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LANSING — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources weekly fishing report indicates early spring conditions continue to impact angling success across the state, with ice, cold water and runoff still limiting activity in many areas. Reports from Ludington and Manistee show some of the most challenging conditions, while river systems are beginning to see improving steelhead action as temperatures slowly rise.
Ludington/Manistee Area (Lake Michigan)
Fishing activity remains limited along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Mason and Manistee counties.
In Mason County, conditions have also been difficult, with floating ice and lingering cold water impacting access and catch rates. Boat launches have been partially obstructed at times, and pier fishing has produced minimal success.
In Manistee County, anglers reported slow fishing due to cold water temperatures, which have hovered in the mid-30s. Those trolling in the harbor and beyond the pier heads reported little to no success, and pier anglers using spawn and minnows also had poor results.
More recent reports indicate steelhead and brown trout activity has been slow in both ports due to stained water, wind and lingering ice along the piers.
Anglers targeting rivers in the region, particularly the Big Manistee River, are seeing better opportunities. Warmer temperatures and increased flows from snowmelt are pushing fresh steelhead into the system, with success reported in deeper runs and slower-moving water.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Fishing pressure has been light across much of northwest Michigan due to fluctuating weather and water conditions. Pier anglers in some locations have caught steelhead and brown trout using spawn, but success has been inconsistent. Ice conditions near shorelines continue to change rapidly, requiring caution.
Northeast Lower Peninsula
River systems are beginning to show signs of spring activity, with steelhead moving upstream. Inland lakes remain in transition, with ice-out conditions limiting access in some areas. Anglers are beginning to target early-season panfish in shallower waters as temperatures rise.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
Fishing remains slow overall, though some inland lakes are beginning to produce panfish in shallow, warming areas. Anglers are encouraged to focus on midday fishing when water temperatures are slightly higher.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
The Detroit River walleye run is underway, with anglers reporting increasing success as fish begin staging for spawning runs. Jigging techniques have been most productive in early spring conditions.
Upper Peninsula
Fishing activity has been limited due to lingering ice conditions, though some areas have reported catches of coho salmon and whitefish. Anglers continue to exercise caution as ice deteriorates and open water expands.
Fishing Tip of the Week
Late winter and early spring conditions can change rapidly. Anglers should use caution on remaining ice and be prepared for shifting conditions on both inland waters and the Great Lakes. Warmer afternoon temperatures often provide the best opportunity for success, particularly in shallow areas where fish are more active.
The weekly fishing report is compiled by DNR staff and reflects fishing conditions over the past several days. Conditions on the Great Lakes can change quickly depending on weather, wind and water temperatures.
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