Fishing Season: C& R until10/15/26

South Branch Root River - MN

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

50

Driftless Flyfishing Co.'s Tip of the Week

Go deep in the big holes and woodpiles. Streamers and nymphs. Entire length open for catch and release fishing. Caddis and some hoppers and beetles

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 10/7/26

.Looking good, Closed 10/15/26bexcept in city limits of Preston, Lanesboro and Forestville State Park.

Techniques & Tips as of 10/7/26

Caddis and some hoppers showing up Tungsten bead head and streamers deep in pools

Local Species Available C& R until10/15/26

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    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):
Elk Wing Caddis Classic 18-14
Letort Hopper grey 16-14
English Pheasant Tail black 20-22
Woolly Bugger tan 10-12
Baby Brown trout classic 12-14
Cone/bead head wooly bugger black/grey 12-14

Elk Wing Caddis

The must-have Elk Wing Caddis dry fly offers the realistic presentation of an insect irresistible to trout.

2.49

Item #0378

Buy Now

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 In Forestville State Park and City of Preston and Lanesboro.

Nearest Airport:

Rochester, Mn

Hatches:

Caddis and terrestrials. Be prepared with small nymphs and Emergers

Best Time to Fish:

anytime

Best Stretch:

Forestville State Park to Old Barn resort

Best Access:

Preston, Mn.