We still haven’t received significant rainfall but a few fresh fish have moved upstream with warmer water temperatures while the older fish in the river have moved out of the deep winter water/holes and closer to gravel. Some days are better than others but the action has been trending nicely and improving. The forecast is promising for a much needed rain which should really encourage more fish to migrate upstream.
Steelhead have felt the magic number of 42 degrees and started to nudge around gravel although spawning isn’t taking place yet. Look for fish to be in the pocket water near gravel as well as funnels where migrating fish move through.
With the water clarity being almost too good for this time of year on the Manistee and Betsie Rivers, smaller flies and lighter line are in order. The best flies recently have included fry patterns/BTS, green caddis and eggs in orange variations. A few walleye are in the Manistee doing their spawning with the trout are gorging on their eggs.
Good luck,
Ted
Open April Dates: 24 & 26th
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Spring Steelhead – From mid-March through early May on the Manistee and Betsie. Few dates available.
September Salmon – Dates are limited for fishing the Betsie River in early Sept. and later on the Manistee.
2015 Fishing – It isn’t too early to get your fishing trips planned for the year. Booking all species/seasons.