It seems like it has been an old fashion fall with cooler weather, frosts kicking the fall colors into bold expressions, and maybe a little too much rain in our rivers. After over 3 inches the past couple days our local rivers are running more than full, they are high and have some color to them. Lots of leaves, too.
The salmon are past peak and the fish that are in the river are finishing up their spawning on the Manistee. Steelhead have moved through most rivers systems and are taking advantage of the eggs that the salmon are contributing. Like the salmon, they are running large and with the warmer water temperatures, they have been more than a handful once hooked. With water temps about to drop below 50, they should be a little more user friendly but don’t expect much change – upper 40s doesn’t curb their enthusiasm too much.
Since the natural food source has been eggs, egg patterns and beads have been the most productive. When a lot of leaves in the water consider using larger and bolder colors to help them stick out. Nymphs like buggers and hex have taken some fish as has a swung fly or two. With the high water, you might have to go a little bigger and bolder with all patterns.
Because fish were not stocked by MI-DNR in the spring of 2021 we have lost a year class of fish – PLEASE practice catch and release to help us absorb the missing population in the years ahead.
Good luck.
Ted
Fall Steelhead – Finish the season with what started the season – Steelhead! A few dates available in November
2023 Fishing – Get your dates secured to ensure your time on the water. Booking all seasons thru September.
Gift Certificates – Quick and easy gifts of a half-day, full-day or casting lesson for friends or family.