Michigan Weekly DNR Fishing Reports for Salmon and Steelhead – Manistee River – Manistee River (231) 519-7348


Michigan King SALMON Fishing report

Manistee River Salmon Fishing- River Salmon Fishing

Michigan DNR Fishing Reports for Manistee River.

King Salmon Fishing Report Sept 4, 2025
 Heavy winds and big rains the past two days have moved a lot of Salmon from Lake Michigan, into to the rivers.  Cold nights have also helped bring in more fish. There is a fishable amount of fresh Kings in the lower portion of the river.

Most action is by boat fishing near the cool creeks that flow into to the big river. Still slow at the dam with only a small handful of steelhead and salmon. Water is warm, low and continuing to drop. Most action is up top above the coffer/falls just before and after dark. Beads, flies, 1/4-1/2oz weight, 12-20lb leaders. There are no real large numbers of fish and most fishermen are going home empty handed but it’s nice to see a few fish here and there smashing the surface. It’s a great feeling to know, they are finally there and it’s only going to get better and better every week.

Good luck out there friends and neighbors. Tight lines.

Big Lake Charters in both Ludington and Manistee have been reporting excellent catches of King Salmon, Steelhead, Coho, and Lake Trout. Trolling spoons have been the most productive including Limeade, Blue Dolphin, Orange Crush, and Wonder Bread Blue. Sable Point and Manistee are producing good numbers. 
Text to Book >> (231) 519-7348

Coho, Steelhead, and Lake Trout have been some nice bi catch as well.  This should make for an excellent fall season on the Big Manistee River below Tippy Dam.  We are looking forward to Tippy Day Salmon Fishing 2025.  

Lots of new fish are entering the river right now. Recent rains have bumped the water levels for improved Salmon migrations.  The Lower Pere Marquette River between Custer and Scottville has been loaded with salmon staging to move up river. Floats and skein has been very effective.  Casting Thunder stick lures in the morning has also been fishing well.  Fire Tiger has been the best color. 

The Big Manistee River has a ton of King Salmon and Coho, starting to spawn and hitting the gravel. Salmon fishing has been excellent at this time. Lots and lots of Salmon, and a handful of Steelhead near Tippy Dam, on the Manistee River.    Fly flossing fish on gravel has been very effective with long leaders, pencil weights, and black flies, or black yarn. Salmon don’t bite while on gravel, however, it is legal to run the line through their mouth. Fly fishing guides have been using this for years, this technique is very effective for spawning Salmon and Steelhead. Here is a video, on How To Floss Salmon & Steelhead on gravel. 

 Salmon have been pouring into Western Michigan rivers after the heavy North Eastern winds from last week.  The Lake Michigan temperatures have plummeted,  bringing in cooler water, and good numbers of King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Steelhead, into the White, Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Betsie rivers.   Recently, one Michigan fishing guide stated, “This is just the beginning!  Lot’s more salmon will enter the rivers.  Lots of bright fish entering the river.  September should see the best Salmon fishing of the year, in Northern Michigan.   
Text to Book >>  (231) 519-7348

Michigan Salmon Guides for the Manistee River. King Salmon Guides MI
Michigan Fall Steelhead Float Fishing _ Muskegon River Steelhead
Guided Fall Steelhead Trips - Tippy Dam

November brings into prime time Muskegon River Fall Steelhead. The Muskegon River had an incredible Fall King Salmon migration.  October was packed with spawning Chinook Salmon near Thornapple and Pine Street. Every inch of gravel seemed to have fish on or near it.  Salmon fishing was great to say the least!!   

   The Mighty Muskegon River has a ton of dime bright, chrome Fall Steelhead. One of the better runs over the past several years, this fall out shines them all, as per sheer numbers of fish.  Steelhead fishing should remain good well into New Years. There are plenty of Steelhead in the river, with a lot more coming in from the Lake. 

We have Michigan Fall Steelhead Guides available for both November or December Fall Steelhead.  

 Let us hook you up!!   Text to book  (231) 519-7348

King Salmon from the Big Manistee River. September 2023
DNR fishing reports for the Manistee River. 2023

Looks like we have a great weekend coming up for Salmon fishing in Michigan!! We had several days of hard North East winds that significantly cooled the water temperatures down along the lake shore.  Pere Marquette Lake, Ludington, Manistee Lake, Muskegon Lake, and Grand Haven now have King Salmon in close and pushing against the shore line.  Recent rains have brought up river levels which should bump salmon into the river systems with Pere Marquette River, and Manistee hot on that list. Muskegon Lake may have a few salmon as well. 

Michigan King Salmon - Ludington

Welcome to the weekly Michigan Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee River for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. Updated DNR fishing reports for Western Michigan rivers, including Manistee, Tippy Dam, and Pere Marquette River for Salmon fishing.  We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

Starting to see good numbers of King Salmon entering Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake. Salmon are beginning to stage in the lake and a few have already entered the river.  Look for good pushes to start entering the river this week.   

Jigging trips have been increasingly productive on Pere Marquette Lake.  Gabe has been doing Well with King Salmon jigging trips with customers. This year salmon numbers are less than normal however, the Salmon Fishing Reports in Michigan, indicate much larger than average, Salmon this year.  Fall Salmon in the rivers should be giant tackle busters!  Less fish will be landed but the Kings will be HUGE!!   

 

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing.  
 (231) 519-7348

Welcome to the weekly Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee River for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. Updated DNR fishing reports for Western Michigan rivers, including Manistee, Tippy Dam, and Pere Marquette River for Salmon fishing.  We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing.   (231) 519-7348

December offers some of the best Fall and Winter Steelhead fishing that Michigan has to offer.  Both the Muskegon River, and the Manistee River sport great Steelhead fishing action.  Good numbers of both Lake Trout, Coho Salmon, and Steelhead below the coffer at Tippy Dam.  

King Salmon on Pere Marquette Lake
King Salmon Fishing Manistee River

Zach and Anthony have been consistantly getting fresh Kings on Manistee and Pere Marquette Lake near Ludington.  North East winds have been a game changer, bringing in cold water from Lake Michigan.  Jigging and casting Thundersticks has been the most productive. Salmon skein eggs under a float has also been doing well.   

Manistee River Salmon Fishing
King Salmon in Manistee River Harbor, Jigging season has started with Salmon moving into the river daily.
Casting Thunder Sticks at the river mouths has also been productive. New fish entering the river.

Strong North West winds have started to kick off our 2024 Fall Michigan King Salmon run on the Big Manistee River, and Pere Marquette River. Jigging 1 oz Luna Spoons has been producing fish. King Salmon this year seem to be running large. The upcoming season looks good with lots of bright Salmon on the horrizon.  

We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
(September 7th – October 20th)  Spinning Tackle, and Fly Fishing Available.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing.   (231) 519-7348 

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports _ Muskegon River
Michigan Steelhead Fishing Guides
Michigan Winter Steelhead Fishing - Tippy Dam Steelhead
Manistee River Tippy Dam Steelhead Fishing

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports – Steelhead Fishing has been excellent on both the Muskegon River, Big Manistee, and the Grand River. November is truly a prime Time month for Steelhead in Michigan.  Steelhead have been running a muck larger size this year. Plentiful forage (Food) base in Lake Michigan has made for some monster Salmon, Steelhead, and Lake Trout.  This is certainly the year for giants. Fishing should remain very good for steelhead well into the new year.  CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW or Text to book. (231) 519-7348

Tippy Dam Fall Steelhead - Michigan Steelhead
Michigan Steelhead Fishing

Manistee River is starting to get a decent number of Michigan Fall Steelhead. Water levels are perfect for fall fishing. There’s still plenty of King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, and resident river trout. Tippy Dam area has been fishing well, and should continue to fishing well for the next several weeks. 

Pere Marquette Salmon Fishing Guides_ Michigan DNR Reports
Gorgeous King Salmon from the Lower Pere Marquette River.
Tippy Dam Skamania Steelhead

Tippy Dam Recreational Area has come alive over the past several days with fishing activity. Starting to see fishable numbers of bright, fresh King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Fall River Steelhead. a handful of Skamania Steelhead are also in the system.  King Salmon are now beginning to spawn and dig in the gravel. Look forward to an excellent Fall Salmon migration.  One for the record books for Huge Kings, and Plentiful Coho Salmon.  Book Now!!   

Pere Marquette King Salmon. Custer Scottville Salmon Fishing.
King Salmon Fishing- Manistee River Salmon
Caster Deep Junior Thunder Sticks has been very productive for King Salmon on the Pere Marquette River.
Custer King Salmon _ Pere Marquette River
Custer King Salmon PM River

Over the past several days, we have seen the main push of Michigan King Salmon entering the rivers in Northern Michigan. Pere Marquette, Manistee, Betsie, Platte, and Bear Creek, and Bordman, all receiving a big shot of salmon.  Look for excellent salmon fishing over the never several weeks. The King Salmon are huge this year!! cooler temperatures, and a little rain has significantly helped the salmon migration in Michigan. More to come… 

Manistee River Salmon Fishing
Nathan displays a gorgeous bright King Salmon from the Pere Marquette River mouth. Lots of salmon moving around. King Salmon coming in strong.

Jigging Kings in Pere Marquette Lake.  Most days, they’re huggin the bottom.  Lovin the Luna Jigs! 
 Salmon Season 2019.  

Michigan Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing
We started off this moring with a double - Michigan King Salmon. Recent rains have brought in good numbers of fish into the rivers. Pere Marquette, Big Manisteee, Betsie, and Bear Creek all have fishable numbers of salmon. Look for more salmon to enter the rivers this week. Michigan Salmon fishing is on now!
PM King Salmon _ MI Salmon Fishing
Starting to see lots of bright King Salmon in Pere Marquette Lake near Ludington.
Pere Marquette Salmon Fishing Guides
Get Jiggy with it!! Salmon season is going well. Jigging for salmon in Pere Marquette Lake is excellent.
Michigan Salmon Fishing - Manistee River
Starting to see good numbers of Michgan King Salmon on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Salmon are going to be huge this fall with good numbers.
Manistee River King Salmon _ Tippy Dam
Casting Thundersticks for King Salmon in Michigan, Manistee River, Tippy Dam.

Weather and its effect

First of all, North West winds have dramatically changed the water temperatures along the lake shore therefore making shore line temperatures along the coast line very cold.  This should bring Michigan King Salmon into the rivers early.  Cold shoreline temps kick off good fishing along the piers. Manistee River has a good number of Skamania Summer Run Steelhead below the coffer and Tippy Dam.  King Salmon have also entered the Manistee River. The average size of Michigan King Salmon this year is 22 lbs!! 

Manistee River King Salmon Fishing below Tippy Dam
Early Season King Salmon from the Manistee River.
Casting Thunder Sticks for Salmon in Manistee.
Casting Thunder Sticks for early season King Salmon on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Bone crushing hits on the crank baits . DNR Fishing Reports.

The best times for Michigan King Salmon is quickly approaching. Bright Chinook, Coho, and Summer Run Skamania Steelhead are now entering Lake Michigan rivers. Pere Marquette and the Big Manistee River have the best Salmon migrations right now.  The Muskegon River gets salmon later in the season. Best times for Salmon fishing in Michigan is late August, through early November hence September and October is prime. Coho Salmon also run later on the Manistee River below Tippy Dam.  Make Salmon Reservations >> Book Here. 

Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing - Manistee River Michigan
Fresh Coho Salmon below Tippy Dam.
Manistee River King Salmon
Starting to see good numbers of bright fresh King Salmon on the Manistee River.

Best time for fishing

The best salmon fishing in rivers takes place in September and October.  Prime salmon fishing is during the month of October for King and Coho Salmon.  Skamania Summer Run Steelhead, and early Fall Steelhead also enter the rivers in late October and November.  Tippy Dam area fishes very well during the fall months. (231) 519-7348

Casting Thundersticks for Michigan King Salmon
King Salmon landed on Deep Junior ThunderStick Lure.
ThunderStick Lure Selection For Michigan King Salmon
ThunderStick Collection for Michigan Salmon Fishing

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Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports ~ Salmon Trips


King Salmon from the Big Manistee River. September 2023

We are now heading into peak week for salmon on the Big Manistee River. Lots and lots of salmon everywhere on the Big Manistee River. Good numbers of larger, King Salmon this season with a decent amount of Coho as well. . Much larger average size this year. We are also starting to land a few steelhead each day. Also hitting a few Lake Trout below the coffer at Tippy Dam.

Salmon fishing is going strong on the Big Manistee and Muskegon Rivers in Michigan. Good catches of Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead.

Good numbers of King Salmon on the Big Manistee River. Michigan King Salmon Guides.

Go big or go home!! John landed this beast – His first Michigan, Pere Marquette River Salmon!!

Floats & Skein on the Big Manistee River. Salmon fishing up North has been excellent! Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing – Guided Salmon.

Nothing beats working for it! In a sea full of salmon, nothing is better than finding the dime piece!! New Steelhead starting to show up!

Tippy Dam salmon are rockin in full tilt!! Good numbers of both King and Coho Salmon. Lots of fish with lots more coming.

We are starting to see big numbers of both King Salmon, and Coho Salmon on the Big Manistee and Pere Marquette Rivers. Michigan Salmon Fishing is in full swing now!

King and Coho Salmon are excellent table fare. We allow our clients to keep a limit of salmon per day. (5) Salmon per angler on the Manistee River.

October 11th – Michigan Salmon Fishing Report – Big Manistee River & Muskegon River

Big Manistee River: Tippy Dam is now starting to have good numbers of both King and Coho Salmon. Big numbers of Coho above the coffer at Tippy. A few of the salmon are beginning to hit gravel and spawn. Things are running behind schedule with the heat last week. Look for peak salmon season in mid to late October this year. Fishing is now just starting to get good!

Some of the creek mouths have good numbers of Coho salmon. Manistee River has been hit or miss with big pushes of fish moving through at times. Water levels are great right now for good salmon movement. Crank bait fishing (Thunder sticks) has been consistently good during the mornings. Skein fishing behind log jams has been good during the day. Red and pink producing the most fish. Some Steelhead also beginning to come in near Insta Launch.

Pere Marquette River Salmon: Most of the numbers of King Salmon have moved into the Upper Pere Marquette River- “Flies Only” Section. Incredible numbers of fish in the holes, with spawning salmon on gravel. Taylor Road, Upper to Walhalla, Barothy’s, and Rainbow Rapids to Sulac is loaded with salmon. Upper and Lower flies only water is also fishing very well. Stone flies, eggs patterns, leeches, and fry patterns are all producing fish. White / Chartreuse streamers in the morning.

Muskegon River Salmon Fishing Report:(10/11) Cooler water temperatures and rain has helped bring in more salmon to the Muskegon River. Pods of fish are finally starting to move. A big push finally moved through Muskegon River and entered the river. There was a slight concentration above Thornapple in the “Pipe hole”, and a small pocket below the clay banks near Boat house. End of story, not much going on. Water temperature is still in the low 70’s. Too warm for salmon. Maybe a week or so and cold nights may bring up a few more Muskegon River salmon. I wouldn’t expect fishable numbers of salmon until mid October.

Here are our open Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates for the Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam) or the Muskegon River (Near Newaygo). Guided Salmon Trips are all Inclusive, Includes all the gear, tackle, rods, reels that you may need. Heck, We’ll even clean your salmon for you!

It’s should be an outstanding season with some really large fish this year. We are also expecting massive Coho Salmon migration later October, on the Big Manistee River – Fall Salmon Season.
Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports.

Full Day (8 hr Day) $395 ~ Half Day (4.5hrs) $295 (Two Anglers) ~ Text to Book>> (231) 519-7348 ​

Jigging. Casting. Float Fishing. We are gettin’ em!! Michigan Salmon Guides.

Good Numbers of Michigan King Salmon in the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and the Big Manistee River. Michigan Salmon Fishing.

Salmon trips have been going well. Good numbers of salmon so far and they are huge this year!! If you get one, it will be big!! Scattered shots of salmon pushing in from the Lake. Both Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake are starting to fill in. We are doing both jigging trips, and floats and skein for King Salmon in Michigan.

Lake Michigan’s water temperature in Ludington last night was 47.6 degrees. Definitely a lake flip to bring in fresh salmon into the Pere Marquette River. This is our second big Push of Kings to happen before Labor Day.

Trickle charge of salmon entering Pere Marquette Lake and River. Manistee Lake is also starting to load up. Michigan Salmon are large this year, I’ve heard of several 30 lb King Salmon landed off Manistee. It’s about to bust lose! Here are our available Michigan salmon fishing dates listed below.

ALL INCLUSIVE GUIDED SALMON FISHING>> $395 full day.
(8 hrs) $295 half day. (4.5hrs)

Thomas with a gorgeous salmon from the Pere Marquette River mouth in Ludington.

Starting to see good numbers of salmon in Pere Marquette Lake. Some salmon are entering the river. Early Season King Salmon.

Salmon are lots of fun! Good numbers starting to enter the rivers. Michigan Salmon Fishing. Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake have good numbers of fresh King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Skamania Steelhead, Lake Trout, and Fall Steelhead. Fishing Should be excellent this fall.

This year class of Salmon are in very good condition. Fat and healthy. Great table fare for sure!

Michigan King Salmon on the brain!

Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates available for the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and Big Manistee Rivers. ($395 / 2 anglers) All inclusive guided Michigan Salmon Fishing River Trips.

Michigan Salmon Fishing Guides – We’re very excited about the up coming 2018 Fall Salmon Season on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee Rivers. We have a limited, 5 guide boats available for salmon fishing.

Guided Salmon Trips are $395. Half days are $295. Per two anglers.

** A third angler may be added to any trip for an additional $100. (Two angler fish at a time)

It’s should be an outstanding season with some really large fish this year. We are also expecting a massive Coho Salmon migration on the Big Manistee River – Fall Salmon Season. Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports.

Text to book (231) 519-7348 or Book Now!

Bobbers & Skein on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Rockin those big Kings!

Skein Ballin’ the Lower Pere Marquette River.
One of our most popular guided fishing trips is fishing King Salmon on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Drifting Skein (Fresh Salmon Eggs) From Indian Bridge to Scottville is a very productive method of salmon fishing. Bait Casters, Center pinning, or spin fishing works very well. King Salmon actually BITE salmon eggs under a float!! (Yes, I said bite salmon eggs) Salmon bite skein like a blue gill, followed by a hook set that sounds like a Muzzy broad head through a rib cage. No holds barred – Hand to hand combat with Michigan’s King Salmon. The Woodland Chinook of the Pere Marquette River.

Michigan King Salmon ~ Muskegon River (231) 519-7348


Michigan King Salmon - Ludington
Michigan Trout Fishing Report
Michigan Smallmouth Bass Fishing Reports

Muskegon River Trout fishing is going streong at this time.  Excellent hatches, such as the Gray Drake, Isonychia Bicolor, and Cinnamon Sedge Caddis.  These hatches generally occur during the evening.  Afternoon hatch fishing trips have been the most productive during the day.  

Smallmouth Bass fishing on the Muskegon River.  June, July, and August offer some of the finest summer time fishing in Michigan.  These fish are powerful, and love to fight!!   There are multiple ways to fish them, with light spinning gear, and fly fishing being top on the list. 

Michigan River Sucker Spawn - Sucker Spawn Fishing Muskegon River
Steelhead Eggs and Salmon Fry - Muskegon River Sucker Spawn
Michigan Salmon Guides for the Manistee River. King Salmon Guides MI

Many of the harbors along the lake shore are starting to see Salmon enter the rivers. The Lake Michigan Water temperatures “Flipped” or dropped significantly over the last several days, kicking off some very good Salmon fishing.   Starting to see many King Salmon in the Little Manistee River near Stronach Rd. Lots of Kings in the pools below the “Tubes” on the Little Manistee River.   Fishing floats and Salmon Skein eggs below a float, drifted through the deeper holes, has been producing some fish.  Flossing with a single trout bead, and black stone fly has also been very productive when fishing for King Salmon.  Please remember while flossing, Salmon and Steelhead MUST be hooked in the mouth, to be a legal catch. Anglers must be 100′ from the weir while fishing.  I know its tempting to snag them there but please don’t do it! 

King Salmon from the Big Manistee River. September 2023
DNR fishing reports for the Manistee River. 2023

The Big Manistee River is now at full peak, King Salmon fishing! There are lots on fresh Kings entering the river from the Lake Michigan, with new fish entering the river daily. Good numbers of Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and a handful of Fall Steelhead.   Best methods for fishing have been floats and skein eggs. Red or bright pink, has been the ticket for fish holding in the deep holes. Casting Thunder stick lures have also been working very well, especially during the morning hours.  Salmon are also beginning to dig gravel and spawn. Flossing is in full effect.  Long leaders with pencil weights, and dark flies have been fishing very well for spawning salmon.

Water levels are low and clear, making for excellent wading below Tippy Dam. Look for good fishing over the next few weeks.  Plenty of Salmon, with a bunch more coming. 

 If you need some Salmon fishing supplies, or rod and reel combos, stop in at Pappy’s Bait and Tackle. They have everything you need!   You have Herb clean your fish.  They also have Salmon for sale, from the Little Manistee River.

We have guided Salmon trips available for the Big Manistee River below Tippy dam.   Full Day ( 6hrs) $500 per 2 people. Half days available (4hrs) for two anglers. ($400 / 2 ppl).  Fish cleaning, and all gear and tackle is included. 

Text or book on the website.  (231) 519-7348 

Tippy Dam Steelhead fishing
Guided Fall Steelhead Trips - Tippy Dam

As our Big Manistee River King Salmon run winds to an end, we look forward to Fall Steelhead fishing through November and December.  With 2024 being one of the largest Salmon runs in history, it’s no wonder, this Fall Steelhead will be fantastic this year. Kings and Steelhead go hand in hand. If you have a great Salmon year, the Fall Steelhead and Lake Trout will be excellent.   Here at Tippy Dam, we are starting to see, and catch good numbers of both super skippers, and adult Steelhead.  Low water hasn’t slowed them down. Steelhead rush up to the Tippy Dam area for the constant salmon egg production.  Salmon eggs are pure protein for Trout, and Steelhead.  

With eggs being the only thing on the menu, that puts bead fishing into over drive!  light colored natural bead colors, such as natural orange and peach have really been fishing well.  10 mm Beads seem to be working the best. Look for Steelhead fishing to really heat up if we get some rain at the end of October. 

We have guide dates available for Steelhead on both the Muskegon River, or the Big Manistee River below Tippy.  Send us a text for booking.  (231) 519-7348

Michigan Winter Steelhead Guides
Michigan Steelhead Fishing Guides

Much more mild than normal, Winter tempratures have offered anglers some great Steelhead fishing oppertunities. The Muskegon and Manistee Rivers has had excellent migrations of Fall and Winter Steelhead, with fresh Steelhead entering from the lake daily. 

Trout Beads, Spawn Sack, Jigs with Waxworms, all fishing well. 

Text to Book >> (231) 519-7348

Click here to make a Steelhead Fishing Reservation

 

Manistee River below Tippy Dam, has been fishing extremely well.  Good numbers good, clean Fresh King Salmon, have loaded up on the gravel shoals.   Absolutely, lots of salmon!  Steelhead are also starting to show up in good numbers.  Recent rains from this week, have brought in a lot of new fish as well.   Things are look good, as late October is super prime time for the Big Manistee River King Salmon fishing in Michigan. 

Guided Fall Steelhead Trips - Tippy Dam

Big Manistee River Salmon and Steelhead – Guided Fishing Adventures in Western Michigan. 

Michigan Trout Fishing Reports
Michigan Trout Fishing Reports

Hatch Master’s Evening Special – 5pm -10pm 

Fly Fishing Evening (After work) Special for two anglers – Muskegon River 
( $295 for two anglers – 4.5 hours )

Both Trout fishing, and Smallmouth are going strong on the Muskegon River. Gravel redds on the Muskegon River continue to have Red Horse Suckers, and Great Lakes Suckers spawning on the gravel shoals.  King Salmon Fry (Salmon Smolt) are the main food source in the river at this time. Sucker Spawn for trophy Brown Trout is coming soon.  

Morning Spinning Brown Trout – Smallmouth Bass Trips 
Trophy Brown Trout on crank baits – Smallmouth Bass on soft plastics. 
7am – Noon ~ ($295 for two anglers) 
All inclusive guided fishing on the Muskegon & Big Manistee Rivers. 

     We are very excited to be able to resume guiding at this time.  Both Steelhead and Trout trips are now available.  If you had a deposit from April, you may now float it to a new date.  Now is also a great time to book a Michigan Fall Salmon trip as well.  Many of our rescheduled trips have moved to September and October.  Its a good time to get on the salmon calendar now.  

     We look forward to fishing will you. Thanks for the helping us get through this!!  

Full Day Guided Fishing Reservation  or Text to book (231) 519-7348

 

Michigan Trout Fishing Report – Trout fishing on the Mighty Muskegon River and Big Manistee River, has been going well. Good numbers over both winter hold overs, (12″ – 18′) and this year’s recently stocked hatchery Michigan Trout. (8″ – 10″) Plentiful Trout makes for a really great day of guided fishing with constant activity. Lots of Trout, and lots of catching.  Both morning (light Spinning tackle) and afternoon-evening trips are going well. 

Michigan Trout Fishing Reports
Trophy Trout are available during May. The Muskegon River Sucker Spawn attracts huge trout!
Michigan Trout Fishing Report
May and June offer the best times for larger, trophy Muskegon River Trout.

A variety of techniques have been working very well for Michigan Trout fishing. The best techique for Trout has been casting spinners on light spinning tackle. This technique in not a big fish trick but, more a less a numbers gig. Great for kids, (We pinch the barbs down, barbless) Because it’s much safer, and doesn’t injure the Steelhead and Salmon Smolt that we catch. I’m personally a fan of barbless hooks for Trout.  Tons of Trout are caught so it’s not a big deal to lose a few.  This in an excellent trip to introduce kids into river Trout fishing. 

Michigan Trout Fishing - Trout Reports MI
Muskegon River Sucker Spawn.
Michigan Trout Fishing Reports
Summertime Trout Fishing on the Muskegon River.

We are offering all inclusive, guided Trout Fishing Trips for the Full Day for $350 ( $50 Discount for Summer) and the evening “Hatch Master’s Special, evening dry fly Trout fishing trip.  (4pm – 9pm) for $250 – Evening Trips. 
Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

Manistee River Salmon Fishing Reports – Tippy Dam (231) 519-7348


Manistee River Salmon Fishing Reports
King Salmon Fishing- Manistee River Salmon
Manistee River King Salmon _ Tippy Dam

Many of the harbors along the lake shore are starting to see Salmon enter the rivers. The Lake Michigan Water temperatures “Flipped” or dropped significantly over the last several days, kicking off some very good Salmon fishing.   Starting to see many King Salmon in the Little Manistee River near Stronach Rd. Lots of Kings in the pools below the “Tubes” on the Little Manistee River.   Fishing floats and Salmon Skein eggs below a float, drifted through the deeper holes, has been producing some fish.  Flossing with a single trout bead, and black stone fly has also been very productive when fishing for King Salmon.  Please remember while flossing, Salmon and Steelhead MUST be hooked in the mouth, to be a legal catch. Anglers must be 100′ from the weir while fishing.  I know its tempting to snag them there but please don’t do it. Starting to see good numbers of King Salmon loading up in Manistee Lake, and Pere Marquette Lake.  Charter boats have been doing well there the last few days.  North East winds have improved Salmon fishing. Jigging PM Lake has also been productive. There has been a handful of Skamania Steelhead, and King Salmon at Tippy Dam, Manistee River.                                                 
     Text to Book>>> (231) 519-7348

Manistee River Steelhead Fishing - SPring Steelhead in Michigan. Guided Steelhead Tippy Dam
Michigan Steelhead Fishing Guides

The Manistee River below Tippy Dam has just received a nice push of bright, chrome Spring Steelhead.  Good numbers of Steelhead the past few days.  Spring snow melt and recent rains have brought water levels up, to near perfect flow levels.  Steelhead fishing should remain very good during all of March and April.    

  Capt Daryll has been doing very well fishing with floats and beads.  Bright colors, and variants of chartreuse, pink, and natural orange have all been working well for Steelhead and Trout. Feather jigs tipped with waxworms have also been fishing well.  Mornings and the last two hours before dark, have been the best bite.  Our afternoon half days have been fishing well, with slightly warmer water temperatures. Look for more Steelhead entering the river each day.     

Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing
Salmon Fishing Tippy Dam _Manistee River

Manistee River Salmon Fishing – Tippy Dam Recreational Area 
Salmon fishing is in full swing now with good numbers of Kings on gravel, visible spawning fish.  Lots of both Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Fall Steelhead, King Salmon, and Lake Trout near Tippy Dam.  Recent rains have pulled salmon into the upper sections of the Manistee River. Salmon fishing should be excellent from here on out. 

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Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing - Michigan
Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing _ Michigan
Manistee River Salmon Fishing
Jigging in Manistee Lake has been proving effective for moster King Salmon. Salmon fishing is now good through the Manistee River, near Tippy Dam.
Manistee River Salmon Fishing

Strong Winds and current change has brought good numbers of Michigan King Salmon into the River. Kings continue to move throughout the river system, up to the Tippy Dam area. Casting crank baits and fishing skein under a float has been the most productive for us. The main run of salmon has entered Manistee Lake. Salmon fishing should be good from here on out…

PM King Salmon _ MI Salmon Fishing
Dustin with a gorgeous bright King Salmon from Manistee Lake. Salmon entering the Manistee River daily.
Pere Marquette Salmon Fishing Guides
Zack with a huge buck!! Fresh Kinges in the Manistee River. Salmon season is in full swing. Book Now!!

There seems to be good numbers of bright King (Chinook) Salmon in Manistee River.  Salmon are beginning to ascend the Manistee River below Tippy Dam. Michigan Salmon fishing is going strong. Cooler water temperature and a North East wind has brought in Salmon.    Morning fishing has been fishing the best.  Jigging in Manistee Lake, Floating bobbers with fresh Salmon skein eggs, Trout bead fishing has all been producing good Salmon catches.  

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Michigan Salmon Fishing - Manistee River
King Salmon are big this season! Starting to see new Salmon entering the river near the train trestle and Insta-Launch.
Manistee River King Salmon Fishing below Tippy Dam
Starting to see fresh King Salmon below Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River. Higher water levels are bringing Salmon in from Lake Michigan.

Recent high water levels over the past several weeks have brought in a fair number of fresh bright King Salmon on the Big Manistee River. The lower sections near the train trestle near Insta-Launch has been fishing well. Casting crank baits (thundersticks) Mag Lips, and drift Salmon skein under a float has been producing some very respectable fish, both King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Summer Run Skamania Steelhead.  Salmon fishing has been best first thing in the morning, when light levels are low.    Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348 

Manistee River King Salmon
Casting Thundersticks has been producing some very nice Salmon. The train trestle area and Insta-Launch is producing nice King Salmon, Steelhead, and Coho Salmon.
Manistee River King Salmon
Chrome King Salmon from the Manistee River. New Fish entering the river daily.

The best Salmon fishing on the Big Manistee River is during early September through late October and November for King Salmon. Steelhead and Coho Salmon are found below Tippy Dam in October and Novermber. Guided Salmon, Trout, Steelhead, and Smallmouth Bass trips, tours, and charters on the Big Manistee River below Tippy Dam. 

King Salmon fillets - Tippy Dam Recreation Area
Fresh King Salmon & Coho Salmon Fillets at Tippy Dam Recreation Area - Fish Cleaning Sation.
Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing - Manistee River Michigan

Michigan Weekly Salmon Report- Manistee River- Tippy Dam – (231) 519-7348


Pere Marquette Salmon Fishing Guides_ Michigan DNR Reports
Michigan Salmon Guides for the Manistee River. King Salmon Guides MI

Manistee River is starting to see signs of life below Tippy Dam.  Starting to see good numbers of King Salmon below Tippy Dam.  We received a couple inches of rain last week, which helps with the migration.  Cold nights have been a key factor, helping move fish Many of the harbors along the lake shore are starting to see Salmon enter the rivers. The Lake Michigan Water temperatures “Flipped” or dropped significantly over the last several days, kicking off some very good Salmon fishing.   

Starting to see many King Salmon in the Little Manistee River near Stronach Rd. Lots of Kings in the pools below the “Tubes” on the Little Manistee River.   Fishing floats and Salmon Skein eggs below a float, drifted through the deeper holes, has been producing some fish.  Flossing with a single trout bead, and black stone fly has also been very productive when fishing for King Salmon.  Please remember while flossing, Salmon and Steelhead MUST be hooked in the mouth, to be a legal catch. Anglers must be 100′ from the weir while fishing.  I know its tempting to snag them there but please don’t do it!

King Salmon from the Big Manistee River. September 2023
DNR fishing reports for the Manistee River. 2023

(8/28) During the past couple of days, the area below Tippy Day has finally received a nice batch of King Salmon. Michigan Salmon Reports indicate that the Big Manistee River (Tippy Dam) has a lot of King Salmon this year!! 
 The area near Pine Creek, Pastor Creek, and Bear Creek all have good numbers of Kings staging in front of the creeks with cooler water.  Float fishing with fresh Salmon skein (Rocket Red) has been the best. 14 mm bright red soft beads are also fishing well.  Casting crank baits has been fishing well in the morning. New fish entering the river each day. Numbers of King and Coho Salmon are up from last year. 
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Michigan King Salmon fishing is in full swing now! Good numbers of Michigan Salmon, both Coho, and King Salmon, have entered Western Michigan rivers in good numbers,  Heavy North Western winds have put the salmon against the shorelines, and entering the rivers.  Pere Marquette River, and the Big Manistee River have consistently  produced good catches of salmon, both from the boats, and wading.   Text to book a Salmon fishing guide>> (231) 519-7348

We are open, and guiding now!! Trout  & Smallmouth Bass is very good on the Muskegon River at this time. Casting crank baits. streamers, or anything that resembles Salmon fry at this time. Salmon fry are the main food right now. Sucker Spawn is also going strong at this time. Excellent trout fishing coming up!! 

Michigan Trout Fishing - Trout Reports MI
Michigan Trout Fishing
Big Trout on the Muskegon River. Casting Crank baits and Streamers. Both techniques are effective now.
Welcome to the weekly Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Grand, and Big Manistee River for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. Updated DNR fishing reports for Western Michigan rivers, including Manistee, Tippy Dam, and Pere Marquette River for Steelhead and Trout fishing.  We recommend booking Betts Guide Service for guided Steelhead fishing guides.

The best available Michigan Steelhead Fishing Dates are  February, March, April, and May. Best Steelhead fishing dates are November, March, April, and May.  We offer conventional tackle, spinning gear, and fly fishing techniques for Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Steelhead Fishing.   (231) 519-7348
Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports
Michigan Spring Steelhead Fishing

Water levels are finally back to normal with very good Steelhead Fishing conditions on the Muskegon, Grand, and Big Manistee Rivers. Starting to more bright Spring Steelhead entering the lower river.   Float fishing with beads and spawn continues to produce the most fish. Brightly colored beads have been working well.  Fly Fishing with Black Stone flies, and Salmon Fry patterns are also producing. 

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Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports
Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports _ Muskegon River

Michigan Steelhead Fishing has been excellent on most western rivers. Muskegon River, Grand, and Big Manistee River have been fishing exceptionally well for Steelhead.  Float fishing with beads or spawn has been best.  Casting small crank baits has also been good.  Tiny jigs tipped with two wax worms has also been producing fish. Steelhead and Trout both love a small jig tipped with wax worms. Back dropping plugs has also been doing well for Fall Steelhead.

Michigan Spring Steelhead Fishing
Muskegon River Spring Fishing Reports

Great Success!  Michigan offers the best is Steelhead fishing. Good numbers of bright Fall, Winter, and Spring Steelhead. There’s no doubt the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Grand Rivers offer the best Steelhead fishing in the Mid West.   Lake Michigan has ample food and forage base for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Lake Trout, and King Salmon.  Extra food has made for some larger that average Steelhead and Salmon this fall.  We should have excellent Steelhead fishing throughout the late Fall and Winter

Muskegon River Steelhead Reports
The best available Michigan Steelhead Fishing Dates are  February, March, April, and May. Best Steelhead fishing dates are November, March, April, and May.  We offer conventional tackle, spinning gear, and fly fishing techniques for Steelhead. Make Fishing Reservations for Steelhead Fishing.   (231) 519-7348