Red Cedar River

Boat Ramps: 23
Access Points: 30
Species: 20

The Red Cedar River is a picturesque 85-mile medium-sized warmwater river flowing through western Wisconsin. Part of the Mississippi River drainage basin, it begins in northwestern Wisconsin's Chetek chain of lakes and winds through forested landscapes, rolling farmlands, and quaint towns before emptying into the larger Chippewa River near Dunnville. The river offers diverse fishing environments from calm pools to rushing rapids, making it ideal for various fishing techniques. Known for its exceptional biodiversity and scenic beauty, the Red Cedar provides anglers with opportunities to catch numerous species in settings ranging from serene backwaters to challenging fast water. Wildlife sightings, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles, enhance the outdoor experience, creating a true angler's paradise in the heart of the Midwest.

Wisconsin licenses and regulations4 to check before you go

Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Red Cedar River and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Red Cedar 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 Red Cedar 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 Red Cedar 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 Red Cedar River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Red Cedar River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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