Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Menomonee River - at 16th Street - 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

Menomonee River at 16th Street boasts some of the area’s top fly fishing spots. Apart from the stunning river views, the following spots are most notable for both beginner and seasoned fly fishers:
  • The stretch downstream from the 16th Street Viaduct is stocked with trout regularly, providing excellent catch opportunities.
  • The area around the Three Bridges Park is known for its quiet, serene fishing conditions, perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
  • The Harley-Davidson Museum area of the river offers an urban fishing experience with a decent population of smallmouth bass.
  • For adventurous anglers, the sections of the river that run through the Menomonee River Parkway are worth exploring. These spots offer outstanding views of the Milwaukee County landscape along with potential catches.
Remember to research and respect local fishing regulations to ensure a successful and eco-friendly fishing adventure at Menomonee River.

Best Access Points

The Menomonee River at 16th Street offers multiple spots ideal for fly fishing. These access points, highlighted belwo, allow for easier catch of species like Trout and Salmon:

  • Estabrook Park: Considered to be a prime fishing spot, this Park boasts well-preserved river conditions ideal for fly fishing.
  • Miller Park Way Bridge: The bridge area provides sufficient space for casting and has been reported to be a hub for Trout.
  • Three Bridges Park: A recent addition to the RiverPark system, this Park is designed with access for guests going fishing specifically.
  • Hank Aaron State Trail: Along the edge of this trail that cuts through downtown Milwaukee, ample fishing spots are available with abundant fish population.

In addition to these, there are several less known access points along the 16th street section that are worth exploring for better experiences.

Local Fish

  • Walleye: The often elusive Walleye is a prime catch for experienced fly fishers. It offers a challenging and satisfying catch.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Renowned for their tough fight and mind-blowing jumps, Smallmouth Bass are a popular target.
  • Steelhead Trout: A variety of Rainbow Trout, Steelheads are known to swim to and from the ocean, providing an angling thrill.
  • Northern Pike: Known for their strength and size, Northern Pike are a highly sought-after catch for many anglers.
  • Musky: With its “fish of ten thousand casts” reputation, the Musky guarantees a hard-fought battle for the persistent fisherman.
  • Largemouth Bass: Notoriously aggressive feeders, Largemouth Bass are a joy to catch on the fly.
  • Crappie: Crappie are a plentiful and tasty pan fish that can be enjoyed by fishermen of all skill levels.
  • Catfish: These bottom dwellers are strong fighters and present a unique angling challenge when targeted with a fly.

About The River

Situated in the heart of Milwaukee, the Menomonee River at 16th Street holds a remarkable historical siginifcance. Famed as an active industrial corridor during the 19th century, it served as a crucial artery for transportation of goods, greatly contributing to the city’s economic growth.

The river’s history can be segregated into three main eras:

  1. Pre-Industrial period: Originally occupied by the Menomonee tribe, the river was rich with wild rice making it an ideal space for their settlement.
  2. Industrial period: With the construction of the Milwaukee Road Shops in the 1870s, the river became a bustling industrial belt.
  3. Post-Industrial period: Disused factories began giving way to white collar offices and residential areas in the late 20th century.

Today, the scenery of the Menomonee River has drastically changed, while serving as an intriguing reminder of Milwaukee’s industrious past.

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