Updated October 15, 2026
    Access point

    Mink Creek Confluenceon Namekagon River

    Upstream confluence area where tributary inflows create holding water for trout and smallmouth.
    Namekagon River reportDirections45.8900°N, 91.6400°W
    Bite report · week of Oct 4

    Current flows are typical for early October

    1. 01Current flows are typical for early October.
    2. 02Limited surface insect activity, focus on subsurface.
    3. 03October Caddis are a possibility for a late-season large adult presence.
    4. 04Egg patterns are highly effective as species near spawning.
    5. 05Brown trout are holding to the bottom in upper river cold pockets.
    6. 06Smallmouth bass are near structure throughout the river.
    7. 07Muskies are actively feeding in the lower river's deeper bends and eddies.
    8. 08Slow and deliberate retrieves are critical for streamers.
    9. 09Dead drifts are essential for nymphs and egg patterns in the Namekagon.

    What to tie on at Mink Creek Confluence

    Picked from recent reports for this stretch.

    streamer80%

    Perch Pattern

    #1/0#2#4

    Walleye and Muskies frequently key on perch fry in spring, making this an excellent imitation for predatory fish in the Namekagon River.

    nymph80%

    Scud (Pink/Orange)

    #12#14#16#18

    Freshwater amphipods are a consistent food source, and a pink or orange Scud nymph can be very effective in early spring for Walleye, Muskies, and opportunistic trout.

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    dry80%

    Hopper Juan

    #6#8#10#12

    Mid-summer through early fall along grassy banks, excellent for opportunistic feeders.

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    streamer80%

    Olive Woolly Bugger

    #4#6#8

    A versatile streamer imitating leeches and baitfish, effective year-round for various predatory species, including larger trout.

    dry80%

    Yellow Sally

    #14#16#18

    Abundant along freestone streams in summer, drawing aggressive strikes.

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    streamer80%

    Clouser Minnow (Chartreuse/White)

    #4#6#8

    Effectively imitates baitfish, a primary food source for predatory species in warmer summer water.

    terrestrial80%

    Beetle

    #14#16

    Terrestrial beetles are often dislodged from streamside vegetation during summer, effective for surface feeders.

    nymph80%

    Hellgrammite Fly

    #4#6#8

    Year-round on rocky smallmouth rivers, a substantial food source for predatory fish.

    dry80%

    Elk Hair Caddis

    #14#16#18

    Caddis activity is consistent from late spring through fall, a staple for trout and active around summer evenings.

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    Wisconsin season by season

    What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.

    Mar – MaySpringRead the guideJun – AugSummerRead the guideSep – NovFallRead the guideDec – FebWinterRead the guide

    Fly shops nearby

    Local flies, current advice and guided trips.

    All fly shops
    11MIHayward Fly Fishing CompanyHayward