Summer like weather…wind..lack of rain and massive amounts of leaves in the river are making the bite a little tough, especially in the afternoons.
We are still getting into plenty of fish, numbers are more traditional this year, if you remember last year you will remember how easy it was..there seemed to be fish under every rock on the river. We were spoiled for sure.
We have been float fishing daily with egg patterns rigged on light lines, covering water is the key. There are still some kings spawning, these are key areas to fish as the steelhead will be looking for an easy meal.
Due to a recent cancelation I have this Saturday November 1 open.
Also booking trips for December steelhead..perfect for avoiding the crowds.
After one of the most dismal fall salmon runs in my 23 years of guiding we have been chasing steelhead since October 8. Was I happy to see the change in seasons….estatic to say the least, as guiding for steelhead is my passion.
The steelhead numbers are not huge, but there are enough to play with, with increasing numbers daily. Fish seem well distributed through the river system, with faster riffles and runs holding the most fish. Fishing near spawning salmon will also produce steelhead and trout.
Float fishing with egg patterns has been my favorite method, as it allows you to cover so much water and get the biters quickly.
I still have October 21,27,28 open as well as Nov. 28 if you are looking to get on the water.
The less than average salmon season continues, In my 22 year career as a fishing guide, this is hands down the toughest year on record. There are fish in all west michigan rivers, but not huge numbers. Be prepared to work for them. The good news is that the weather as of late has been perfect for just being outdoors.
The lower sections are still seeing slow trickles of kings as well as a steelhead here and there. Covering water and making the best of the day are keys.
Steelhead season is just about here and are worth chasing any day from here on out.