Free Resource · Updated 2026
The Kinnickinnic River winds through St. Croix County near River Falls in the western Driftless. Cold spring water keeps temperatures stable year-round and the river holds wild brown and brook trout in excellent condition.
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Kinnickinnic River Hatch Calendar at a Glance
The Kinnickinnic is one of the most productive spring creeks in the Wisconsin Driftless. Stable flows and cold water allow trout to feed throughout the year. Midges are reliable on winter days when little else is hatching.
Spring brings Hendricksons and the first caddis. Sulphurs kick in through June and trico hatches run through summer into early fall. The variety of hatches makes this a great dry fly river almost any month.
Catch-and-release regulations cover much of the river and protect the wild fish population. A light rod and careful approach are needed on this clear spring-fed water.
See the full Wisconsin Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of Wisconsin's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near Kinnickinnic RiverWhat to Fish
Ephemerella dorothea
Sulphurs are the signature summer hatch on the Kinnickinnic. Evening hatches in June bring steady rises from selective spring-creek browns. Match the size carefully and use a fine tippet.
Recommended: Sulphur Parachute #16-18
Tricorythodes spp.
Morning spinner falls in summer draw fish to the surface in slow pools. This is technical fishing with tiny flies and long fine leaders.
Recommended: Trico Spinner #20-22
Ephemerella subvaria
The Hendrickson hatch in late April is the first real surface action of the season. Look for afternoon risers in the runs and pools on overcast days.
Recommended: Hendrickson Dry #14
Baetis spp.
BWOs come off reliably in spring and fall. The stable flows of the Kinnickinnic make it productive even when nearby streams are running high.
Recommended: BWO Parachute #18-22
Common Questions
The Kinnickinnic flows through St. Croix County in western Wisconsin near River Falls, draining into the St. Croix River.
Much of the river has special regulations including catch-and-release sections. Check current Wisconsin DNR regulations before fishing.
The river is fed largely by groundwater springs, which keeps water temperatures cold and stable year-round. This is what allows trout to survive warm Wisconsin summers.
Live readings from USGS gages on the river.
FlyFishFinder combines hatch knowledge with live gauge alerts, Prime condition indicators, and real angler intel so you show up on the right day, not the wrong one.
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