Brule

The listed put-in is (indeed) on the Brule River (as this reach is listed). However, the only known actual rapids are after the confluence with Michigamme where the combined flow becomes the Menominee River. Thus, by rights, this really could be the first listing for the Menominee.

The main reason to do this reach is Big Bull Rapids. Where the river encounters a large island, rapids reportedly lie on each side. The left channel carries the majority of the flow, and (reportedly) has large waves and some large rocks. The right channel is characterized as having tight turns and being likely to be brush-filled, thus a less likely route (at least by old canoe guide descriptions).

We do not currently have information as to whether these rapids (either side) contain sufficient interest or potential for whitewater playboaters to merit the flatwater access and egress which appear to be necessary.

Resolution on satellite view is excellent. We highly recommend going to a good mapping app, clicking 'Satellite', and zooming-in on the islands at Big Bull Rapids to have a look.

As reported by Brendan Hammond (2010-10-23)

Ran this stretch a few years ago, no real whitewater whatsoever.

However, way up on the headwaters of the Brule, where Brule Creek flows into Elvoy Creek there is a short section where Brule Creek drops 20'+. There was a hydropower plant and dam at one time there. Some of the penstock is still visible. These creeks start in springs and are largely groundwater-fed. This fact, along with the amount of wood in the larger drops, and the small drainage area, probably makes it a no go.

For what it's worth, it appears drainage at that location is on the order of 33 square miles. In theory, that could be enough to make runnable flows at least a good handful of times a year. However, the nearest downstream gauge (at Hwy.2 near Florence) has 366 sq.mi. drainage, and has a '10% flow' of

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