Damn Good Manistee Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Manistee fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Manistee

Lake Michigan Trolling Trip

NEW
27 ft 1 - 10 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake, Boat Cruise in Manistee

Manistee Salmon & Trout

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $925
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Manistee

Manistee Salmon And Steelhead

100% (2)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Manistee

Fishing On Lake Michigan!

NEW
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slam

100% (3)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Wellston

Big Manistee Guide Trip

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $450

Top Types of Trips in Manistee

What makes Captain Experiences Damn Good?

Damn Good Guides

You will only find quality, vetted guides on Captain Experiences, and we know them all on a first-name basis.

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

Our US-based team is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns.

Experts Available 24/7

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We want to keep everyone safe, so if the weather is bad we'll work with you to reschedule at no cost.

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4.9 / 5 Average Rating

We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans across North America and beyond.

4.9 / 5 Average Rating

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we've handpicked every single one. We're passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Top Species for Fishing in Manistee

All Target Species in Manistee

  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Brethren

Manistee River Trip

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Brethren

Salmon & Steelhead Fishing Trips

NEW
20 ft 1 - 3 People From $425
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing in Brethren

Northern Michigan Adventures

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $325
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Brethren

Salmon And Steelhead Fishing Trip

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Brethren

Northern Michigan River Trips

NEW
18 ft 1 - 6 People From $425
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Wellston

Spring Steelhead & Brown Trout

NEW
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $450

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Manistee

What are the best fishing trips in Manistee?

The best fishing trips in Manistee are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in Manistee with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 27 trips in Manistee, and the most popular trips in the area are Lake Michigan Trolling Trip guided by Grant, Manistee Salmon & Trout guided by Micah, and Manistee Salmon And Steelhead guided by Lenny.

Our guides in Manistee are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 8235 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Manistee? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Manistee.

What types of fishing trips are common in Manistee?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Manistee as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Manistee are: 1. chinook salmon, 2. coho salmon, 3. lake trout, 4. brown trout, and 5. steelhead.

The most common fishing techniques in Manistee are trolling, light tackle fishing, and artificial lure fishing but live bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Manistee fishing trip cost?

Prices in Manistee can range anywhere from about $425 to $1,500, but the average price for a half day trip in Manistee is $936. The average price for a full day trip in Manistee is $893.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Manistee?

The most popular season for fishing in Manistee is fall, and most anglers book their trips 62 days in advance.

Do I need a Manistee fishing license and what are the bag limits in Manistee?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Manistee, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Manistee. When in doubt, your guide will always know all the relevant rules and regulations in Manistee.

Popular Types of Fishing In Manistee

Manistee fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Manistee are salmon and trout fishing charters, as well as walleye and perch fishing charters.

For those looking for a thrilling adventure, Manistee also offers charter options for steelhead and lake trout fishing.

The types of fish you can expect to catch on a Manistee fishing charter depend on the type of fishing you choose. For salmon and trout fishing, you can expect to catch Chinook, Coho, Steelhead, and Lake Trout.

If you opt for a walleye or perch fishing charter, you can expect to catch Walleye, Perch, and Smallmouth Bass.

Manistee fishing charters typically depart from the Manistee Municipal Marina or the First Street Beach Pier. These landmarks are popular among locals and visitors alike, and offer stunning views of Lake Michigan.

No matter what type of fishing charter you choose, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on the beautiful waters of Manistee.

The Best Places To Fish In Manistee

Manistee, Michigan is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Here are some of the best places to fish in Manistee, Michigan:

1. Manistee River: Known for its steelhead and salmon runs, the Manistee River is a popular spot for fishing charters.

2. Lake Michigan: With its deep waters and diverse fish population, Lake Michigan is a great place to charter a fishing trip and catch salmon, trout, and more.

3. Bear Creek: This small stream is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts, with its clear waters and plentiful trout.

4. Portage Lake: Located just south of Manistee, Portage Lake is a great spot for bass fishing and offers a peaceful setting for a day on the water.

5. Little Manistee River: This scenic river is home to brown trout, steelhead, and salmon, making it a popular spot for fishing charters.

6. Hamlin Lake: With its shallow waters and abundant panfish, Hamlin Lake is a great place for families to fish and enjoy a day on the water.

7. Pere Marquette River: This river is known for its steelhead and salmon runs, as well as its scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for fishing charters and fly fishing enthusiasts alike.

Other Things To Do In Manistee

While Manistee fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this charming Michigan city. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and visit the Manistee County Historical Museum or the Vogue Theatre. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Manistee National Forest offers hiking trails, camping, and scenic drives. If you're looking for a little excitement, head to Little River Casino Resort for gaming and entertainment. And don't forget to check out the Manistee Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the Manistee River that offers stunning views and access to local shops and restaurants.

Does Manistee have good fishing?

Manistee, Michigan, is an excellent destination for fishing, thanks to its prime location along the Lake Michigan shoreline and its proximity to several productive rivers and lakes. The city offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from the expansive waters of Lake Michigan to the scenic Manistee River. Anglers can enjoy various types of fishing, including trolling for salmon and trout in the lake, or casting for steelhead and salmon in the river. The combination of freshwater and migratory species makes Manistee a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Lake Michigan becomes a focal point for fishing in Manistee. The lake is known for its excellent salmon and trout fishing, with species such as king salmon, coho salmon, and lake trout being common targets. The deep, cool waters of the lake provide ideal conditions for these fish, and the area's fishing charters are well-equipped to help anglers find success. During the warmer months, the lake's fishing season is bustling, with many local and visiting anglers taking advantage of the abundant fish and scenic backdrop.

As fall approaches, fishing in Manistee shifts to focus more on the Manistee River, which is renowned for its steelhead and salmon runs. The river attracts anglers eager to catch these migratory fish as they move upstream to spawn. The fall season also offers a beautiful setting with the changing leaves and cooler temperatures, making it an enjoyable time for river fishing. Overall, Manistee's combination of lake and river fishing opportunities, along with its well-established fishing infrastructure, makes it a top choice for anglers seeking a rewarding and diverse fishing experience.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Brian was a fantastic fishing guide. It was me and my two young boys and he did a great job of helping them out and moving around to find fish. Highlight was a 26 inch pike that my ten year old reeled in. Highly recommend and would use him again when in the area.

    Travis J. | July 1, 2026

    Trip: Northern Michigan Adventures

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Captain Jon was great at telling us what to expect and did everything to make it a great experience!

    Daniel C. | June 17, 2026

    Trip: Ludington Fishing Charters

  • ★★★★★
    The trip with Captain Fred was great! My boys enjoyed immensely as did I ! I highly recommend Fred but I also highly recommend using a different platform, this one charges too much, 15% from the captain and another $72 from the client. $200 is a a quarter of the cost of the trip charge . Airbnb and Vrbo don’t charge that much.

    Andrew P. | September 2, 2025

    Trip: Manistee Salmon Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Great day!!! Alex is very knowledgeable regarding the river,the species, and VERY skillful boat captain. Personable, pleasant, and patient. Makes a great bowl of split pea and ham soup. Will definitely do this again. Tom Johnson

    Thomas J. | April 14, 2025

    Trip: Spring Steelhead Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Enjoyed the experience. Nice job putting us on fish.

    Kevin K. | March 29, 2025

    Trip: Big Manistee Guide Trip

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Top Targeted Fishing Species in Manistee

Top Types of Fishing in Manistee

Top Types of Tours in Manistee

Last updated: July 13, 2026

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