Best Place to Trout Fish in Wisconsin

Are you a fishing enthusiast looking for the best place to catch some trout in Wisconsin? Well, look no further! Wisconsin is home to some of the best trout fishing spots in the country. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this state. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to cast your line.

Luckily, we’ve done all the research for you and compiled a list of the top places to trout fish in Wisconsin. From crystal clear streams to peaceful lakes, these locations offer some of the most breathtaking scenery and abundant fish populations around. But before we dive into our recommendations, let’s take a moment to understand why finding the right fishing spot is so important.

As any avid fisherman knows, catching that big trophy fish requires more than just luck. It takes skill, patience and most importantly – location! A good fishing spot can mean the difference between a day spent fighting with your tackle or reeling in one big catch after another. So if you’re ready to up your fishing game and experience all that Wisconsin has to offer, keep reading!

Top Locations for Trout Fishing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a well-known destination for trout fishing, and it boasts numerous rivers and streams that are home to both native and stocked trout. Here are some of the top locations for trout fishing in Wisconsin:

Kickapoo River

The Kickapoo River is a popular destination for trout fishing in southwestern Wisconsin. It’s known for its clear waters, scenic beauty, and abundance of brown and rainbow trout. The river has many access points, making it easy to find a spot to fish.

Brule River

The Brule River is located in northern Wisconsin and is one of the state’s most famous trout streams. It’s known for its large brown trout and beautiful scenery. The river runs through the Brule River State Forest, which offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping.

Black Earth Creek

Black Earth Creek is a small stream located near Madison that’s known for its excellent fly-fishing opportunities. It has a high population of brown and brook trout, as well as other species like bass and panfish.

Bear Creek

Bear Creek is located in central Wisconsin and offers excellent brown trout fishing opportunities. The creek flows through beautiful wooded areas, making it an ideal spot for anglers who enjoy nature.

Best Time of Year for Trout Fishing in Wisconsin

The best time of year for trout fishing in Wisconsin depends on several factors, including water temperature, weather conditions, and the life cycle of the fish. Generally speaking, spring and fall are the best times to fish for trout in Wisconsin.

Spring Trout Fishing

In spring (March – May), water temperatures begin to warm up, which triggers the trout to become more active. As the snow melts and the rivers and streams start to flow, trout move into shallower waters to feed. This makes them more accessible to anglers.

Fall Trout Fishing

In fall (September – November), water temperatures begin to cool down again, which also triggers trout activity. As the leaves change color and fall off trees, the scenery becomes even more beautiful, making it an ideal time for fishing enthusiasts.

Regulations and Permits Required for Trout Fishing in Wisconsin

Before you can go trout fishing in Wisconsin, you’ll need to obtain a fishing license and follow specific regulations set forth by the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Here are some of the key regulations and permits required for trout fishing:

Fishing License

All anglers aged 16 or older must have a valid Wisconsin fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online or at various locations throughout the state.

Trout Stamp

If you plan on targeting trout specifically, you’ll also need a Trout Stamp endorsement in addition to your fishing license. The endorsement costs an additional fee but is included with some types of licenses.

Catch-and-Release Regulations

Wisconsin has strict catch-and-release regulations for certain types of trout, including brook trout. Anglers are expected to return all fish caught back into the water unharmed.

Types of Trout Found in Wisconsin’s Rivers and Streams

Wisconsin is home to several species of trout that live in its rivers and streams. Here are some of the most common types:

Brown Trout

• Brown trout are the most common species of trout found in Wisconsin. They are known for their aggressive nature and can grow up to 20 inches long.
• Brown trout prefer colder water temperatures and are often found in deeper pools or eddies.

Rainbow Trout

• Rainbow trout are well-known for their colorful markings, which give them their name. They tend to be more active during the day and prefer cooler water temperatures.
• Rainbow trout can be found throughout Wisconsin but are most commonly found in the southwestern part of the state.

Brook Trout

• Brook trout are native to Wisconsin and can be found in many rivers and streams throughout the state. They are known for their distinctive markings and small size.
• Brook trout prefer clear, cool water with plenty of oxygen and can be difficult to catch due to their skittish nature.

Experienced Guides and Outfitters for Trout Fishing Trips in Wisconsin

If you’re new to trout fishing or want to improve your skills, hiring an experienced guide or outfitter is a great way to get started. Here are some of the top guides and outfitters available for trout fishing trips in Wisconsin:

Hooksetters Guide Service

Hooksetters Guide Service offers guided fishing trips on several rivers in northern Wisconsin, including the Brule River. Their experienced guides provide all necessary equipment, including fly rods, reels, waders, and flies.

Ty Sennett Fly Fishing

Ty Sennett Fly Fishing is based out of Madison and offers guided trips on several streams throughout southern Wisconsin. Their guides specialize in teaching beginners how to fly fish and provide all necessary equipment.

Kickapoo Valley Ranch Guest Cabins

The Kickapoo Valley Ranch Guest Cabins is a family-owned business that offers guided trout fishing trips on the Kickapoo River. They offer full-day and half-day trips, as well as lodging in their cozy cabins.

How Water Levels and Weather Conditions Affect Trout Fishing in Wisconsin

Water levels and weather conditions can have a significant impact on trout fishing in Wisconsin. Here’s what you need to know:

Water Levels

If water levels are too high, it can be difficult to find fish as they tend to move into deeper water. If water levels are too low, fish may become more skittish and difficult to catch.

Weather Conditions

Trout tend to be more active on cloudy or overcast days when the sun isn’t shining directly on the water. Windy days can also make casting more challenging, so it’s important to adjust your technique accordingly.

Lesser-Known Spots for Great Trout Fishing Opportunities in Wisconsin

In addition to the popular spots mentioned earlier, there are several lesser-known locations throughout Wisconsin that offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. Here are some of them:

Rush River

The Rush River is a small stream located in western Wisconsin that’s known for its excellent brown trout fishing. It’s relatively unknown compared to other rivers in the area but offers plenty of great spots for anglers.

Turtle Creek

Turtle Creek is a small stream located near Beloit that’s known for its large brown trout population. It flows through scenic farmland and wooded areas, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy nature.

Recommended Equipment and Techniques for Successful Trout Fishing in Wisconsin

Here are some of the recommended equipment and techniques for successful trout fishing in Wisconsin:

Fly Rods

Fly rods are the most common type of equipment used by trout anglers in Wisconsin. They come in various lengths and weights, and the appropriate rod will depend on factors such as the size of the fish you’re targeting, the size of the river or stream you’re fishing, and your personal preference.

Fly Lines

Fly lines come in various weights and densities, which affect how they cast and sink. It’s important to choose a fly line that matches your rod weight to ensure optimal performance.

Fishing Flies

Choosing the right fishing flies is crucial when targeting different types of trout. Dry flies imitate insects that float on top of the water, while wet flies imitate insects that swim underwater. Nymphs imitate immature insects that live underwater and are often used during early spring when insect activity is low.

In conclusion, Wisconsin offers some of the best trout fishing spots in the country, making it a must-visit destination for any angler.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Trout Fish in Wisconsin

What time of year is best for trout fishing in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers multiple opportunities for fishing with specific dates and regulations. The early inland trout waters have a catch and release period from 5 am on the first Saturday in January to the Friday before the first Saturday in May at midnight. The general inland trout season runs from the first Saturday in May at 5:00 AM to October 15th.

Does Wisconsin have good trout fishing?
In Wisconsin, there are more than 13,000 miles of streams that are suitable for trout, and 5,000 of these are classified as top-quality class I trout streams.

What is the trout capital of Wisconsin?
The South Fork of the Prairie River in Gleason, Northeastern Wisconsin is a popular destination for fly fishing, with the town claiming to be the “Trout Fishing Capital of the World”, as indicated by its sign.

What lakes in Wisconsin have trout?
Lake trout are naturally found in New England, the Great Lakes region, and Canada. In the Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan, they can be found in Green Bay’s outer half and all along the lake’s shoreline.

What time of day do trout bite most?
For optimal trout fishing, the early morning hours are ideal, specifically from dawn until two hours after sunrise. Alternatively, late afternoon from three hours prior to sunset until dusk is also a good time to fish.

Do trout like deep or shallow water?
When fishing for lake trout, it’s important to fish in cold, deep waters and ensure that your bait or lure reaches the depth at which the trout are feeding. In the middle of spring, aim for a depth of 20-30 inches, while in late spring, aim for a depth of 30-45 inches.