Michigan is a paradise for fly fishers, with over 36,000 miles of streams and rivers, and more than 11,000 inland lakes. From the cold waters of Lake Michigan to the trout streams in the northern forests, Michigan offers a diverse range of fly fishing opportunities. In this post, we will explore some of the best places to fly fish in Michigan, the species of fish you can target, the best time of the year to go, and the types of guided trips you can consider.
Where to Fly Fish in Michigan?
Michigan has a wide range of fly fishing destinations, from urban streams to remote wilderness areas. Some of the best places to fly fish in Michigan include:
- Au Sable River: The Au Sable River is a world-renowned trout fishery that runs for over 140 miles from Grayling to Oscoda. The river is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout, and offers some of the best dry fly fishing opportunities in the state.
- Manistee River: The Manistee River is a popular destination for fly fishers, offering over 200 miles of prime trout and salmon habitat. The river is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and steelhead, and also offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
- Pere Marquette River: The Pere Marquette River is a designated National Wild and Scenic River that flows for over 60 miles through the Manistee National Forest. The river is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and steelhead, and also offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
- Boardman River: The Boardman River is a small but productive stream that runs through Traverse City. The river is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout, and offers some of the best dry fly fishing opportunities in the state.
- Upper Peninsula: The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a remote and wild region that offers some of the best brook trout fishing in the state. The region is home to numerous streams and lakes, including the Sturgeon River, Two Hearted River, and the Huron Mountains.
Species of Fish to Target in Michigan
Michigan offers a diverse range of fish species for fly fishers, including trout, salmon, bass, pike, musky, and more. Some of the most popular species to target in Michigan include:
- Brown Trout: Brown trout are one of the most popular species for fly fishers in Michigan. The fish can be found in streams and rivers throughout the state, and are known for their aggressive strikes and challenging fights.
- Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout are another popular species for fly fishers in Michigan. The fish can be found in streams and rivers throughout the state, and are known for their acrobatic jumps and fast runs.
- Brook Trout: Brook trout are a native species to Michigan, and can be found in streams and lakes throughout the state. The fish are known for their colorful markings and elusive nature, making them a challenging target for fly fishers.
- Steelhead: Steelhead are a migratory species of rainbow trout that spawn in the rivers and streams of Michigan. The fish are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps, and offer a unique and challenging fly fishing experience.
Best Time of the Year to Go Fly Fishing in Michigan
The best time of the year to go fly fishing in Michigan depends on the species of fish you want to target. Here are some general guidelines:
- Trout: The best time to target trout in Michigan is from early spring through late fall. In the spring, trout are actively feeding after a long winter, and can be found in the shallow riffles and runs of streams and rivers. In the summer, trout can be found in deeper pools and shaded areas, where the water is cooler. In the fall, trout are preparing for winter and can be found feeding voraciously in preparation for the colder months.
- Salmon: The best time to target salmon in Michigan is from late summer through early fall. This is when the fish are returning from their ocean migration to spawn in the rivers and streams of Michigan.
- Steelhead: The best time to target steelhead in Michigan is from late fall through early spring. This is when the fish are migrating from the Great Lakes to their spawning grounds in the rivers and streams of Michigan.
Types of Guided Trips to Consider
If you are new to fly fishing or want to explore a new area of Michigan, consider booking a guided trip. Guided trips can provide valuable knowledge of the area, access to private waters, and instruction on fly fishing techniques. Some types of guided trips to consider include:
- Full-day guided trips: Full-day guided trips typically last 8-10 hours and include instruction on fly fishing techniques, access to private waters, and a packed lunch.
- Half-day guided trips: Half-day guided trips typically last 4-5 hours and are a great option for those with limited time or experience.
- Multi-day guided trips: Multi-day guided trips can provide a more in-depth experience of the area, and may include accommodations and meals.
- Float trips: Float trips are a unique way to explore Michigan’s rivers and streams, and provide access to remote areas that are difficult to reach on foot.
In conclusion, Michigan is a fly fishing paradise with a diverse range of fishing opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re targeting trout, salmon, or steelhead, there’s something for everyone in Michigan’s rivers, streams, and lakes. With the help of a guided trip, you can make the most of your fly fishing experience in Michigan and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you enjoyed this post, then check out this one with more fly fishing places in the USA.