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Manistee River Steelhead: Top-Rated Half Day Trip

  • Published Date: July 18, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Brethren, MI, United States
  • $250 - $550 price range

Summary

Looking to chase some spring steelhead on the Manistee River? Captain Josh has you covered with this 5-hour private trip. For $250, you and a buddy can drift the river targeting those hard-fighting rainbow trout. Whether you prefer fly fishing or spinning gear, Josh will set you up with the right tackle. Pick a morning or evening slot from March 1 to May 1. No need to bring your own gear – it's all provided. Just remember your Michigan fishing license and dress for the weather. Veterans and first responders get a discount, which is a nice touch. The 3-day free cancellation policy means you can lock in your spot without worry. It's a great chance to get out on the water and try your luck at some spring steelhead action. With Josh's local knowledge, you're in for a solid day of fishing on one of Michigan's premier steelhead rivers.
Manistee River Steelhead: Top-Rated Half Day Trip

Spring Steel on the Manistee

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A picturesque scene of the town of Brethren

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Sea trout fishing in Brethren

Fired up! Brown Trout on the Manistee.

A lone angler fishing in Michigan

Lively Brown Trout!

Angler enjoys fishing in MI

Fresh! Brown Trout on the fly.

One fisherman fishing in Brethren

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Scenic shot of a beautiful coastal location in Brethren

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Scenic view of the fishing location in Brethren

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Scenic view of Brethren, a great fishing location

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A fisherman holding a beautiful rainbow trout in Brethren

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Image of a Spanish Mackerel caught while fishing at Brethren

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A picturesque scene of the town of Brethren

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Sea trout fishing in Brethren

Fired up! Brown Trout on the Manistee.

A lone angler fishing in Michigan

Lively Brown Trout!

Angler enjoys fishing in MI

Fresh! Brown Trout on the fly.

One fisherman fishing in Brethren

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Scenic shot of a beautiful coastal location in Brethren

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Scenic view of the fishing location in Brethren

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Scenic view of Brethren, a great fishing location

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A fisherman holding a beautiful rainbow trout in Brethren

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Image of a Spanish Mackerel caught while fishing at Brethren

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A picturesque scene of the town of Brethren

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Sea trout fishing in Brethren

Fired up! Brown Trout on the Manistee.

A lone angler fishing in Michigan

Lively Brown Trout!

Angler enjoys fishing in MI

Fresh! Brown Trout on the fly.

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Reel in Spring Steelhead on the Manistee

Get ready to hit the water for some of the best spring steelhead action Michigan has to offer. This half-day trip on the mighty Manistee River is your ticket to hooking into hard-fighting rainbow trout as they make their spring run. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, Captain Josh will put you on the fish and ensure you have a blast doing it. With both fly fishing and spinning options available, you'll be geared up for success no matter your preferred style.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step into the boat, you'll feel the excitement in the air. The Manistee is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, but it's the promise of chrome-bright steelhead that'll have your heart racing. Your 5-hour adventure kicks off with a quick safety briefing and gear check before you start drifting downstream. Captain Josh knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you'll be hitting all the prime lies and runs where steelhead like to hold. Expect to cover a good stretch of river, alternating between casting to likely spots and letting your line swing through deeper pools. The action can be fast and furious when you find a pod of fish, so stay on your toes!

Techniques & Gear Rundown

Whether you're a fly junkie or prefer the simplicity of spinning gear, this trip has you covered. For the fly anglers, we'll be primarily using indicator rigs with nymphs and egg patterns, or swinging streamers in the right conditions. If you're more comfortable with spinning gear, don't sweat it – drifting spawn bags or bouncing bottom with jigs can be just as effective. Captain Josh will have all the tackle you need, from 9-foot fly rods paired with floating lines to medium-action spinning setups spooled with 8-pound test. He'll walk you through the techniques as you go, helping you dial in your presentation for maximum hook-ups. Just remember to bring your Michigan fishing license and dress for the weather – layers are key in the unpredictable spring conditions.

Top Catches This Season

While every day on the water is different, anglers have been crushing it this spring. We've seen multiple fish in the 10-12 pound range, with a few monsters pushing 15 pounds. The average steelhead runs 6-8 pounds, but don't be surprised if you tie into something bigger. These fish are fresh from Lake Michigan and full of fight, so be ready for some screaming runs and acrobatic leaps. It's not uncommon for guests to land 3-5 fish in a half-day trip, with plenty more hook-ups to keep things interesting.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): The star of the show, these lake-run rainbows are the reason anglers flock to the Manistee every spring. Steelhead in this system typically range from 5-12 pounds, with some trophy fish pushing well into the teens. They're known for their incredible strength and stamina, often treating anglers to multiple jumps and long, powerful runs. The spring run usually peaks from mid-March to mid-April, but good fishing can be had throughout the entire March 1 to May 1 season. What makes steelhead so exciting is their unpredictability – one minute you're peacefully drifting along, the next your rod is doubled over and line is peeling off your reel faster than you can imagine. It's an adrenaline rush like no other in freshwater fishing.

While steelhead are the primary target, don't be surprised if you hook into some bonus species. The Manistee also hosts a healthy population of resident brown trout, which can reach impressive sizes. In the early part of the season, you might even tangle with a few late-run coho salmon that have held over from the fall. Each species brings its own unique fighting style and challenges, adding an extra layer of excitement to your day on the water.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about spring steelhead fishing on the Manistee that keeps anglers coming back year after year. Maybe it's the anticipation of that first big hit, or the way the morning mist rises off the river as you make your first cast. For many, it's the chance to test their skills against one of freshwater's most challenging gamefish in a beautiful, natural setting. Captain Josh's expertise and easy-going personality make the trip enjoyable for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to learn new techniques or just want to bend a rod, this half-day adventure delivers big time.

Time to Book Your Spot

Don't miss out on your chance to experience world-class steelhead fishing right here in Michigan. At just $250 for up to two anglers, this trip offers incredible value for both the seasoned steelheader and those looking to cross spring-run rainbows off their bucket list. With morning and evening departure options, it's easy to fit this adventure into your schedule. Remember, veterans and first responders get a special discount – just mention it when you book.

The 3-day free cancellation policy means you can lock in your dates without worry. Spring weather can be unpredictable, but Captain Josh will keep you updated on conditions and make sure you're set up for success. All you need to bring is your valid Michigan fishing license, some weather-appropriate clothing, and a good attitude – we'll take care of the rest.

So what are you waiting for? Those chrome bullets aren't going to catch themselves. Give Majestic Michigan Charters a call today and get ready for some of the best steelhead action the Great Lakes region has to offer. Trust us, once you feel that first big pull and see a fresh spring steelhead cartwheeling across the surface, you'll be hooked for life. Book now and make this spring one to remember on the mighty Manistee!

Learn more about the specie

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are a real treat to catch here on the Manistee. These beautiful fish average 5-10 pounds but can get up to 20+ in our waters. Look for them in faster currents near logs or rocks where they like to hide out. Spring is prime time as they run up from Lake Michigan to spawn. Rainbows put up an amazing fight - they'll jump clear out of the water and make blistering runs. It's a blast on light tackle. The meat is delicious too, with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. To land one, try drifting egg patterns or small nymphs through deeper pools. A local trick is to use brightly colored flies - chartreuse or hot pink work great when the water's a bit murky. Keep your casts short and precise to get your fly right in their feeding lane. With some patience, you've got a good shot at hooking into one of these gorgeous fish.

Rainbow Trout

About the Smoker drifter

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 5

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 6

Ready for some spring steelhead action on the Manistee River? This 5-hour private trip is your ticket to chasing those hard-fighting rainbow trout. For $250, you and a buddy can hit the water with Captain Josh, who'll tailor the experience to your fishing style - whether you prefer fly fishing or spinning gear. Pick a morning or evening slot that fits your schedule. No need to stress about equipment - all the gear and tackle are covered. Just remember your Michigan fishing license and dress for the weather. Veterans and first responders, there's a special discount waiting for you. With a generous 3-day free cancellation policy, you can lock in your spot worry-free. From March 1 to May 1, the Manistee's steelhead are calling. Don't miss your chance to drift the river and test your skills against these impressive fish. It's a perfect half-day escape for anglers looking to make the most of Michigan's spring fishing season.
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Experience the excitement of fishing on the Manistee River with Majestic Michigan Charters! Join Captain Joshua Miller for a memorable adventure targeting the best fish species in the area – book your trip today and make unforgettable memories!

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