Wisconsin Fall Muskie & Pike: Half Day Float Trip
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fourhour float targeting trophy muskie and northern pikeOctoberNovember trips on St. Croix, Chippewa, Flambeau riversFly fishing focus with conventional tackle backup available
Nick's got you covered for some of Wisconsin's finest fall fishing action. This four-hour float trip runs exclusively during October and November when the water temperatures drop and the big predators get serious about feeding. You'll drift through some of the state's most productive muskie and pike water on the St. Croix, Chippewa, and Flambeau River systems. With just two spots available per trip, you're looking at quality time on the water without the crowds that plague the popular lakes during peak season.
This is seasonal fishing at its finest, and there's a reason Nick only runs these trips during the fall cooling period. October and November bring out the best in Wisconsin's trophy muskie and northern pike populations as they prepare for winter. You've got your choice of morning starts at 8 a.m. or afternoon sessions beginning at 1 p.m., giving you flexibility to work around your schedule or preferred fishing times. The intimate two-angler setup means you're not fighting for casting room or guide attention. Nick knows these river systems like the back of his hand, and he'll position you over the structure and current breaks where these apex predators like to ambush baitfish. The float format lets you cover serious water while staying comfortable, and you'll hit spots that bank anglers never see.
Nick's approach centers around fly fishing techniques, which might surprise some folks expecting heavy conventional gear for muskie fishing. The reality is that during the fall months, these fish are extremely active and will absolutely crush a well-presented streamer. All fly rods, reels, and specialized terminal tackle come with the trip, so you don't need to worry about hauling your gear or wondering if you've got the right setup. If fly fishing isn't your thing or you want to switch it up during the day, Nick carries light conventional tackle as backup options. The key here is presentation over power – these river fish see a lot less pressure than their lake counterparts, and they'll respond to finesse approaches that would get laughed at on the famous muskie factories up north. You'll want to show up with a valid Wisconsin fishing license, quality polarized sunglasses for spotting fish and structure, and layers for changing weather conditions.
The muskellunge fishing on these river systems has been absolutely on fire during recent fall runs. These aren't the smaller river strain fish you might expect – we're talking legitimate trophy potential with fish regularly pushing the 40-inch mark and beyond. The St. Croix has been producing some absolute tanks, especially in the deeper pools where the current slows and creates perfect ambush points. Northern pike have been equally cooperative, with the Chippewa system yielding some serious toothy critters that'll test your drag and your nerves. What really sets these trips apart is the variety – you might hook into a smallmouth bass that fights like it's twice its size, or surprise yourself with a chunky largemouth that wandered up from the slower sections. The fall bite timing is critical, and Nick's got it dialed in perfectly.
Muskellunge represent the crown jewel of Wisconsin freshwater fishing, and these river fish have a different attitude than their lake cousins. Fall muskies are in serious feeding mode, bulking up for winter, and they'll absolutely demolish a properly presented fly or lure. These apex predators can stretch well over 40 inches and provide heart-stopping strikes followed by aerial displays that'll leave you shaking. The best part about river muskies is their willingness to eat – they don't have the finicky reputation of heavily pressured lake fish. Northern pike in these systems are equally impressive, often running thick and heavy from a summer of gorging on abundant baitfish. They're aggressive, acrobatic, and absolutely gorgeous with their olive and gold coloration against the fall backdrop. Pike in the 30-inch range are common, with bigger fish always a possibility. Smallmouth bass might seem like an afterthought, but these river bronzebacks are some of the scrappiest fighters you'll encounter anywhere. They're still active during the fall months and will absolutely bend your rod with their bulldogging runs and jumping ability. Largemouth bass round out the mixed bag, and while they're less common in these flowing systems, the ones that call these rivers home tend to be chunky and surprisingly strong fighters.
This seasonal window doesn't last long, and Nick's calendar fills up fast once word gets out about how good the fishing has been. With only two spots per trip and a limited season running just October and November, you're looking at some of Wisconsin's most exclusive guided fishing opportunities. The combination of trophy potential, scenic river floating, and expert guidance makes this a top-rated experience for serious anglers. Whether you're a fly fishing enthusiast looking to tackle something bigger than trout, or a conventional angler wanting to experience these world-class river systems with light tackle, this trip delivers. Contact Nick directly for meeting logistics and specific launch points – he'll coordinate everything based on current conditions and which system is fishing best during your preferred dates.
You'll be floating Wisconsin's prime muskie waters aboard our trusty 14-foot Down River Equipment raft. This nimble drift boat cuts silently through the current, letting you sneak up on those toothy predators lurking in deeper pools and undercut banks. Built tough for river runs, she handles like a dream whether we're working tight eddies or drifting the main channel. At 2 guests plus your guide, there's plenty of casting room without bumping elbows. The low profile keeps you close to the action while the stable platform gives you solid footing when that 40-inch muskie decides to go airborne. Perfect for both fly fishing presentations and light tackle work, this raft gets you into those fishy spots the big boats can't reach. She's seen plenty of Wisconsin seasons and knows where the big pike like to hang out.
Micropterus SalmoidesLargemouth bass are classic Wisconsin gamefish, averaging 12-16 inches with some real giants pushing 5+ pounds in our backwaters. They love shallow, weedy areas and warm water pockets where they can ambush prey from cover. Spring through fall are productive, but early morning and evening are prime times. These fish are popular because they're aggressive, acrobatic fighters that'll jump and shake to throw your hook. They also make good eating from clean water. Look for them around fallen trees, weed lines, and quiet backwaters off the main current. They're not typically our main target on these October-November pike trips, but we'll find them in the slower sections. Pro tip: if you see one follow your lure, switch to something smaller and slower - they often need a second look to commit.
Esox MasquinongyMuskellunge are the fish of a thousand casts - Wisconsin's state fish and the ultimate freshwater trophy. These apex predators can reach 50+ inches and 30+ pounds in our river systems. They patrol weed edges, rocky points, and deep pools, often following baits without committing. Fall is prime muskie time when water temps drop and they feed aggressively before winter. What makes muskie fishing addictive is the challenge and the reward - landing one is a genuine accomplishment. They're pure muscle with an attitude to match. These fish have incredible stamina and will test every knot on your rig. Here's what I've learned: use barbless hooks for easier releases, and always do a figure-8 at boat side - half my muskie come on the follow. Patience is everything with these fish.
Esox LuciusNorthern pike are the river wolves - aggressive predators that'll eat almost anything swimming. These toothy critters average 24-30 inches but trophy fish can hit 40+ inches in our systems. They lurk in weedy bays, backwaters, and along structure where they can ambush prey. October and November are perfect for targeting big pike as they feed heavily before winter. What draws anglers is their explosive strikes and bulldogging fights. Plus, smaller pike make decent table fare when prepared right. They're ambush hunters, so work your lures slow and steady near cover. My go-to tip: always use a steel leader - their razor teeth will slice through mono or braid like butter. When you hook one, expect a few crazy runs and maybe a tail walk or two.
Micropterus DolomieuSmallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that'll test your skills on light tackle. These bronze-backed beauties average 12-16 inches but can push 20+ in our Wisconsin waters. They love rocky areas, drop-offs, and current breaks in clear water. Spring and fall are prime times when they're active in shallows, but summer finds them deeper in cooler water. What makes smallmouth special is their attitude - pound for pound, they fight harder than most fish twice their size. They're also excellent eating with firm, white meat. On these rivers, focus your casts around boulder fields and fallen timber. Here's a local trick: when you feel that first head shake, keep steady pressure but don't horse them - they'll jump and throw the hook if you get too aggressive with your drag.
St. Croix River