Manistee River

Spring Steelhead fishing Below Tippy Dam

Manistee River Fishing Report

April is here and that means Spring Steelhead on the Manistee River below Tippy Dam. Wow have we gotten some water the last few days, we are lucky to not have the ice damage.  Are thoughts are with those farther north. But the Manistee River  Water levels are on a big rise, levels are creeping towards unsafe passage.  If you go in your own boat please be careful.  Keep an eye out for floating trees as never a good idea to run into one of those. 

If you haven’t booked your Spring Steelhead trip yet, now’s the time! Give us a call or shoot us an email to lock in your dates before the season ends.

Spring Steelhead Fly Patterns

Spring steelhead fishing calls for a selection of flies that match the conditions and feeding habits of these migratory fish. As water temperatures rise, steelhead become more aggressive, making it a great time to experiment with a variety of patterns.  Water levels currently require throwing some big stuff.  Big yarn or rag style eggs, the biggest soft bead you can find, and black marabou with some bright flash. 

Egg patterns, such as the Glow Bug or Beads, remain highly effective, as steelhead are still keyed in on spawning activity. Nymphs like the Stonefly, Hex Nymph, and Fry Patterns also produce strikes, especially in slower runs and pockets.

Swinging streamers, can trigger aggressive takes as the water levels drop, particularly in stained water. Bright colors like pink, orange, and chartreuse at the head of the streamer work well in high water, while more natural tones excel in clear conditions. Adjusting fly size and presentation to match the day’s conditions will help maximize success. This is especially effective in a few weeks on the Big Manistee as water temps break 40’s again. 

Open Spring Steelhead/Trout Guide Dates

New Swag

Booking a Trip

Manistee River below Tippy Dam is one of the best west side rivers in the state of Michigan.  Mangled Fly guides are available all winter fishing trips so give us a call soon to join in the fun at (231-631-5701) you can also shoot us an email.  We are currently booking spring Steelhead, but also a great time to get your Trout Streamer Trip or Early Season Smalmouth Bass Trip in the books.  

Jon Ray