The Au Sable River in Michigan is a world-renowned fishing destination, celebrated as one of the finest cold-water trout streams in the Midwest. This 138-mile river flows through northern Michigan's Huron-Manistee National Forests before meeting Lake Huron at Oscoda, offering pristine scenery and exceptional angling opportunities. Designated a "Blue Ribbon Trout Stream" by Michigan DNR for 94 miles, its crystal-clear waters sustain healthy populations of wild brown trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout, with seasonal runs of steelhead and salmon enhancing the fishery.
Anglers particularly prize the legendary "Holy Waters" section near Grayling—a nine-mile, fly-fishing-only, catch-and-release stretch known for trophy brown trout and prolific insect hatches. Beyond this iconic stretch, the river's diverse habitats support sunfish, perch, and crappie, while the tailwaters below Foote Dam transform into a premier steelhead and salmon fishery during fall runs. Prime fishing times include April for stocked trout concentrations, late March for steelhead, and mid-October through November for salmon spawning, though twilight summer hours and overcast days offer consistent action year-round.
With 23 miles designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, the Au Sable combines unmatched biodiversity—including bald eagles and rare warblers—with accessible fishing via numerous public access points. Whether wading the intimate North Branch or drifting the main channel, this river delivers an unforgettable experience for novice and expert anglers alike, solidifying its status as a premier destination for freshwater fishing adventures.
