Fishing Season: Closed to all fishing after 10/15/25

Root River, South Fork - MN

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

50

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Tip of the Week

Closed to all fishing from October 15 until January 1, 2026 Fish the state parks or in town year round water

Directions open in app

Map of Root River, South Fork

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Driftless Fly Shop

5-Day Outlook as of 10/15/25

Closed until 1/1/26

Techniques & Tips as of 10/15/25

Fish elsewhere Dark Nymphs deep

Local Species Available Closed to all fishing after 10/15/25

  • Fish Icon

    Trout

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Adams Classic 20-14
Birchell's Hatching Midge Classic 14-18
Blue Winged Olive Classic 18-16
Improved Winged K.C.'s Creature Gray 14-18
Green bead scud green 12-18
Prince nymph black 16-22
Bead Head American Pheasant Tail Tan-Black 18-14
Foam Park Hopper all 12-10

Adams

Image Not Found

Item #0330

Buy Now

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Recommended Gear

Description: About Root River, South Fork

This stream has a different character throughout its course. From a small spring creek through woods and pasture it becomes a major stream in this bluff country watershed. One of the top trout streams in the Driftless it harbors wild brook and brown trout.

Nearest Airport:

Rochester, Mn

Hatches:

Olives/midges 20-16 Tan Caddis 18-116 Hippy stompers 12-16 Dave's hoppers 16-14

Best Time to Fish:

Early and late

Best Stretch:

WMA to bridge at Choice

Best Access:

Choice-Million dollar bridge