Pine River Fishing Forecast
Northern Michigan freestone river near Wellston, Manistee County
Opens Last Sat in Apr
General trout season on designated sections
Today's Fishing Conditions
Fair
Updated 8:48 PM
38°F
479 CFS
3 AM - 5 AM
WD-40
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Quick Facts
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Brook Trout
freestone
Spawning Seasons
Please respect spawning fish and their redds. Avoid fishing over actively spawning trout.
Brown Trout
Spawn months: October, November
Night spawning common. Males become very dark with pronounced kype during spawn.
Rainbow Trout
Spawn months: March, April
Resident rainbow trout spawn in smaller tributaries and tend to build smaller redds than steelhead.
Brook Trout
Spawn months: September, October
Males develop vibrant red bellies and white-edged fins during spawning. Early fall spawners.
Access Points & Parking for Pine River
Peterson Bridge
Upper river access to quality water.
Elm Flats
Popular access to productive water.
Low Bridge
Access to lower reaches.
Hoxeyville
Campground access.
How to Fish Pine River: Tips & Tactics
The Pine River is a beautiful northern Michigan stream offering excellent fishing for brown and brook trout in a scenic forest setting.
Best Times of Day
Morning and evening are most productive. Spring and fall offer excellent conditions. The Hendrickson hatch is notable.
Recommended Techniques
Classic small stream techniques work well. Match the hatches when active. Stealth is important in clear water.
Water Conditions
The Pine flows through scenic forest. Clear water with excellent insect life. The river is very wadeable.
Fly Selection
Hendrickson and Sulphur patterns work well. Caddis patterns throughout summer. Attractor dries in riffles.
Local Knowledge
The Pine receives less pressure than nearby rivers. Cadillac provides services. Excellent small stream character.
Local Tips
Cadillac provides services. The Pine offers quiet, quality fishing. Popular with canoeists - fish early.
When is the Best Time to Fish Pine River?
Spring
Hendrickson hatches begin. Excellent early season.
Summer
Caddis and mayfly hatches. Fish early and late.
Fall
Brown trout become active. Great conditions.
Winter
Limited - some open water fishing.
Recommended Equipment for Pine River
Rod
7.5 to 8.5-foot, 3 or 4-weight for small stream.
Line
Floating line for dry flies.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 5X-6X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Hip boots may suffice.
Essential Flies
Pine River Fishing Regulations
Season
Check Michigan DNR for current regulations.
Limits
Type classifications determine limits.
Special Regulations
Check for special regulations.
Bait Restrictions
Check by section.
Notes
Small stream - practice catch-and-release.
Always verify current regulations with Michigan fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Pine River
Local Fly Shops
- Schmidt Outfitters - Wellston
- The Northern Angler - Traverse City
- Cadillac Fly Shop
Guide Services
- Pine River Guides
- Northern Michigan Anglers
- Michigan Trout Guides
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
80 - 200 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
52° - 65°F
Ideal for active trout
Other Michigan Trout Rivers
Au Sable
Pere Marquette
Manistee
Boardman
Betsie
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