Wisconsin is a state known for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. One of the most popular and rewarding pastimes for visitors and locals alike is Wisconsin fly fishing. With more than 15,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers, Wisconsin is a fly fisherman’s paradise.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, Wisconsin has plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. In this guide, we’ll explore where to fly fish in Wisconsin, which fish species to target, the best time of year to go, and types of guided trips to consider.
Where to Fly Fish in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a diverse range of fly fishing opportunities, from small streams and tributaries to large rivers and lakes. Here are some of the top locations to consider:
- Driftless Area
The Driftless Area in southwest Wisconsin is a unique region that escaped glaciation during the last ice age. As a result, the area is characterized by rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and numerous spring-fed streams that are home to wild trout. Some of the best streams in the Driftless Area include the West Fork of the Kickapoo River, the Blue River, and the Rush River.
- Wisconsin River
The Wisconsin River is the longest river in the state, stretching over 430 miles. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, musky, and northern pike. The lower section of the river, from the Prairie du Sac Dam to the Mississippi River, is particularly popular for fly fishing.
- Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the only one of the Great Lakes that lies entirely within the United States. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including steelhead, lake trout, and chinook salmon. The shoreline of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin is dotted with numerous fishing piers, beaches, and harbors that offer excellent opportunities for fly fishing.
- Namekagon River
The Namekagon River is a tributary of the St. Croix River that flows through northern Wisconsin. The river is known for its crystal-clear water, scenic beauty, and excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, musky, and walleye.
Species of Fish to Target in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers a wide range of fish species that are popular targets for fly fishermen. Here are some of the most common species to target:
- Trout
Wisconsin is known for its excellent trout fishing, particularly in the Driftless Area. The state is home to three species of trout: brook, brown, and rainbow. These fish can be found in a variety of streams and rivers throughout the state.
- Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are one of the most popular fish species to target in Wisconsin. They can be found in a variety of rivers and lakes throughout the state, including the Wisconsin River, the Namekagon River, and Lake Michigan.
- Musky
Musky, also known as the “fish of 10,000 casts,” are a challenging and exciting fish species to target. They can be found in many of the larger rivers and lakes in Wisconsin, including the Wisconsin River and Lake Namakagon.
- Panfish
Panfish, including bluegill, crappie, and perch, are popular targets for fly fishermen in Wisconsin. They can be found in many of the smaller streams, ponds, and lakes throughout the state.
Time of Year to Go Fly Fishing in Wisconsin
The best time of year to go fly fishing in Wisconsin depends on the fish species you are targeting. Here is a breakdown of the best times of year to go for some of the most popular fish species:
- Trout
Trout fishing in Wisconsin is open year-round, but the best time to go is typically from early spring through the summer months. This is when the water temperatures are most conducive to trout activity, and hatches of insects are most abundant.
- Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass fishing in Wisconsin is best from late spring through early fall. During this time, the water temperatures are warm enough to keep the fish active and feeding.
- Musky
Musky fishing in Wisconsin is best during the fall months, from September through November. This is when the water temperatures start to cool down, and the fish become more active.
- Panfish
Panfish can be caught year-round in Wisconsin, but the best time to go is during the spring and summer months when the fish are more active and feeding more aggressively.
Types of Guided Trips to Consider
If you’re new to fly fishing or unfamiliar with the waters in Wisconsin, a guided trip can be an excellent way to get started. Here are some types of guided trips to consider:
- Full-Day Guided Trip
A full-day guided trip typically lasts 8-10 hours and includes a professional guide, transportation, and all necessary gear. This is a great option if you want to experience multiple locations and target multiple fish species in a single day.
- Half-Day Guided Trip
A half-day guided trip typically lasts 4-5 hours and is a great option if you’re short on time or want to target a specific fish species in a particular location.
- Multi-Day Guided Trip
A multi-day guided trip is an excellent way to fully immerse yourself in Wisconsin’s fly fishing scene. These trips typically include lodging, meals, transportation, and guided fishing for several days in a row.
In conclusion, Wisconsin is a fly fishing destination that should be on every angler’s bucket list. With a vast range of fish species, stunning natural scenery, and experienced guides, there’s no shortage of fly fishing opportunities to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Wisconsin has something to offer everyone.
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