BETSIE RIVER SALMON TRIPS

The Betsie River flows 48 miles through the rolling hills of Benzie County, winding through cedar swamps, hardwood forests, and pristine wetlands before emptying into Betsie Bay at Frankfort. Fed by cold groundwater springs and shaded by dense streamside vegetation, the river creates ideal holding water for migrating salmon each fall. Its intimate size and accessible wading make it one of Northern Michigan’s premier destinations for anglers targeting Chinook and Coho salmon.

Named after the French “Rivière aux Bec Scies” (River of the Sawbill Ducks), the Betsie has drawn fishermen to its banks for generations. While larger rivers draw bigger crowds, the Betsie offers something different—a more technical, rewarding salmon fishing experience where fish stack up in predictable runs and skilled anglers can sight-fish to chrome-bright kings in gin-clear water.

When Lake Michigan’s salmon begin their spawning migration in late August and September, the Betsie comes alive. Chinook salmon averaging 15-25 pounds push up from Betsie Bay, staging in deep pools and transitioning through classic riffle-run-pool structure. Coho salmon follow shortly after, providing fast action through October. The river’s moderate flows and wadeable depths allow anglers to work the water thoroughly—swinging flies, drifting eggs, or casting spinners to aggressive fish fresh from the lake.

Today, the Betsie River remains one of the region’s most consistent salmon fisheries. Its reliable runs, scenic beauty, and uncrowded waters make it a favorite for anglers seeking an authentic Northern Michigan salmon experience without the combat fishing found on larger tributaries.

What to Expect

The Betsie River near Benzonia in Benzie County is one of Western Michigan’s best-kept salmon secrets. A smaller, more intimate river than the Pere Marquette, the Betsie receives strong runs of Chinook and Coho salmon every fall. The fish are big, the river is uncrowded, and the takes are aggressive. If you want hard-fighting Great Lakes salmon without the shoulder-to-shoulder pressure of bigger rivers, the Betsie delivers. Trips run from Westley’s drift boat through the most productive stretches of the river. Depending on conditions, you’ll drift egg patterns, swing flies, float skein or cast hardware to salmon staging in pools. The Betsie’s compact size means fish are concentrated — you’re never far from the action.

When to Go

Betsie salmon season runs from late August through mid-October. Early-season fish in late August and September are the freshest and hardest-fighting — bright chrome kings straight from Lake Michigan.

What’s Included

All tackle, flies, and equipment. Lunch and drinks on full-day trips. Michigan fishing license required.

Who This Trip Is For

All experience levels. Salmon fishing on the Betsie doesn’t require expert casting — the river is small enough that accurate short casts are more important than distance. Beginners catch fish here. Experienced anglers will appreciate the intimacy of a small-river salmon experience that most guides don’t offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big are the salmon on the Betsie?

• Chinook salmon on the Betsie average 15-25 pounds, with fish over 30 possible in good years. Coho run 8-15 pounds and are acrobatic fighters.

Is this fly fishing only?

• Westley primarily guides fly fishing trips, but light tackle and conventional methods are available on the Betsie depending on conditions and preference. Conventional gear is the common method this time of year, floating skein, beads, and casting thundersticks/hardware.

How far is the Betsie from Baldwin?

• Benzonia is about 45 minutes north of Baldwin. Westley meets clients at the river — meeting point details provided after booking.

Can we keep fish?

• Yes, please see Michigan DNR Fish Regulations for more information on salmon limits by each river.