Damn Good Manistee Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

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Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slammin'

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21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon And Steelhead

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31 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slam

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31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Lake Michigan Charter Adventure

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33 ft 1 - 6 People From $765
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Traverse City Smallie Special

100% (2)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Weeknight Sportsman Special

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31 ft 1 - 6 People From $595

Top Types of Trips in Manistee

Top Species for Fishing in Manistee

“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

Target Species in Manistee

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • 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)

Lake Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Cohos, Kings, And Lake Trout Trip

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33 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon And Steelhead

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

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Lake Michigan Charter Adventure

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $765
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slam

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slammin'

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

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43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200

River Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Michigan Salmon Drift Fishing

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15 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

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16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Spring Steelhead Slam

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1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River, Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Half Day Fishing

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18 ft 1 - 3 People From $300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Betsie River Guide

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15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450

More Fishing Guides In Manistee, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore, Lake Fishing Charter near Manistee

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Trip

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21 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Betsie River Guide

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Michigan Salmon Drift Fishing

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Manistee

Cohos, Kings, And Lake Trout Trip

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Manistee

Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Manistee

What are the best fishing trips in Manistee?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 9 trips in Manistee, and the most popular trips in the area are Manistee Salmon Slam guided by Fred, Manistee Salmon and Steelhead guided by Lenny, and Manistee Salmon Slammin' guided by George.

Our guides in Manistee are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3839 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?

Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Manistee as well as river fishing and nearshore fishing.

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

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

How much does a Manistee fishing trip cost?

Prices in Manistee can range anywhere from about $400 to $997, but the average price for a half day trip in Manistee is $560. The average price for a full day trip in Manistee is $802.

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 87 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 fishing guide will always know the right 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

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing time Amazing captain Amazing fishing

    Jennifer V. | October 13, 2024

    Trip: Manistee Salmon and Steelhead

  • ★★★★★
    Casey is an amazing guide! Very personable, knowledgeable and patient. He taught us the skills we needed to catch fish. It was a spectacular day. I would highly recommend to first timers and experienced alike.

    Brian C. | June 20, 2024

    Trip: Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time found fish for us

    Alfred J. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

  • ★★★★★
    Casey was an awesome guide!

    Rodney A. | August 29, 2023

    Trip: Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    My daughter and I had a great time fishing with Butch. She had never caught a smallmouth before. Not only did she catch more than me she caught the biggest (4.40 lbs). Weather wasn't ideal with slick water and overcast most of the time but he still managed to put on some good fish. Our best 5 went a little over 16.5lbs. Was a good trip and I would recommend Butch as he has a lot of guide/tournament experience in the area. We went in the West Bay out of Traverse City.

    Terry K. | July 23, 2023

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

  • ★★★★★
    Mate Jeremy and Captain Issac were an awesome team. My son, grandson and I caught 9 fish....7 kings and 2 rainbows. Biggest king was 41.5 inches long. Great trip!!

    Skip T. | July 17, 2023

    Trip: Lake Michigan Charter Adventure

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