Trout

There are three trout species most found in the surrounding river systems. Brown Trout are hard to identify, Lake-run Browns are predominately silver in color and the spots are often obscured while river Browns display more vivid spots and a blue hue behind their eye. The average lake run Brown weighs 8 pounds but can grow much larger. The average river Brown weighs 1 to 2 pounds but can grow much larger. The Pere Marquette River is legendary for producing large, memorable, brown trout. We know the river and are ready to put you on these incredibly beautiful fish!

Brown Trout are normally more cooperative on rainy or overcast days. They will take all manner of live bait as well as spinners or artificial minnows and flies. Brown Trout are a favorite of fly fishermen. Many will fish the hatches that occur during the day. These include Caddis flies, Stone flies, and many May flies. The biggest Browns are persued just before or after dark on Grey Drakes, Hexagenia, and mouse patterns.

The State record Brown Trout weighed in at 41.45 pounds and was 43 inches long and was caught in 2009.

*Rainbow Trout came to Michigan when eggs were imported from California in 1876. They were first stocked in the Au Sable River and then introduced to Lake Michigan in 1880. They can now be found in all corners of the state.

Some of Michigan's Best known trout streams are the Pere Marquette and the Manistee.