Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

White River - Whitehall - 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 Nymphs All Day #16 - #18 Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear
February Nymphs, Midge Adults All Day #16 - #18, #18 - #22 Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, Griffith’s Gnat
March Nymphs, Stoneflies All Day, Afternoon #12 - #14, #14 - #16 Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, San Juan Worm
April Mayflies Late Afternoon, Evening #14 - #16 Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis
May Caddis, Mayflies Afternoon, Evening #14 - #16 Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams
June Mayflies, Terrestrials Afternoon, Evening #12 - #14, #14 - #16 BWO, Dave’s Hopper
July Terrestrials Midday, Evening #12 - #14 Dave’s Hopper, Foam Beetle
August Terrestrials, Tricos Early Morning, Midday #20 - #22 Trico Spinner, Dave’s Hopper
September Terrestrials, Tricos, Mayflies Early Morning, Afternoon #20 - #22, #12 - #14 Trico Spinner, Dave’s Hopper, BWO
October Nymphs, Mayflies Morning, Afternoon #12 - #14, #18 - #24 Pheasant Tail, BWO, Trico Spinner
November Nymphs All Day #16 - #18 Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear
December Nymphs, Midge Adults All Day #16 - #18, #18 - #22 Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, Griffith’s Gnat

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 White River in Whitehall, Michigan is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. This prime trout stream is stocked annually with brown and rainbow trout, making it a must-visit spot. Here are some top spots to fly fish:

  • The Hesperia Dam area: It’s the ideal location for large runs of steelhead in the spring and salmon in the fall.
  • The stretches near Whitehall: These fishing territories frequently produce good-sized brown and rainbow trout.
  • Guests can also explore the nuances of a fly fishing from a drift boat: Several local outfitters offer guided fly-fishing trips along the river.

Regardless of the season, the White River offers exquisite scenery and exceptional fly fishing potential.

Best Access Points

The White River in Whitehall offers several access points for fly fishing. Well-known for its abundant trout population, these access points provide ample opportunities for anglers:

  • White River Public Access Point: Easily accessible, it’s great for beginners and experts alike, and it offers a wide variety of fish species.
  • Whitehall State Forest: Along with fly fishing, it provides picnic areas and trails for hikers.
  • Macochee Creek: This tributary of White River is particularly known for its excellent fly fishing opportunities.
  • Beavers Bend State Park: This offers an area for fly fishing downriver on Mountain Fork River.
  • Riverside Campground Area: Besides offering fishing spots, it also provides amenities for camping.

Remember to get the appropriate fishing permits before starting your fly fishing adventure.

Local Fish

The White River in Whitehall, Michigan offers an abundance of local fish species for fly fishing enthusiasts. The top 8 local fish targeted for fly fishing include:

  • Brown Trout – Famed for its fighting spirit and tastiness, the brown trout is a top catch on the White River.
  • Rainbow Trout – Rainbow trout are known for their aggressive strikes, acrobatic jumps, and the beautiful colors that give them their name.
  • Brook Trout – The brook trout, with its distinctive marbled pattern, is a native species of the White River and a popular target for fly fishers.
  • Coho Salmon – Though not native to the river, coho salmon have been successfully introduced and can provide a thrilling fishing experience.
  • Steelhead Trout – Also known as rainbow trout, these sea-run variants return to freshwater to spawn and are prized by anglers for their strength and endurance.
  • Northern Pike – Known for their ferocious attacks on bait, pike are a challenging but rewarding catch for any angler.
  • Walleye – Valued for their taste and size, walleye are one of the most sought-after fish in the White River system.
  • Bass – Both Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass can be found in White River, offering exciting fishing opportunities.

About The River

Ever heard of the White River that ambles its way through scenic Whitehall? This gorgeous river, steeped in history and natural beauty, has a fascinating story to tell. The White River has been an essential part of Whitehall since its early days.

Originating from the verdant Green Mountain, this 60-mile long river holds numerous historical and environmental treasures. In the early 1900s, it played a crucial role in the town’s emergence as a lumbering hub.

  • The crux of logging operations, the river was used for transporting logs to the mills downstream.
  • Ice harvesting was also a major river-side activity during freezing Vermont winters.
A distinctive feature of White River is its dazzling white sand and gravel bed, contributing to the river’s name.

Present day, the White River is a sought-after destination for trout fishing, kayaking and enjoying riverside picnics, preserving its historical charm while inviting modern explorers to enjoy its tranquility.

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