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A SEASON ON FLY IN THE NORTHWOODS

Join G. Loomis Pro-Staff member and expert multi-species guide, Chris Willen for a look at the diversity of amazing fly focused angling opportunities that can be found in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, however similar seasonal patterns exist all across the Northern tier and Great Lakes region of the country 

 

Trout: 

Early-season catch-and-release trout fishing in the Northwoods kicks off in early May. With plenty of water early on, streamers are the key. A 5wt-6wt rod works well for most streamer sizes but going big with a 7wt-8wt and larger streamers can target trophy browns—though it means fewer bites. 

This season, the IMX-Pro V2 6wt stood out, offering a full wells grip and fighting butt, perfect for streamer fishing. It has the backbone needed for big trout, with brook trout and browns as the primary targets in my neck of the woods 

 For wade anglers, floating lines are best, but if the water volume is high, a sink tip can help. Remember, the water is cold—slow and steady retrieves can make all the difference.

   

Smallmouth Bass:  

Smallmouth bass are open for catch and release year-round in most areas, but river based anglers must wait for their spring migration from lakes and reservoirs. 7wt-8wt rods are ideal for pre-spawn smallies, which are full of fight and egg weight. 

Early in the season, sinking lines and lead-eye flies like Circus Peanuts, leeches, and weighted buggers work best—slow presentations are key. As the water warms, minnows become their focus, making full intermediate and type 2-3 sink lines effective. Minnow patterns like Leggy Boi, Swinging D, Feather Changers, Murdich Minnows, Deceivers, and more will get results. A rod that is designed for punching flies into tight windows such as the NRX + Swim Fly, has the perfect amount of power, paired with finesse for precise presentations.  

The bite stays strong until they bed up, then it’s a waiting game. Post-spawn action brings topwater opportunities—Poppers, Dahlberg Divers, Crease Flies, Wiggle Minnows, and even mouse patterns can shine. Honorable mention to the Fleain Cray, a killer choice in crayfish-rich rivers. 

 

 

Northern Pike:  

 Pike season kicks off with the general opener, and these fish are ready to eat. For handling big flies and tough critters, 8-10wt rods—like those in the IMX-PRO V2S series—are a top choice, originally crafted to meet the demands of saltwater anglers. 

 A wire bite guard is essential—25-40 lb, 7x7 nylon-coated tie-able wire works great since these fish aren’t leader shy. A short 6' leader is plenty, with a Uni-to-Uni or Albright knot connecting to your wire, then a perfection loop or three-turn nail knot to the fly. If you prefer quick fly changes, a snap is an option. 

Start in the fastest warming waters, near spawning sloughs, shallow flats, or emerging vegetation. For flies, go flashy—Mega Murdich Minnows, Deceivers, Large Dahlberg Divers, weighted long leeches, and nearly anything with flash can get their attention. 

 

 

Muskie:  

Wisconsin has two musky zones. The northern zone, where I fish, opens at midnight on Memorial Day weekend. The IMX-Pro Muskie 11wt is my go-to for most flies—it’s the all-season muskie workhorse. I don’t break out the 12wt until late season for giant flies or when targeting an especially big class of fish with hefty offerings.  

 Early on, fish will be shallow, so full intermediate lines and single-hook or smaller double-hook flies are my staples. Prime spots include warming shallows, areas near spawning grounds, and emerging weeds—great for action. As spring progresses, fish disperse throughout rivers and lakes, hugging cover, gathering near rapids or sucker schools. In lakes, they shift to weed edges and other structure.  

A wire leader is non-negotiable. I run a 40/40 setup: 40lb fluorocarbon to 40lb 7x7 nylon-coated tie-able wire. And always, strip set—there’s no alternative 

 

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