Spring officially has started which typically means cold nights and the promise of warmer days. And Spring Steelhead.

The local rivers – Manistee and Betsie – have been providing some fish but with the lack of rain/run-off, it’s been a case of earned fish rather than easy fishing. Yes, easy steelhead fishing does occur from time to time. Water temps are in the low 40s and are bouncing around with temperature swings that can range 30 degrees in a day.

As these fish migrate upstream to spawn, many are staging in areas near spawning gravel waiting for conditions to be just right. Look for fish in the holes near gravel or runs between holes. Some fish have begun spawning which should take place for another month or so. With angling pressure increasing, look for fish to seek shelter in secondary spots, specifically around the structure of log jams.

Some little black stone flies have been emerging which makes it a great pattern to fish when tied in tandem with an egg or bead. If the water becomes too colored/stained, the smaller stonefly is hard to see and larger patterns are suggested. Green Caddis, Hex Nymphs and Steelhead Buggers are all great pattern choices right now.

Please keep in mind that Steelhead will return to Lake Michigan after spawning and come back even bigger next year if you allow them to, not only making for bigger fish, but also more fish. MI-DNR was unable to collect eggs in 2020 to support their supplemental spawning program in 2021– this season it is more important than ever to limit your harvest to help the fishery absorb this loss. The steelhead population, simply put, is not infinite.

– All Trips Remain Catch and Release –

Trout Fishing – May and June offer some of the best streamer and dry fly hatches of the year.
Learn to Fly Fish – Tailor a half-day trip to learning how to fly fish –
perfect for beginners or those looking to dial in a new technique.
Fall Steelhead – Some good dates remain in November and into December