Upper Manistee
"I'd rather be known as a great fly fisherman..." ~ Everett Kircher, Founder of Boyne Resorts
The upper reaches of the Manistee River - or the Upper Manistee as most refer to it - is classic Michigan trout water in true form and contains some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the Midwest. With overhanging cedars, classic oxbow bends, and plenty of submerged timber, this river is a beautiful sanctuary for healthy populations of trout. Special regulations exist throughout much of the system to ensure quality angling experiences for generations to come. Brown trout are the dominant species with trophy trout over 20 inches possible. A healthy population of brook trout balance things out.
This is where modern day streamer fishing got its start. Pioneered by fly fishing icons Kelly Galloup and Russ Maddin, streamer fishing the 'Upper Man' can make for a productive day on the water. However, hatches are extremely prolific as well, with all of the classic Upper Midwest hatches present throughout the season. Fishing with terrestrial patterns and "mousing" late at night are also popular and effective methods of bringing large trout to the net on the Upper Manistee.
