Sand Creek Fishery Area (Chippewa and Dunn Counties)

Sand Creek is a small stream that originates in a wetland complex and flows through agricultural lands. Spring Brook is a major tributary to Sand Creek. Water quality of the stream is considered good, but agricultural activities do contribute to low levels of nutrients. The stream is a low-gradient stream with an excellent wetland buffer along with a majority of its length. Riparian vegetation consists primarily of tag alder, lowland hardwoods, and reed canary grass.

Sand Creek is a class 1 brook and brown trout stream, while Spring Brook is managed for brook trout. Both streams are highly productive for brook trout. Brown trout are present primarily in the Dunn County portion of Sand Creek, and many spend their summer where Sand Creek flows into the Red Cedar River. In fall, many large brown trout can be found in the lower reach of Sand Creek as they migrate upstream to spawn. Fishing is limited to bridge crossings, shoreline angling or wading. Fly fishing opportunities are limited due to the narrow width of the stream and trees and brush along the banks.

Location/Directions

Sand Creek Fishery Area is located in northwest Chippewa County and northeast Dunn County, immediately southwest of the Village of New Auburn.