3/5/2026
March has arrived and so has some sunshine. As the days get longer and the snowpack further recedes, it seems it’s a great time to fix the cabin fever and get back to the water.
Steelhead have wintered over nicely in the rivers (Manistee and Betsie) and with some fluctuations in the water the past month, some fresh fish have moved in. With more sun and longer days, steelhead are triggered to stage and start migrating upstream over the next 6 weeks promising for more fish to push up the river over this period.
Water temperatures remain winter-like in the mid-30s due to the cold nights, but look for a slight increase in temps (sunshine) to kick off some activity, often making fishing later in the day better than starting first thing. The water is running clear but a little rain can change that quickly after experiencing significant snowfall this winter.
Focus on the deeper and slower water this time of year and you can use both egg/beads and nymphs. Favorites include #8 egg patterns in orange/gold hues/combos and nymphs that include hex and black stones. A steelhead bugger is often a solid performer this time of year, too.
Good luck.
Ted
Trout Fishing –Streamer fishing and Matching the Hatch with dry flies is at its best May through June.
Smallmouth Bass – Lakes or Rivers, these eager to please fish bend the rod and continue to put smiles on faces.
2026 Season – Now booking for all seasons: Steelhead, Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Salmon & Learn to Fly Fish trips.