The Saint Croix River flows along a large part of the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin. While some portions of the river---including its main tributary, the Namekagon River---are only in Wisconsin, a major part of the river is accessible from Minnesota land. The Saint Croix River is designated as a National Scenic Riverway by the National Parks Service. Popular among anglers for its smallmouth bass fishing, the river is also home to many additional species of fish.
Fish
The Saint Croix River is a warm-water habitat that supports a wide variety of fish. Many anglers fish for smallmouth bass in the portion of the river that flows between Danbury and Saint Croix Falls. Other popular fish in the river include walleye, catfish, northern pike, sturgeon, panfish, muskellunge, sucker and carp.
State Parks
Several thousand acres of state parks are located along the Saint Croix riverway. From the 34,000-acre Saint Croix State Park with 127 miles of hiking trails to the numerous campsites---including six cabins---at the Wild River State Park, there are many places to stop and relax on a trip down the river.
Types of Fishing
You can fish the Saint Croix River from either a boat or from shore. If you boat, be aware of various size and no-wake regulations along different areas of the river. As a rule, you must maintain a no-wake speed within 100 feet of all shores on the river. The Department of Natural Resources has published a guide to specific rules on the riverway. Some areas of the Saint Croix River freeze during the winter, making those areas popular for ice fishing.
Camping
Anglers can take advantage of the many campsites along the riverway. Most campsites are reachable only by boat and are convenient overnight spots if you're spending several days fishing on the river. Many campsites are free and most are open year-round. If you camp along the river between Saint Croix Falls and Stillwater, you need to register for a lower river camping permit online from the National Park Service or at the Saint Croix River Visitor Center in Saint Croix Falls.
Regulations
If you fish the areas of the river that border Minnesota and Wisconsin, you can use a Wisconsin or Minnesota fishing license to fish on the river or either shore. You must follow the regulations and limits of the state in which your license is valid. Minnesota fishing licenses, which are available for one day, one year or a lifetime, are available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and at bait shops near the Saint Croix River. In addition, if you plan to fish for walleye or sturgeon, you must purchase a corresponding stamp for your license.
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