There is no denying that winter has come and it doesn’t appear that any warm-ups are in the forecast. For those looking to get out of the house and on the water, you will find that there are steelhead in just about all the area rivers. Water levels are normal for this time of year as is clarity so focus on the deeper water with slow moving currents as the fish have gone into winter mode. Smaller bugs (caddis, stones, small hex, pheasant tails and sow bug/scuds) presented as close to drag-free as possible fish well when in tandem with either an attractive egg or larger nymph. Some new fish have entered the Manistee, Betsie and Boardman rivers in the past three weeks making for a nice mix of fresh fish along with the colorful winter steelhead that came in earlier this fall. Any days when the sun makes it’s rare appearance, look for the afternoon bite to be best as just a few degrees of warm-up can really impact the fishing.
Good luck and Happy New Year.
Ted
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Winter Special: Take advantage of warm-ups this winter! 5 hours of fishing and lunch – $250
Gift Certificates: Ask for or give the gift of a guide trip or casting lesson. It’s a quick and easy gift! Click here.
Spring Steelhead: Mid-March isn’t that far away – get your dates secured and reserve your place in the boat.
– – Currently Booking for all 2013 Seasons – –