Bishop Park is a small public access point on the Au Sable River in Grayling

Bishop Park sits along the Au Sable River in Grayling, Michigan, offering walk-in access to one of the state's most productive trout streams. The park itself is modest — a few acres with parking, a boat launch, and picnic tables — but its location on the Au Sable makes it a practical starting point for both wading and float trips. The river here holds brown trout and brook trout year-round, with the best fishing typically from April through October.

The park is owned and maintained by the City of Grayling and sits near the town center, making it easy to reach if you are already in the area. Access is free, and there are no day-use fees. The launch ramp is suitable for small boats and canoes, and the parking area can accommodate a modest number of vehicles, though it fills quickly on weekends during peak season.

Key Takeaways

  • Bishop Park provides free public access to the Au Sable River with a boat launch and parking, located in downtown Grayling.
  • The Au Sable here holds brown and brook trout, with spring and fall offering the most consistent fishing conditions.
  • A Michigan fishing license is required, and the Au Sable has specific regulations including daily catch limits and gear restrictions that vary by section.
  • The park is small and parking fills on weekends; arriving early or visiting on weekdays improves your chances of finding a spot.
  • Wading is productive in this section, but many anglers use the park as a launch point for float trips downstream.

What Fish Live in the Au Sable at Grayling

The Au Sable at Bishop Park is primarily a brown trout fishery, with a solid population of wild fish supplemented by regular stocking. Brown trout here average 10 to 14 inches, though fish in the 16- to 20-inch range are caught regularly, especially in deeper pools and near structure. They feed on aquatic insects, small baitfish, and terrestrial insects depending on the season.

Brook trout are also present but less abundant than browns. They tend to occupy cooler, faster water and are more common in the upper sections of the river. Both species are most active during low-light conditions — early morning, late evening, and overcast days — though the Au Sable's relatively cool water keeps trout feeding throughout the day during spring and fall.

The river in this section is moderately clear to slightly stained depending on recent rainfall. Clarity typically improves from late spring through early fall, making sight-fishing possible on calm days. Winter fishing is possible but less popular; the river does not freeze solid, and some anglers pursue trout through the cold months, though conditions are harder and fish are less active.

Seasons and When Fish Feed Best

Spring (April through May) brings high water from snowmelt and rain, which can make wading difficult but concentrates fish in slower water along the banks. Nymphs and streamers work well during this period. Water temperatures rise from the 40s to the low 50s, triggering increased feeding activity.

Summer (June through August) sees lower, clearer water and warmer temperatures. Daytime fishing can be slow, especially in July and August when water temperatures approach 70 degrees. Early morning and evening fishing, plus fishing deeper pools and shaded areas, produces better results. Dry fly fishing is possible but requires patience and accurate casting.

Fall (September through October) is often the best season. Water temperatures drop back into the 50s, fish become more aggressive, and the lower water makes wading easier. Both nymphs and dry flies work well. This is when larger browns are most active and most likely to be caught.

Winter (November through March) is slow but not impossible. Water temperatures drop into the 30s and 40s. Fish are less active and feeding windows are shorter. Some anglers pursue winter fishing with small nymphs and streamers, but success rates are lower than other seasons.

Regulations and What You Need to Know Before You Go

A valid Michigan fishing license is required. Licenses are available online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods retailers, and at some bait shops in Grayling. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you are visiting for a short trip.

The Au Sable is divided into sections with different regulations. The section at Bishop Park falls under the general Au Sable regulations, which typically allow a daily catch limit of five trout (of any species combined) with a minimum size of 7 inches. However, regulations can change, and some sections have more restrictive limits or gear restrictions. Check the current Michigan fishing regulations before you fish — the DNR website has a detailed guide specific to the Au Sable.

Barbless hooks are not required in this section, but many anglers use them as a courtesy to the fish and to comply with catch-and-release ethics. Wading is allowed throughout the park and along the river, but respect private property boundaries. The river is public, but the land on either side may not be.

How to Get to Bishop Park and Where to Park

Bishop Park is located in Grayling at 100 Huron Avenue, just off M-72 near downtown. From I-75, take exit 251 and follow M-72 west into Grayling. The park is well-marked and easy to find. Parking is free and includes a small lot with spaces for roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. During peak season weekends, the lot fills by mid-morning, so arriving early improves your chances of finding a spot.

If the main lot is full, street parking is available along nearby roads, though it is limited. On busy weekends, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving before 8 a.m. The park has no overnight camping, but Grayling has several motels and campgrounds within a few miles if you are planning a longer stay.

The boat launch is a concrete ramp suitable for canoes, small motorboats, and drift boats. There is no launch fee. A hand-carry launch area is also available if you have a kayak or small raft. The launch is maintained year-round, though winter conditions can make access difficult.

Wading vs. Floating — Which Works Better Here

Bishop Park works well for both wading and floating, and many anglers do both on the same trip. The section immediately below the park is wadeable for roughly a mile, with a mix of pools, runs, and shallow flats. Water depth ranges from ankle-deep to waist-deep depending on flow. The bottom is a mix of sand, gravel, and small rocks — stable underfoot but slippery when wet, so felt-soled waders or wading boots with good grip are worth the investment.

Wading this section is productive for nymphs and dry flies, especially early and late in the day. The river is wide enough that you can cover a lot of water without spooking fish, and the structure — fallen trees, undercut banks, and deeper pools — holds fish predictably.

Many anglers use Bishop Park as a launch point for float trips. The Au Sable is a popular float-fishing destination, and several outfitters in Grayling rent canoes and drift boats. A typical float from Bishop Park covers 5 to 10 miles depending on water level and how much time you spend fishing. Floating allows you to cover more water and reach sections that are harder to access on foot. If you float, arrange a shuttle in advance or use an outfitter that provides one.

Gear and Tactics That Work on the Au Sable

Fly fishing is the most common approach on the Au Sable. A 9-foot 5-weight rod is standard. Nymphs are productive year-round — pheasant tail, hare's ear, and small stonefly patterns work well. Dry flies are effective in spring and fall, with small mayflies and caddisflies matching the hatch. Streamers (small baitfish imitations) work especially well in spring and fall when larger browns are feeding.

Spin fishing is also allowed and can be effective, particularly with small spinners and inline spoons. Many anglers use ultralight spinning gear with 4- to 6-pound test line. Live bait (small minnows and worms) is permitted but less common on this section of the Au Sable, where fly fishing dominates.

Wading boots with felt or rubber soles are essential — the river bottom is slippery, and a fall can ruin your day or worse. Polarized sunglasses help you see fish in the water. A net is useful for landing larger fish, though not required. Bring more flies than you think you will need; the Au Sable has plenty of structure that will catch your line.

Nearby Services and Where to Stay

Grayling is a small town built around fishing and outdoor recreation, so services are readily available. Several fly shops in town stock flies, gear, and local knowledge. Grayling Outfitters and other local shops can provide current conditions reports, suggest patterns, and arrange shuttle services for float trips. Bait and tackle shops also carry spinning gear and live bait if that is your preference.

Lodging options include motels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds. The Grayling area has several campgrounds, including state forest campgrounds and private RV parks. Motels range from budget chains to small independent properties. Restaurants and grocery stores are within walking distance of downtown, making it easy to resupply between fishing days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to fish Bishop Park?

No, the park is open to the public and you can fish on your own. However, hiring a local guide can be worthwhile if you are new to the Au Sable or want to learn the specific patterns and techniques that work in this section. Several guides operate out of Grayling and can be booked through local outfitters.

Can I fish at night?

Night fishing is legal on the Au Sable, though it is less common than daytime fishing. Some anglers fish at night during summer when daytime temperatures are high and fish are less active. Bring a headlamp and use larger, darker flies that are easier to see and cast in low light.

What is the best time of year to visit Bishop Park?

Fall (September through October) is generally considered the best season for consistent fishing and pleasant weather. Spring (April through May) is also productive but involves higher water and more variable conditions. Summer can be slow during the day but improves in early morning and evening.

Is there a restroom at Bishop Park?

Yes, the park has a basic restroom facility. It is open seasonally, so check ahead if you are visiting in winter. The park also has picnic tables and a small shelter, making it a good spot to take a break between fishing sessions.

Can I bring my dog to Bishop Park?

Dogs are generally allowed in the park but should be kept under control. Check with the City of Grayling or at the park entrance for any specific pet policies. Keeping your dog away from other anglers and out of the water helps maintain a peaceful fishing environment for everyone.