The Manistee River below Tippy Dam is in great shape for spring. Now that the snow from the last apocalypse has almost left, we are still running a bit high at around 3000 and rising after the rain last night and today. As we mentioned in the last report, the recent and sustained higher flows continue to bring in a continual new push of steelhead. Fish can still be found in a variety of runs at the moment.
As water temps have started to tick up fish are starting to hold in slots closer to gravel. Pinch points are still really productive for moving fish but don’t forget to look at staging areas closer to gravel. With a bit of stain in the water, keep going slightly bigger and brighter for flies has been the ticket.
Brighter oranges and clown rag eggs have taken a bulk of the fish. Salmon fry have also started to pop out of the gravel and flashier fry patterns have taken a fair number of fish as well. On warm sunny afternoons stoneflies have also been prolific.
We are entering peak season and we still have a few openings if you’re looking to get out. Give us a call at 231-228-7135 or click here to book online.
Thanks for your business!
The Hawkins Team
Manistee River Steelhead Fishing Report – April 11, 2026
