Northern Michigan Fishing Report – Steelhead & Trout Conditions | March 27, 2026
March 27, 2026 Northern Angler Fishing Report
This week we have seen some great fishing on the Big Manistee River and I expect things to really get going this next week with the forecast of warmer temperatures and a more spring-like weather pattern. The snow is starting to melt and the birds are becoming more active. Big flights of swans heading north were flying overhead and the sandhill cranes are calling in the marshes surrounding the river bottom.
There are still April steelhead dates available if you are looking to get out for some spring action! Give us a call at the shop and we can get you on the calendar. Thanks for a great F3T event this past weekend at the Opera House! We will be able to donate some great money to The Watershed Center and Adams Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Don’t forget the Adams Chapter Trout Unlimited Banquet is coming up April 16! Come out and support cold water resources! Check it out here
Manistee River
The Big Manistee has been in great shape this week and the fishing has been decent. Bright colored eggs have been the ticket- hot orange, chartreuse hues have been most productive and salmon fry and stoneflies have been getting the attention of the fish too! They have been super hot and fresh fish are showing up daily. This has been a great start to the season and it will look good for the next several weeks. The fish have been holding in the runs and holes and it seems all the area swamps are starting to break free of their winter grips and most of the action has been from Bear Creek upstream.
Betsie River
Reports from the Betsie River over the past week has been mixed. Seems a bit slower for this time of the spring season, but the colder temperatures and snow storm from last week has been the culprit of the current state of slower spring fishing on that river. This week's temperatures should really start to fire things up on the smaller rivers such as the Platte and the Betsie. Great rivers to wade and explore. Again, bright colored egg patterns and flashy nymph patterns should be in your fly box if you are heading to the Betsie.
Boardman River
Anglers fishing the Boardman River with floats have been getting fresh steelhead daily. Beads seem to be the most productive in bright colors. It is worth getting out before or after work if you are close to downtown.