Manistee River Fishing Charters

31 Fishing Charters

Manistee River Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Manistee River

Top Manistee River Destinations

Manistee River: 31 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(89 reviews)
Brethren
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(29 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $650
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $550
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(113 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(30 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $700
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(49 reviews)
Brethren
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(170 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(14 reviews)
Brethren
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $325
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(22 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(5 reviews)
Brethren
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $350

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Manistee River

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Manistee River are: Full list of top fishing charters in Manistee River

The average price for a private 4 hour Manistee River fishing trip is $533, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $602 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Manistee River that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Manistee River are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Manistee River are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Manistee River are:

Many fishing charters in Manistee River provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Manistee River are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Manistee River?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Manistee River are:
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $317
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $625
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ $597
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ $450
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $508

Countless rivers in the US offer great fall fishing experiences but Manistee River fishing has to be up there with the best of them. Located in northern Michigan, the river passes through many villages and great fishing spots, before finally flowing into Lake Michigan. The Manistee River is rich with strong currents, calm pools, rocky bottoms, and cool waters that move swiftly. This means it's the perfect habitat for a whole variety of famous freshwater fish.
 

Where to Go

Even though the river is around 230 miles long, the most popular fishing spots are in its lower part. Only 25 miles long, between the Tippy Dam (close to Brethren) and Lake Michigan, this part of the river doesn’t freeze during winter, which makes it a year-round getaway for fishing. The local fishing guides take pride in these “Gold Medal” waters, which means you can find huge Rainbow and Brown Trout here. Trout are a part of everyday fishing trips and a fantastic species for novices to target. More experienced anglers catch them too, but they make the pursuit more challenging by using fly fishing equipment.
 
The Manistee River is wadeable in most parts, so check if your fishing guide runs these trips as well. Use this as a chance to explore the river’s creeks, especially Bear Creek around Brethren. You only need a pair of reliable chest waders and you’re ready to go.
 
Full day trips are the safest way to reach your catch maximum but you can also take a half day trip and use the rest of the day to hike on the Manistee River Trail.
 

When to Go

Trout fishing is persistent year round and you can always count on Rainbow, Brown, and Lake Trout action. But the target list doesn’t end there – the Manistee Rivers also holds Chinook and Coho Salmon. Giant Salmon start their annual spawn run in September, when they move upstream from Lake Michigan to Manistee.
 

Need to Know

  • Every angler over 16 years of age needs to purchase a Michigan All Species fishing license (daily or annual). You can purchase it online or at any sports shop and license retail center.

  • Depending on the section of the Manistee River you’ll be fishing, there are different regulations when it comes to catch size and number of fish you can keep.

 
When your fishing trip ends, it doesn’t mean the fun is over. All fishing guides in the area let you keep your catch, so you’re bound to have a tasty lunch once you return to land. With so many species on offer, it’s easy to see why fishing the Manistee River is one of the best river angling experiences you can have!
 
Manistee River
Excellent
4.6 / 5
Based on 27954 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January
The beginning of the year is best for Rainbow Trout. Parts of the river downstream do not freeze during winter and you can target this species here on a fly or using live bait.
 
February
Rainbows and Browns are still your best shot at this time of the year. Find a fishing guide that will take you anywhere between Lake Michigan and the Tippy Dam.
 
March
Different types of Trout still rule these waters, so you only need to choose which fishing technique you’re going to use to catch them.
 
April
Trolling close to Lake Michigan is popular, as well as pier fishing. Upstream, wade fishing is a better option. Trouts are the main targets. 
 
May
As the water gets warmer, Chinook and Coho Salmon are on their way to the lake. Fishing the river just got that much more exciting!
 
June
This is often considered to be the Manistee River’s peak fishing season. Both Trout and Salmon can be found here in huge numbers, so you just need to choose what you want to catch.
 
July
If you’re fishing in the area close to Lake Michigan, head out to the lake and target Walleye. You can’t find them in the river.
 
August
Salmon are still in the deeper water of the lake, looking for colder spots. Trolling for them should do the trick. Trout are in the Manistee River, as always.
 
September
Chinook and Coho start their autumn run, so the best places you can fish for them are at the mouth of the river. 
 
October
As it gets colder, the main action moves from the lake to the river. Salmon are still present in good numbers, so catch them while they’re still here.
 
November
Once again, Steelhead and Brown Trout reign supreme! Explore the Manistee River but don’t forget to check the creeks. Challenge yourself with a fly rod!
 
December
Downstream, the river isn’t frozen and you can catch fish the usual way. If you want to try ice fishing, make sure to go with an experienced fishing guide.
 

Manistee River fishing calendar

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Be patient and time your trip. He will find the fish, and enjoy the day. The boat is excellent as well as the captain.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be patient and time your trip. He will find the fish, and enjoy the day. The boat is excellent as well as the captain.
Brian  S.
Brian S.
Make sure you have a dependable GPS to find your way, the area can be a bit confusing if you're a total stranger to it.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Make sure you have a dependable GPS to find your way, the area can be a bit confusing if you're a total stranger to it.
John  G.
John G.
The salmon are running by the thousands!! Also saw some huge brown trout caught. The whole experience was just awesome and fun! And if you love the outdoors, Michigan that time of year on the river is beautiful.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The salmon are running by the thousands!! Also saw some huge brown trout caught. The whole experience was just awesome and fun! And if you love the outdoors, Michigan that time of year on the river is beautiful.
Matthew  C.
Matthew C.
Make sure fish are showing up in large numbers and are biting frequently.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Make sure fish are showing up in large numbers and are biting frequently.
Nichole  H.
Nichole H.
I'd recommend Captain Gabe with Elsie K Charters and he'll take care of you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I'd recommend Captain Gabe with Elsie K Charters and he'll take care of you.
Jennifer  S.
Jennifer S. New Hudson, MI
Absolutely with the big Manistee and the little Manistee converging and where they do it's an excellent area to Target salmon recommend it to anybody had a great time and planning next year's trip already
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Absolutely with the big Manistee and the little Manistee converging and where they do it's an excellent area to Target salmon recommend it to anybody had a great time and planning next year's trip already
Ron  O.
Ron O. Mason, MI
Sure, lots of charters there, so I presume fishing there is good at the right time. I will book again for a 2nd time with the same captain.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Sure, lots of charters there, so I presume fishing there is good at the right time. I will book again for a 2nd time with the same captain.
Sam  E.
Sam E. Warren, MI
We unfortunately came the day after they had really bad north wind storm. None the less we still caught Salmon and had a great time!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We unfortunately came the day after they had really bad north wind storm. None the less we still caught Salmon and had a great time!
Leslie  B.
Leslie B. Peoria, IL
Get a knowledgeable guide or captain. If you're not sure about if you get sea sick take medicine before you go out. Dress appropriately. Lot's of sites to see
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Get a knowledgeable guide or captain. If you're not sure about if you get sea sick take medicine before you go out. Dress appropriately. Lot's of sites to see
Ken  B.
Ken B. Portland, TN
Book multiple days. Lake Michigsn is unpredictable and you don't want to miss out!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book multiple days. Lake Michigsn is unpredictable and you don't want to miss out!
Bradley  T.
Bradley T. China Township, MI
Great fishing and great town with friendly people. The town has lots of charm.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Great fishing and great town with friendly people. The town has lots of charm.
Sabrina  A.
Sabrina A. Triana, AL
Coordinate the departure time with the Captain (the earlier the better) Be on time. Take snacks and beverages. HAVE FUN!!!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Coordinate the departure time with the Captain (the earlier the better) Be on time. Take snacks and beverages. HAVE FUN!!!
Vern  C.
Vern C. Rineyville, KY
Bring a jacket or wear layers as it gets a little cooler out on the water.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring a jacket or wear layers as it gets a little cooler out on the water.
Kristie  K.
Kristie K. Versailles, KY
Patience and flexibility. If you donโ€™t catch on the big lake, try a small one or river
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Patience and flexibility. If you donโ€™t catch on the big lake, try a small one or river
Bruce  H.
Bruce H. Orlando, FL
Make sure to have layers of clothes it can get chilly out on the water latter in the evening.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Make sure to have layers of clothes it can get chilly out on the water latter in the evening.
John  F.
John F. Sparta, MI
Have been to Manistee few times in the first week in July and havenโ€™t been disappointed yet with catching Salmon.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Have been to Manistee few times in the first week in July and havenโ€™t been disappointed yet with catching Salmon.
Dan  S.
Dan S. Cadillac, MI
If youโ€™re looking specifically for Salmon in Lake Michigan, then I would recommend Manistee, MI.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If youโ€™re looking specifically for Salmon in Lake Michigan, then I would recommend Manistee, MI.
David  L.
David L. United States
Manistee not only offers some great fishing . The scenery is beautiful too !
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Manistee not only offers some great fishing . The scenery is beautiful too !
Gerald  A.
Gerald A. Northwood, OH
Call Capt Mike class act all you have to do is bring a lunch something to drink the captain supplies, everything equipment, Baits
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Call Capt Mike class act all you have to do is bring a lunch something to drink the captain supplies, everything equipment, Baits
Ripping  R.  B.
Ripping R. B. Detroit, Michigan
While we had great weather, I'd recommend that you watch the forecast and come prepared.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
While we had great weather, I'd recommend that you watch the forecast and come prepared.
Jim  C.
Jim C. Tipp City, OH

Due North Guide Service
Due North Guide Service
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Brian is a fantastic guide. His knowledge of the river and personable approach are great. We ran the river on a day with a high pressure system moving in so the bites were slow, but I had a great time! I would recommend Bryan to anyone and look forward to booking again soon!
Matt  V.
Matt V.
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Our guide Keygan was great. He put us on fish and gave us tips for success. He was adapt at handling the boat and all the gear. Great time. Beautiful day in northern MI!
Ed  R.
Ed R.
Mainstream Guides - Wellston
Mainstream Guides - Wellston
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
My son and I had a really memorable trip with Aaron fishing for king salmon. He is very knowledgeable, puts you right where the fish are and away from crowds and was great at explaining things to beginners. Would highly recommend.
Christina  A.
Christina A.
Due North Guide Service
Due North Guide Service
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
We had a wonderful experience with Brian. He was great helping us with our limited experience and was very patient with my daughter. Brian had us significantly out-fishing those around us. The full day trip was well worth it with action the full 8 hours. We left tired and smiling.
Jacob  M.
Jacob M.
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Wonderful day fishing with my teenage boys. Captain Dan is a real pro. Landed five Coho.
Trevor  H.
Trevor H.
Due North Guide Service
Due North Guide Service
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Brian did a great job coaching my daughter. He put us in front of some big Salmon. It was a great day on the water.
Scott  M.
Scott M.
Reel To Real Fishing Charters โ€“ Manistee
Reel To Real Fishing Charters โ€“ Manistee
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(69 reviews)
Enjoyed trip with Captain Gabe. He was polite and knowledgeable of the lake and fishing.
Karl  C.
Karl C.
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
It was an enjoyable trip despite of some waves on the lake. The Captain was very experienced and made sure we would caught fish. The kids also were happy to caught their first salmon.
Gustavo  P.
Gustavo P.
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Perfect day out on the lake. Our captain and first mate were incredible and attentive. Answered all our questions, and were accomodating in every way possible. Thank you both for a wonderful trip.
Reade  T.
Reade T. Lansing, MI
Mainstream Guides - Wellston
Mainstream Guides - Wellston
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
Was my son and I second year booking with Aaron , a real pro in every sense of the word. Just a great guy to fish with whatever your experience level is.you can quit looking
Ronald  J.
Ronald J.
Pro Fish'n Sea Charters
Pro Fish'n Sea Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(29 reviews)
For the end of the salmon season we had a great time fishing! Thank you Captain Josh for the great experience! We'll see you again in August 2024!
Ben  R.
Ben R. Rogers City, MI
Dog Bone Charters
Dog Bone Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(85 reviews)
Greg and Chris were absolutely great! Hooks in the water before sunrise and first strike within 10 minutes! Wish we could've stayed out longer! Already booked for next year! Thanks guys, we had a great day!!!
Rich  S.
Rich S. Detroit, MI
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
This couple was very knowledgable and kind. They ensured that we had a successful trip and were just as excited for us when we caught fish. It was a pleasure for sure and definitely will be coming back. I would definitely use this specific charter again. Thank you captain and first mate Kirsten. I would like to say the women rule.(wink wink)
Rickie  A.
Rickie A. Carleton, MI
Dog Bone Charters
Dog Bone Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(85 reviews)
Beautiful September 16 day. The boat crew is very chill, well organized, and proficient. Each of the kids caught a salmon. Was hoping for more but it is late season, it is what it is. Next time.
Brian  H.
Brian H. Lansing, Michigan
Class Act Charters โ€“ Manistee
Class Act Charters โ€“ Manistee
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
We had a great time on the charter with Mike and Lou. My son pulled in a nice big king with Lou's help right at sunrise. Enjoyed some of the salmon that night for dinner and it was delicious. We are looking forward to a trip back to Manistee earlier next year to get some more fish on and fill up the coolers.
Kyle  C.
Kyle C. South Bloomfield, OH
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
We five boxed 6 Kings. Great trip. Friendly Capt. and mate. Would go again.
Eugene  S.
Eugene S. Clinton Township, MI
Pro Fish'n Sea Charters
Pro Fish'n Sea Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(29 reviews)
My wife and I had a great time. We were able to catch some fish and enjoy the lake. Capt Josh was very informative of us about the area too. I would recommend him to anyone. I will be back too.
James  R.
James R. Grovetown, GA
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Jeremy and his mate really work hard to get you where the fish are. The boat and all equipment was great. We ended up doing very well on a day where it was tough to find fish. We had a great time!! Thanks
David  A.
David A.
Reel To Real Fishing Charters โ€“ Manistee
Reel To Real Fishing Charters โ€“ Manistee
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(69 reviews)
Captain Gabe took 5 of us out on a rougher afternoon and managed to get us all a big fish on the boat! Very personable guy with plenty of stories told throughout the day, if we come out again weโ€™ll be back booking with him!
Easton  P.
Easton P. Howell, MI
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Jerryriggin Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Manistee
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Great time. Caught big salmon with Jeremy. He knows the game! He handled everything on the water we sat back and enjoyed and reeled them in. Looking forward to the next trip.
Jim  M.
Jim M. Bloomfield Hills, MI