Manistee River Report – Below Tippy Dam

Lower Manistee Fishing Report

The Manistee is in good shape and is running relatively low and clear. After last weeks rain and bump in flows the river is falling quickly. We could use some more water, and it looks like we may get some this week. The water temp is also warmer than it generally is this time of year, with the backwaters already being ice free. Fishing was a bit all over this week, with some great fishing some days and a grind others. Fish are holding in all different water types from slower winter water, to faster chutes and pockets. Older fish started spawning pretty heavily the past few days and we could use a push of new fish to freshen things up a bit in the pools.

Productive flies have been all over the board with yellow, peach, and orange eggs all producing fish. Stonefly nymphs and fry patterns have also taken their fair share of fish. Spring is a time to cycle through patterns as preference changes from day to day. The forecast for the next week looks great and we have some openings if you’re looking to get out.