Float Route; South Branch, Winnebago Co.

(Click image to view map)

South Branch

Winnebago Co.

Attention: I would not plan to Take-out at Deer Run FP

If you do, then also plan on, doing some work to get there.

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1pBNdQYwBk4TYTDYS3Agp8YbcDLWACWk&usp=sharing

Recommended Float Level: Fairdale Gage Below 3.50ft.

I consider Normal Flow for this gage to be 2.35ft.

Put-in: Oak Ridge FP Launch

Take-outs:

1. Deer Run FP; Not Recommended. Hard to access. Hardly used. The flow feeding this section of river gets chocked off (at the fork) even during normal flow. Flow becomes so low water becomes stagnate at times. Can be used as a Put-in, but you may encounter log jams and drag areas for a short spell. CAUTION: I cannot count how many times, when I have been wade fishing downstream of Deer Run FP, and have encountered floaters looking for the Deer Run Take-out. (?)

2. Ya’ll missed it!

3. I strongly suggest you study your route before floating this reach. And I strongly suggest you don’t plan to Take-out at Deer Run FP.

4. Blackhawk Springs on Perryville Rd; Rough Take-out, no launch site. Definitely doable if you’d like. Somewhat used.

5. Kishwaukee River FP; Rough Take-out, not much of a launch site. Mostly used.

Points of Interest:

Special Note: Once you put-in and float downstream, past, The Bend, you will see cement slabs lining the bank on the righthand side. You are now floating over private property. Please remain in your craft and float quietly thru until you pass under the power lines of the left fork. Again, avoid right fork. (See map)

Pass quietly. This section is good for wildlife sightings.

The Take-out at Deer Run FP is hard to access because of low flow leading to the launch site. I have had to portage about, 109.66 yards at times, just to find water I could float.

FPWC had/has plans to try and improve this area. It needs it. This Take-out is the point the south branch turns and begins flowing more in a southernly direction.

So take the LEFT fork.

Now, proceed with caution, as you are probably about to encounter many downfalls and maybe even a log jam or two. Fun stuff, if you are silly in the head like me. Hell, one time, me and a guy had to hoists our kayaks, up a 12 foot, muddy, cut bank using straps. Fun stuff. Be careful.

My Thoughts…

I like this float. Float it to Spring and Fall. Be ready to, “clear the way”, if you hit this reach in early Spring. Always count downfalls. Gorgeous reach to float in the Fall. Great views to enjoy, while you portage on a cool, crisp Fall day.

Be sure to study the map and know where you’re going before you go.

It ould be a lot of work if you don’t.