Winter started a little early this year as the snow started to fall on Thanksgiving. Since then, temperatures have been cold with some single digit days thrown in. The water temperature of Manistee has also dropped into the mid-30s making fishing challenging.
Steelhead are in the river but have taken up their winter residence, sitting in slow water, often around structure as they ponder why they left the big lake. Fish will continue to trickle in throughout the winter, especially when we have little warm-ups and any slight increases of water level/flow. The Manistee and Betsie are currently running low and clear.
Fishing eggs and/or a nymph under an indicator or float is likely your best bet to find a participating steelhead. Those looking to swing a fly, lighten your line/sink tip combo and focus on those slow edges and present smaller, natural looking baitfish streamers/swing patterns to entice a grab.
Getting out on the water with snow in the background and a break in temperatures is a nice way to beat any cabin fever that may have already begun. Or, as a way to get away from holiday parties and the eggnog.
Good luck and Happy Holidays!
Ted
The Winter Newsletter just went out – click here to read and/or subscribe
Gift Certificates –Give the gift of time on the water. Half or Full-Day Trips and Casting Lessons available.
Spring Steelhead –The season will be here before you know it – get your dates secured Mid-March thru April.
2026 Season –It isn’t too early to think about next year and securing your dates – now booking for all seasons.