About
Little Manistee River, Michigan — 1938 DNR Steelhead Weir, Huron-Manistee NF. Cold-water riffles through 55 miles of Lake and Mason counties make the Little Manistee a steelhead corridor that recorded its highest run numbers in 2020. Averaging 280 CFS with an optimal range of 150–600, the river splits into distinct characters above and below Old Stronach Road. The upper section from Luther runs narrow through forest cover, while the lower stretch opens toward Manistee Lake and draws the heaviest steelhead pressure. The Little Manistee Weir, established in 1968, monitors and manages these runs. Michigan Natural River designation protects the corridor from development pressure. Little Manistee River Outfitters serves paddlers on both sections, though most anglers wade rather than float when the steelhead are moving through.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.