With recent rain showers and hopefully our last significant snowfall of the season anglers will find the water running high, dirty but with a silver/chrome lining to it – steelhead. Fresh fish continue to move through the Manistee and Betsie River systems while the winter and early spring steelhead have hit the gravel to spawn.  The fresh fish are in both deep holes and the pocket water near gravel and the water conditions will most likely spread the fish into some unusual places as well as the usual.

Water temps are hovering around 40 degrees and with decreasing visibility, your flies should include big egg flies in bold colors, and your nymphs also should be big and either bright or dark – natural tones might just go unnoticed. Bump up your tippet size and hold on tight to the rod as the fish are even stronger as they use the increased current against you.

To check on your favorite river’s water level, click on the USGS Website.

Good luck and be safe.

Ted

The Spring newsletter just went out – click here to read and/or sign up for delivery.

Steelhead – Spring is already booked but it’s not too early to get your fall dates secured. Late Sept. – Nov.
Trout Fishing – May & June offer some or our best streamer fishing & great hatches – its closer than you think!
2013 Fishing Season – Now booking for all seasons in 2013 – Don’t miss your place in the boat.