Driftless Area

A typical Driftless Area stream

The Driftless Area is a unique 13,000 sq mi geological area largely in Southwest Wisconsin, but extending into Southeast Minnesota, Northeast Iowa, and Northwest Illinois. The continental glacier which covered most surrounding regions did not touch this area -- it was spared the land altering effects of glacial drift.

It abounds in caves and sinkholes and has residual, well-drained soil. It also has an abundance of spring creeks with water characteristics similar to Pennsylvania spring creeks.

This is a prime destination for trout fishermen. Solid populations of naturally reproducing brown trout and the native species, brook trout, along with stocked rainbows provide an exceptional fishery. Popular rivers and streams include Castle Rock, Big Green, The Blue and Timber Coulee to name a very few of the great waters. The West Fork of the Kickapoo is listed in Trout Unlimited's Guide to America's 100 Best Trout Streams.

The Henry and Laura Nohr chapter of Trout Unlimited has done extensive work in stream and habitat restoration in this area. Our chapter has participated with the Nohr chapter in many of these projects.