If you've come looking for a fishing hot spot, local bait shops are happy to pass along the latest “hot tip.” Walleye fishing below the river's wing dams has inspired generations of anglers. Hunt the sloughs and backwaters for trophy bass and excellent panfish action.

Many river communities offer fishing “floats” – large barges anchored in the river in prime walleye water. Floats are often equipped with a bait shop and snack bar making them a unique and complete angling opportunity. For a fee, smaller boats ferry fishing parties to and from the barges. Floats are located at Lynxville, Genoa , Trempealeau, Fountain City and Alma .