Significant rainfall over the past few days has really brought water flows to record levels for this time of year. We often experience this much water in the spring after thaw/rain/run-off, however this time of year we are not sure what water clarity will be like going forward, but it should be better.
A positive aspect about receiving this much water is we should expect some fresh steelhead to migrate upstream, however they will be moving through seams and holding in water less familiar to us. Look for big flies (bold egg patterns and leeches) to receive the most notice from migratory steelhead in such high water. Unlike the spring, the water should drop faster as well as regain clarity, but you will want to monitor river flows and use caution if headed to the river – lots of stuff is flowing downstream including logs, limbs, leaves and the garbage that some class-act salmon anglers have left on the river banks. You can monitor water levels by checking out the USGS Streamflow website by clicking here.
Trout fishing? Big streamers on heavy sink-tips will give you a chance at big brown trout just completing their spawning. Like the steelhead waters, conditions like these requires safety and prudence if heading to the river and letting some time go by to let levels drop would be a good idea. With the recent winds, it might be a good idea to take a chainsaw along to clear any new fallen trees if using a drift boat.
Good luck and be safe.
Ted
Fall Steelhead – October, November and into December, these fish will bend your rod like no other – experience it.
Trout/Steelhead – The lower Manistee offers good streamer fishing for trout in late Fall for a combo of species.