Premium Manistee River Salmon Trip | Majestic MI

Reel in Salmon Gold on the Manistee River

Get ready for a full day of non-stop salmon action on Michigan's legendary Manistee River. Our 9-hour guided trip puts you right where the fish are biting, with all the gear and local know-how you need to land the big one. Whether you're a fly fishing pro or prefer spinning tackle, we've got you covered. Join Captain Josh on his 16-foot drift boat for an unforgettable day chasing chrome in one of the Midwest's top salmon fisheries.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll meet at the boat ramp at the crack of dawn – 6:00 AM sharp. The early start gives us the best shot at hooking into fresh salmon as they push upriver. Captain Josh will get you dialed in with the right gear and tactics for the day's conditions. We'll drift productive runs, hit prime holding water, and cover lots of river miles in search of actively feeding fish. Expect a mix of casting and maybe some back-trolling depending on what's working. The action can be fast and furious when we find a pod of salmon, so be ready! We'll break for a quick shore lunch to recharge, then it's back to the fishing. By the time we wrap up in the late afternoon, your arms will be tired from battling these hard-fighting fish.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

On the Manistee, we primarily target salmon using two main techniques: fly fishing and conventional tackle. For the fly anglers, we'll be swinging streamers or drifting egg patterns under indicators. Big, flashy flies often trigger aggressive strikes from these ocean-run fish. If you prefer spinning gear, we'll use a mix of drift fishing with spawn bags, back-bouncing plugs, or casting spoons and spinners. Captain Josh has all the top-quality St. Croix rods, Shimano reels, and locally-tied flies you'll need – just bring your lucky hat. Don't worry if you're new to salmon fishing, we'll teach you the ropes and have you hooking fish in no time. The 16-foot drift boat gives us plenty of casting room and allows us to quietly slip into honey holes where the big boys are holding.

Species You'll Want to Hook

While this trip focuses on chum salmon, we often encounter other exciting species during our day on the Manistee. Here's a breakdown of what you might tangle with:

Chum Salmon: Also known as "dog salmon," these bruisers average 8-15 pounds but can top 20. They're famous for their aggressive fights and acrobatic leaps. Chums have a distinct purple and green barring when fresh from the lake. They typically run from late August through October, with peak action in September. Anglers love targeting chums for their hard hits and bulldog fighting style.

Chinook (King) Salmon: The big dogs of the Great Lakes, Chinooks can reach over 30 pounds. They start running in August, with the biggest push in September and early October. These chrome missiles will test your drag system and are prized for both their fight and their rich, orange flesh. Hooking a big king is an unforgettable rush – be ready for blistering runs and powerful head shakes.

Coho Salmon: Slightly smaller than kings but no less fun, cohos average 5-10 pounds. They show up in good numbers from September through November. Cohos are known for their acrobatics, often cartwheeling across the surface when hooked. Their bright silver sides and spotted blue-green backs make for beautiful photos.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

The Manistee River is hands-down one of the best places in the Midwest to tangle with hard-fighting salmon. Its crystal-clear waters, scenic woodlands, and strong annual runs make it a bucket-list destination for many anglers. Fall colors paint the riverbanks in brilliant reds and golds, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your fishing adventure. The satisfaction of battling a chrome-bright salmon in this pristine setting is tough to beat. Plus, with Captain Josh's years of experience on these waters, you'll gain invaluable insights into reading the river, perfecting your technique, and maximizing your chances of success. Many guests tell us this trip rekindled their passion for fishing or gave them their personal best catch.

Time to Book Your Spot

Don't miss your chance to experience world-class salmon fishing right here in Michigan. Our Full Day Salmon Trip runs from August 15 to December 31, but prime dates fill up fast. At $450 for a private 9-hour trip, it's an incredible value for the memories you'll make. Remember, everything's included except your fishing license and weather-appropriate clothing. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to scratch that salmon itch or a newbie eager to learn, this trip delivers the goods. Give us a call or book online to secure your spot – the fish are waiting, and the Manistee is calling your name!