AU SABLE RIVER TRIPS

WEST SIDE FLY GUIDE

AU SABLE RIVER TRIPS

Full and half-day guided fly fishing on the Au Sable River’s Holy Waters near Grayling, MI. One of the most celebrated trout streams in the country, targeting wild brown trout on dries, nymphs, and streamers with Westley Allen.

Price range: $450.00 through $600.00

GROUP SIZE

HALF DAY | FULL DAY

Clear

CHOOSE DATE: PLEASE COMPLETE CHECKOUT ABOVE IF YOU ARE BOOKING TO WESTLEY'S CALENDAR, OTHERWISE YOUR TRIP IS SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION W/OUT PAYMENT

If you are booking hosted travel, night time trips, or do not see your desired date, please contact Westley directly: westleysallen@gmail.com | (231) 871-1459

LARGE GROUPS - PLEASE EMAIL FOR PRICING & AVAILABILITY

For corporate or groups larger than three, please reach out to us via email at westleysallen@gmail.com to inquire about pricing and availability.

Please share with us how many people are in your group, their experience levels, company information and any specific goals or interests for each individual. This helps us tailor a customizable experience for your group.

QUESTIONS BEFORE BOOKING?

TRIP OVERVIEW

SEASON DATES | April 25th- July 1st

Chase the trout of a lifetime on a guided fly fishing adventure down the famed Au Sable River. Target big, hard-fighting trophy browns as you throw dry flies to rising fish and strip streamers through deep, shadowy runs. With an expert guide dialing in every cast and reading the water to perfection, each moment is electric with explosive takes, powerful runs, and unforgettable battles in one of Michigan’s most iconic fisheries.

AU SABLE RIVER, GRAYLING MICHIGAN

The Au Sable River flows over 130 miles through the heart of northern Michigan’s forests, winding through some of the most scenic and productive trout water in the Midwest. Fed by cold springs and shaded by dense cedar and pine canopy, the river maintains ideal temperatures for wild brown trout, brook trout, and seasonal runs of steelhead and salmon.

The Au Sable’s fly fishing legacy dates back to the late 1800s, when it became one of the first rivers in Michigan to attract dedicated sport anglers. By the early 20th century, conservation-minded fishermen and organizations fought to protect its cold, clear waters from logging and development. Their efforts helped establish the Au Sable as a model for river conservation and wild trout management across the country.

In the decades since, the Michigan DNR has maintained strict habitat protections and regulations along key stretches of the river, preserving its reputation as a world-class trout fishery. The famed “Trophy Waters” section near Grayling remains one of the most celebrated fly fishing destinations in the eastern United States, drawing anglers year-round for its prolific hatches and challenging wild brown trout.

Today, the Au Sable offers exceptional fly fishing opportunities across multiple branches and stretches, from technical dry fly water to deeper runs holding trophy fish. Its rich insect life, pristine surroundings, and deep connection to Michigan’s fly fishing heritage make it a must-fish destination for anglers of all skill levels.

What to Expect

The Au Sable River near Grayling and Mio in Crawford County is one of Michigan’s most storied trout streams. Narrow, cold, and canopied by cedars, the Au Sable fishes differently from the Pere Marquette — tighter casting lanes, spookier fish, and hatches that demand precision. Trophy brown trout hold in undercut banks, logjams, and deep bends throughout the trophy sections. This is technical dry fly and nymph fishing at its best.

Trips float from Westley’s drift boat through carefully selected stretches based on current conditions, hatch activity, and where fish are holding. The Au Sable rewards patience and accurate casting — and Westley knows exactly where the big fish live.

Seasonal Breakdown

Spring on the Au Sable brings Hendrickson hatches in late April, followed by sulphurs, March browns, and caddis through May and June. Summer means terrestrial fishing — hoppers, ants, beetles — along with the famous hex hatch after dark in late June and July. Fall shifts to streamer fishing for aggressive pre-spawn brown trout, with some of the largest fish of the year coming on big articulated patterns.

Where We Fish

Guided trips run the Trophy Waters sections near Mio in Crawford County boasting some of the healthiest wild brown trout populations in the state. Access points and float lengths vary by season and conditions.

What’s Included

All flies, rods, reels, leaders, and terminal tackle. Lunch and drinks on full-day trips. A valid Michigan fishing license is required.

Who This Trip Is For

The Au Sable rewards anglers who enjoy technical fishing — precise casts, drag-free drifts, and reading complex currents. That said, beginners are welcome. The river’s consistent hatches and willing fish make it an excellent classroom. Experienced dry fly anglers will find water that challenges them all day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many anglers per boat?

One to two anglers per trip. The StealthCraft Bighorn comfortably fishes two, but single-angler trips mean more water and more casts per person.

What should I bring?

A valid Michigan fishing license, polarized sunglasses, layered clothing appropriate for the season, rain gear, and sunscreen. Waders if you want to get out of the boat. Everything else is provided.

Can beginners do this trip?

Absolutely. A significant number of Westley’s clients are first-time fly anglers. He’ll teach you to cast, read water, and set the hook. You’ll catch fish.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips run rain or shine — some of the best fishing happens in poor weather. Trips are only cancelled for unsafe conditions like severe storms or dangerously high water. See the cancellation policy for details.