NORTHERN MICHIGAN FISHING REPORT – BASS & TROUT CONDITIONS | MAY 29, 2026
This week we have turned the corner with some stable weather and warm days! The past few days have finally felt a bit like summer and has been a welcome change. Last week the fishing steadily improved and the results were pretty dramatic and those of us who have been waiting for some dry fly action for feeding trout. Evening spinner falls and trout really looking up are getting fired up and it has been a welcome change! WARNING: The mosquitoes are viscous and seem like blood sucking humming birds!!!
We have great new products at the shop and are fully stocked with all the flies and gear you need to find success on the local streams. Next weekend is our 10th Annual Cheese Cup, so be sure to join in the fun for a great cause! We have tons of great silent auction items, fun door prizes and we love to see everyone having fun and sharing stories at Earthen Ales where we wrap up this great event.
Manistee River Report
The Manistee River below Tippy Dam is starting to pick up in both trout and smallmouth action. Steady flows and temperatures have really improved the fishing this week. Fry patterns, streamers, and caddis have been very productive for trout. Bass have been feasting on all the fry and hatchery steelhead that are heading out to the lake. They are still in pre-spawn and the warmer temperatures have activated them to feed.
Upper Manistee River Report
The Upper Manistee has been steadily improving. Streamer fishing during the day has been productive and it seems like the trout have finally digested the massive amounts of night crawlers they consumed during the spring floods. By the looks of these fish, they are FAT and happy, not to shame any trout, but it is nice to see these healthy, well fed browns throughout the system. Their colors are super vibrant, and I have not seen better looking trout on the Manistee in quite some time. The water is still up a bit, but the color is perfect and fishing has been good. Evening dry fly activity is happening and be on the lookout for a variety on bugs- Mahoganies, sulphurs, and a few isos have been holding the trout's attention! The Manistee River is on the cusp on some good brown drake fishing, have those in your box! Light a cigar to keep the bugs at bay and fish until dusk!
Platte River
Fishing on the Platte River seems to be a bit more accessible for trout with all the access, and bridge closures on the Boardman-Ottaway River and it has been productive. Reports of good streamer and nymph fishing with the fish starting to look up. Try different caddis patterns and look for sulphurs in the evening. This is a great river to wade and enjoy some trout fishing.
Boardman Ottaway River
The Boardman Ottaway River still has limited float access with bridge closures obstacles in the river. Wading the river has been good, but be cautious and know that things have shifted in many locations. Wade with caution.. Fishing with streamers and nymphs are the most productive methods on this river. Try swinging some soft hackle flies in the riffles next time you fish the Boardman-Ottawy.