5.0(1 Reviews)Half Day Salmon Fishing on Manistee River
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
River Fishing
6hour guided Chinook salmon fishing on Manistee RiverLicensed Captain Isaac provides all tackle and techniquesSmall group experience with maximum 1 guest capacity
If you're looking for a serious salmon fishing adventure in Michigan, Captain Isaac Shields has you covered. This 6-hour guided trip on the Manistee River puts you right in the heart of some of the best Chinook salmon water in the state. Meeting up in Newaygo, you'll spend your day working productive stretches of river where these powerhouse fish stage up and feed. Isaac's a licensed inland sportfishing guide who knows this water like the back of his hand, and he's not just there to net your fish – he's going to teach you the river, the techniques, and the strategy that makes salmon fishing so addictive.
This isn't your typical lake trolling trip. River salmon fishing is a completely different game, and the Manistee delivers in spades. You'll be working current seams, deep pools, and staging areas where salmon hold before making their spawning runs. The scenery along this stretch is classic Michigan river country – wooded banks, clear water, and that perfect mix of riffles and deeper holes that salmon love. Isaac provides all your bait and tackle, so you don't need to worry about rigging up or figuring out what the fish are hitting. He'll have you dialed in from the start, whether that means swinging flies, drifting spawn bags, or working plugs through the prime spots. This is hands-on fishing at its finest, and you'll walk away knowing a lot more about reading water and presenting baits effectively.
Salmon fishing on the Manistee requires finesse and power in equal measure. Isaac will walk you through different presentation methods depending on conditions and where the fish are holding. You might find yourself learning to read current breaks and back eddies, understanding how salmon move through different water types, and mastering the art of the drift. The tackle setup is crucial here – you need gear that can handle a 20-pound Chinook making a downstream run, but still has the sensitivity to detect subtle takes. Isaac's got you covered with quality rods and reels spooled with fresh line, plus a tackle box full of proven baits and lures. River fishing means you're constantly adapting your approach based on water levels, clarity, and fish behavior, and that's where having an experienced guide really pays off.
"Had a great day on the river today, and caught several Rainbow Trout. 1 brown was caught as well! Captain Issac was punctual, easy to book with, so patient, and personable. Quite knowledgeable too, and isn't afraid to try different techniques! Really appreciated his First Mate too, and the time he took tending to our catch. If you're thinking about it, book with them, Reel'd In Outdoors, you'll be glad you did! Thank you boys, tight lines! Until next time!" - Eric
Chinook salmon are the ultimate freshwater gamefish, and the Manistee River system produces some absolute monsters. These fish average 15-25 pounds when they enter the river system, with plenty of 30+ pound specimens caught each season. What makes Chinooks so special isn't just their size – it's their fighting ability and the challenge they present to anglers. When a big King hits your bait, you'll know it immediately. They're aggressive fighters that use the river current to their advantage, making powerful downstream runs and aerial displays that'll test your drag system and your nerves. The peak season runs from late summer through fall, with September and October being prime time as fish stage in deeper pools and begin their spawning rituals. These salmon have spent years in Lake Michigan putting on weight and muscle, and when they enter the river system, they're at peak condition. The Manistee's cool, well-oxygenated water keeps them strong and active, making for some epic battles that'll leave you talking about the experience for years to come.
The Manistee River salmon run is one of Michigan's top fishing experiences, and slots with quality guides like Isaac fill up fast during peak season. This 6-hour trip gives you serious time on the water to learn the techniques, work different stretches of river, and hopefully tangle with some of these incredible fish. With all tackle and bait provided, plus Isaac's expertise and local knowledge, you're setting yourself up for success. Just bring your fishing license, appropriate clothing for changing weather, and some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you're new to salmon fishing or looking to up your river game, this trip delivers the kind of authentic Michigan fishing experience that keeps anglers coming back season after season. Don't wait – prime salmon fishing windows don't last forever, and you'll want to secure your dates while the fish are running strong.
5.0 out of 5.0Had a great day on the river today, and caught several Rainbow Trout. 1 brown was caught as well! Captain Issac was punctual, easy...
Newaygo, Michigan, USA