Not much has changed in the past week in regards to fishing. The fall steelhead have been inconsistent and hard-earned as their numbers aren’t what they typically are for this time of year. The decent days keep us motivated and coming back as these fish test our determination but when they do play nice, it is awesome and is a testament to why we choose to fish for them.
The Manistee has dropped to closer to normal levels and the water has cleared up quite a bit with just a slight stain thanks to a week without rain. And, the sun came back out making it comfortable once the morning frost melts while increasing the water temperature which is just about 50 degrees.
There are very few salmon around right now and as a result the egg bite is starting to give way to a bug-bite – caddis, steelhead buggers, pheasant tails and even a swung fly. With water temps as warm as they are, this can be a good time to get out and fish a big sink-tip and a big fly on a two-handed rod.
Trout fishing is reportedly good on the open waters of the Upper Manistee and AuSable rivers – look for the post-spawn behavior to be one that likes to pounce on a streamer. If you come across spawning browns, please leave them alone to do their job of creating a sustainable fishery.
Good luck.
Ted
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.