Guide To Great Trout Fishing Locations In Wisconsin

All about fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

Wisconsin offers excellent opportunities for trout fishing, with a variety of trout species found in its lakes and rivers. The four main trout species targeted by anglers in Wisconsin are rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and brook trout.

Rainbow trout, known for their vibrant colors and strong fighting ability, can be found in several lakes and rivers across the state. Some popular destinations for rainbow trout fishing include the Brule River, Black Earth Creek, and the Bois Brule River.

Brown trout, known for their wily behavior and large size, are highly sought after by anglers. They thrive in Wisconsin's cold-water streams and rivers, particularly in areas like the Driftless Region. The Rush River, Root River, and Kinnickinnic River are known for their brown trout populations.

Brook trout, Wisconsin's only native trout species, can be found in the state's cold, clear streams and remote lakes. These beautiful fish are typically found in remote areas such as the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the Northwoods region.

Wisconsin holds several state records for trout catches, showcasing the impressive potential for trophy-sized fish. The current state record for rainbow trout is an impressive catch, while the record for brown trout is equally notable. These records highlight the quality of trout fishing available in Wisconsin's waters.

Anglers can pursue trout using a variety of methods including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. Fly fishing is especially popular for trout in Wisconsin, with many anglers enjoying the challenge of presenting artificial flies to these selective fish.

It's important for anglers to familiarize themselves with trout fishing regulations, such as catch limits and special regulations for specific waters. Additionally, respecting catch-and-release practices helps preserve trout populations and ensures sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations.

Overall, Wisconsin's diverse trout fisheries offer something for anglers of all skill levels, whether they seek the thrill of landing trophy-sized fish or the peaceful serenity of fishing in scenic, trout-rich waters.

Trout Fishing Waters

Most trout fishing in Wisconsin is conducted on the banks of rivers and streams. Some ponds, parks and small lakes have natural or stocked populations of trout. A few of the major lakes in the state have significant trout populations - they are Beaver Dam Lake, Big Green Lake, Green Lake, Lake Geneva, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Some of the major lakes, as well as smaller lakes and ponds, are stocked with trout, and many of these offer ice fishing in winter.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Wisconsin Trout Records

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Elbow Lake.

The state record brook trout was taken out of the Prairie River.

The state record brown trout came from Lake Geneva.

The state record lake trout was caught in Green Lake.

Visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website for schedules and details regarding trout stocking in Wisconsin.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout information

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.