Grayling/Lowell Area Accesson Au Sable River
Trout species (Brown
- 01Trout species (Brown, Brook, Rainbow) are actively feeding to build reserves for winter.
- 02Egg patterns are highly effective, especially near any areas where trout or salmon may be spawning.
- 03Streamers imitating leeches and baitfish are provoking aggressive strikes from larger trout.
- 04Blue-Winged Olive hatches are providing intermittent dry fly opportunities on overcast days.
- 05Nymphing with small patterns like midges and scuds remains a consistent producer.
What to tie on at Grayling/Lowell Area Access
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Zebra Midge
Midges are the primary forage in February. This pattern is a winter staple for Michigan trout.
Buy at AmazonLittle Black Stonefly nymph
Winter stoneflies are one of the few large insects active in February on the Au Sable.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days, and this low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Hendrickson
Hendrickson hatches are a key early spring event, offering good dry fly opportunities for active trout.
Buy at AmazonBlue Quill Dry
Blue Quills are expected to start hatching very soon, making this an essential pattern for opportunistic trout looking for emerging adults.
Pheasant Tail Nymph
This nymph mimics various small mayfly nymphs, including active BWO nymphs, which are a primary food source in spring.
Buy at AmazonFlashback Hare's Ear Nymph
An excellent general searching nymph for early spring, mimicking various active mayfly nymphs.
Black Woolly Bugger
A slow-stripped or dead-drifted black streamer imitates leeches and sculpins which are active even in colder spring water, targeting larger, aggressive trout.
Mother's Day Caddis
The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis.
Michigan season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.