Northern Michigan Trout River Regulations: Manistee, Boardman, Betsie and Platte

As fall progresses, anglers fishing Northern Michigan’s rivers should be aware of seasonal closures and special regulations on the Manistee, Boardman, Betsie and Platte rivers. These rules protect important fisheries and spawning areas while helping anglers understand where fishing remains permitted.

First of all, you should get yourself a digital copy of Michigan's 2026 fishing regulations HERE.

Upper Manistee River: Above Hodenpyl Dam

The Upper Manistee River is a popular destination for anglers pursuing wild brown and brook trout. As fall progresses, anglers should be aware of seasonal restrictions. Thankfully, the Manistee from County Road 612 downstream to Lake Michigan is open all-year for fishing. There are seasonal possession restrictions you can find in the Michigan Fishing Regulation Guide.

If you're looking for great fall/winter trout fishing opportunities, this is one of our favorite options in Northern Michigan. Generally the rivers are quiet this time of year and perfect for throwing streamers. Please do not target spawning fish, they are important to the future of our fisheries!

Lower Manistee River: Below Tippy Dam

The Lower Manistee River below Tippy Dam is a major destination for fall salmon fishing, with steelhead fishing becoming increasingly important as the season progresses. From August 1 through November 15, special artificial-lure regulations apply to the section from Tippy Dam downstream to the railroad bridge below M-55. Also important to know is "the daily possession limit shall not include more than one (1) Rainbow Trout." Anglers should check the current Michigan DNR regulations for additional gear requirements and seasonal restrictions before fishing.

Boardman River Trout Season Closure

The trout season on the Boardman River upstream of Beitner Road (also known as Keystone Road) closed October 1, 2026, and will remain closed until the last Saturday in April 2027. 

This is a seasonal closure to all fishing above Beitner Bridge. 

The Boardman River from Beitner Bridge downstream to Lake Michigan is a "Type 4 Stream." This section is open to fishing all year but subject to seasonal possession restrictions that can be found in the Michigan Fishing Regulations Guide.

If you're fishing downtown Traverse City the Boardman River is "closed to fishing whenever weir is in place from the downstream side of the Front Street Bridge to the upstream side of the pedestrian bridge in the vicinity of the Boardman River."

Betsie River Special Regulations

The Betsie River has special regulations intended to protect its trout and salmon populations. From August 1 through November 15, special artificial-lure regulations apply to the section from Kurick Road downstream to M-22. The daily possession limit also may not include more than one rainbow trout.

Seasonal fishing closures apply around the Homestead Dam lamprey barrier and fish passage facility. From August 1 through November 15, fishing is prohibited within 300 feet of the facility. Anglers should pay close attention to posted boundaries in this area.

Platte River Special Regulations

The Platte River also has specific rules anglers should review before fishing. The daily possession limit may not include more than one rainbow trout, and anglers may use only a single-pointed, unweighted hook measuring one-half inch or less from point to shank.

Fishing closures also apply within 300 feet of the upper and lower weirs whenever the respective weir infrastructure is in place. Additionally, the section from the US-31 bridge at Veteran’s Park downstream to Platte Lake is closed to fishing from January 1 through March 31.

Check Regulations Before You Fish

Fishing regulations can vary by river section and season. Before heading out, consult the current Michigan Fishing Regulations booklet or the Michigan DNR’s online regulations to confirm boundaries, closures and gear restrictions.

For Northern Michigan anglers, understanding these rules helps protect our local fisheries and ensures a responsible fishing season.