hows the salmon fishing up by root river

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FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Root River salmon update — Racine, Wisconsin**

The Root River bite in Racine stays active through fall and into early winter, but you’ll usually be chasing late-run fish and steelhead that linger in the tailouts as water cools. If you’re heading out in the current early-winter spell, expect shorter days, colder hands, and water that can swing from glassy to choppy with a warm-front push. When the current kicks up after a warm spell, the bite can flip on fast—so plan to move water and stay persistent.

Where to fish (classic late-season spots):
- Mouth and Lincoln Park area where the river meets Lake Michigan. These seams tend to stack fish and can still produce a few good kings or coho if the water is dirty in the upper river but clear near the mouth.
- Hatchery vicinity (near the Root River Hatchery facilities) for late runs. The fish often hold in the tailouts and slower slots just upstream.
- If you’re mobile, look for deeper slots just upstream of the hatchery and along park access points; the current tends to funnel fish into these zones in cold water.

Gear and tactics for early winter (bank and boat alike):
- Bank setup: Try a simple slip-bobber rig with 6-10 lb line, a 1/8-1/4 oz jig or bead, and eggs or skein. Keep your bait at depth 2-4 ft where fish typically hold along seams. 
- Twitch jigging: A short, twitchy rod with a salmon jig or a small spoon can trigger bites in clear water—work the lure along current edges and inside seams.
- Beads and beads-on-hook rigs: Chartreuse, pink, or orange beads with a small hook can be very effective when drifted along the current. Fish depth will vary with flow, so adjust accordingly.
- Spoons and spinners: Small, steady retrieves near the fast water edges can entice light-followers into biting. Spinners and mini-spoons around 1/8-1/4 oz are a good start.
- Bait options: Salmon eggs or skein can be very productive in late runs. Check local regulations and any hatchery guidelines before using bait.

Weather and preparation (early winter):
- Dress in layers, pack hand warmers, and bring a good grip on your reels; slick banks and cold water demand caution.
- Shorter days mean tighter windows—plan for low-light times and be prepared for sudden temperature dips that affect fish activity.
- Water clarity matters: stained water near the mouth can help lures, while clear water in the deeper slots calls for more subtle presentations.

Useful resources to learn more and see real local action:
- [Where to Fish! Root River in Racine Wisconsin](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4yyUtg5yUk)
- [Sight Fishing Salmon with a Twitch Jig! (INSANELY CLEAR WATER)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rABgUzyK3hY)
- [Root river king salmon in thick!! October 23rd 2022 #shorts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPo4MciMorI)

Gear you might consider (fishing-related):
- [FONMANG 126Pcs Fishing Lures](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTH8MXB4?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Biomimetic 3.5" Soft Lure with Paddle Tail](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWZKN5TP?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Rapala Bass Boom Box, Bass Fishing Kit](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSJQV65C?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Bottom line: the Root River bite can rebound quickly after warm fronts and with the right water depth, you can still pin a late king or coho this time of year. Stay patient, cover water, and adapt depth to the flow. And above all—layer up and keep a grin handy; the river is a fantastic winter playground for those who show up prepared. Tight lines and warm hands, anglers! 🧤🎣

🎣 Root River, Racine, Wisconsin, United States

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