Au Sable River
Michigan
Located in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan, the Au Sable is known for its high-water quality, scenery, recreational opportunities, cold-water fishery, and historic and cultural significance. It may just be the finest brown trout flyfishing east of the Rockies. If that were not enough reason to visit the river, the Au Sable is also one of the best canoeing rivers in the Midwest.
Designated Reach
October 4, 1984. The main stem from the Mio Pond project boundary downstream to the Alcona Pond project boundary.
Outstandingly Remarkable Values
Fish
The Au Sable is known for the premier cold-water fishing by local and non-local fishermen. While springtime is the best season to try and hook a brown or rainbow trout, it is not uncommon to find a dedicated fisherman wading the river in the twilight hours after a hot summer day. Fish cover for a...Show More
History
Historically, the local people have used the Au Sable as an inland link for trapping, trading, and transit between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. In the late 1800's, the river transported logs downstream to sawmills and shipping yards in the towns of Oscoda and AuGres. After logging era, hydroelec...Show More
Recreation
It may just be the finest brown trout fly-fishing east of the Rockies. If that were not enough reason to visit the river, the Au Sable is also one of the best canoeing rivers in the Midwest. Several canoe liveries rent watercrafts. Fishing guides are also available in the area. Camping is permitt...Show More
Scenery
Scenery is the most noted reason visitors are attracted to this portion of the river. Site-seeing while floating the river or taking a drive or hike along the roadways and trailways that parallels the river are very popular activities. The river channel is wide with well-defined undulating banks ...Show More
Managing Partners And Contacts
Documents
Classification/Mileage
Video
The excitement of fly fishing is not in the casting, it's in the challenge to make a connection. When you connect with that particular fish you've been trying to catch, the mood changes from quiet and calm to a spectacular dance that's electric to experience.