SWTU - Veterans on the Fly

05/09/2026

Because it is the time of the year when anglers seem to be the most active and visible; it is time for a short refresher on laws surrounding stream access.

Each state has their own laws regarding stream access. Wisconsin's laws are quite favorable for the recreational user. We have access to navigable waterways, so long as access is made from a legal access point (i.e. public lands / easements, road right-of-way). Most - but not all - roads have a right-of-way that is public. Our laws require the angler to keep their feet wet; however the law does allow recreational users to exit the stream onto private lands to move around obstructions - but they must do so in the simplest path (i.e. you can't stop and cast from the shore) and re-enter the stream as quickly as is reasonable.

The lawyer-speak below is a bit dated (2022) and anglers must keep their feet wet rather than remain under the high water mark, otherwise it is a good overview of the laws.

https://www.wisbar.org/NewsPublications/WisconsinLawyer/Pages/Article.aspx?Volume=95&Issue=8&ArticleID=29309

05/09/2026

05/08/2026

The Basco Unit/Neperud Farm

Welcome back after a long winter break, we will be at the Bosco Unit Wednesday on Hwy 69 South of Madison. It’s a fantastic spot put together from TU, WDNR, and Dane County. The Sugar River is wide open there, great for learning how to cast. Bring some waders or shoes and pants that you can get wet as we may be wading. All gear as always is provided. Feel free to bring a friend or loved one as well.

Here is the Bosco Unit parking area

https://goo.gl/maps/ssdYsmjwVGmij6Hz7

We will meet in the parking area at Bosco at 6pm. Check out the map to the parking area.

The spring high water is down and it’s warming up! This is a great nymphing spot, if we get a hatch dry flys are fun. Also towards sunset the mousing can be incredible. Don’t forget to renew your fishing licenses with a trout stamp.

Hope to see everyone there!

Mike Johnson
(262) 327-0849

P.S. - Miss an earlier email or know if someone who couldn’t make the previous classes? Share this email with them!

Beginner’s are ALWAYS welcome at Veterans on the Fly Classes!

Remember you will need a valid State of WI Fishing License and Inland Trout Stamp. You can buy or renew them online at https://dnr.wi.gov/Permits/.

05/08/2026

Driftless Drive In Fly Fishing Show and Film Festival is less than a month away. June 5th Starlite 14 drive in theater Richland Center. Tickets online and in the shop!

List of casting carnival prizes so far...

Grundens Rock Armor Wading Boot
Redington Classic Trout Fly Rod
Rio Fly Lines
Pair of non prescription Bajio Sunglasses
SA Magnitude clear tip trout line
2 year subscription to the Drake magazine with goodies
Patagonia Black Hole MLC and Gear Tote
Oros indicators and goodies
Echo Fly Rod Lamson Liquid 3 Pack Umpqua fly box with Driftless Selection

Entry Ticket Prize: Cold/Warmwater experience. Mousing trip with Mat and a day fly fishing the Mississippi with Severin (must be present and 18+ years of age to win

05/03/2026

Monday!!! All veterans and their families are welcome.

MONDAY May 4th we begin our “On the Water” classes with the annual BBQ and intro to fly fishing picnic!!! Come on out and learn about fly fishing with some incredible veterans in our community. Then every WEDNESDAY 6-8 for May, June, August and September we will meetup on Madison area waters to fish, work on our fly fishing skills and tell some fishy stories. We will have gear and instructions available. All gear and equipment is provided-never any cost. Come on out!!!

05/03/2026