Did you know Michigan is a premier destination for fly fishing enthusiasts and novices? Pristine waters throughout the state offer some of the country’s finest rivers, streams, and lakes. With its diverse landscapes and abundant fish populations, the state provides anglers with an exciting fishing experience.
For great information on how to have an epic Michigan vacation experience, download your free copy of our Destination Guide.
If you’re interested in fly fishing in Michigan, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best areas, the ideal seasons, and what you need to know before casting your line. Are you ready to reel in some fun?
Best Areas and Rivers for Fly Fishing
Michigan is home to many fly fishing hotspots, particularly in the northern and western parts of the state. Here are some of the best places to check out:
- The Au Sable River: This river, particularly the Holy Waters section near Grayling (northern Michigan), is renowned for fly fishing. It’s a catch-and-release area known for its wild trout populations, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout.
- The Manistee River: Located in northern Michigan, the Manistee River offers excellent year-round fishing. It’s famous for its steelhead and salmon runs in the fall and spring, while summer provides ample opportunities for trout fishing.
- Pere Marquette River: As a designated National Wild and Scenic River, the Pere Marquette (western Michigan) offers scenic views and excellent fly fishing. It’s best known for steelhead and king salmon during fall runs and brown trout in the summer.
- Boardman River: This river flows near Traverse City and is ideal for anglers seeking a peaceful fly fishing experience. The river is home to brook and brown trout, especially during summer.
- Grand River: The lower reaches of the Grand River are popular for targeting smallmouth bass on the fly, while the upper sections near Lansing offer excellent trout fishing.
Best Times of Year for Fly Fishing
The best time for fly fishing in Michigan depends on the kind of fish your are targeting, the areas where you want to fish, and the other activities you wish to enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of fly fishing by season:
- Spring (April to June): During the spring, anglers can expect prime fishing season for steelhead fishing, especially on rivers like the Au Sable and Manistee. This is also a great time to catch trout, as insect hatchings increase fish activity.
- Summer (June to August): The summer months bring the peak of trout fishing. Dry flies and streamers work well, particularly in the cooler northern rivers. Smallmouth bass fly fishing is also excellent in the warmer lakes and rivers (and it is so much fun!).
During the summer, you may also enjoy tubing on one of the stunning Michigan waterways!
- Fall (September to November): Fall brings in large salmon and steelhead runs, providing thrilling fly fishing opportunities. The Pere Marquette and Manistee Rivers are fishing meccas during this time.
- Winter (December to March): While winter fly fishing is more challenging due to cold temperatures, it’s still possible. Anglers often target steelhead in the Manistee and Au Sable Rivers using nymphs and streamers. But if the weather
For more incredible things to do during the winter in Michigan, click here.
What You Can Expect to Catch
There is no doubt that Michigan’s rivers and lakes are teaming with diverse fish species that can be targeted by fly anglers. Some of the most sought-after species in the pristine waters include:
- Trout (Brown, Brook, Rainbow): Found in rivers like the Au Sable, Manistee, and Boardman, trout are the cornerstone of Michigan fly fishing.
- Steelhead: These sea-run rainbow trout provide a strong fight and are popular in the fall and spring on rivers like the Manistee and Pere Marquette.
- Salmon (King, Coho): Fall salmon runs are legendary in Michigan, with large king salmon being a prime target on rivers like the Pere Marquette.
- Smallmouth Bass: Found in lakes and rivers, smallmouth bass are fun to target in the summer months, especially on the Grand River.
License Requirements and Size Limits
Before you start fly fishing in Michigan, it’s essential to understand the state’s license and regulation requirements:
- Fishing License: All anglers age 17 and older are required to have a valid Michigan fishing license. You can purchase a daily or annual license online or at local retailers.
- Size Limits: Size and harvest limits vary depending on the species and body of water. For trout, the general minimum size is 8 inches for brook and brown trout and 10 inches for rainbow trout, but special regulations apply in certain rivers. Steelhead and salmon usually have a minimum size of 15 inches. Click here for state fishing regulations.
- Catch-and-Release Areas: Some sections of rivers, like the Holy Waters of the Au Sable, are designated as catch-and-release only. Always check local regulations before fishing.
Once you have tried your hand at fly fishing in Michigan, be sure to check out our favorite fishing lakes in northern Michigan for reeling in great catches!
Find the Perfect Fishing Cabin
With much of best fly fishing concentrated in northern and western Michigan, we can help you find the ideal vacation rental for your fishing adventure. Whether you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, we have you covered. Cast your worries aside, and let us reel in an ideal fishing cabin for your trip.
From lakefront homes to cozy cottages, we are sure you will bite at this opportunity to enjoy the splendor and beauty of this breathtaking state and all it has to offer.