As we enter December, anglers will find steelhead throughout local river systems (Manistee and Betsie) and pretty well spread throughout them. Water temps are hovering around 40 degrees, but after some cold nights, the smaller rivers tend to drop temps until any sunshine that day might warm them up. Since the rivers aren’t very busy, sometimes it’s a good idea to get a later start and let both the air and water temps increase some. If there is one thing all species of fish don’t like, it’s a rapid drop in temps when things are already cool.
Not much has changed – it’s time to cover the water with your favorite method – drift fishing, indicators or swinging flies on sink-tips. Look for the fish to have moved into water a little slower than they have been as they begin to adjust to the colder temps and maybe consider taking up residence near some structure for the winter. A mix of fish are being caught – fresh chrome ones and some with a little color to them, especially the males. Bubble lines are still worth targeting, especially on the soft side of the current.
Eggs and beads are still working well, with caddis, hex and the occasional big stone fly working when tied below an egg. Swung flies in tan/brown with copper and olive and copper seem to have been more successful than other combinations.
There’s still some good weather and fishing to be had so don’t put your gear away just yet.
Ted
Fall Steelhead – Take advantage of the mild late Fall weather – it’s a great way to finish the fishing season.
Gift Certificates – Give the gift of a Fishing Trip or Lesson – Half of Full Days available – they’re easy and fast.
This fly represents a clump of eggs released from either a walleye or a sucker, where it gets its name. It is easy to tie and looks very realistic when wet. Do know that if you tie it in oranges and in larger sizes to imitate steelhead or salmon eggs, it will tend to be fairly heavy and can easily drag a bit.
Hook: TMC 105 #6-10, Gamakatsu C14S #8 -12, TMC 2457 #8-12
Step 1.Insert hook into vise and wrap a thread base from the hook eye to above the hook barb.
Step 2. Take about 5” of each color thread and separate the two strands, using one of each color.
Step 3. Lay the yarn parallel along the hook shank and wrap back towards the bend in the hook.
Step 4. Take one strand of yarn and twist in your fingers stopping just before the
Step 5. Repeat with both strands/colors and vary it up a little for a realistic look.
Step 6. Whip finish.