Northeast Lower Michigan Spring Creek Tributary of Rifle River

Klacking Creek Michigan Trout Fishing

Brown Trout Brook Trout

Excellent brown trout tributary of the Rifle. Fish over 14 inches common; 20-inch browns documented. Cold, spring-fed water through Ogemaw County. DNR research dating to 1951 confirms strong populations.

Estimated Conditions (from Rifle River gauge)
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Klacking Creek is one of the Rifle River's premier trout tributaries, flowing through Ogemaw County before joining the Rifle south of West Branch. DNR fisheries research going back to 1951 documented healthy brown trout populations with fish regularly exceeding 14 inches. The creek also holds brook trout in its coldest headwater sections.

This is small water that rewards stealth and patience. Brown trout here are wild, wary, and surprisingly large for the creek's size. Spring caddis and Hendrickson hatches bring fish to the surface. Summer terrestrials (ants, beetles, hoppers) are productive along the brushy banks. Approach low, cast short, and use light tippet (5X-6X). The E. Peters Road crossing is the most popular access, but walking upstream from any road bridge will find less-pressured water.

Access Points
E. Peters Road crossing, Campbell Road, N. Campbell Road, Townline Road crossing. Multiple road bridges through West Branch and Klacking townships.
Regulations
General trout regulations. Designated trout stream.
Wading
Easy to moderate. Small stream, gravel and sand bottom. Hip waders or wet-wading in summer. Chest waders in spring.
Parent River
Rifle River (live gauge data)
Gear for this trip
Fly Fishing Gear Waders Small Stream Rods MI Fishing License
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Conditions estimated from Rifle River USGS gauge data. Tributaries are typically colder, lower flow, and more responsive to rain than the main stem. USGS Water Services. Michigan fishing regulations: Michigan DNR Fishing Guide.