Rainbow Trout

Chasing rainbow trout near Cedarburg, Wisconsin, will lead you to the Milwaukee River and its tributaries. While not a classic trout stream, the river does receive stocking of rainbows, providing some unique fishing opportunities. Spring and fall are the best times, coinciding with stocking schedules and cooler water temperatures. These fish are often concentrated in specific areas after stocking, so it pays to do some research. Focus your efforts on areas with deeper pools, riffles, and overhanging vegetation. The stretch of the Milwaukee River near Grafton can be productive, and there are several access points along the river. Local tip: Check the Wisconsin DNR stocking reports to see when and where the most recent stockings have occurred. Small spinners, worms, and trout magnets are effective baits. The rainbows here typically aren't huge, but they fight hard, and landing one in the Milwaukee River offers a unique angling experience.