Northwoods River Update: St. Croix Bass and Pike Action

Hi, I’m Nick, a lifelong outdoorsman who grew up hunting and fishing the beautiful woods and waters of northwest Wisconsin. My journey as a professional fishing guide truly took shape when I moved to Colorado for a few years. During my time out West, I began guiding fly fishing trips in some of the country’s most famous trout waters. While Colorado provided an incredible foundation and a wealth of technical knowledge, my deep-rooted love for the great Wisconsin outdoors eventually brought me back home to the Midwest. Today, I operate Upriver Anglers, specializing in unique river float trips across the most scenic watersheds in the region. Using a specialized 14-foot raft, I provide a peaceful, stealthy alternative to traditional powerboat charters. We navigate the pristine currents of the St. Croix River, Red Cedar River, and Chippewa River, as well as the rugged Flambeau and Sioux Rivers. This low-impact approach allows us to access hidden honey holes and quiet eddies that larger boats simply cannot reach, ensuring an intimate connection with nature. Our trips are tailored to target the most sought-after species in the Northwoods. Whether you are hunting for a trophy Musky (Muskellunge) in the fall, casting for aggressive Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike in the summer, or seeking Largemouth Bass, each trip is an educational experience. While our primary focus is fly fishing, I am a flexible guide and frequently provide conventional light tackle gear for guests who prefer that method. My goal is to ensure every angler—from the seasoned fly fisher to the family looking for their first catch—has a productive day on the water. The Wisconsin watershed is truly unbeatable, offering world-class fishing with a fraction of the crowds found elsewhere. At Upriver Anglers, we emphasize a balance of technical skill and exceptional customer service to make every float memorable. Beyond the warm-weather peak, I also offer specialized trout guiding during the winter months for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of a frozen landscape. I am excited to share these "hidden gem" rivers with you and help you discover the incredible fishing opportunities right here in our own backyard.

EPSG:4269

The current conditions on the St. Croix River are shaping up for a productive season. As the water temperatures stabilize, the river’s famous smallmouth bass and northern pike are becoming increasingly active in their typical haunts.

Current Conditions & Water Levels
The river is currently flowing at a manageable rate, making it ideal for our 14-foot raft floats. The clarity is improving daily, which is a major advantage for fly fishing enthusiasts. We are finding the most success navigating the quieter side channels and eddies where the current breaks, allowing for more precise presentations.

Fishing Tactics & Success
Smallmouth Bass: The "smallies" are moving toward structured bank lines and submerged wood. Large streamers and topwater patterns have been the most effective. For guests using light conventional tackle, small jigs and crankbaits are producing consistent numbers.

Northern Pike: We are seeing aggressive pike in the slower, deeper pools. Casting larger profile flies toward weed edges has triggered several heavy strikes this week.

Largemouth Bass: While the main channel holds the smallmouth, the backwater sloughs are starting to produce solid largemouth bass on both fly and conventional gear.

What to Expect on Your Trip
With very little boat traffic on our targeted stretches, guests are enjoying a peaceful environment to hone their casting skills. Whether you are a seasoned fly angler or a beginner, the fish are cooperating.

Upriver Anglers is currently booking four, six, and eight-hour float trips. Remember that our schedule fills up quickly during this peak window through September.

Plan Your Float
Target Species: Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass

Technique: Primarily Fly Fishing (Conventional gear available)

Requirements: A valid Wisconsin fishing license and polarized sunglasses are essential.

Saint Croix Wild and Scenic River - Burnett, WI

Blue inflatable fishing boat on river in Saint Croix Falls WI with fishing equipment and oars

Brown trout caught in fishing net in Saint Croix Falls WI

Person fishing along scenic mountain stream in Saint Croix Falls Wisconsin with evergreen trees and rolling hills

Rocky river with rapids flowing through forested landscape near Saint Croix Falls WI, popular fishing destination

Chain pickerel caught fishing in Saint Croix Falls WI held over landing net

Northern pike caught fishing in Saint Croix Falls Wisconsin

Large muskellunge fish being held on boat in Saint Croix Falls WI

Bass caught while fishing in Saint Croix Falls WI

Northern pike caught while fishing in Saint Croix Falls Wisconsin on boat

Muskellunge fish caught while fishing in WI

Ready to witness the raw beauty of the St. Croix and Flambeau Rivers for yourself? Secure your date with Upriver Anglers today and transform an ordinary afternoon into a legendary Wisconsin river story.

Experience the best of Western Wisconsin with Upriver Anglers, your premier source for professional river float trips. Nick Thill provides expert-guided fishing on the St. Croix River, Red Cedar River, Flambeau River and Chippewa River. &nbsp;These trips are specifically designed to be family-friendly, offering a safe and stable platform for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are targeting trophy Smallmouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, or Trout, our custom 14-foot raft allows for a stealthy approach to the most productive and scenic stretches of water in the region. Our focus is on providing a seamless and high-quality outdoor experience tailored to your specific goals. As a local expert with years of technical knowledge on these five distinct river systems, Nick ensures every guest receives personalized instruction, whether they are picking up a fly rod for the first time or are seasoned veterans. We provide all the necessary high-end gear to ensure your day on the water is productive and stress-free. Don’t miss out on the peak seasonal bites in Western Wisconsin—book your fishing trip today to secure your preferred dates on the river.

Find answers to common questions about our guided river floats, including pricing, gear, and seasonal species, to ensure your Wisconsin fishing trip is seamless and stress-free.

Nick Thill is a lifelong outdoorsman whose roots run deep in the woods and waters of Northwest Wisconsin. Growing up in this rugged landscape, he developed an early passion for the rhythms of the local river systems, a foundation that eventually led him to the world-renowned trout streams of Colorado. During his years out West, Nick refined his craft as a professional fly fishing guide, mastering technical drift boat maneuvers and sophisticated trout-stalking tactics. This high-level training in some of the country’s most demanding waters provided him with a unique perspective on fish behavior and river navigation that he now brings back to his home state. Driven by a deep-rooted love for the Midwest, Nick returned to Wisconsin to establish Upriver Anglers, where he blends Western technical expertise with local Northwoods knowledge. He specializes in navigating the diverse watersheds of the St. Croix, Red Cedar, Chippewa, Flambeau, and Sioux Rivers. Nick’s approach is centered on education and adaptability; he is just as comfortable coaching a seasoned angler through a complex hatch as he is helping a family land their very first fish. His goal is to act as a bridge between the guest and the river, sharing the quiet "hidden gems" of the region while providing a relaxed, professional environment for every skill level. With a focus on species like Smallmouth Bass, Musky, and Northern Pike, Nick has spent years scouting the specific eddies and current breaks that hold trophy-class fish. He understands that a successful day on the water isn't just about the catch, but about the quality of the experience and the knowledge shared along the way. Whether you are interested in the precision of fly fishing or prefer the familiarity of light conventional tackle, Nick’s flexible guiding style ensures the day is tailored to your preferences. His commitment to exceptional service and river conservation ensures that every guest leaves with a deeper understanding of Wisconsin's unique aquatic ecosystems. <h2>The Boat: A Stealthy Approach to the River</h2>The Upriver Anglers experience is anchored by a specialized 14-foot Down River Equipment raft, designed specifically for the shallow, rocky, and often technical rivers of Western Wisconsin. Unlike traditional powerboats or heavy fiberglass drift boats, this low-profile raft offers a silent, stealthy approach that allows us to drift over sensitive structure without spooking the fish. Its stability makes it an ideal platform for both standing and casting, providing a safe and comfortable ride for families and serious anglers alike. This specialized vessel is the key to accessing secluded honey holes and narrow backwaters that remain untouched by larger boat traffic, offering you a truly intimate and peaceful connection with the river's pristine currents.

Top rated 6-hour St. Croix River float targeting smallmouth bass and northern pike. Book today.

St Croix Guide

St. Croix Smallmouth Bass Guided Float Trips

Trophy muskie and northern pike trips on Wisconsin River. Expert guided fall fishing with Upriver Anglers.

Muskie Hunt

Fall Muskie Pike Float Trips Upriver Anglers WI

Get your Wisconsin fishing license for the St. Croix & local rivers. Find 2026 DNR rates, age rules, and online buying links for your next guided float trip.

WI License Info

How to Get Your Wisconsin Fishing License

Explore the best of St. Croix Falls and Western Wisconsin. Discover hiking, local dining, and family fun near Upriver Anglers. Plan your perfect visit today!

Plan Your Visit

St. Croix Falls to Eau Claire: Must-See Stops for Travelers

Expert guided 8-hour St. Croix River float targeting musky, bass and pike. Book your premium trip.

Croix Float Fun

St. Croix Musky Bass River Float Upriver Anglers

Expert guided 8-hour Wisconsin river floats targeting trophy muskie and northern pike this fall. Book today!

Wisconsin Float

Wisconsin River Full Day Guided Upriver Anglers

Premium half day river float targeting smallmouth bass and pike. Expert guides, all gear included.

Bass Float Trip

Wisconsin River Bass Pike Half Day Upriver Anglers

Target trophy muskie and pike on Wisconsin's Chippewa and Flambeau rivers this fall. Book today.

Pike River Trip

Wisconsin Muskie Pike River Trips Upriver Anglers

Frequently Asked Questions for Upriver Anglers﻿How much does a full-day fishing charter cost with Upriver Anglers?A full-day, 8-hour float trip for muskie or smallmouth bass is $450. This flat rate covers up to two guests, ensuring a private and personalized experience on the water. Whether we are floating the St. Croix or the Flambeau River, this price includes the use of the custom 14-foot raft and all necessary professional-grade fishing tackle. What is included in a Upriver Anglers trip on the St. Croix and Chippewa Rivers?Every Upriver Anglers guided trip includes professional fly fishing equipment, including rods, reels, and all terminal tackle or flies. For guests who prefer conventional gear, light spinning tackle is also available upon request. Nick provides the raft, life jackets, and expert navigation through the best river stretches in Western Wisconsin. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for the float trip?You do not need to bring your own gear, as we provide high-end equipment tailored for river species. However, if you have a favorite fly rod or specific setup you’d like to use, you are more than welcome to bring it along. We want you to be comfortable and confident while casting for smallmouth or pike. What is the best time of year to fish the St. Croix River and Red Cedar River?For smallmouth bass, the prime window is June through September when water temperatures are stable and topwater action is peak. If you are targeting trophy muskie and northern pike on the St. Croix or Flambeau, the seasonal window in October and November offers the best conditions for landing large predators. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?No, we do not offer fish cleaning or filleting. Upriver Anglers is committed to the health of our local river systems and primarily practices catch and release, especially for trophy species like muskie and smallmouth bass. This ensures that the St. Croix, Chippewa, and Red Cedar Rivers remain world-class fisheries for years to come. What should I bring on my Upriver Anglers guided trip?Anglers are responsible for bringing a valid Wisconsin fishing license, which must be purchased prior to the meeting time. You should also bring your own food and drinks for the duration of the 4, 6, or 8-hour trip. We highly recommend polarized sunglasses for spotting fish and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable on the raft. Are the fishing trips with Upriver Anglers family-friendly?Yes, our river floats are designed to be family-friendly and accessible for all skill levels. The 14-foot Down River Equipment raft provides a very stable and safe platform for younger anglers or beginners. Nick enjoys teaching the fundamentals of river fishing and ensuring that everyone on board has a productive day. Where do we meet for our fishing trip on the Flambeau or Sioux River?Meeting locations vary depending on current water levels and where the bite is most active. Nick will contact you directly before your scheduled date to provide a specific boat launch or meeting point. This flexibility allows us to put the raft in the most productive water for the species we are targeting that day. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my Wisconsin float trip?Safety is our top priority. If conditions on the St. Croix, Chippewa, or other local rivers are deemed unsafe due to high winds, lightning, or extreme flooding, we will work with you to reschedule the trip. We monitor the USGS gauges and weather forecasts closely to ensure you have the best possible experience on the water.

St. Croix, Red Cedar, Flambeau, Chippewa & Sioux Rivers

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Reports

Navigate