It’s hard to believe that it’s the middle of April when looking at the snow, freezing rain and ice. Old man winter is being a little ornery and just won’t leave and allow what we expect weather wise this time of year. Late last week – before the winter storm –  brought some expected April showers and we sure needed a boost in river flows as the Betsie and Manistee were running exceptionally low and clear.

The increased water has the rivers looking completely different – they are higher and dirty but still fishable. With the snow pack, I am guessing that the high and dirty will be around for a few weeks. Since we have been dealing with low water we still had not received a big push of steelhead on the Manistee and I suspect with the cooler water we should get a decent run of fish spread out over the next couple of weeks. I would expect to see the last of the steelhead move through on the Betsie over the next week or so. The Platte should fish good, too, with the extra flow of water.

Last week’s effective flies no longer apply with the new water conditions. Fill your fly box with big and bold egg patterns and nymphs that have a large profile  including – steelhead/ice buggers, egg sucking leeches and sparkle stones.

Fish are a mixed bag right now – fresh fish, spawning fish, and drop back/post spawn fish. Fishing the holes around the gravel and migratory slots should be your best bet in targeting fish in the stained water.

Good luck.

Ted

Steelhead & Trout Combo – The first two weeks in May can offer steelhead in the morning and trout after noon.
Trout – Reliable hatches begin in May for surface activity. It’s also a great time to fish streamers for bigger trout.
Learn How – Take a 1/2 day trip with the goal of learning how to fly fish or improve, customized to your interests.