I was wondering if anyone has advice about which part of the Root holds the best chances of catching smallies. I understand part of it is designated trout waters but not all of it. Any opinions of where to fish for smallies are welcome.
It’s been many, years since I have fished or floated portions of this river. With recent rains, water levels should be better, but I’d bet there were quite low a few weeks back.
Area’s of the north branch around Stewartville hold good numbers and good sized fish. Again, this was year ago, but still the fish could be caught from shore in many locations.
I have also fished closer to Chatfield from cty 7 briges / access down river to the Hwy 52 and as far as the Moen Bridge. I think the entire area is quite good, but perhaps someone else has fished more recently. Good Luck.
The North and Main Branches of the Root River are the best for smallmouth bass. The South Branch holds some, but a lot of the South Branch is managed for trout including the tributaries. The area around Stewartville is still good. Not the section that runs through town, as it is too polluted and silted in, but the stretches on either side of town are still good.
I have floated from the put in at Hwy 52 just before Fountain down to Lanesboro and had good luck. There is a good mix of trout, smallmouth, sauger, walleye, some cats, all kinds of redhorse and suckers in this stretch.
If you need a campground Eagle Bluff Campground outside of Lanesboro is a nice area to try too. Lots of smallies, and just about everything else too.
Basically sticking with the North and Main Branches as well as anything labeled “marginal” or less trout water will be your best for smallies.
Good luck, hope this helps.
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