As July winds down, the fishing continues.
Trout fishing on the upper Manistee has been decent for the time of year. The big bugs have come and gone and a lot of the larger fish are sitting deep digesting all they ate late in June and early July. The mid-sized trout and their efficient metabolism have them out with the smaller fish both looking to eat.
There hasn’t been much on the surface for hatches but having some generic Borcher’s Drakes in 10-14 will cover you for most bugs you are likely to encounter as well as Isonychias in size 12. Beyond that, the mid-mornings have some Tricos going but since they got started earlier then normal this season, it seems the hatch hasn’t been as consistent this year. Seems even the Tricos are now becoming sporadic, too.
Terrestrial fishing and attractors on the surface are working, too, just make sure they have some rubber legs to get the attention of fish as they drift near cover and wiggle. With the water being so clear, the streamer fishing hasn’t been much of an option for trout. I’m happy to report that water temps are back to high 50s in the a.m. and climb into the mid-60s in the afternoon but you will still want to monitor temps for the best fishing and the welfare of the trout populations. You also might consider waiting until afternoon to do your wet wading.
Smallmouth bass in the lower Manistee river has been decent, too, with the streamer bite being more reliable than the topwater/popper bite. Weed lines and drop offs near wood are key to holding fish. The high water floods we experienced in April really seemed to have moved the wood in the center of the river that historically held fish, down into log jams and corners making the river banks the target water.
Largemouth bass and Bluegill on the smaller lakes are keeping folks busy with bent rods as both beginners apply their new craft and veterans enjoy a non-technical day on the water. Small poppers for the bass near lily pads and drop offs with bluegill near weed lines and shallow structure.
Good luck.
Ted
Trout Fishing –July offers Trout, Tricos, and Terrestrials as dry fly fishing continues through August.
Smallmouth Bass – Lakes or Rivers, these eager to please fish bend the rod and continue to put smiles on faces.
2026 Season – Now booking for all seasons: Steelhead, Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Salmon & Learn to Fly Fish trips.