Fishing Season: Open season for 2021

South Branch Root River - MN

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

47

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Tip of the Week

Forestville State park is uncrowded and awesome. Tributaries are clear in the park. Open for catch and release in Forestville State park and City of Preston year round. All open for catch and release Be aware of COVID-19 restrictions. Stay Safe!

Directions open in app

Map of South Branch Root River

Water Flow Data

Tidal Conditions

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Driftless Fly Shop

5-Day Outlook as of 5/11/21

Use some movement with streamers, nymphs etc. to move the fish.

Techniques & Tips as of 5/11/21

Streamers, nymphs deep. Some tiny Mayflies, Caddis flues and BWOs hatching warmer days.

Current Conditions as of 5/11/21

Use some movement with streamers, nymphs etc. to move the fish.

Local Species Available Open season for 2021

  • Fish Icon

    Rainbow

  • Fish Icon

    Brown Trout

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Recommended Fly Patterns

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

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Adams Classic 12-18
Elk Wing Caddis Classic 12-18
Gold Bead Hare's Ear Nymph grey 16-14
Bead Head Emerging Sparkle Caddis Pupa all 14-10
Baby Brown trout classic 12-14
Cone/bead head wooly bugger black/grey 12-14
Midge dark 20-22
I Can See It Midge Fly tan 18-12

Adams

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Item #0330

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Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Recommended Gear

Description: About South Branch Root River

The South Branch of The Root River is listed as one of the 100 top trout streams in the USA. It begins at Mystery Cave/Forestville State Park and winds through beautiful bluffs and agricultural land until it meets the North Branch below Lanesboro to form The Main Branch of The Root River. It is a designated trout stream the entire length with some spring creeks joining along the way. All are designated trout streams have some special regulations including catch and release water. Check the DNR web site or get the reg book for special regulations. The South Branch is open year round for catch and release and year round In Forestville State Park and City of Preston.

Nearest Airport:

Rochester, Mn

Hatches:

South Branch open for the season

Best Time to Fish:

Mid day

Best Stretch:

Forestville State Park to Old Barn resort

Best Access:

Preston, Mn.