It’s the end of the month and year and possibly the season. The long-term forecast is calling for sub-freezing temperatures for a while so it’s going to be a bit before we get another warm-up and allow for some tolerable weather on the river.  But stayed tuned – a little sun, no wind and temps above freezing can make fishing a treat after too many holiday parties or time visiting the in-laws.

Steelhead are in pretty much all of the local rivers including the Manistee, Betsie and even a few in the Boardman.  With water temps in the mid to low 30’s, the fish have mostly taken to their winter holding areas which include deep, slower holes and around structure like wood, deeper pockets or both.  It’s a good time to work on that drag free drift and fish below a float/indicator but since we are targeting “Fall” fish that have become “winter” fish, they will still chase a swung fly – just slow down the swing and target some softer water.

For those interested there is a recap/summary of this year’s fishing which can be read in the Winter Newsletter .

Thanks to all of you that joined me on the water to help make 2017 a great year. All the best to you and yours this Holiday Season and throughout the New Year with lots of time spent on the water.

Ted

The Winter/Holiday Newsletter just went out – click here to read and/or subscribe.

Gift Certificates – With the Holiday Season near, give or ask for the gift of time on the water or a lesson.
2018 Dates – Now booking for all seasons in the New Year. Reserve your dates and plan life around them!