Trout Opener has come and so has some warmer weather. After a cold spring this week’s summer-like temperatures kicked things into gear as trees are starting to leaf out, the grass is getting greener and mayflies are starting to show up, albeit sparsely.
Water levels on local rivers continue to be a little higher than normal and with a slight stain making for streamer fishing conditions. As the water continues to warm up, look for more hendricksons to emerge and the fish to notice – mild nights and warm days and sunshine can really have an impact. Fishing with streamers before the hatch begins is a great way to cover some water with mid-afternoon being the ideal target time for mayflies on top. A few stoneflies are fluttering around on the surface, too and handful of caddis in your box might not be a bad idea, either. Streamers in all sizes – from the size of tube sock to 3 inch patterns are all good bets as you determine what they are in the mood for. Since the water is cold, slow your retrieve down a bit and incorporate some jigging motion with a pause for that territorial pounce.
Steelhead fishing has slowed down this past week on the Manistee with the rapid increase in water temperatures. While a few bright, fresh fish have moved in, majority of the fish have moved back to the lake and the fish lingering around are on the darker side as they continue to spawn. As any new fish enter, they get down to business quick before returning to Lake Michigan. Small natural eggs, caddis and small black stones seem to be the best producers. I’m sure more steelhead will show up over the next couple of weeks making a combination of steelhead and trout fishing ideal and a great approach this time of year. It was a really good spring run and I already look forward to the run of fall steelhead.
Good luck,
Ted
Trout Fishing – May & June offer some or our best streamer fishing & great hatches!
Bluegill – Experience great fishing on the ponds and lakes in late mid-May and June
Hex Fishing – Some dates still available for the big bugs and big fish in mid-June
2013 Fishing Season – Now booking for all 2013 seasons – don’t miss out on this year’s fishing.