Pine River Michigan Trout Fishing Conditions
The Pine River in Wexford and Lake counties is one of Michigan's best trout rivers and carries both National Wild and Scenic River designation and a devoted following among anglers who know cold, swift, wild water. It is not an easy river to fish — but the wild brown trout, strong steelhead run, and remote character make the effort worthwhile.
The Pine River runs fast. Its gradient is steeper than most Lower Peninsula trout rivers, creating the kind of broken water and deep hydraulic runs where large brown trout hold tight to the bottom and wait for the current to deliver food. Nymphing the Pine requires weight and attention — the river will move your indicator faster than you expect and the takes are often subtle. When the caddis hatch is on in May, the surface fishing is as exciting as anywhere in Michigan.
The Wild and Scenic corridor runs from Elm Flats downstream through Lincoln Bridge and Peterson Bridge. State forest land borders most of this reach, making wading access straightforward. The Pine River Paddling Trail draws canoeists on summer weekends — fish in the mornings and evenings when canoe traffic is minimal.
Steelhead on the Pine
The lower Pine River below Stronach Bridge receives a significant steelhead run from Lake Michigan. Spring steelhead arrive in March and April. Fall fish enter in October. The Pine below the M-55 bridge is accessible and productive for steelhead, though it receives considerable pressure during peak runs. Upriver steelhead fishing is more solitary and requires a longer walk from access points.
Wild Brown Trout
The Pine's wild brown trout are concentrated in the cold upper sections and in the deeper pools throughout the river. The East Branch near Tustin adds cold, clear water that maintains favorable temperatures in the upper Pine through summer. Caddis hatches in May bring fish to the surface; streamers in October produce the largest fish of the year.