TroutFest
Central Wisconsin Trout Unlimited (CWTU) will host its annual TroutFest from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at the Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center, Wautoma.
The event, which open to the public, will include several angling and conservation presentations, fly-tying demonstrations including for youth, informational booths, vendors, artists, local fly shops, and much more.
“TroutFest offers something for everyone, whether you’re just getting started in fly tying or trout fishing or whether you’re an experienced angler looking to deepen your knowledge,” says Wayne Parmley, CWTU past president and event co-chair. “With our raffles and used gear sale, it’s also a great opportunity to round out your supplies and just spend time with like-minded folks equally excited for spring trout fishing.”
TroutFest ’26 Presenters!
New Techniques in Night Fishing for Trophy Trout
Chris Firkus
Time: 10:30 – 11:15 am
New Places to Fish in 2026
Shawn Sullivan
Time: 11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Intro to Wilderness Anglingwith a Canoe
Wayne Parmley
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
Wayne will share some of his experiences from the many wilderness canoe trips he has done since his late teens. Chasing fish was typically the focus, but that is not always the best part. Planning, gear and more will be covered, whether it’s a short day trip or a longer journey going several weeks. Also covered will be the many unexpected side benefits. Wayne does not claim to be an expert by any means, but he has learned a few things along the way worth sharing. If you are a beginner or a seasoned traveler there will be something to learn. The presention will be loose to allow opportunities to ask questions and share stories.
New Zealand
Steve Heuser
Time: 1:30 – 2:15 pm
Steve Heuser shares his adventures in New Zealand. He has visited four times and is planning his fifth trip. He will discuss both the islands and his trout and saltwater fishing trips. Steve will also talk about kayaking, hiking, and whale watching.
Fly Fishing Southwest Wisconsin Trout
Craig Amaker
Time: 2:30 – 3:15 pm
The Driftless region of southwest Wisconsin is one of the best up and coming walk/wade trout fisheries in the lower 48 states. With over 5700 miles of cold spring fed streams and large populations of wild brown and brook trout it’s a phenomenal resource that’s close to many of our backyards. Some refer to it as the “Midwest’s Montana”. In this presentation I’ll be covering the seasons and seasonal tactics, fly and tackle selection, and homegrown fishing techniques for the area.
10+ Demonstrating Fly Tyers
20+ Information Booths/Vendors (Conservation projects, guides, artists, fly shops & more)
• Raffles
• LOTS of Very Discounted Fly Tying Materials
• LOTS of Used Gear
• LOTS of Used Books
• Food & Drink on Site
• Youth Fly Tying
CWTU News
Trout River Series, Part 3, March 28, 2026
Join us for Part 3 of our four-part series exploring the trout streams of Central Wisconsin. Whether you're a seasoned angler or have never held a fly rod, this is a great opportunity to learn, connect, and talk fishing with fellow anglers. This month’s focus: The...
Tips Night, April?
The Central Wisconsin Chapter of Trout Unlimited has a TIP for you. All you have to do is attend the March Meeting, held at the Winneconne Library, on March 11th, at 7:15pm. Bob Haase is going to share some of his fly tying and fly-fishing tips to help you catch more...
Trout River Series Part 2, February 14th, 2026
The Water, The Trout, The Bugs and more Join Us for a New Four Part Series as We Explore The Trout Streams of Central Wisconsin. Whether you are a seasoned angler or have never held a fly rod, everyone is welcome to come learn and connect! Each month we will focus on...
Night of the Caddis. Wed, Feb 11 at 7:15 PM
Caddis Fly Tying Showcase & Discussion. Join us at 7:15 PM for a fun, casual event where 12 talented fly tiers will showcase their favorite Caddis patterns—whether it’s a dry fly, emerger, or nymph! EVENT HIGHLIGHTS: • Fly Tying Demonstrations: Watch as each...
Fly Fishing Adventures with Steve Heuser
Fly Fishing Adventures with Steve Heuser Join us for an exciting evening as Steve Heuser shares stories from his fly fishing adventures across the globe. The event will take place on January 14th, 2026, at 7:15 PM at the Winneconne Library (31 S 2nd St, Winneconne, WI...
3 Patterns That Can be Easily Tied and Fished, 12/10/2025
This is a hands-on tying event! Steve Nelson will detail “3 Patterns That Can be Easily Tied and Fished” — X-Caddis, Stimulator Stonefly & Hooper, and the Sparkle Dun Mayfly. These three dry fly patterns catch fish in Wisconsin and are a good addition to your fly...
Reach Us
We will get back to you as soon as we can.
Central Wisconsin Trout Unlimited
PO Box 3041
Oshkosh WI 54903-3041
920-216-7408
