Steelhead

Steelhead fishing near Bay City, Wisconsin, offers a taste of the Great Lakes steelhead experience within a unique riverine setting. While not directly on Lake Superior, Bay City's proximity to tributaries that feed into the lake means steelhead can be encountered, particularly during their spawning runs. The peak season is typically in the spring and fall when these fish migrate upstream. Focus your efforts on the mouths of these tributaries where they enter Lake Pepin or the Mississippi River. Drifting egg patterns or nymphs under a float is a popular and effective method. A crucial local tip is to pay attention to water clarity. Steelhead are notoriously skittish in clear water, so periods of slightly stained water after a rainfall can improve your chances. Public access to the river is available at several points along County Road A. Keep in mind that steelhead fishing can be challenging, requiring patience and the ability to adapt your techniques to changing conditions.