Brown Trout

While Milan, Minnesota, isn't renowned for its brown trout fishing, determined anglers can find opportunities in the Chippewa River and its tributaries. The DNR occasionally stocks sections of the river, offering a chance to hook into these prized fish. Spring and fall are the most productive times to fish for browns, as the cooler water temperatures encourage activity. Focus on areas with deeper pools, rocky bottoms, and overhanging vegetation, which provide ideal cover for trout. A local tip: try fishing the sections of the Chippewa River upstream from Milan, focusing on areas where smaller creeks enter the main river. These confluences often hold trout seeking cooler water and abundant food. Remember to check the DNR stocking reports to identify recently stocked areas. The brown trout in this region may not be trophy-sized, but the challenge of finding and catching them in these less-traveled waters makes for a rewarding experience.