Root River - South Park - Minnesota
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions

Root River – South Park - Water Flow Chart

Root River – South Park - Weather report & radar

Root River – South Park - General hatch chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Warmest part of day #20-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
February Midges Warmest part of day #20-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
March Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-#20 Comparadun, WD-40
Little Black Caddis Late Afternoon #18-#20 Elk Hair Caddis
April Hendricksons & Red Quills Afternoon #12-#14 Hendrickson Parachute, Red Quill
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #18-#20 Comparadun, WD-40
May Sulphurs Late Afternoon to Dusk #16-#18 Sulphur Parachute
Caddis Late Afternoon to Dusk #14-#18 Elk Hair Caddis
March Browns Afternoon #10-#12 March Brown Sparkle Dun
June Green Drakes Evening #10-#12 Green Drake Cripple
Light Cahills Evening #14-#16 Light Cahill Dry Fly
July Tricos Morning #20-#24 Trico Spinner
Terrestrials Mid Morning to Afternoon #10-#14 Hopper Patterns, Ants, Beetles
August Tricos Morning #20-#24 Trico Spinner
Terrestrials Mid Morning to Afternoon #10-#14 Hopper Patterns, Ants, Beetles
September Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon to Dusk #18-#22 Comparadun, WD-40
Terrestrials Mid Morning to Afternoon #10-#14 Hopper Patterns, Ants, Beetles
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon to Dusk #18-#22 Comparadun, WD-40
Caddis Late Afternoon to Dusk #14-#18 Elk Hair Caddis
November Midges Warmest part of day #20-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
December Midges Warmest part of day #20-#24 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat

Root River – South Park Access Points

The Root River – South Park offers numerous access points particularly favorable for fly fishing:

  • Dam No. 4 Woods: Provides an excellent stretch for trout fishing and is a popular spot among locals.
  • Lincoln Park: This area allows for easy access to the river, making it excellent for novice anglers. The slow, deep pool here is a hotspot for brown and rainbow trout.
  • Horlick Dam: A significant number of steelheads, coho, and chinook salmon can be found here during Fall and Spring.
  • Island Park: This stretch of the river, with plenty of vegetation, offers ideal conditions for trout.
  • Quarry Lake Park: An all-around great spot for fishing, this park also features amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
  • Washington Park: Home to several species of gamefish, it features swift currents and plenty of cover.

Root River – South Park Fishing Spots

Fly fishing enthusiasts will find numerous ideal places along the Root River – South Park. Some of these locations include:

  • Quarry Hill Nature Center: Located just off the North Branch, Quarry Hill offers a variety of options for fly fishing due to its rich fish population.
  • Soldiers Field Park: The portion of the river that runs through this park is a popular spot known for its deep pools and runs, making it perfect for fly fishing.
  • Gamehaven Scout Reservation: This area offers something more tranquil and is also known for having a good diversity of fish species.
  • Rochester Golf & Country Club: While access may be restricted, those able to fish here will find a section of the river that is particularly suitable for fly fishing.
Remember: Always check local fishing regulations and ensure that you have the necessary fishing licenses.

Root River – South Park Local Fish Species

  • Trout
    • Brown Trout: Known for putting up a good fight, making it a popular target for anglers.
    • Rainbow Trout: Drawn to the fast, clear water in the area.
    • Brook Trout: These fish love the cold, clear water found in the Root River.
  • Salmon
    • Chinook Salmon: Also known as “king salmon” due to their large size.
    • Coho Salmon: A more agile species, making them a fun challenge for fly fishing.
  • Northern Pike: These larger fish thrive in deeper parts of the river.
  • Smallmouth Bass: They’re attracted to the river’s rocky habitats.

About the Root River – South Park

The Root River meandering through South Park presents a breathtaking snapshot of mother nature’s beauty. This river brims with history and stunning landscapes! Dating back to Native American times, the Root River served as a hub for fishing and transportation. It received its name from the Native American word “Chippecotton“, meaning ‘River with many roots’.

  • The river stretches an impressive 80 miles, winding through scenic Wisconsin landscapes before ushering its outflows into Lake Michigan.
  • South Park is a noted feature along the river, serving as a recreational hotspot for locals and tourists.
  • The park’s mature trees offer shade and shelter, while the river provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and, in the right conditions, even rafting!

Visiting the Root River- South Park is like stepping into a historical painting. The vibrant wildlife, pulsing waters and lush surroundings provide an engaging journey into nature’s splendor and our shared historical past.

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