Most of the snow is gone (except for north facing slopes) and much of that runoff has found it’s way to the river systems. Water levels are up on area rivers and they have some stain to them. The Manistee below Tippy Dam is running 3,200 cfs and the Betsie, too, is running full. The increase in water levels and recent big moon will help encourage more steelhead from the lake to migrate up stream, but with water temperatures in the upper 30’s, the run shouldn’t progress too quickly. As always, use caution if wading.

There is already a mix of steelhead in the rivers – fall hold-overs, winter fish and fresh chromers. With the higher water look for fish taking shelter in the deeper holes and moving fish to be near the soft seams. It’s a great time to fish your bigger egg patterns in bold colors as well as nymphs that have a significant silhouette in the darker water. A little flash might not be a bad plan either.

Fishing under indicators/floats and drift fishing with duck and chuck rigs are the primary presentations right now. Click here to read more on how to rig your equipment for steelhead.

Good luck!

Ted

Spring Steelhead – A few prime days in March remain open if your looking for fish and some fresh air.
Trout – May and June aren’t far away and offer ideal conditions for both streamer and dry fly fishing.
Fall Steelhead – Some good dates in Oct. and Nov. remain available but they are starting to become limited.