Fishing Season: Entire length open season

South Branch Root River - MN

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

58

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Tip of the Week

Go deep in the big holes and woodpiles. Streamers and nymphs midday and some Caddis, Mayflies and terrestrials morning and evening Please release all fish for the future of the fishery.

Directions open in app

Map of South Branch Root River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Driftless Fly Shop

5-Day Outlook as of 8/6/25

Looking good but hot.

Techniques & Tips as of 8/6/25

various midges, mayflies and caddis hatching on warmer days. Look for beetles and hoppers especially on windy days and near overhanging trees and grass. Tungsten bead head and streamers deep in pools Go early, take a siesta, stay late

Local Species Available Entire length open season

  • Fish Icon

    Rainbow

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    Brown Trout

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    brook trout

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Recommended Fly Patterns

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

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Adams Classic 16-20
Bead Head American Pheasant Tail Classic 12-18
Dave's Cricket grey 16-14
Tunghead Marabou Muddler all 14-10
Baby Brown trout classic 12-14
Cone/bead head wooly bugger black/grey 12-14
Elk Wing Caddis black 20-22
Woolly Bugger tan 10-12

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 year round In Forestville State Park and City of Preston.

Nearest Airport:

Rochester, Mn

Hatches:

Some mayflies and other midges hatching-Be prepared with small nymphs Terrestrials are showing up. Tricos reported

Best Time to Fish:

any time

Best Stretch:

Forestville State Park to Old Barn resort

Best Access:

Preston, Mn.