A portion of the St. Croix River forms part of the state boundary between Minnesota and Wisconsin. The remainder of the St. Croix River and the entire Namekagon River are in Wisconsin. Regulations vary depending on where you fish and what state your fishing license is issued from. It is important to study a map of the area and to know which regulations apply to the area you are fishing. The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the St Croix River and a major tributary, the Namekagon. Within the St. Croix watershed are numerous lakes, rivers and streams, most of which include fine fishing.
Generally, fish are divided into two categories, warm water and cold water species. Cold water habitat is critical for the support of trout. Warmer water will support those species that cannot thrive in colder water.
The Namekagon River upstream from Hayward is a cold water habitat and has received national recognition for it’s quality fishing. Naturally reproducing brown and brook trout are plentiful. The section from Hayward down river to its confluence with the St Croix is a transition zone. Here trout become fewer and smallmouth bass begin to dominate, while walleyes and northern pike begin to increase in numbers.