Rainbow Trout

While Combined Locks isn't typically known for its trout streams, the nearby tributaries of the Fox River offer limited opportunities for Rainbow Trout. These streams are often smaller and can be easily overlooked, but they hold surprisingly good populations of stocked and occasionally wild rainbows. Spring and fall are the best times to target them, with spring offering the chance to intercept trout freshly stocked by the DNR. Fall sees trout becoming more active as water temperatures cool. Access to these streams is often limited to public road crossings and designated fishing easements, so be sure to consult local maps and regulations before heading out. Small spinners, spoons, and live bait like worms or small minnows can be effective. Remember that these are smaller streams, so stealth is key. The rainbows here tend to be on the smaller side, but the challenge of fishing these intimate waters adds to the appeal.