Manistee River Trout Fishing Report
The Upper Manistee has been up and down with the inconsistent weather. The super warm weather last week had more fish looking up and this week’s cold weather has put a damper on that. Water temps have been in the 40’s making surface activity sporadic at best. Once we start to warm back up next week and water temps get back into the mid 50’s, the dry fly bite should improve and be more consistent.
Having said that, the rain and cloud cover of late has brought some good streamer action. Small to moderate size streamers have been getting the most attention.
Colors have been all over the board so keep changing until you find what they want. We have had some good action on white, yellow, tan, and olive. The chestnut lamprey have started hatching so lamprey patterns are a good starting point.
For bugs we have had a little bit of everything. The first of the sulphurs started this week and these should get going stronger when we warm back up. There are also mahoganies, black caddis, brown stones, and sallies.
Trout season is quickly booking up but we still have some dates availalble. Check out the calender online and book here or give the office a call at 231-228-7135
Manistee River Fishing Report for Midwinter (January, 2026)
