Manistee River Fishing Report below Tippy Dam for April 16, 2025

After super high and dirty water the first week of April, the Manistee has dropped and gotten herself back in shape. The river is still holding a really nice tea stain that is just about perfect for this time one of year. Fish have become very gravel-oriented with some fish spawning and fresh fish sitting in the buckets.

With the stain in the river, bigger, brighter eggs have been productive. Stone fly nymphs and caddis have also enticed some fish. Additionally, there are quite a few salmon fry around right now.  Some good sized trout have started keying in on this food source, and steelhead will begin doing as well. Make sure to carry a couple different patterns with you. We always carry a few with the egg sack and a few patterns without it.

The fishing should continue to be solid through the end of April.  We have some open dates so call the office at 231-228-7135 or book online here.

The Hawkins Crew