Walk and wade — this is not fishing from a boat. You can expect to fish from both the bank and in the stream. Wading is relatively easy in the Driftless, with no slippery round rocks to navigate. The water is often waist deep or less, making it accessible for anglers of all experience levels.

Yes — and honestly, this is one of the best trips you can take as a first-timer. Driftless spring creeks are intimate, visual, and forgiving enough to learn on. We'll work with you on the basics from the first cast and make sure you leave with skills you can actually use on your own. A lot of our most loyal repeat clients started out not knowing which end of the rod to hold.

We include use of our equipment on every trip, but we do not provide waders or boots. That said, waders aren't always necessary. If the weather is mild, we recommend wet wading in synthetic pants (no cotton or denim) and close-toed shoes you don't mind getting wet — an old pair of hiking boots works great. Most of our fishing can also be done from the bank, and knee-high rubber boots are a perfectly good option. If you're unsure what to bring, check out our packing list or just get in touch and we'll sort it out.

Please let us know when you reach out. Trout fishing in the Driftless does require walking roughly a half mile on uneven terrain, but some streams are more accessible than others. With enough notice, we can usually find a spot that works. If wading isn't an option at all, our Wisconsin River bass trips are a great alternative — it's a full day on the water from a comfortable jet boat.

The best way to picture a Driftless spring creek is somewhere between a sidewalk and a two-lane road in width. They're all very wadable, but few are large enough to float a boat. What they lack in size they more than make up for in character — and fish.

If you don't mind layering up, absolutely. Driftless spring creeks never freeze which means the trout don't stop eating and neither do we. Winter fishing means no crowds, crystal-clear water, and fish that haven't seen a fly in weeks. It's one of the most unique experiences in Midwest fly fishing. Get in touch and we'll help you figure out if it's the right fit.

As early as you can. Spring dates — especially April and May — fill up fast, often before the season even starts. If you have a specific date or window in mind, don't wait. We'd rather help you plan early than tell you we're full.