While fall was pretty mild with some cold days mixed in, it looks like those days are gone as winter has shown itself. With the white stuff falling outside the window and the long term forecast not calling for temps to be above freezing, anglers will have to look for their windows of opportunity to fish comfortably.

Steelhead fishing has remained mixed – doing good one day, not so good the next which seemed to be the theme for the fall run. There are a good number of fish in the system and they are scattered throughout river systems. As water temps drop into the upper 30s, the fish are mostly taking up residence in the slower water to the side of the bubble line.  Swung flies in and around structure have been working as are flies presented on float and indicator rigs.  Bottom bouncing/duck and chuck will work too, but the fish are starting to get lethargic and picky. Small, natural egg patterns on the smaller waters like the Betsie have been working where some larger eggs in bolder color patterns have been the theme on larger river systems like the Manistee.

Trout fishing this fall wasn’t what it normally is for the time of year but the streamer angler casting mid-sized streamers on presenting them a little slower in the cold water can get some good fish to eat. Yellow streamers, natural sculpin and baitfish patterns are great themes to start with but as always mix up the pattern and presentation.

Good luck.

Ted

Fall Steelhead – As fall continues, so does our Steelhead season, into December or until the weather says no more.
Trout/Steelhead – The lower Manistee offers good streamer fishing for trout in late Fall for a combo of species.
Gift Certificates – With the Holiday Season near, give or ask for the gift of time on the water or a lesson.