Whitewater is by far the most popular trout river in Minnesota. It is heavily fished on both the north branch and south branch, as well as the main stretch through the state park. It is also one of the most heavily stocked rivers in Minnesota and is managed as a put and take river in the park. The river is stocked with both rainbows and browns, to compensate for the lack of natural reproducing fish. It's upper stretches hold wild brookies, which will eagerly take a large dry fly. The best stretch is in the state park, but the fish average 10-12 inches. Occasionally the DNR throws some larger fish into the river in the 4-5 pound range, but they aren't caught often. One of it's biggest secrets is that the tributaries to the main river often have the best fishing and you will occasionally luck into a nice fish. Hiking away from the most popular places can be extremely rewarding.