
Michigan Trout Fishing
Our guided trout trips focus on the region’s famous blue-ribbon streams, where Brown and Brook trout are plentiful. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced angler, Hawkins Outfitters, Orvis Endorsed Guide Service of the Year, provides expert instruction and guided fishing to help you catch these elusive, hard-fighting fish. We offer float trips that typically last 4-8 hours, covering 12 miles of river on average, with the option to tailor the day to suit your preferences.
Trout fishing here is no easy task, as it’s one of the most challenging and rewarding types of flyfishing. You’ll need to be prepared for varying conditions and water levels, but the reward is well worth the effort. Our trips are designed to provide you with an unforgettable fishing experience while practicing strict catch-and-release conservation methods.
Whether you’re casting over rising fish in the warm summer evenings or swinging streamers through the faster currents, these waters will provide you with an authentic trout fishing experience. From the smooth, clear currents to the rugged, fast-flowing sections, every river has its own unique character and challenges.
Join us for a memorable trout fishing adventure in the heart of northern Michigan, where you’ll be guided through world-class waters with expert instruction and a deep understanding of the region’s fishing culture.
Target Species
Trout fishing in northern Michigan is a year-round activity, but the peak seasons for flyfishing are from May to August. During these months, anglers can target the region’s abundant populations of Brown and Brook trout. The trout fishing season starts with the famous Hendrickson hatch in April and peaks in May and June when the river comes alive with a wide range of hatches. Late spring and early summer offer exceptional dry flyfishing opportunities, with Hex and Sulphur hatches followed by great terrestrial action with grasshoppers and ants in July and August.
While our primary focus during these months is on Brown and Brook trout, the fishing experience is diverse. You’ll have the opportunity to employ a variety of techniques—dry flyfishing, streamer fishing, nymphing, and swinging soft hackles—all of which are productive at different times and in different waters.
Where We Fish
Our trout fishing trips are conducted on some of northern Michigan’s most iconic rivers, each offering unique challenges and rewards:
- Upper Manistee River: Known for its cold, fast waters, the Upper Manistee is a perfect location for those seeking wild, challenging trout fishing. The river is particularly famous for its outstanding Hendrickson hatch in spring and offers excellent opportunities for both dry flyfishing and streamer fishing throughout the season.
- Boardman River: A smaller, picturesque river, the Boardman is an ideal location for those seeking intimate fishing experiences. It is home to a healthy population of both Brown and Brook trout and is perfect for precision casting.
- Pere Marquette River: Another great location for all-around trout fishing, the Pere Marquette is known for its consistent hatches and offers both technical dry flyfishing and aggressive streamer opportunities.
- AuSable River: The birthplace of Trout Unlimited and home to some of the best trout fishing in the country, the AuSable River offers excellent access to a wide variety of hatches. Here, anglers can experience both daytime dry flyfishing and nighttime Hex fishing during the prime summer months.
- Small Water Streams: Northern Michigan also has a range of smaller, less-known streams that are perfect for a more secluded experience, providing intimate, high-quality fishing for wild Brook trout.
What's Included
- Use of rods and reels
- Snacks
- Lunch (full day trips only)
- Beverages
- Instruction by one of our award winning, flyfishing professionals if desired
What To Bring
When preparing for your fishing trip, be sure to bring a valid Michigan fishing license. You’ll also want to pack personal items like waders, rain gear, insect repellent, and sunblock to ensure your comfort throughout the day. Due to the potential danger of flies in the air, all clients are required to wear eye protection, so don’t forget your glasses or sunglasses. A hat is also recommended to provide some shade and protect you from the sun. Lastly, be sure to dress for the weather, as conditions can vary throughout the day and season.
- Michigan fishing license
- Personal items such as waders, rain gear, insect repellent, sunblock, etc.
- Glasses / Sunglasses (*Due to the danger associated with flies in the air, all clients will be required to wear eye protection)
- Hat
- Dress for the weather
- A lot of alcohol (ok to bring a few beers but don’t show up with a huge cooler of drinks)
- Drugs
- Weapons
Michigan Trout Fishing FAQs
Have a question? We've got answers. If you do not see your question answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.