Trout season is underway on the Manistee with a smattering of hatches that can be present at any time of the day. It’s been a while since we have had any rain and the rivers are running clear with levels ideal for both floating or the wading angler.

This time of year there can be a handful of different bugs on the water including caddis (Mother’s day caddis – right on time), Hendricksons, Black Quills, some #8 and 10 yellow stone flies, BWOs, and more. With the forecast ahead calling for some above normal temperatures, I wouldn’t hesitate having some Sulphurs and Mahoganies in your fly box, too. Another bug that is unpredictable this time of year (aren’t they all anymore?) but worth having is the March Brown – some days the fish key-in on this meaty bug if they are around.

The streamer fishing has been off a little again this spring with the lack of color to the water, but smaller streamers fished on floating lines or even intermediate tip lines is a good alternative the the bigger patterns and heavier lines.

Smallmouth bass are starting to move where we can target them with flies as they are going into their pre-spawn binge. These fish continue to impress anglers when they play along and bend the rod giving an alternative to the technical match-the-hatch trout fishing.

Some smaller, dark bottomed lakes have had some bluegill fishing begin and it will only get better in the days ahead with the full moon phase on a small lake near you. It’s always fun having them come to the surface but if they are reluctant, micro streamers and larger swimming nymphs work well.

Good luck.

Ted

Fall Steelhead – Spring season is all booked, but a few dates remain available for the Fall Steelhead.
Trout Fishing – May and June offer some of the best technical dry fly fishing as we chase bugs and browns.
Smallmouth Bass – Now through Mid-August, come fish this rod bending species as an alternative to trout.