Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to some common questions about fishing with Mangled Fly. Contact us with other questions & to book your Northern Michigan fishing adventure.

All of our river and lake trips include the use of high-quality fishing equipment. We provide expert guidance from United States Coast Guard licensed and insured Captains. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, we manage all the details of your day on the water so you can focus on the fishing. Please note that you will need to purchase a Michigan Fishing License separately.

While we provide the gear and flies, we recommend bringing polarized sunglasses, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are best), a rain jacket, and any personal snacks or drinks you prefer. Since we fish in various conditions—from the heat of summer to the cold of winter steelhead season—checking the forecast and dressing accordingly is essential for a comfortable experience.

To help preserve the world-class fisheries of Northern Michigan, Mangled Fly operates as a Catch and Release only guide service. We are dedicated to the health and sustainability of our local trout, steelhead, and warm-water species populations to ensure great fishing for generations to come.

To secure your date, we require a $250 deposit at the time of booking. If you cancel at least 30 days prior to your trip, your deposit is fully refundable. Cancellations within 30 days are subject to our discretion for rescheduling or refunds, and cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled trip will result in a forfeited deposit.

Safety and the quality of your experience are our top priorities. Our guides monitor water temperatures and conditions closely. For example, if water temperatures for trout reach unsafe levels (typically 68-70°F), we may pivot the trip to focus on warm-water species like smallmouth bass or bluegill. If conditions are deemed truly unsafe by the Captain, we will work with you to reschedule.

Yes. While Mangled Fly is known for fly fishing, our guides do use spinning tackle when the weather, conditions, or angler preference call for it. Our goal is always to give clients the best opportunity for success on the water.

Grand Traverse Bay is a great example of a location where spinning tackle can be very effective, especially when covering water, dealing with wind, targeting deeper fish, or adjusting to changing conditions. Whether we’re using fly gear or spinning gear, our guides choose the right tools for the day to help you have the best experience possible.

We’re happy to discuss tackle options before your trip so we can match the approach to your goals, skill level, and the conditions.