Thanks to some warm weather last week and with the forecast calling for more sun and high temps, the fishing improved and should remain. On the trout rivers there have been decent numbers of bugs of all types: mahoganies, bat flies, a sulphur or two, lots of BWOs on those cloudy days, little yellow stones, big yellow stones, a few brown drakes, isonychias and some hex. The AuSable has had the most prolific hatch of hex bugs lately where the big bugs on the Manistee and Boardman are just starting in a few places and by no means are they thick – think more of a trickle. Things should change over the next few days if the weatherman stays true to his word.
Carp fishing on the bay has changed, too with the fish going hard at their spawning task. Look for fish to be in shallow and they should be relatively easy to see as they are in big groups “smacking fin.” Look for the lead fish or any stragglers behind the group to eat a well presented fly as the latter tend to eat anything the group stirs up. Smallmouth fishing has slowed up a little but the careful eye should be able to find a fish or two cruising the flats looking to eat. Focus on all structure (rocks, boulders and logs) in the mean time if targeting smallmouth.
Bluegill fishing has tapered off a little as the gills have moved deep again requiring a little more strategy and skill than when they were up shallow doing their spawning thing. Each lake/pond is different as is each day so one never knows. Fishing deep with small nymphs and streamers can produce some great gills this time of year – be sure to hit the drop offs. The largemouth bass continue to eat and as weed growth increases, fish both top water and subsurface with streamers for some great post-spawn fishing.
Good luck!
Ted
Father’s Day is this Sunday – June 17. Don’t forget dad or let your own kids know that I can E-mail
Gift Certificates for lessons and trips just in time.
– Upcoming Fishing Seasons –
Trout: Fishing with streamers and dries. Don’t forget the Big Bugs – Drakes, Isonychias and Hex.
Carp and Smallmouth Bass on Grand Traverse Bays – find out why this has become a favorite of many anglers.
Terrestrials & Trico hatches in the Months of July & August – start your mornings off on a cool, quiet trout stream.
Booking for all 2012 Seasons – Some Fall Salmon and Steelhead Dates Remain Open