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Namekagon River

Boat Ramps
20
Access Points
21
Species
26

The Namekagon River in Wisconsin is a premier fishing destination renowned for its diverse fish populations and beautiful northwoods setting. Flowing approximately 99 miles from Namekagon Lake to its confluence with the St. Croix River, this federally designated Wild and Scenic River offers anglers a variety of fishing experiences. The river transitions from a cold-water trout stream in its headwaters to a warmer smallmouth bass fishery downstream. Characterized by generally shallow, clear waters with rocky and sandy bottoms, the Namekagon meanders through a varied landscape of northern lowland forest, bog-and-fen, and open marshes. Its pristine setting, accessible waters, and abundant fish populations make it an ideal destination for anglers of all skill levels seeking a quality fishing experience in Wisconsin's beautiful northwoods.


Fish stocking schedule

All stockings · 2

  • Lake Sturgeon1,369 fish · 8.5 in2019
  • Lake Sturgeon226 fish · 8.5 in2017

Source

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Sizes are the length the agency reports. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

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Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Namekagon River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Namekagon River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Wisconsin licenses and regulations

Wisconsin Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Wisconsin Fishing License

Wisconsin residents and non-residents 16 years old or older need a fishing license to fish in any waters of the state. Children under 16 years of age do not need a fishing license.

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Wisconsin Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Wisconsin Stream Access Laws

Floatable water is public in Wisconsin, and users are legally allowed access to all lakes and streambeds below the high water mark for recreational purposes. Though riparian owners can own streams, the public has legal access to those streambeds below the high water mark while engaged in water-related recreational activity.

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Take Namekagon River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Namekagon River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Namekagon River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Namekagon River and check the forecast before you go.

NAMEKAGON RIVER AT LEONARDS, WI

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