Northern Michigan Fishing Report – Steelhead & Trout Conditions | April 3, 2026
April 3, 2026 Northern Angler Fishing Report
The fishing was really great this week before the big thunderstorm on Tuesday that cut our day short. Wednesday was really good, but cold and Thursday started out with freezing rain and then just a deluge of rain the entire day. The rivers are rising and it is unclear at this moment when they will peak and then start to come down, but the forecast calls for rain periodically through next week. At least it’s not snowing and I have to keep reminding myself that the past two years of low flows on the rivers, that we really need this rain to help the summer river levels and the aquifers. “April showers bring out the summer brown trout superpowers.” The fish will be well fed on worms and nightcrawlers coming into the opening day of trout season later this month.
Last Saturday’s F3T event at the Opera House saw record crowds and we will be able to support conservation efforts with the proceeds to The Watershed Center, Adams Chapter TU and the Upper Manistee River Association. Thank you for the support of this great event.
Don’t forget the Adams Chapter Trout Unlimited Banquet is coming up April 16! Come out and support coldwater resources! Check it out here
Manistee River
The Big Manistee was fishing really well before all this rain and the fish were still scattered throughout the system. Water temperatures were holding just below 40 degrees and maybe a few winter fish hit gravel, but we have been doing well on bright fish over the past 10 days or so. The flows are reaching the stage at which it is not safe to fish and I expect it to keep rising. You can check out the Manistee River flow gauge here. If you venture out, use bright colors and bigger flies so the fish can see them! Be careful and do not wade deep.
Betsie River
The Betsie River was in full swing this week before the rains and I would look for this river to really be on fire as the water starts to drop. Be very careful wading! Again, bright colored egg patterns and flashy nymph patterns should be in your fly box if you are heading to the Betsie.
Platte River
The Platte River opened up from US 31 downstream on April 1 and this river will be the first area river to come back into shape after the rains this week. Look for fish to be spread out throughout the system. This is a great river to swing flies and wade once the river levels hit a safe point to be on the river.