Manistee Fishing Report – King Salmon Action Continues as Thermocline Sets Up

July 8, 2026

After getting back from a Canadian fly-in walleye trip, we’re back on Lake Michigan and getting caught up on the Manistee fishing scene. The thermocline is beginning to set up around 50–60 feet down, and fishing conditions continue to improve.

King Salmon Report

King Salmon are still providing good action out of Manistee. The best bite has been during the morning hours, but anglers are still seeing quality strikes during the last half hour of daylight.
The most productive water has been straight out from Manistee and up to 5 miles south. Fish are being found throughout the water column as conditions continue to stabilize.
Paddles and flies have been outproducing rotating flasher/fly combinations, while Moonshine spoons have also been getting plenty of bites. Plan your spread around those presentations until the fish tell you otherwise.

Lake Trout Report

Lake Trout are holding in 80–150 feet of water between Manistee and Onekama, with the water north of Onekama continuing to be one of the area’s most consistent trout producers.
Double Chrome Spin Doctors paired with Double Trouble UV Spin-N-Glos have been a reliable combination for putting Lake Trout in the boat.

Captain’s Tip – Fishing Lake Michigan With Kids
When fishing Lake Michigan with kids, remember that the experience is just as important as the catch. Let them help reel in fish, watch the electronics, and learn how the gear works. Keeping them involved throughout the trip makes the day more exciting and creates memories they’ll remember for years.
Book Your Manistee Fishing Charter

Ready to experience Lake Michigan salmon and trout fishing out of Manistee? Copperhead Sportfishing Charters offers family-friendly fishing trips targeting King Salmon, Steelhead, and Lake Trout throughout the season.
Contact Captain Matt McQueen to check availability and reserve your next Manistee fishing adventure.