Au Sable River
Michigan · Northern Lower Michigan
Brown TroutBrook TroutRainbow Trout
Top 5 Fishing Locations on Au Sable River
Holy Waters
The storied Holy Waters section near Grayling is fly-fishing-only and catch-and-release producing some of Michigan's largest wild brown trout. Evening Hexagenia mayfly hatches in late June draw anglers from across the country. This stretch is where the Au Sable's legendary reputation was built.
💧 Ideal flow: 300–800 CFS. The Holy Waters near Grayling fishes best at moderate flows — flies-only designation protects exceptional wild fish.
📊 Get Location Flow Report
Wakeley Bridge
Wakeley Bridge is a classic access point offering excellent wade fishing through a mix of sandy runs and deeper pools. Brown trout are the primary target with good populations of fish up to 18 inches. Caddis and Hendrickson hatches are reliable in May and June.
💧 Ideal flow: 200–600 CFS. The main stem fishes well at moderate flows — the Hexagenia hatch in June draws anglers nationwide for nighttime fishing.
📊 Get Location Flow Report
Mio Pond Tailwater
Below Mio Pond Dam this tailwater maintains cooler temperatures through summer and provides consistent trout fishing. Stocked and wild brown trout are present throughout. Easy bank access makes this approachable for all skill levels.
💧 Ideal flow: 300–800 CFS. The South Branch fishes best at moderate stable flows — excellent brook trout in the headwaters.
📊 Get Location Flow Report
Stephan Bridge
Stephan Bridge accesses a beautiful stretch through pine forests with minimal development. This is prime Hex hatch territory with good populations of large browns lying in wait during summer nights. Canoeing and fishing traffic can be heavy on weekends.
💧 Ideal flow: Fishes best at stable moderate flows — check TroutBible gauge before heading to Grayling.
📊 Get Location Flow Report
Foote Dam Tailwater
The lower Au Sable below Foote Dam transitions to a wider slower river with excellent float fishing for brown trout. Drift boats and canoes dominate this stretch. Streamer fishing for large browns in fall is particularly productive.
💧 Ideal flow: 200–600 CFS. The lower Au Sable near Mio fishes best at moderate flows — large brown trout in the deeper pools and runs.
📊 Get Location Flow Report
About Au Sable River Fishing
The Au Sable River stands as Michigan's most celebrated trout destination, drawing fly anglers from across the country for its legendary Hexagenia limbata mayfly hatches and pristine Holy Waters near Grayling—a flies-only sanctuary that defines serious dry fly fishing. This historic river carries deep cultural significance beyond angling, serving as the stage for the famous Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, a testament to the waterway's iconic status in Michigan's outdoor heritage.
Best Time to Fish Au Sable River
The Au Sable's signature event is the June Hexagenia limbata hatch, when massive mayflies emerge after dark and trigger explosive nighttime dry fly fishing that can last several weeks depending on water conditions and weather. Plan your visit for late spring through early summer to experience this phenomenon, though the river remains productive throughout the season with consistent brown trout activity in spring and early fall.
Species
Browns dominate the Au Sable's ecosystem and grow large and selective on this heavily fished water, demanding precise presentations and technical skill, while brookies inhabit the clearer, cooler upstream sections of the Holy Waters. Rainbows also run the river, particularly in spring and fall, bringing aggressive takes and acrobatic fights that complement the more cerebral hunting required for the river's educated brown trout population.
Access & Regulations
Always check the current Michigan fishing regulations before heading out. Regulations on Au Sable River may include special catch-and-release sections, artificial-only stretches, and seasonal closures. A valid Michigan fishing license is required.
Live River Data
Flow data on this page comes straight from the USGS National Water Information System — the same source professional guides rely on. Readings update every 15–60 minutes, tracking CFS and gauge height in real time.