The Coldwater River is a 19.4 mile long stream that is part of the Grand River drainage basin. The tranquil Coldwater River flows through Barry and Kent counties. The Coldwater is formed from the Little Thornapple River and flows northerly for a few miles and then flows west until it empties into the Thornapple River. The Coldwater River represents a partnership between Trout Unlimited and Michigan Nature Association. The Coldwater River is an excellent trout stream. The Coldwater Rivershed Council recently received grants from The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Sustain Our Great Lakes program and The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Sustain Our Great Lakes program. These funds were used with the goal to increase the trout population from about 40 fish per mile to about 800 fish per mile. The DNR introduced the Gilchrist Creek brown trout several years ago and the species has thrived. You can also find Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout.
