Dowagiac River
Cass Co. · 30 mi · Class Riffles
477CFS/ 6.89 ft
Above Optimal→Stable
Optimal: 100–400 CFS · USGS #04101800
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
Michigan Designated Trout Stream
A spring-fed creek in southwest Michigan's Cass County with excellent trout habitat, the Dowagiac is a small gem prized by anglers for its cold, clear water and healthy brown trout population. Designated a Michigan Trout Stream, its 30-mile run drops from intimate headwaters at Dowagiac through Sumnerville to the St. Joseph River.
Trip sections
Upper — Dowagiac to Sumnerville, intimate spring creek
Lower — Sumnerville to St. Joseph River, wider meanders
Outfitters
Dowagiac Creek Outfitters
Canoe and kayak rentals in Cass County
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPSLoading forecast...
10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.