Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Litte Menomonee River - Milwaukee - Wisconsin

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Midday #18-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Winter Stoneflies Midday #14-#18 Black Stonefly Nymph
February Midges Midday #18-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Winter Stoneflies Midday #14-#18 Black Stonefly Nymph
March Blue Winged Olive Midday #18-#20 BWO Dry Fly, Pheasant Tail Nymph
Little Black Caddis Late Afternoon #18-#20 Elk Hair Caddis (Black)
April Blue Winged Olive Midday #16-#18 BWO Dry Fly
Little Black Caddis Late Afternoon #16-#18 Elk Hair Caddis (Black)
May Sulphurs Evening #16-#18 Sulphur Dry Fly
Caddis Late Afternoon #14-#16 Elk Hair Caddis
June Light Cahills Evening #14-#16 Light Cahill Dry Fly
Caddis Late Afternoon #14-#16 Elk Hair Caddis
July Terrestrials All Day #10-#16 Ants, Beetles, Grasshoppers
Tricos Early Morning #20-#24 Trico Spinner
August Terrestrials All Day #10-#16 Ants, Beetles, Grasshoppers
Tricos Early Morning #20-#24 Trico Spinner
September Blue Winged Olive Midday-Evening #18-#20 BWO Dry Fly
Terrestrials All Day #10-#16 Ants, Beetles, Grasshoppers
October Blue Winged Olive Midday-Evening #18-#20 BWO Dry Fly
October Caddis Late Afternoon #10-#14 Elk Hair Caddis (Orange)
November Midges Midday #18-#24 Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olive Midday #18-#20 BWO Dry Fly
December Midges Midday #18-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Winter Stoneflies Midday #14-#18 Black Stonefly Nymph

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Little Menomonee River in Milwaukee offers a host of optimal spots for fly fishing aficionados.
  • In the Water Stone Bank area, trout are abundant, making it a preferred spot for most anglers.
  • The Granville section of the river provides a serene environment, favoring a calm day of fly fishing.
  • At the Pilgrim Road crossing, deeper pockets of water hold larger, more challenging catches.
  • The falls near the Malls can be great places to fish in spring, when the trout are most active.
  • The area near the Dretzka Park Golf Course also provides plentiful aquatic vegetation for trout to thrive.
Remember, all of these spots require adherence to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ rules and regulations regarding fly fishing.

Best Access Points

Little Menomonee River in Milwaukee offers an abundance of fly fishing opportunities. Here are the best access points:
  • Fairy Chasm Road: This location is considered ideal for fly fishers, providing easy access to the river’s waters.
  • Lime Kiln Park: Located off of Green Bay Avenue, it features a wide river access point and is also home to many species of fish.
  • Mill Road: Accessed off of West Mill Road, this location offers fruitful fishing holes where anglers can leisurely cast their lines.
  • County Line Road: Providing ample shoreline, it’s a favorite among local anglers due to its easy accessibility and diversity of fish species.
  • Mequon Road Bridge: One can find a variety of species around this access point, providing a challenging but rewarding fishing experience.
  1. You can generally park along the road near these access points, but always check for any parking restrictions and respect private property.
  2. Local regulations may apply, so it’s always best practice to check with the Department of Natural Resources before you go.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: One of the most elusive and prized catches for fly fishermen in Little Menomonee River.
  • Rainbow Trout: Known for their acrobatic leaps and hard fighting, making them an exciting target for fly fishing.
  • Brook Trout: Native to Milwaukee waters, they are often found in cold, spring-fed streams.
  • American Eel: Though not a typical target for fly fisherman, they do reside in the Little Menomonee River and offer a distinct challenge.
  • White Sucker: Commonly found in the Little Menomonee River, they present an easy target for beginners to the sport.
  • Smallmouth Bass: An exciting target for fly fisherman, due to their aggressive behavior and strength.
  • Walleye: Known for their elusive nature, contributing to the thrill of the chase for fly fishermen.
  • Northern Pike: A highly aggressive species and large in size, presenting a formidable challenge for even experienced fly fishermen.

About The River

The Little Menomonee River is a striking natural feature of Milwaukee, brimming with a fascinating history. Once used by Native American tribes, particularly the Menominee, the river was crucial for survival – providing fish for food and routes for trade and travel.

Throughout the 19th century, settlers leveraged the river’s power for flour and sawmills, stimulating Milwaukee’s growing industry. However, this industrialization unfortunately led to environmental damage and the need for the river’s restoration became apparent.

  • 1910-1920: The river underwent massive clean-up efforts to restore its natural beauty and wildlife.
  • 1970: The Little Menomonee River became a focus of the Clean Water Act, resulting in further restoration endeavors.

Today, this little but mighty river stands as a testament to Milwaukee’s past, a symbol of resilience, and a key aspect of the city’s natural landscape, enjoyed for fishing, boating, and serene walks along its banks.

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