It’s a well-known fact that the northern reaches of the famed Mississippi River are an angler’s paradise. From hard-fighting catfish to healthy bass, trophy walleye, and delicious panfish, this part of the Big Muddy has something for just about everyone.

However, with hundreds of miles of river and countless acres of backwaters, it can be a daunting task to figure out where to start. Here, we’ll go over five of the top destinations to check out for your fishing trip on the Mississippi River!

1. La Crosse, Wisconsin

Settled on the banks of Pool 8 of the Mississippi River, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better location to start your fishing adventure than La Crosse, Wisconsin. This mid-sized city has many of the amenities of the big city without the hassle and the feel of a small town. Within easy driving distance of Pools 7, 8, and 9, pretty much every fish you’d want to target can be found within 15 minutes of downtown La Crosse. 

The Stoddard and Goose Island area south of town is renowned for its great bass, pike, and panfish populations and is a prominent hotspot in both the warm-weather months and during the ice season. The same can be said for its northern counterpart in Lake Onalaska, a large backwater system, on Pool 7.

If walleye and catfish are your prey, miles of main channel river, access to Lock and Dam’s No. 7 and 8 (hot spots for walleyes and saugers), wing dams, rip rap, and snags can be found up and down the river on all three of these pools.

Perhaps the most convenient factor of staying in La Crosse is the many campgrounds, cottages, and hotels with easy access to many popular food destinations. This makes your trip to the river both relaxing, easy, and productive for fishing! 

For those looking for expert guidance, local fishing guides offer valuable knowledge of the best spots and current fishing conditions, ensuring a fruitful outing.

2. Wabasha, Minnesota

Fishing in Wabasha, MN, offers a diverse and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Nestled along Pool 4 of the Mississippi River, this charming town provides access to a variety of fishing spots, each with its own unique appeal. The river itself is teeming with species such as walleye, northern pike, bass, catfish, and panfish, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.

One of the key attractions in Wabasha is the abundance of backwaters, sloughs, and lakes connected to the Mississippi River, providing a rich habitat for fish and a peaceful setting for anglers. The ever-changing river conditions also present a fun challenge, requiring fishermen to adapt their techniques and bait selections.

The nearby Lake Pepin, one of the largest naturally occurring lakes on the Mississippi, is another hotspot, famous for its trophy-sized walleye and ample opportunities for both shore and boat fishing.

Additionally, Wabasha’s picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife add to the overall experience, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, fishing in Wabasha promises a memorable and satisfying adventure.

3. Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin

Fishing in Prairie du Chien, WI, offers a quintessential Mississippi River angling experience, steeped in natural beauty and abundant aquatic life. Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, this historic town provides a rich variety of fishing opportunities.

The Mississippi River, with its expansive network of backwaters, sloughs, and channels, is a prime fishing destination. Anglers can expect to catch species such as walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, catfish, and panfish. The river’s diverse habitats cater to different fishing techniques, from trolling in open waters to casting in sheltered backwaters.

Prairie du Chien also boasts several access points for both shore and boat fishing, including well-maintained public boat launches and scenic riverside parks. The proximity to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge adds an extra layer of appeal, offering serene surroundings and the chance to observe a variety of wildlife.

Overall, Prairie du Chien combines fishing tradition with scenic beauty and a rich history, making it a must-visit destination for anglers of all levels looking for a memorable fishing adventure.

4. Red Wing, Minnesota

Fishing in Red Wing, MN, offers anglers a unique and fulfilling experience, set against the backdrop of the scenic Mississippi River. This charming river town is renowned for its rich fishing opportunities, attracting both local and visiting fishermen.

The Mississippi River in Red Wing is home to a diverse array of fish species, including walleye, sauger, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and panfish. The river’s varied habitats—from swift currents to calm backwaters—provide ideal conditions for different fishing techniques, whether you prefer trolling, casting, or fly fishing.

Red Wing is particularly famous for its exceptional walleye and sauger fishing, especially near Lock and Dam No. 3, where the fast-moving waters attract these prized species. Winter, spring, and fall are all peak seasons, offering anglers the best chances to land trophy-sized catches.

For convenient access, Red Wing features several public boat launches and fishing piers, as well as beautiful riverside parks perfect for shore fishing. The city’s rich history and picturesque landscapes enhance the fishing experience, making it more than just a sport but a journey into nature and local culture.

Overall, fishing in Red Wing, MN, promises an exciting and memorable adventure amidst stunning natural beauty.

5. Dubuque, Iowa

Fishing in Dubuque, IA offers an exceptional angling experience on the mighty Mississippi River. This vibrant river city is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, boasting diverse aquatic habitats and a variety of fish species.

The Mississippi River around Dubuque is renowned for its abundance of walleye, sauger, northern pike, bass (both largemouth and smallmouth), catfish, and panfish. Anglers can enjoy fishing in different environments, from the main river channels to the tranquil backwaters and sloughs. The presence of Lock and Dam No. 11 creates prime fishing spots, where the water flow attracts fish, making it an ideal location for catching trophy-sized fish.

Dubuque offers excellent facilities for both boat and shore fishing. Several well-maintained public boat launches provide easy access to the river, while numerous parks and riverfront areas, such as A.Y. McDonald Park and Eagle Point Park, offer great shore fishing opportunities. These spots are perfect for families and anglers looking for a scenic and convenient fishing experience.

Overall, fishing in Dubuque, IA, is a rewarding experience that combines the thrill of the catch with the beauty of the Mississippi River, making it a must-visit destination for anglers of all skill levels.

Conclusion

Armed with the knowledge found in the piece above, you should be able to narrow down your next fishing trip to the Mississippi River. You really cannot go wrong with any of the destinations above that you choose, so visit one (or all five) this summer and kick-start your angling adventure on the nation’s most famous river!