Steelhead are the most sought-after gamefish in Northern Michigan, and they make their way into the rivers as early as late September. By the second week of October, the fall steelhead fishing becomes particularly strong. Mangled Fly guides also enjoy pursuing Steelhead in the Pere Marquette and Bestie River. Both rivers provide exceptional runs of Steelhead during the fall and spring seasons.
Smallmouth bass are particularly favored by anglers, and Northern Michigan is known for its excellent smallmouth fishing. The smallmouth bass fishing near Traverse City, MI offers an incredible experience for anglers of all levels.
Trout fishing in Northern Michigan is a great way to explore the beauty and tranquility of our Northern Michigan streams. Michigan is blessed with over 20,000 miles of designated quality trout water. Our streams typically have Brown Trout, Brook Trout, and Rainbow trout or some combination of the three. Brown Trout are our primary focus throughout most of the Upper Manistee River, but some sections will provide anglers opportunities to catch Brook and Rainbow trout as well.
