River guide · Michigan
Fly Fishing the Au Sable River
Michigan's Au Sable, birthplace of Trout Unlimited, is a fly-fishing-only legend famous for its Hex hatch.
- 2 shops nearby
- freestone
- April–September
- Michigan
- 5 key hatches
The best time to fly fish the Au Sable River is April–September. Key hatches include Hendrickson, Sulphur, Hexagenia / Hex, Brown Drake. 2 fly shops near the Au Sable River can outfit your trip.
Fly shops near the Au Sable River
Shops and guides that fish the Au Sable River. See all 17 Michigan shops →
Species on this water
Nearby towns
Rivers nearby
Hatches & seasons
When & what to fish on the Au Sable River
River typefreestone
Best seasonApril–September; Hex peaks late June
AccessThe Holy Water (the fly-fishing-only stretch from Burton's Landing to Wakeley Bridge near Grayling) has canoe landings and public access; much of the river is floated by riverboat or waded.
Key hatches
- Hendrickson (April–May)
- Sulphur (late May–June)
- Hexagenia / Hex (late June, at dusk)
- Brown Drake (June)
- Isonychia (summer & fall)
Gear up on the Au Sable River
Everything you need before the next trip — rods, lines, leaders, and fly-tying materials.
Shop the gear Flies that workThe flies that work on the Au Sable River
Find the most effective patterns for where you're fishing — and learn to tie them yourself, step by step.
Find your fliesUpdated June 2026