Free Resource · Updated 2026
The Namekagon River in northwestern Wisconsin is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The upper sections hold wild trout in cold spring-fed water, and the hatch calendar provides good dry fly fishing from spring through fall.
Namekagon River Hatch Calendar — Quick Reference
The Namekagon headwaters flow cold and clear out of Namekagon Lake in Sawyer County. Wild brook trout are found in the upper reaches and browns dominate below. The river is protected as part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, limiting development along its banks.
The Hex hatch in late June and early July draws trout anglers from across the region. The Namekagon has good populations of Hexagenia in its slower pools and weedy sections. Hopper fishing in August is productive along the grassy banks of wider sections.
The Namekagon is a popular canoe river in summer, so early mornings before canoe traffic begins are often the best times to fish. The upper sections above Cable are the coldest and hold the most brook trout.
See the full Wisconsin Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of Wisconsin's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near Namekagon RiverWhat to Fish
Hexagenia limbata
The Namekagon has a solid Hex hatch that peaks in early July. Fish the slower pools and weedy backwaters after dark for the best action on large dry flies.
Recommended: Hex Parachute #6-8
Trichoptera
Caddis are the most dependable hatch on the Namekagon through summer. Evening hatches produce steady rises and a size 14 Elk Hair covers most situations.
Recommended: Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Ephemerella subvaria
Hendricksons emerge in May and trigger the first consistent dry fly feeding of the season. Afternoon hatches on cool overcast days are the most productive.
Recommended: Hendrickson Dry #14
Neophylax spp.
Autumn caddis hatches in October are a highlight on the Namekagon. The larger orange-bodied adults draw surface feeding when afternoon temperatures are mild.
Recommended: Orange Sedge #14
Common Questions
The Namekagon flows through Bayfield and Sawyer counties in northwestern Wisconsin. It forms the northern portion of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Yes. The upper Namekagon has cold spring water, good hatches, and wild trout. Canoe traffic is heavy in summer, so early morning fishing is recommended.
Wild brook trout are found in the upper headwaters near Namekagon Lake. Brown trout dominate the middle and lower sections.
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