LANSING — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has released its latest weekly fishing and waterways report, showing early spring conditions continue to impact anglers across West Michigan, particularly along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Mason and Manistee counties.
Cold water temperatures, lingering ice and recent weather patterns have slowed activity in both the Ludington and Manistee areas, though conditions are expected to improve as temperatures rise.
Ludington area waterways
In Ludington, including Pere Marquette Lake and the Lake Michigan shoreline, fishing activity remained limited over the past week.
Anglers reported slow success targeting brown trout and steelhead, with cold, stained water and remaining ice along the piers making conditions difficult. Boat access has been possible at times, but shoreline anglers have largely been unsuccessful.
Ice along the pier heads and fluctuating water clarity have been key factors, according to the DNR, which noted that early spring conditions can change rapidly depending on wind and temperature shifts.
Despite the slow start, Ludington’s harbor and nearshore waters typically see improving brown trout and coho salmon activity as water temperatures begin to rise later in April.
Manistee area waterways
Conditions in Manistee have mirrored those to the south, with slow fishing reported both on Lake Michigan and inland river systems.
Steelhead fishing has been sluggish, particularly along the piers where ice remains a concern. Anglers are urged to use caution as conditions near shorelines and harbor mouths can be unpredictable this time of year.
On the inland side, the Big Manistee River system continues to see seasonal movement of steelhead, though success has been inconsistent due to cold water and weather fluctuations.
Regional fishing report
The following regional fishing conditions were reported by the DNR:
Northwest Lower Peninsula — Steelhead fishing on rivers including the Pere Marquette and Manistee has been fair to slow, with success varying depending on water levels and temperature. Anglers are finding some fish in deeper holes and slower-moving water. Ice and debris remain factors in some locations.
Northeast Lower Peninsula — River fishing has been inconsistent, though steelhead continue to be present. Inland lakes still have lingering ice in some areas, limiting access.
Upper Peninsula — Ice conditions remain across many inland lakes, though some areas are beginning to open. Anglers are reminded that ice conditions are deteriorating and should be approached with caution.
Southeast Lower Peninsula — Steelhead fishing on rivers such as the Huron has been fair, with anglers using spawn and artificial baits. Some inland lakes are beginning to open, allowing early opportunities for panfish.
Southwest Lower Peninsula — Steelhead fishing has been reported as fair on rivers including the St. Joseph and Kalamazoo, with anglers finding success using traditional spring techniques. Inland lakes are seeing improving conditions as ice recedes.
Outlook
While current conditions remain challenging, the DNR expects fishing activity to improve steadily as ice disappears and water temperatures climb.
Historically, April marks the beginning of more consistent spring fishing along the Lake Michigan shoreline, with increased action for brown trout, steelhead and eventually salmon species in both Ludington and Manistee harbors and rivers.
Anglers are encouraged to monitor conditions closely and prioritize safety, particularly around piers, river mouths and launch sites where ice and cold water remain factors.
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