Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Raisin River - Monroe - Michigan

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Hatches Afternoon #18 - #20 Zebra Midges, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #16 - #18 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail
February Midge Hatches Afternoon #18 - #20 Zebra Midges, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #16 - #18 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail
March Nymphs and Scuds All Day #16 - #18 Griffith's Gnat, Mayfly Nymph
April Midge Hatches Afternoon #18 - #20 Zebra Midges, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #16 - #18 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail
May Caddis, Stoneflies All Day #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, Bead Head Stonefly Nymph
June Caddis, Pale Morning Dun Evening #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, Light Cahill
July Tricos, Terrestrials Morning for Tricos, Afternoon for Terrestrials #18 - #24 for Tricos, #10 - #16 for Terrestrials Trico Spinner, Foam Bug
August Terrestrials, Tricos Afternoon for Terrestrials, Morning for Tricos #10 - #16 for Terrestrials, #18-#24 for Tricos Ants, Beetles, Foam Bug
September Blue Winged Olives, Terrestrials Evening for BWO, Afternoon for Terrestrials #16 - #20 for BWO, #10 - #16 for Terrestrials Elk Hair Caddis, Foam Bug
October Blue Winged Olives Morning #16 - #20 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail
November Midge Hatches Afternoon #18 - #20 Zebra Midges, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #16 - #18 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail
December Midge Hatches Afternoon #18 - #20 Zebra Midges, Black Beauty
Blue Winged Olives Late Afternoon #16 - #18 Soft Hackle, Pheasant Tail

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Raisin River in Monroe, Michigan, provides plenty of stunning spots for fly fishing. The culturally rich river flowing through picturesque landscapes is renowned for diverse fish species.

Top sites include:

  • Waterloo Park: With easy water access, it is an ideal spot, especially for beginners.
  • Raisin River at Dundee: Considered paradise for anglers, the spot is known for its abundant Brown Trout population.
  • Ives Park: This park offers multiple points for anglers to cast a line into the Raisin River.
  • Custer Rd: With its diverse range of fish species, it’s a favored location for fly fishing enthusiasts.

Remember to comply with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources fishing regulations and ensure you have a valid fishing license before heading out.

Best Access Points

The Raisin River in Monroe offers a plethora of locations for avid fly fishermen. Here are some of the best access points:
  • Custer Access Point: This spot is abundant with bass and bluegill, while also providing opportunities to catch the elusive walleye.
  • Ida Maybee Road Bridge: A smaller, quieter location, that is known for its walleye and crappie populations.
  • Monroe Boat Club: Though it requires membership, it offers a wide variety of species, including pike, bass, carp and catfish.
  • Hellenberg Park: Accessible to the public and close to downtown Monroe, this fishing spot is popular amongst locals.
  • Waterloo Recreation Area: With nearly 100 lakes and ponds, the opportunities are endless. It’s known for its trout population.
Remember to respect local wildlife and leave no trace during your fishing adventure.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: A classic freshwater species, the smallmouth bass is a top target for fly fishermen due to its excellent fight and readily available.
  • Bluegill: These small but eager fish are a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts, especially those who prefer lighter tackle.
  • Largemouth Bass: Offering a stronger fight than its smallmouth cousin, the largemouth bass is one of the country’s top game fish.
  • Crappie: Crappies are a great sportfish offering both quantity and quality for any angler, and an ideal target for fly fishing due to their preference for smaller prey.
  • Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout are often found in the cooler parts of the Raisin River, and provide an exciting and fulfilling fly fishing experience.
  • Steelhead: A migratory form of Rainbow Trout, these larger fish frequent the Raisin River at certain times of year, and offer a thrilling challenge for fly fishermen.
  • Northern Pike: Known for its aggressive strikes and strong fights, the Northern Pike is a popular target for more adventurous anglers.
  • Walleye: Prized for its firm flesh and mild flavor, the walleye is as much a target for the pan as it is for the fly rod.

About The River

The Raisin River, a picturesque water body which meanders through Monroe, Michigan, has a unique and fascinating past. Named by the French for the wild grapes growing along its banks, the river is renowned for the historic Battle of River Raisin that took place during the War of 1812.

Key moments in its history are:

  1. 1701: French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac mentions the river in his travel logs.
  2. 1763: The river becomes a disputed territory between Native Americans and British invaders during Pontiac’s War.
  3. 1813: The Battle of River Raisin sees the largest number of American fatalities in a single battle during the War of 1812.

These days, the river provides numerous recreational opportunities like fishing and canoeing, and remains a significant natural and cultural icon in Monroe.

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