THE BOIS BRULE.
This is one of Wisconsin's most charming and popular streams. It's great both to paddle and to wade in pursuit of its plentiful trout. Put in at Stone's Bridge and paddle all the way down to Lake Superior if you get the chance. You'll find rocky riffles, challenging ledges, placid small lakes, minimal new development, and a constantly changing landscape.
The river at Stone's Bridge is clear and cold -- ideal trout habitat. Only a few small riffles will be encountered for a few miles until you get to several small lakes. There are many cabins and lodges along the river here, but they were mostly built in the 1920's and 30's, and are for the most part charming and well maintained.. Look for fat trout in the lakes watching you as you glide by. As the river gets closer to Brule, it gets faster and the rapids are bigger, but still easily negotiated. There is a campground just upstream of Brule.
Past Brule, the river tumbles over the Copper Range and turns murky and rockier than the upper part. The May ledges can be run or portaged . Scout these carefully before you take the plunge. The Lenroot ledges, downstream from the Highway FF bridge are more difficult than the May ledges. . Again, scouting is recommended. The last ledge is the toughest because the waves are high and the route is not obvious. Even veterans spill here on occassion, so secure your duffle if you elect to run this one. Downsteam there are plenty of smaller drops and riffles almost to the mouth of the river. You will encounter a lamprey weir that you must portage on the left bank. Be careful around it.
Once you hit a slow section of river, you are close to the big lake. If it's not too windy, paddle out into Lake Superior. This makes a perfect end to your trip.
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