Damn Good Milwaukee River Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In The Milwaukee River

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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Glendale

Milwaukee Salmon And Trout

100% (1)
14 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Sheboygan Falls

Smallmouth Bass, Pike, & Musky

100% (1)
14 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Sportfish Trip

NEW
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $650

Top Species for Fishing in the Milwaukee River

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in the Milwaukee River

What are the best fishing trips in the Milwaukee River?

The best fishing trips in the Milwaukee River are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in the Milwaukee River with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 3 trips in the Milwaukee River, and the most popular trips in the area are Milwaukee Salmon and Trout guided by Bailey, Smallmouth Bass, Pike, & Musky guided by Bailey, and Milwaukee Sportfish Trip guided by Robert.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in the Milwaukee River? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in the Milwaukee River.

What types of fishing trips are common in the Milwaukee River?

River fishing is the most popular type of fishing in the Milwaukee River as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in the Milwaukee River are: 1. chinook salmon, 2. coho salmon, 3. steelhead, 4. smallmouth bass, and 5. northern pike.

The most common fishing techniques in the Milwaukee River are artificial lure fishing, fly fishing, and light tackle fishing but sight casting and wading are popular as well.

How much does a the Milwaukee River fishing trip cost?

Prices in the Milwaukee River can range anywhere from about $450 to $915, but the average price for a half day trip in the Milwaukee River is $650. The average price for a full day trip in the Milwaukee River is $750.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in the Milwaukee River?

The most popular season for fishing in the Milwaukee River is spring, and most anglers book their trips 26 days in advance.

Do I need a the Milwaukee River fishing license and what are the bag limits in the Milwaukee River?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in the Milwaukee River, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in the Milwaukee River. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in the Milwaukee River.

What is fishing in Milwaukee River about?

Fishing in the Milwaukee River provides anglers with a diverse and rewarding experience in the heart of Wisconsin's urban landscape. Flowing through the city of Milwaukee and into Lake Michigan, this river offers opportunities to target a variety of species throughout the year. One of the highlights of fishing in the Milwaukee River is the chance to catch migratory salmon and trout, including Chinook, Coho, and steelhead. These prized game fish enter the river from Lake Michigan during their spawning runs, providing anglers with thrilling opportunities to hook into trophy-sized specimens against the backdrop of the city skyline.

In addition to salmon and trout, the Milwaukee River supports healthy populations of resident species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Smallmouth bass are particularly abundant in the river's rocky stretches and deeper pools, offering anglers exciting opportunities for lure casting and spin fishing. Northern pike and walleye can also be found in the Milwaukee River, providing anglers with additional challenges and rewards as they navigate the river's currents and structure in search of these prized game fish.

Whether you're casting for salmon and trout, targeting smallmouth bass, or seeking out northern pike and walleye, the Milwaukee River offers something for every angler to enjoy amidst the urban bustle of Milwaukee. With its diverse fishery and convenient access points, the Milwaukee River provides anglers with a unique fishing experience that combines the thrill of catching trophy-sized fish with the excitement of exploring a vibrant urban environment.

What are the most popular months to fish in Milwaukee River?

Fishing in the Milwaukee River follows distinct seasonal patterns, each offering its own set of opportunities for anglers to target different species. During the spring months, as temperatures begin to warm and the ice melts, the Milwaukee River comes alive with increased fish activity. This is prime time for targeting migratory species like salmon and trout as they make their way upstream from Lake Michigan to spawn. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of hooking into these prized game fish amidst the bustling urban landscape of Milwaukee.

As summer arrives and temperatures rise, fishing in the Milwaukee River shifts focus to warm-water species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Summer is a great time for anglers to explore the river's rocky stretches and deeper pools in search of these prized game fish. Lure casting and spin fishing are popular techniques during this time of year, offering anglers exciting opportunities to catch trophy-sized bass, pike, and walleye against the backdrop of the city skyline.

In the fall, as temperatures begin to cool and the leaves change colors, the Milwaukee River experiences a resurgence of fishing activity. This time of year marks the beginning of the salmon and trout spawning runs, with thousands of fish making their way upstream to spawn. Fall is prime time for anglers to target these migratory species, providing thrilling opportunities to hook into trophy-sized fish amidst the vibrant colors of autumn in Milwaukee. Whether you're casting for salmon and trout in the spring, targeting bass and pike in the summer, or enjoying the fall salmon run, the Milwaukee River offers an unforgettable fishing experience throughout the seasons.

What types of fishing are popular in Milwaukee River?

Fishing in the Milwaukee River offers anglers a variety of techniques to explore, each tailored to the diverse fish species inhabiting its waters. One popular method among anglers is fly fishing, particularly favored for targeting trout and salmon. Fly fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the challenge of casting lightweight flies to rising fish in the river's riffles and pools. The Milwaukee River's clear waters and scenic surroundings provide an ideal setting for fly anglers seeking a tranquil and immersive fishing experience amidst the urban landscape.

Spin fishing is another common technique employed by anglers in the Milwaukee River, particularly for targeting warm-water species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Anglers can enjoy casting a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinners, and jigs, to entice strikes from these prized game fish. Spin fishing offers a dynamic and exciting way to explore the river's rocky stretches and deeper pools, with the chance to reel in trophy-sized bass and pike keeping anglers coming back for more.

For those seeking a more relaxed and traditional approach to fishing, bait fishing is a popular option in the Milwaukee River. Anglers can use a variety of baits, including live bait such as minnows and worms, as well as artificial baits like soft plastics and spawn sacs. Bait fishing allows anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the serenity of the river while waiting for bites from trout, bass, and other species. Whether you're fly fishing for trout, spin fishing for bass, or bait fishing for walleye, the Milwaukee River offers something for every angler to enjoy amidst the vibrant urban landscape of Milwaukee.

What species are popular in Milwaukee River?

The Milwaukee River, flowing through the heart of Wisconsin's urban landscape, offers anglers a diverse array of fish species to target throughout the year. One of the most prized catches in the river is the migratory salmon and trout, including Chinook, Coho, and steelhead. These fish enter the river from Lake Michigan during their spawning runs, providing anglers with thrilling opportunities to hook into trophy-sized specimens against the backdrop of the city skyline. Spring and fall are prime times for targeting salmon and trout in the Milwaukee River, with anglers using various techniques such as fly fishing, lure casting, and drift fishing to pursue these prized game fish.

In addition to salmon and trout, the Milwaukee River supports healthy populations of resident species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Smallmouth bass, in particular, are abundant in the river's rocky stretches and deeper pools, offering anglers exciting opportunities for lure casting and spin fishing. Northern pike and walleye can also be found in the Milwaukee River, providing anglers with additional challenges and rewards as they navigate the river's currents and structure in search of these prized game fish.

Throughout the seasons, the Milwaukee River also provides anglers with the chance to catch other warm-water species such as panfish and catfish. These fish offer fun and accessible fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels, making the Milwaukee River an ideal destination for family fishing outings. Whether you're targeting migratory salmon and trout, resident bass and pike, or panfish and catfish, the Milwaukee River offers a memorable fishing experience amidst the urban bustle of Milwaukee.

Does Milwaukee River have good fishing?

The Milwaukee River, winding through Wisconsin's largest city, offers a surprising oasis for fishing enthusiasts amidst an urban setting. This river is celebrated for its diverse fish populations and accessibility, making it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. Throughout the year, anglers can target a variety of species including smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, brown trout, and freshwater drum. These fish thrive in the river's waters, providing ample opportunities for both shore and boat anglers to enjoy a day on the water.

Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons on the Milwaukee River, with trout and salmon runs attracting anglers looking to hook into trophy-sized catches. The river's proximity to Lake Michigan adds to its appeal, allowing anglers to explore both freshwater river fishing and nearby lake opportunities for species like steelhead and coho salmon during their migratory periods. Numerous public access points, parks, and fishing piers along the river make it easy for anglers to find their ideal fishing spot and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Conservation efforts are in place to protect and enhance the Milwaukee River's fishery, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and preserving the river's natural habitat. Anglers are encouraged to practice catch-and-release techniques, follow local fishing regulations, and participate in community conservation initiatives to support the health of the river's fish populations. Whether casting a line for relaxation or competitive sport, the Milwaukee River offers a rewarding fishing experience in a unique urban setting with opportunities to reel in some impressive catches amidst Wisconsin's vibrant river landscape.

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