With the trees in full color and our first frost behind us, there is no denying that fall is here. What isn’t here are the usual number of fish – both salmon and steelhead in the local rivers.
With a good wind on the Lake yesterday more fish should congregate near the river mouths and start heading upstream with the solid river flows. Water levels have come down close to normal again after last week’s deluge however there is still a slight stain to the water which is a good thing.
The Manistee has the highest concentration of salmon, steelhead, and anglers right below Tippy Dam. Fish are sparsely scattered in the lower river but with enough casts in enough water you should find some fish. A few fresh salmon have shown up in the past week and the steelhead continue to trickle in. Once hooked, you will know it as these fish continue to impress as they demonstrate their jumping qualities and sometimes the color of your backing. Egg flies in #4 and #6 have been working but as the water continues to clear up the smaller #8 and #10’s should start working better – at least near and around the spawning salmon. This is the time to fish a lot of eggs as you “Match the Hatch“.
The Betsie still has salmon in it and an errant steelhead or two. Like the Manistee, the water below the dam (Homestead) is popular with fish and fisherman. Cover water and fish the slots and runs near spawning fish for fresh fish and a possible steelhead.
With archery deer season going and the full moon deer activity to and from the river has increased so be careful when driving.
Good luck,
Ted
Open dates through Mid-November: November 11 and 13
Trout – With fall here have the Upper Manistee River and its trout all to yourself.
Fall Steelhead– From now through November – this is the time of year for Steelhead.
2015 Fishing – It isn’t too early to get your dates booked for next year – now booking for all seasons.