When do the Rifle and Au Sable open?

[sandman]

When does general Trout season open on the Ausable and the Rifle rives?


thanks


sandman

[jnpcook]

Sandman, Based on the 1999 fishing regulations (I would think that it would be the same for 2000 but you might want to check it out. I haven't seen the 2000 regulation book yet) the Rifle River is open all year from the mouth to the upstream limit of Devoe Lake which is basically where the Rifle River begins. During this season however Brook and Brown trout may not be taken above the old M-70 bridge. The lower Au Sable river is open year round from the mouth to the upstream limit of the Foote Dam near Oscoda and fisherman (and woman) mostly concentrate on salmon and steelhead in this section. There is also a flies only catch and release section of the Au Sable from Burtons Landing to Wakely bridge that is open all year. This section includes the "Holy Water". Besides this the regular trout season for these waters and most other rivers and streams without special regulation is from the last Saturday in April until September 30th. Hope this helps.

[WEEZER]

NO!!!!!!!!The Rifle isn't open all the way to the upstream limits. It is a type three river to Sage Lake Rd. (I think the map isn't totally clear) I'm positive that All or most of the Recreation area in Rose City is a type 1 river which means that it is open from the Last Saturday in April through Last saturday in September. All of the major tributaries are this way as well(Including Klackling Creek!!) Note that the minimum size limit on the mainstream rifle is now 15"
As for the Ausable it has many regulations including some no kill/fly only. Some of it is open right now, but the majority opens on the Last weekend in April.
These are 2000 regulations! So I don't think they take effect until April 1st.
~Rick

[jnpcook]

Thanks Weezer for clearing things up. Looks like I need to pick up my 2000 license and regulation book since it appears things have changed a bit for this coming up year. Can't wait to get out. Getting the fly collection ready.

[classicrod]

According to the new 2000 regulations all of the flies only water on the Au Sable will be open to catch and release fishing starting April 1st. Also the Manistee from M-72 to the CCC bridge will be open to catch and release fly fishing starting April 1st.
If you havn't heard, the trout regulations for 2000 have been completely redone.So be sure to get a copy when you get your new fishing license.

Tight Lines
Ron