is another top destination for fly anglers targeting brown trout and smallmouth bass. It’s best fished in the spring and fall when water levels and temperatures are optimal.
Key sections include:
- Langlade Area – Offers productive riffles and deep pools for brown trout.
- Post Lake Dam – Good for both smallmouth bass and walleye.
3. Bois Brule River (Northwest Wisconsin)
Known as the “River of Presidents,” the Bois Brule offers excellent fly fishing for trout and steelhead. The upper section is famous for brook and brown trout, while the lower section provides opportunities for salmon and steelhead.
Notable stretches include:
- Stone’s Bridge to Highway 2 – Best for wild brook trout and brown trout.
- Highway 2 to Lake Superior – Excellent for steelhead and salmon runs.
4. Black Earth Creek (South-Central Wisconsin)
This spring-fed creek near Madison is one of the best trout streams in the state. It has strong insect hatches, making it an ideal spot for dry fly fishing.
Popular access points include:
- Cross Plains Segment – Features deep pools and a variety of trout species.
- Festge Park Area – Provides easier wading access and good mayfly hatches.
5. Milwaukee River (Southeast Wisconsin)
For urban fly fishing, the Milwaukee River provides outstanding opportunities for smallmouth bass, steelhead, and salmon, especially in the spring and fall. It’s less than a 30 minute drive from downtown Milwaukee and makes for an excellent escape from the city life.
Top sections include:
- Estabrook Park – Great for steelhead in spring and fall.
- Kletzsch Park – Known for smallmouth bass and seasonal salmon runs.
6. Pike River (Southeast Wisconsin)
A smaller but productive river that offers excellent seasonal runs of steelhead and salmon. It’s one of four wild rivers in the state with walk-in access only. The upper reaches of the river are best for fly fishing, but can be a bit difficult to reach.
- Petrifying Springs Park – A popular spot for steelhead fishing in spring.
7. Pecatonica River (Southwest Wisconsin)
An underrated destination for fly anglers targeting smallmouth bass. The Pecatonica River stretches form southwest Wisconsin to Illinois and fly fishing here is best in September.
- Blanchardville Area – Provides good wading opportunities and solid smallmouth action.
8. Menominee River (Northeast Wisconsin)
This river marks the border between Wisconsin and Michigan and is known for its trophy smallmouth bass and muskie fishing.
- Marinette Area – Great for targeting big smallmouth bass with streamers.
9. Chippewa River (West-Central Wisconsin)
A diverse fishery offering muskie, smallmouth bass, and walleye opportunities.
- Eau Claire Area – Known for aggressive smallmouth bass and big muskie.
10. Namekagon River (Northwest Wisconsin)
A part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, this river is known for wild brown and brook trout. This one is a personal favorite of mine as it’s also great for tubing down in the summertime!
- Trego Area – Great for drift fishing with dry flies and streamers.
11. Flambeau River (North-Central Wisconsin)
A prime destination for smallmouth bass and muskie in a remote, scenic setting. It’s a great spot for backcountry camping, canoeing, and of course fly fishing!
- Turtle-Flambeau Flowage Area – Ideal for targeting big muskie with fly rods.
Fly Fishing Tips for Wisconsin Waters
- Match the hatch – Research local insect hatches to choose the right flies for the season.
- Use stealth and approach carefully – Wisconsin’s clear waters mean fish can easily spook.
- Check regulations – Some waters have special catch-and-release or artificial-only rules.
- Time your trip – Early mornings and late evenings are often the best times for topwater action.
- Experiment with fly selection – Streamers, nymphs, and dry flies can all be effective depending on conditions.
Here’s my complete gear guide to start fly fishing (written by someone with more experience then me of course!)
Fly Fishing Packing List
Here’s a chart to outline what you will need to take your Wisconsin fly fishing trip! I’ve also left links to some of the exact gear I use below!
| Fly Fishing Gear | What is it? | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Fly Rod | Long, flexible, lightweight casting tool that varies in weight, length, and action. | For beginners, a medium-action 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod is often recommended. |
| 2. Fly Reel | Reel for retrieving fishing line. | Disc systems offer the angler a more tactile feedback while fighting a fish. |
| 3. Fly Lines | Serve as the bridge between your rod and the fly itself. | A weight-forward floating line is recommended for beginners! |
| 4. Leader and Tippet | Provide the transition from the line to the fly. | Using the right length and thickness helps to avoid spooking fish and increases your chances of a successful catch. |
| 5. Backing | A line that extends the total length of line on your fly fishing reel and essentially provides an insurance policy for your line. | The most common connection between the fly line and backing is with a spliced, double-nail-knotted braided loop and Bimini twist. |
| 6. Fly | Artificial lure that mimics the appearance or movement of insects, baitfish, or other prey that fish feed on. | You can test out dry vs. wet flies for different experiences! |
| 7. Waders | Allow you to comfortably wade into the water while keeping dry and warm. | Consider factors like fit, insulation, and breathability. |
Wisconsin Fly Fishing FAQs
1. What species can I catch while fly fishing in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is home to a variety of fish species suitable for fly fishing, including brown trout, brook trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, muskie, northern pike, and steelhead. The Driftless Area is especially known for its trout fishing, while rivers like the Menominee and Chippewa offer excellent opportunities for bass and muskie.
2. Do I need a special license to fly fish in Wisconsin?
Yes, you need a valid Wisconsin fishing license to fish in the state. If you’re targeting trout, you may also need an inland trout stamp. Licenses can be purchased online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website or at authorized vendors.
3. What are the best flies to use in Wisconsin?
The best flies depend on the season and the fish you’re targeting. Some popular choices include:
- For trout: Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Woolly Bugger, Blue-Winged Olive
- For smallmouth bass: Clouser Minnow, Poppers, Muddler Minnow
- For muskie and pike: Large Streamers, Dahlberg Divers, Deceiver patterns Checking local hatch charts can also help determine the most effective flies for specific times of the year.
4. Can I fly fish in Wisconsin during winter?
Surprisingly enough, winter fly fishing is possible, especially in spring-fed streams that don’t freeze, such as those in the Driftless Area. Nymphing is often the most productive method in cold water, and midges, scuds, and small mayflies are common winter patterns.
5. Are there any special regulations I should be aware of?
Yes, many waters in Wisconsin have special regulations, including catch-and-release sections, artificial lures-only areas, and seasonal restrictions. Always check the Wisconsin DNR regulations for the specific body of water you plan to fish to ensure compliance with local rules.
Wisconsin Fly Fishing Map
Whether you’re chasing trout in the Driftless Area or casting for steelhead on the Bois Brule, Wisconsin offers endless fly fishing opportunities. Pack your gear, check local conditions, and enjoy some of the best fly fishing in the Midwest!
Here’s a map to help you plan a fly fishing getaway closest to you!
Do you have any favorite spots for fly fishing in Wisconsin? I’d love to hear them in the comments!
