Fishing Report 12/5/25

Traverse City Area Fly Fishing Report – Early December

Winter has settled into northern Michigan, and fishing across the Grand Traverse region has slowed accordingly. Cold air, skim ice in the mornings, and short daylight windows have limited activity, but for anglers willing to layer up and brave the elements, there’s still opportunity — along with plenty of solitude.

Boardman River

The upper river is entering full winter mode, with low temps and lethargic fish. Nymphing slow, deep pools is the best bet. Small stoneflies, eggs, and attractor nymphs are producing an occasional trout, especially mid-afternoon when water temps bump a degree or two. Downtown you can find steelhead and stay warm fishing from the boardwalk.

Manistee River (Lower & Mid Sections)

Post-spawn brown trout are settling back into deeper holding water. Swinging small, natural-colored streamers at a slow pace can move a few fish, but strikes are subtle in the cold. Some anglers are doing well dead-drifting eggs and nymphs through the tailouts where browns are recovering.

Steelhead are present in the lower river, though activity is spotty. Focus on deeper runs, soft edges, and inside bends. Beads, small pale eggs, hex nymphs, and buggers remain reliable winter choices. Expect fewer but higher-quality opportunities.

Betsie & Platte Rivers

Both systems have good winter steelhead potential this week. Water clarity is on the clear side, so lighter tippet and smaller presentations are helping. Slow, methodical coverage is key — winter steelhead often sit tight and only move a foot or two to eat.

Overall Outlook

Fishing will be slow this week, but persistence can pay off. Expect quiet rivers, clean winter air, and the chance to connect with a post-spawn brown or a winter chrome steelhead. Afternoons are the most productive time window as water temps peak. Dress warm, move slowly, and fish even slower.

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