Steelhead Fishing in Grand Rapids, MI 49505

Anyone traveling to greater Grand Rapids area can find a million reasons to wet a line! The city abounds with areas and locations to fish, both lakes and rivers provide ample places to fish. The city is also surrounded by world class salmon and steelhead fishing areas.

The “Sixth Street” Fish ladder downtown has one of the largest salmon, steelhead and migratory trout passages in the world with an estimated, 100,000 fish swimming through the ladder. (Sixth Street fish ladder pictured below.)

Anglers fish for Steelhead on the Grand River located in Grand Rapids Michigan. Home to the Great Lakes largest migratory run of Chinook, Coho, Lake Run Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Steelhead.

The Grand River has decent wading access below the concrete barrier at 6th street. This area can be waded from the bank or fished from a boat. It offers endless opportunities for migratory Chinook, Coho, lake run brown trout, Lake Trout, and of coarse, steelhead.

The best time to fish the Grand and Rouge Rivers is during the Spring and Fall.

Another great river is the Rogue, Located less than ten miles from the greater Grand Rapids area. The Rogue River runs right through the town of Rockford. Some of the best places to are under the bike bridge, and behind the paper mill. The Rogue has some great wading opportunities for resident Brown and Rainbow trout. This river has clean, clear water, and offers excellent fishing!

Just a little further North, is the Muskegon River. The Might Mo excels in big numbers of Steelhead, Salmon, and resident Trout. Although mostly a private river, the Muskegon also offers great wading and boat fishing. It’s a tailwater fishery and offers the best trout fishing in Michigan.

Michigan Weekly DNR Fishing Reports for Salmon and Steelhead – Manistee River – Manistee River (231) 519-7348

Michigan King SALMON Fishing report

Michigan DNR Fishing Reports for Manistee River.

King Salmon Fishing Report Sept 4, 2025

Heavy winds and big rains the past two days have moved a lot of Salmon from Lake Michigan, into to the rivers. Cold nights have also helped bring in more fish. There is a fishable amount of fresh Kings in the lower portion of the river.

Most action is by boat fishing near the cool creeks that flow into to the big river. Still slow at the dam with only a small handful of steelhead and salmon. Water is warm, low and continuing to drop. Most action is up top above the coffer/falls just before and after dark. Beads, flies, 1/4-1/2oz weight, 12-20lb leaders. There are no real large numbers of fish and most fishermen are going home empty handed but it’s nice to see a few fish here and there smashing the surface. It’s a great feeling to know, they are finally there and it’s only going to get better and better every week.

Good luck out there friends and neighbors. Tight lines.

Big Lake Charters in both Ludington and Manistee have been reporting excellent catches of King Salmon, Steelhead, Coho, and Lake Trout. Trolling spoons have been the most productive including Limeade, Blue Dolphin, Orange Crush, and Wonder Bread Blue. Sable Point and Manistee are producing good numbers.
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Coho, Steelhead, and Lake Trout have been some nice bi catch as well. This should make for an excellent fall season on the Big Manistee River below Tippy Dam. We are looking forward to Tippy Day Salmon Fishing 2025.

Lots of new fish are entering the river right now. Recent rains have bumped the water levels for improved Salmon migrations. The Lower Pere Marquette River between Custer and Scottville has been loaded with salmon staging to move up river. Floats and skein has been very effective. Casting Thunder stick lures in the morning has also been fishing well. Fire Tiger has been the best color.

The Big Manistee River has a ton of King Salmon and Coho, starting to spawn and hitting the gravel. Salmon fishing has been excellent at this time. Lots and lots of Salmon, and a handful of Steelhead near Tippy Dam, on the Manistee River. Fly flossing fish on gravel has been very effective with long leaders, pencil weights, and black flies, or black yarn. Salmon don’t bite while on gravel, however, it is legal to run the line through their mouth. Fly fishing guides have been using this for years, this technique is very effective for spawning Salmon and Steelhead. Here is a video, on How To Floss Salmon & Steelhead on gravel.

Salmon have been pouring into Western Michigan rivers after the heavy North Eastern winds from last week. The Lake Michigan temperatures have plummeted, bringing in cooler water, and good numbers of King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Steelhead, into the White, Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Betsie rivers. Recently, one Michigan fishing guide stated, “This is just the beginning! Lot’s more salmon will enter the rivers. Lots of bright fish entering the river. September should see the best Salmon fishing of the year, in Northern Michigan.
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November brings into prime time Muskegon River Fall Steelhead. The Muskegon River had an incredible Fall King Salmon migration. October was packed with spawning Chinook Salmon near Thornapple and Pine Street. Every inch of gravel seemed to have fish on or near it. Salmon fishing was great to say the least!!

The Mighty Muskegon River has a ton of dime bright, chrome Fall Steelhead. One of the better runs over the past several years, this fall out shines them all, as per sheer numbers of fish. Steelhead fishing should remain good well into New Years. There are plenty of Steelhead in the river, with a lot more coming in from the Lake.

We have Michigan Fall Steelhead Guides available for both November or December Fall Steelhead.

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Looks like we have a great weekend coming up for Salmon fishing in Michigan!! We had several days of hard North East winds that significantly cooled the water temperatures down along the lake shore. Pere Marquette Lake, Ludington, Manistee Lake, Muskegon Lake, and Grand Haven now have King Salmon in close and pushing against the shore line. Recent rains have brought up river levels which should bump salmon into the river systems with Pere Marquette River, and Manistee hot on that list. Muskegon Lake may have a few salmon as well.

Welcome to the weekly Michigan Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee River for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. Updated DNR fishing reports for Western Michigan rivers, including Manistee, Tippy Dam, and Pere Marquette River for Salmon fishing. We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

Starting to see good numbers of King Salmon entering Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake. Salmon are beginning to stage in the lake and a few have already entered the river. Look for good pushes to start entering the river this week.

Jigging trips have been increasingly productive on Pere Marquette Lake. Gabe has been doing Well with King Salmon jigging trips with customers. This year salmon numbers are less than normal however, the Salmon Fishing Reports in Michigan, indicate much larger than average, Salmon this year. Fall Salmon in the rivers should be giant tackle busters! Less fish will be landed but the Kings will be HUGE!!

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing.
(231) 519-7348

Welcome to the weekly Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee River for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. Updated DNR fishing reports for Western Michigan rivers, including Manistee, Tippy Dam, and Pere Marquette River for Salmon fishing. We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing. (231) 519-7348

December offers some of the best Fall and Winter Steelhead fishing that Michigan has to offer. Both the Muskegon River, and the Manistee River sport great Steelhead fishing action. Good numbers of both Lake Trout, Coho Salmon, and Steelhead below the coffer at Tippy Dam.

Zach and Anthony have been consistantly getting fresh Kings on Manistee and Pere Marquette Lake near Ludington. North East winds have been a game changer, bringing in cold water from Lake Michigan. Jigging and casting Thundersticks has been the most productive. Salmon skein eggs under a float has also been doing well.

Strong North West winds have started to kick off our 2024 Fall Michigan King Salmon run on the Big Manistee River, and Pere Marquette River. Jigging 1 oz Luna Spoons has been producing fish. King Salmon this year seem to be running large. The upcoming season looks good with lots of bright Salmon on the horrizon.

We recommend Betts Guide Service for guided salmon fishing.

The best available Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates are from early September through late October.
(September 7th – October 20th) Spinning Tackle, and Fly Fishing Available.
King Salmon migrate into the rivers first, then Coho Salmon and Fall Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Salmon Fishing. (231) 519-7348

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports – Steelhead Fishing has been excellent on both the Muskegon River, Big Manistee, and the Grand River. November is truly a prime Time month for Steelhead in Michigan. Steelhead have been running a muck larger size this year. Plentiful forage (Food) base in Lake Michigan has made for some monster Salmon, Steelhead, and Lake Trout. This is certainly the year for giants. Fishing should remain very good for steelhead well into the new year. CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW or Text to book. (231) 519-7348

Manistee River is starting to get a decent number of Michigan Fall Steelhead. Water levels are perfect for fall fishing. There’s still plenty of King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, and resident river trout. Tippy Dam area has been fishing well, and should continue to fishing well for the next several weeks.

Tippy Dam Recreational Area has come alive over the past several days with fishing activity. Starting to see fishable numbers of bright, fresh King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Fall River Steelhead. a handful of Skamania Steelhead are also in the system. King Salmon are now beginning to spawn and dig in the gravel. Look forward to an excellent Fall Salmon migration. One for the record books for Huge Kings, and Plentiful Coho Salmon. Book Now!!

Over the past several days, we have seen the main push of Michigan King Salmon entering the rivers in Northern Michigan. Pere Marquette, Manistee, Betsie, Platte, and Bear Creek, and Bordman, all receiving a big shot of salmon. Look for excellent salmon fishing over the never several weeks. The King Salmon are huge this year!! cooler temperatures, and a little rain has significantly helped the salmon migration in Michigan. More to come…

Jigging Kings in Pere Marquette Lake. Most days, they’re huggin the bottom. Lovin the Luna Jigs!
Salmon Season 2019.

Weather and its effect

First of all, North West winds have dramatically changed the water temperatures along the lake shore therefore making shore line temperatures along the coast line very cold. This should bring Michigan King Salmon into the rivers early. Cold shoreline temps kick off good fishing along the piers. Manistee River has a good number of Skamania Summer Run Steelhead below the coffer and Tippy Dam. King Salmon have also entered the Manistee River. The average size of Michigan King Salmon this year is 22 lbs!!

The best times for Michigan King Salmon is quickly approaching. Bright Chinook, Coho, and Summer Run Skamania Steelhead are now entering Lake Michigan rivers. Pere Marquette and the Big Manistee River have the best Salmon migrations right now. The Muskegon River gets salmon later in the season. Best times for Salmon fishing in Michigan is late August, through early November hence September and October is prime. Coho Salmon also run later on the Manistee River below Tippy Dam. Make Salmon Reservations >> Book Here.

Best time for fishing

The best salmon fishing in rivers takes place in September and October. Prime salmon fishing is during the month of October for King and Coho Salmon. Skamania Summer Run Steelhead, and early Fall Steelhead also enter the rivers in late October and November. Tippy Dam area fishes very well during the fall months. (231) 519-7348

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How to select the bait and flies for steelhead trout fishing?

How to select the bait and lure for steelhead trout fishing?

(8/26/26) We are starting to see good numbers of King Salmon on the Big Manistee River below Pine Creek. The holes are starting to load up with fresh Salmon. A few days ago, Manistee Received a decent amount of rain. That, paired with a change in the wind direction, the lake flipped, and brought cold water against the shoreline, bringing Kings into the river. Both Pere Marquette River and the Manistee Rivers now have fishable Salmon numbers.
We do have guide dates available for the Manistee River. Sept. 8th – Oct 25th.

Pere Marquette River Salmon Fishing Report – (231) 519-7348

(8/26/26) Lower Pere Marquette River from Indian Bridge to Custer, Scottville is fishing well. Batches of Michigan King Salmon are moving through this section of river. New fish are entering the river daily. Fishing with floats and skein, (Salmon eggs Clusters) has been the best technique. Casting Deep Junior Thunder sticks crank baits in the morning, is also fishing well below Custer.
Starting to see King Salmon in the upper “flies Only” Section in Baldwin. All the deep holes are holing Salmon. Fishing floats and Salmon Skein eggs below a float, drifted through the deeper holes, has been producing some fish. Flossing with a single trout bead, and black stone fly has also been very productive when fishing for King Salmon. Please remember while flossing, Salmon and Steelhead must be hooked in the mouth

Many of the harbors along the lake shore are starting to see Salmon enter the rivers. The Lake Michigan Water temperatures “Flipped” or dropped significantly over the last several days, kicking off some very good Salmon fishing.

Pere Marquette Lake has been on fire the past two days for King Salmon. 2oz Jigging spoons with a 20 lb fluorocarbon leader has been the best bet. Natural herring or alewife colors. Also white or glow have been doing well so far this season. Lots of new fish coming in from the lake. The Dow Plant, and the lower PM should be fishing very well this week!

Pere Marquette River Salmon Fishing is now in full swing. High Concentrations of King Salmon in the “Flies Only” Section of the Pere Marquette River. Lots of fish are visible on gravel, spawning, with many fresh fish still in the holes and runs. Many salmon continuing to move the the Lower, Custer to Indian Bridge. Taylor Road continues to fish well with lots of fish on gravel. High water has made wading difficult this year. Please be careful and use a wading staff. Best flies for salmon, Egg Sucking Leech, Black Stone Fly, Trout Beads, snelled black yarn on Daichii Hooks. Deep Junior Thunder Sticks. Skein under a float. All of these are working for salmon.

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Possibly one of the best salmon runs of recent years!! Huge King Salmon this year, with decent numbers as well. It continues to improve. Michigan Salmon.

Pere Marquette River is now fishing very well. Indian Bridge, Custer, Scottville, and Twin Bridges are all fishing well. Good numbers of salmon now traveling through the Pere Marquette River system. Main push of salmon in now in the system. Look for great salmon fishing over the next several weeks. Betts Guide Service – We will hook you up!!

Strong North East winds have caused Lake Michigan to “Flip” brings cold water against the coast of Ludington and Manistee. Good numbers of Michigan King Salmon are now beginning to move through the lower Pere Marquette River. Most fish should enter daily. Casting Thunder sticks and skein fishing has been the most productive for early salmon. Salmon season is well on it’s way, the main migration of Pere Marquette Salmon has entered the harbors.

Pere Marquette River Fishing Report – Fly Fishing trout on the Pere Marquette River has been the name of the game! We’re in a transition time between Steelhead and trophy Brown Trout. Steelhead numbers are starting to wane, while warmer weather is just starting to get the trout on the feed. Good fishing ahead for May and June on the PM River.

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Pere Marquette River Fishing Report

Larger Streamers have been working well for us, especially after a rain with a little color in the water.Resident Brown trout feed heavily on Steelhead – Salmon fry during this time of year. It’s still pretty early for hatches so eggs and steelhead fry are the main food sources. Stripping streamers against the bank or log jams have been the best. Some chasers come over the sand from the depths, it just depends on the day. We’ve also seen many drop back (post spawn steelhead) These fish are biters and jump high, and fight hard!

Casting Cranks for Steelhead – We have been doing very well casting 1/4oz Storm Hot-n-tot Crankbaits for Spring Steelhead. The hits from these fish are unreal!! Bone crushing hits while casting cranks for steelhead. Indian Bridge, Custer, and Scottville offer the best opportunities for casting cranks for Steelhead. Hot-n-tots in metallic colors seem to work best for steelhead. Gold body with orange back has been the most productive so far. Any metallic color seems to work well. Mag Lips have been good also.

Pere Marquette River Steelhead Fishing Report

Casting Cranks For Steelhead has been going well. Chrome Bullets hammer a well placed plug! Bright lures – Bright Fish!

Andy with a very nice bead muncher. Beads have also been fishing well for Spring Steelhead on the Lower PM River.

Match the hatch – King Salmon eggs provided food for trout and steelhead on the Pere Marquette River.

Casting Hot-n-Tots definitely paid off big time today! Jim with a chrome to start us off.

Bead fishing remains strong. Steelhead key on King Salmon eggs big time. Match the hatch.

Good Numbers of Steelhead in the Pere Marquette River near Scottville. Bead Fishing Steelhead.

King Salmon Fly Fishing – Good numbers of King Salmon in the Upper Flies Only Section of the Pere Marquette River near Baldwin, Michigan. Both Trout and Steelhead have been feeding heavily on salmon spawn. Steelhead usually sit behind the spawning salmon in the deeper pockets. Holding in the dark water behind the gravel.

Best Fly patterns : Pere Marquette River Flies Only section have been natural colored nuke eggs, glo-bugs, Hexagenia nymphs, and green Caddis Larvae. Trout beads also work well but are prohibited in this section of the river. In the middle sections of the Pere Marquette, trout beads work very well and replicate salmon eggs perfectly.

Top 3 Steelhead Facts to Know Before You Start Fishing

When it’s Steelhead fishing on your mind, the right way to go would be to know everything there is about the art. This ensures that you can make the best of your time while catching the biggest fish of the day. Steelhead Trout & Rainbow Trout belong to the very same species while sharing similar appearances.

However, when you study the Steelhead fishing reports thoroughly, you would come to know that there sure is a major difference between the two. The Rainbows are actually native to the Pacific Ocean tributaries with cold water while living and hatching at the same place all their lives.

On the other hand, Steelhead Trout are known to venture into the freshwater spaces in order to spawn & spend a good segment of their life living at sea. Steelhead Trouts mostly return to their exact birthplace for mating, which is known as anadromy.

When you are out fishing, here are some facts that you might love to know and add to your fishing experience.

1-Winter and Summer Steelhead are Different:

It sure isn’t a secret that the steelhead fishing world is flourishing with two distinct steelhead variants. They are appropriately termed as “summer-run” and “winter-run” steelhead. Now, it might be fair to presume that the winter-run fishes are known to enter the area’s freshwater during the start of winter months, with summer-run migration starting early in the start of spring & summer.

Starting early in the month of November & continuing through the month of May, the winter-run fishes are known to enter the purge through the system when it is relatively developed close to maturation. At this stage, their bellies have been packed; time scarce, as well as the attention, concentrated.

As the Steelhead enter the freshwater, they undergo a transition from the saltwater area to freshwater. However, the winter-run species have limited access to spawn timing before they are ripe for reproduction with eggs and sperm.

On the other hand, summer-run fishes start venturing into the freshwater at the start of April. They start entering in bulk as the warmer months start in and are done before November starts approaching.

Apart from this, you also need to keep in mind the fact that the sexual maturity of your summer fishes tends to vary substantially from the winter counterparts. The reproductive organs of summer-run steelhead don’t mature until they have transitioned from saltwater to freshwater. Harvested historically, it has also been documented that retained entrails of the steelhead weren’t actually immature, rather barren.

Further, mild weather along with comfortable temperature within the water body enhances the metabolism of the Summer Steelhead while their aggression tends to be too high. This is why the summer-run fishes are sought after by most angling enthusiasts.

Regardless of the differences amid their migration timings, both summer-run and winter-run fishes spawn early in the summer and spring.

2-Time-Management is the Key:

If you have fully understood the point explained above, you will surely relate when we say that timing is the key to it all. When you plan to fish and get a good result out of it, your timing must be right, or else you might not end up with a good catch or might have none at all.

The maturation of the fish drives both winter and summer fishes towards a set schedule of which one is surely laxer when compared to another. The winter fishes are all swollen & up against the clock set by Mother Nature close to the primarily dominating tributaries present within 100 miles of the closest ocean.

Both summer and winter Steelheads are known to survive as long as one year in the freshwater terrains without actually needing to feed in abundance. After battling through the long journeys & major obstacles, the summer-runs most often need an extra time allowance in order to ensure punctual arrival to the spawning beds.

The fish that venture further into the inland also need to factor in an increased presence of naturally occurring barriers that might or might not delay their travel. To get the best from the lot, time management sure is the need of the hour.

3-Otoliths are a Part of Steelhead Species:

Steelheads are known to have otoliths, also known as ear stones, located in their head right between their ears & behind the brain’s fleshy part. This solidified chunk of calcium carbonate is known to serve as an important segment of the balance and hearing system in the Steelhead fishes.

This chunk is primarily derived from the water & as the part grows older, there is a formation of new crystals of calcium carbonate that allows the trace water elements to successfully bind with the otoliths to help develop the layers.

Conclusion

With all these facts and figures known to you, we hope you have an amazing time fishing in the area of your choice and while you are at it, make sure you seek advice from your local fishing guide.

Are you in need of a reliable fishing guide service provider for an amazing fishing deal? If so, trust the services provided by Betts Guide Service. Our trained and experienced professionals know the right way to help you through the fishing process and make you better at the art with time. To know more about our services, give us a quick call at (231)-750-0673.

Phenomenal Spring Steelhead ~ Muskegon River

Steve with a gorgeous chrome bullet from this morning! A spectacular fight on light spinning tackle. We’re going to have some really big Steelhead this Spring! Muskegon River – Floats / Spawn (4/1)

Steve and Ross with another big buck from today. Higher water levels have brought in the “Magic Carpet Ride” of Chrome Spring Steelhead!! Spring Steelhead Float Fishing (4/1)

Happy Birthday Brad! We had an awesome day on the water with a bunch of fish landed! Higher water has not dampened our spirits and has made from some pretty darn good fishing to say the least! (3/31)

Mad Maxx is back! It’s great to see Frank (Mad Maxx) holding some beautiful Muskegon River Chrome! Frank is a long time friend, and it was great to spend an afternoon with him and his Bother-in-law. We landed some nice steelhead, and a jumbo-tron Brown trout. (3/31)

Muskegon River will not disappoint! “Home of the Chrome!” John displays one of the leading pack of chromers that has just entered the river. There’s sure to be a bunch more where that came from! Great day guys! (3/31)

Mike with his first experience with the “Chrome Dome”. Well played my friend. Changing tactics made for some very good fishing. Drifting stone flies and fry patterns put fish in the net today. Looking forward to more great days ahead. (3/31)

Mike with another nice hen taken on a Mojo sac fry. Fly fishing seems to be working well over the past several day.

Banner day on the Might Muskegon River. Mark and Jill were way into double digits on the lower Muskegon. Floats and spawn was the ticket for low and gin clear water! Ring- a- ring – ding dong! Chromers! Spring steelhead are here! (3/28)

Jill wailed on her share of new fish! Mark had a tough time keeping up with his lady! There were some times Jill was putting on a clinic! Floats and spawn. Newaygo to Anderson’s Flats. Fish moving up! (3/28)

It feels wonderful to start seeing some of these bright girls! Steelhead fishing is really starting to turn on with good numbers of fish entering the lower river. Water has been low and clear making for some great float fishing with spawn! Papa displays one of his nice steelhead from today, a gorgeous, bright hen! (3/26)

Muskegon River fishing continues to be very good with lots of steelhead in the lower river below Newaygo. Fish are on the move with the longer daylight and perfect water flows. Come fish the Muskegon River and make some memories! We are now offering MORNING HALF DAY TRIPS for March and April.

Starting to see some steelhead beginning to spawn in the upper sections near Thornapple and surrounding gravel areas. Despite the cold water temperatures, steelhead are on a biological time clock based on time of year, and length of daylight. Some of our focus has been deep holes in close proximity to gravel.

On certain days, free style nymphing deep water has produced excellent results. (Ed & Jared had an awesome day of fly fishing, landing five beautiful steelhead, and many chunky trout!) Muskegon River Center pin trips.

Over the past few days, fishing has been greatly improved! We are starting to see some much brighter spring steelhead with plenty more on the way! Much needed warmer weather next week! (3/26)

Ron displays a gorgeous chromer. Lower river steelhead are migrating up river towards spawning areas in a big way! “Come and get your fish on!” (3/26)

Bright bullets from the lower river. We are starting to see a lot of beautiful colored chromers! I don’t know about you but, I am definitely ready for warmer weather and spring steelhead! (3/26)

She was a chrome bullet!! Tom with a gorgeous bright hen from today. It’s great to start seeing some spring Steelhead. Muskegon River is starting fish well. (3/25)

Jo hit this colorful hen fishing an “Empie Hex”, a fly that looks like a hex nymph or a hatch fry. Lots of action and day long despite having a few boats around. (3/20)

Lisa with one of many really nice winter -hold over trout. These big rainbows and browns have been very healthy, even after our harsh winter. trout were fun fishing between the steelhead. (3/20)

Jo and Lisa with a nice hen from today. We had a blast fly fishing for steelhead today. The fly bite was actually really good! Egg patterns and fry seemed to do really well on both steelhead and big browns. (3/20)

Rob putting on a clinic today float fishing. Some stunningly bright hens landed today! During the last couple of days, All of our guides have been landing some very respectable numbers of Spring Steelhead. (Rob guided by Kodie) 3/19

Paul landed a plump and respectable hen from today. Our morning started off slow but with weather fronts moving around, afternoon bite was on! (Paul, guided by Chad) 3/19

Mike Craston from Scottland lands a gorgeous buck steelhead on the fly. Trout beads and stone flies are a deadly combination when drifted near the bottom. Who says you can’t land a lot of steelhead while fly fishing in Michigan? (3/16)

Molly had an opportunity to get on the boat this weekend and make a few drifts. She was rewarded with a very plump hen from the lower Muskegon River below Newaygo. New fish on the move! (3/16)

Ron certainly had the hot hard for these fish! Starting to see way more bright Spring steelhead throughout the river. (3/16)

Rick with a colorful male. We experienced some phenomenal fishing over the weekend. Spring is finally here! (3/15)

Jerry with a chrome hen. Lots of new fish entering the river every day. Spring steelhead fishing is going to be fantastic! (3/15)

Quite a day it was! We fished hard, covered water, and made a lot of casts. Well worth the efforts to land a lot of chromers! Joe landed his first steelhead!

Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports ~ Salmon Trips

King Salmon from the Big Manistee River. September 2023

We are now heading into peak week for salmon on the Big Manistee River. Lots and lots of salmon everywhere on the Big Manistee River. Good numbers of larger, King Salmon this season with a decent amount of Coho as well. . Much larger average size this year. We are also starting to land a few steelhead each day. Also hitting a few Lake Trout below the coffer at Tippy Dam.

Salmon fishing is going strong on the Big Manistee and Muskegon Rivers in Michigan. Good catches of Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead.

Good numbers of King Salmon on the Big Manistee River. Michigan King Salmon Guides.

Go big or go home!! John landed this beast – His first Michigan, Pere Marquette River Salmon!!

Floats & Skein on the Big Manistee River. Salmon fishing up North has been excellent! Tippy Dam Salmon Fishing – Guided Salmon.

Nothing beats working for it! In a sea full of salmon, nothing is better than finding the dime piece!! New Steelhead starting to show up!

Tippy Dam salmon are rockin in full tilt!! Good numbers of both King and Coho Salmon. Lots of fish with lots more coming.

We are starting to see big numbers of both King Salmon, and Coho Salmon on the Big Manistee and Pere Marquette Rivers. Michigan Salmon Fishing is in full swing now!

King and Coho Salmon are excellent table fare. We allow our clients to keep a limit of salmon per day. (5) Salmon per angler on the Manistee River.

October 11th – Michigan Salmon Fishing Report – Big Manistee River & Muskegon River

Big Manistee River: Tippy Dam is now starting to have good numbers of both King and Coho Salmon. Big numbers of Coho above the coffer at Tippy. A few of the salmon are beginning to hit gravel and spawn. Things are running behind schedule with the heat last week. Look for peak salmon season in mid to late October this year. Fishing is now just starting to get good!

Some of the creek mouths have good numbers of Coho salmon. Manistee River has been hit or miss with big pushes of fish moving through at times. Water levels are great right now for good salmon movement. Crank bait fishing (Thunder sticks) has been consistently good during the mornings. Skein fishing behind log jams has been good during the day. Red and pink producing the most fish. Some Steelhead also beginning to come in near Insta Launch.

Pere Marquette River Salmon: Most of the numbers of King Salmon have moved into the Upper Pere Marquette River- “Flies Only” Section. Incredible numbers of fish in the holes, with spawning salmon on gravel. Taylor Road, Upper to Walhalla, Barothy’s, and Rainbow Rapids to Sulac is loaded with salmon. Upper and Lower flies only water is also fishing very well. Stone flies, eggs patterns, leeches, and fry patterns are all producing fish. White / Chartreuse streamers in the morning.

Muskegon River Salmon Fishing Report:(10/11) Cooler water temperatures and rain has helped bring in more salmon to the Muskegon River. Pods of fish are finally starting to move. A big push finally moved through Muskegon River and entered the river. There was a slight concentration above Thornapple in the “Pipe hole”, and a small pocket below the clay banks near Boat house. End of story, not much going on. Water temperature is still in the low 70’s. Too warm for salmon. Maybe a week or so and cold nights may bring up a few more Muskegon River salmon. I wouldn’t expect fishable numbers of salmon until mid October.

Here are our open Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates for the Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam) or the Muskegon River (Near Newaygo). Guided Salmon Trips are all Inclusive, Includes all the gear, tackle, rods, reels that you may need. Heck, We’ll even clean your salmon for you!

It’s should be an outstanding season with some really large fish this year. We are also expecting massive Coho Salmon migration later October, on the Big Manistee River – Fall Salmon Season.
Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports.

Full Day (8 hr Day) $395 ~ Half Day (4.5hrs) $295 (Two Anglers) ~ Text to Book>> (231) 519-7348

Jigging. Casting. Float Fishing. We are gettin’ em!! Michigan Salmon Guides.

Good Numbers of Michigan King Salmon in the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and the Big Manistee River. Michigan Salmon Fishing.

Salmon trips have been going well. Good numbers of salmon so far and they are huge this year!! If you get one, it will be big!! Scattered shots of salmon pushing in from the Lake. Both Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake are starting to fill in. We are doing both jigging trips, and floats and skein for King Salmon in Michigan.

Lake Michigan’s water temperature in Ludington last night was 47.6 degrees. Definitely a lake flip to bring in fresh salmon into the Pere Marquette River. This is our second big Push of Kings to happen before Labor Day.

Trickle charge of salmon entering Pere Marquette Lake and River. Manistee Lake is also starting to load up. Michigan Salmon are large this year, I’ve heard of several 30 lb King Salmon landed off Manistee. It’s about to bust lose! Here are our available Michigan salmon fishing dates listed below.

ALL INCLUSIVE GUIDED SALMON FISHING>> $395 full day.
(8 hrs) $295 half day. (4.5hrs)

Thomas with a gorgeous salmon from the Pere Marquette River mouth in Ludington.

Starting to see good numbers of salmon in Pere Marquette Lake. Some salmon are entering the river. Early Season King Salmon.

Salmon are lots of fun! Good numbers starting to enter the rivers. Michigan Salmon Fishing. Pere Marquette Lake and Manistee Lake have good numbers of fresh King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Skamania Steelhead, Lake Trout, and Fall Steelhead. Fishing Should be excellent this fall.

This year class of Salmon are in very good condition. Fat and healthy. Great table fare for sure!

Michigan King Salmon on the brain!

Michigan Salmon Fishing Dates available for the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and Big Manistee Rivers. ($395 / 2 anglers) All inclusive guided Michigan Salmon Fishing River Trips.

Michigan Salmon Fishing Guides – We’re very excited about the up coming 2018 Fall Salmon Season on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee Rivers. We have a limited, 5 guide boats available for salmon fishing.

Guided Salmon Trips are $395. Half days are $295. Per two anglers.

** A third angler may be added to any trip for an additional $100. (Two angler fish at a time)

It’s should be an outstanding season with some really large fish this year. We are also expecting a massive Coho Salmon migration on the Big Manistee River – Fall Salmon Season. Michigan Salmon Fishing Reports.

Text to book (231) 519-7348 or Book Now!

Bobbers & Skein on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Rockin those big Kings!

Skein Ballin’ the Lower Pere Marquette River.
One of our most popular guided fishing trips is fishing King Salmon on the Lower Pere Marquette River. Drifting Skein (Fresh Salmon Eggs) From Indian Bridge to Scottville is a very productive method of salmon fishing. Bait Casters, Center pinning, or spin fishing works very well. King Salmon actually BITE salmon eggs under a float!! (Yes, I said bite salmon eggs) Salmon bite skein like a blue gill, followed by a hook set that sounds like a Muzzy broad head through a rib cage. No holds barred – Hand to hand combat with Michigan’s King Salmon. The Woodland Chinook of the Pere Marquette River.

Muskegon River Trout Fishing & Sucker Spawn

Hatch fishing has been excellent on the Muskegon River. Great hatches of Gray Drake, Sulphers, and Isonychia Bicolor. Fantastic dry fly fishing. (6/2)

Nymphing by day – Prolific hatches by night. Trophy Brown Trout on the Muskegon River. Mega Trout! (6/1)

Trout fishing on the Muskegon River has been exceptionally good for the past two weeks. Incredible Gray Drake and Isonychia spinner falls. Dry fly fishing at its finest!! Don’t get put off by the whole fly fishing thing, we offer casting instructions, simple casting techniques, and easy fishing methods for catching lots of nice trout during the summer months. Casting small crank baits is also available and easy, available way to catch nice trout. The Muskegon River offers great trout fishing year around!

Send and email or Text >> (231) 519-7348

Linda & Chuck with one of many very respectable Trout from today. Summer will offer excellent trout fishing. (5/26)

Miles with a gorgeous trophy Brown Trout landed on the Muskegon River – Sucker fry pattern. (5/14)

John with a stunning Muskegon River Brown Trout taken on a small bead head nymph. (5/26)

Toby with an absolute BEAST of a Brown Trout. Our person best resident river trout. 27″ Trophy Brown Trout. (5/14)

Sucker Spawn Trout fishing has been phenominal – One of the best in years! Lots of really nice resident Trout. Dry fly fishing (Gray Drakes, Isonychia) has also been great. Hatches in both mornings and evening. Fishing should continue to be excellent through early July for Muskegon River Trout.

Spring is here and it’s finally Trout season on the Muskegon River. Trout season is our favorite time of the year! Warm weather, birds chirping, and outstanding fishing opportunities! Muskegon River Sucker spawn is with out a doubt, our most productive time of year for trophy trout. Large wary Brown Trout feed during the day when Red Horse, and White Suckers begin to spawn. Eggs are at a premium this time of year, and Trout go crazy for this food source! 30 – 50 Trout per day are common during the Michigan Sucker Spawn, usually several trophy trout (20 inches or above) are also landed each day.

We use free style nymphing techniques when fishing the Sucker spawn. 9′ – 5 weight fly rods are our weapons of choice, spooled with running line. This technique is incredibly simple to learn. It’s a great technique for introducing children or novice anglers to fly fishing. Usually anglers can cast free style nymphing within 15 or 20 minutes, making 30 foot casts is easy and incredibly productive landing MANY nice trout!

We offer both full and half days, morning or evening. We love to fish Sucker spawn so we can guide you anytime, our schedules are flexible. Full Day trips (8 hrs) are $350 for two anglers. Half days (4.5 hrs) are also available for $250 for 2 anglers. ALL gear, tackle, and flies are also included in all fishing trips.

Please send us a text (231) 519-7348 or reserve a date online – Rates Tab listed above.

Coming Up Next – Summer Specialty Fishing Trips.

Atlantic Salmon are known for awesome fights, great jumps, and excellent table fare. These fish are a blast on light tackle or fly gear. (July, early August)

$250 Evening “Hatch Master” Specials – Guided Dry fly hatch fishing at it’s finest! Learn Caddis and May Fly hatch fishing for quality trout. 5pm – 10pm. (June, July, August)

Smallmouth Bass Shang-Ra-La. Guided Smallmouth fishing on pristine sections of the Muskegon River and other local areas. (June, July, August, September)

Michigan Salmon Fishing on Lake Michigan, Lower Pere Marquette River, Big Manistee River, and White River. (July, August, September)

No matter what plans you have this summer, we have a guided fishing adventure planned for you! Whether you would like and Olympic jumping Atlantic Salmon, an explosive Smallmouth Bass on top water, soft sipping brown trout on a dry fly, or freight train pulling drag of a King Salmon, we have something to fish for. For over 18 years, guiding is what we do, and we’re go at it! Muskegon River Fisheries alliance. Come join us today! (231) 519-7348

All guided trips are all inclusive. All Gear, Tackle, Flies, Bait, Rods, Reels, and fish cleaning are included in fishing trips at no extra charge. We’ll hook you up on some big fish!

I will be doing daily fishing reports on our business FaceBook Page. Give us a “Like” and enjoy daily – Up to date, Fishing Reports. Betts Guide Service

Brown Trout on the brain! Sucker spawn fishing for big trout continues to go well. White Suckers are spawning now in good numbers. (6/5)

Toby and Nate with an awesome Brown Trout from today! We worked for them today but there’s plenty around if you spend the time looking. (5/27)

Bill with one of several nice Trout landed today. Weather and water conditions are perfect right now. Sucker spawn trophy trout. (5/27)

Hatches are going strong right now! Big Brown Trout on the Muskegon River. Gray Drake Spinner fall are also producing some nice fish. Muskegon River Trout Fisheries alliance (6/8)

Giant Muskegon River Brown Trout that we landed on a fry pattern over the holiday weekend. Trout fishing is excellent right now! (5/27)

Brown trout don’t come easy but we were fortunate enough to land a double – Pair of gorgeous Brown Trout from the Muskegon River. (5/27)

We are offering “Hatch Masters” evening hatch trips. $250 5pm – 10pm.

Over the past few days, our main focus has been chasing trophy trout feeding around the spawning Red Horse Suckers in the upper Muskegon River. Big numbers of trout have been feeding on nymphs and sucker’s spawn. Trout fishing should remain excellent for the next several weeks.

Steamer fishing has also been great. Dry flies have been a bit slow so far. water temperatures are still on the cool side for good insect activity. There is still a lot of eggs, both sucker and steelhead, for trout to key in on.

Gray Drake and Sulphers with be the next big and up coming hatch. Early Jun – mid July.

Big Rainbow Trout have also been common during the last couple of outings. Trout have been feeding heavily on nymphs, sucker spawn, and Chinook salmon fry. (5/27)

Brown Trout are the most common this time of year however, there are also plenty of Rainbow trout to be had. Hatches usually bring nice Rainbow trout. (5/27)

Michigan Trout – Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guides – Muskegon River (231) 519-7348

Michigan Fishing Reports for Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Manistee Rivers.

Please Check out our Michigan fishing reports for local rivers.
Evening Hatch Master Special $395 / 4.5 hours ~ Morning Light Tackle $395 / 4.5 hours
Full day guided fly fishing $495 / 8 hours. Guided trout trips are all inclusive. All gear, tackle, flies, lures, rods reels all included. (*Lunch is not provided) Book Now >>> (231) 519-7348

King Salmon: Starting to see a good number of King Salmon on the Little Manistee River. Lower Pere Marquette River has a few also. Salmon Season is just around the corner. PM & Manistee River trips available.

Trout: Trout fishing is going well. Water levels on the Muskegon River are back to normal. Creek mouths have been holding good numbers of trout. Croton Dam to Pine St is also fishing well. Jade & Cinnamon Caddis emergers

Smallmouth Bass: Smallmouth Bass fishing has been EXCELLENT. Good numbers throughout the river system. Morning and mid day fishing very well. Also seeing a few walleye each trip. Soft plastics fishing well.

Michigan Trout and Smallmouth Bass fishing guides for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee Rivers. All Inclusive guided Light Tackle Spinning or Fly Fishing Trips. Book Now >>> (231) 519-7348

Trout fishing remains strong in the upper river below Croton Dam. Caddis emergence each evening. Salmon, Steelhead and Sucker fry also fishing well for trout.

Beat the Heat! Hot Weather makes for great Smallmouth fishing. Great Kid’s trips!

Salmon parr, Steelhead fry, and Sucker fry are making up the bulk of the trout diet right now. Millions of minnows along the shore line. Fish key on fry this time of year.

Fry is the name of the game right now! Salmon parr, Steelhead fry, and Sucker fry are all along the shore line at this point. Any shade pocket against the shore line is loaded with minnows or fry. Chinook Salmon parr, Steelhead fry, and Sucker fry are making up the bulk of the trout diet right now. Both Smallmouth Bass and Muskegon River Trout are gorging on fry at this time. Sink tip fly lines with fry patterns are working well. Big numbers of trout in the upper river below Croton Dam. Smallmouth Bass are through out the main river. Crank baits and spinners are also working well.

Dry fly fishing for trout has also been very good. Gray Drake linger in the upper river below Croton Dam. Caddis and Caddis emergence every evening from 7pm – dark. Isonychia and light Cahills in the mid section – Thornapple to Henning Park. Smallmouth Bass on the fly has also been excellent. Large poppers and streamers are working best for big bronze backs! Book Now >>> (231) 519-7348

Ed, 90 years young, displays a gorgeous Michigan Brown Trout caught on a sucker spawn imitation.

John with a huge Muskegon River Brown Trout. Much larger fish this season! Great Michigan Trout Fishing.

Michigan Trout fishing has been phenomenal on the Muskegon River. Hot and humid weather has the bugs popping big time! Caddis and caddis emergers are now taking center stage. Most activity occurs in the evenings, after 7pm. Gray Drake spinner falls are still available, offering some trophy fish taking dries.
Sucker spawn by day – Hatches during the evening. What a time to be on the water!

Red Horse Sucker Spawn provides a great meal for larger Muskegon River Trout. Trout gorge on sucker spawn in Michigan Rivers.

During the Michigan Sucker Spawn many nymphs, larvae, steelhead fry, Salmon fry, and sucker eggs are dislodged – Trout feed heavily on these food sources.

Our main focus now is Michigan Trout fishing. The river is at a nice level and clear with water temps in the 50s. Large numbers of salmon, steelhead, and sucker fry are present against the shoreline. Sulphurs, Gray Drake, and Caddis are the prime hatches now. Red Horse Suckers are also starting to load up which should make for outstanding trout fishing. Muskegon River Trout feed heavily on the eggs of the spawning Red Horse Suckers. The native fish provide a staple food source for our resident Brown and Rainbow trout.
Trout on the Muskegon River have been feeding heavily on the numerous insect hatches going on right now. The most prolific are the cinnamon sedge Caddis and the Gray Drake. These hatches take place in the afternoon and evenings. The Gray Drake spinner fall takes place right at dusk. These hatches offer some of the best trout fishing in Michigan. Gray Drake spinner fall at dusk.

Sturgeon sightings are beginning to become common on the Muskegon River. These gentle giants glide next to the boat while trout fishing. Exciting to see!

Over the past several days, Muskegon River Trout fishing has been going great! We’ve been finding larger, hold over trout daily. At least one 20″ plus trout on just about each guided trip. Seems to be good numbers feeding on the sucker spawn. This trend should continue for the next 10 days or so. Trout on the Muskegon River have been feeding heavily on the numerous insect hatches going on right now. The most prolific are the Cinnamon Sedge Caddis and the Gray Drake spinner fall. These hatches take place in the afternoon and evenings.

Hopefully the first of many. Mike with a beast of a brown trout. Streamer fishing has been hot!

Michigan Trout Fishing – Ashallie displays a gorgeous Brown trout while nymphing with sucker spawn.

Fishing Notes for Today: Heavy Gray Drake Spinner Fall this Morning around Pine St.
Suckers Spawning big time. yellow egg patterns. Heavy Gray Drake spinner fall this evening. 9:30pm
Size #10 – Gray Drake Spinner dry fly or rusty dun dry flies.

Trout fishing in Michigan is in full swing! With a cooler than normal spring, the Muskegon River Trout Fishing is just starting. There continues to be small pockets of Steelhead available through May. Water temperatures are starting to climb into the low 50’s. Dry Fly hatches such as adult Stone flies, Gray Drake, and Sulphers will begin to play a key role in the trout’s diet. May and June offer high growth rates for trout, and a smorgasbord of feeding options. Michigan Trout fishing is certainly best during May and June.
Water is clear. Wading is available. Trout fishing is excellent.

Coming soon, Muskegon River Sucker Spawn “Hatch”. Less than one week away! Thousands of Red Horse Suckers ascent into the upper sections of the Muskegon River. Large Brown Trout follow these suckers and when the sucker spawn begins, trophy Brown Trout gorge on sucker eggs. Trout also key on nymphs dislodged by suckers actively spawning. The Muskegon River Sucker Spawn offers clients a chance at true trophy Brown Trout (over 25″) Big Brown Trout feed recklessly during the sucker spawn, and can be sight fished while fly fishing. Casting to specific trophy trout can certainly be exhilarating!
Sucker Spawn Trout Video

Chinook Salmon & Steelhead Fry also play a huge part in the trout’s diet this time of year. Trout take advantage of the millions of fry along the shoreline of the Muskegon River. Any shade pockets along the river are loaded with salmon and steelhead fry making for easy prey for larger trout. Mallard flank fry patterns stripped along soft water near shore offer consistent trout fishing. Fly Fishing with light sink tip fly lines, (Rio DC 150 gr) against the bank works well. Usually the softer pockets hold fish.

Michigan Dry Fly Fishing – As the water temperatures finally warm into the mid 50’s, dry fly hatches are key. Right now, adult stone flies can be seen during the afternoon. Trout feeding on stone flies are easy to see. Big, splashy rises are common for trout feeding on stone flies. Gray Drakes, Sulphers, and Isonychia should begin to pick up in late May, and early June. The Muskegon River boasts the largest Gray Drake spinner fall in the Mid West! Huge clouds of drake spinner fall at dusk.
How To Catch More Trout

Manistee River Trout Fishing – Casey displays a fat and healthy Brown Trout – Tippy Dam Trout

Fat and sassy Rainbow Trout are common on the Muskegon River. Trout fishing is excellent during May & June.

We offer three guided fishing trips for Muskegon River and Manistee River Trout Fishing.

Half Day morning – Light Spinning Tackle trips. These trips are fast paced with lots of trout caught, with a chance at steelhead and trophy Brown Trout. Numbers trout are caught on these trips. We cast small crank baits, spinners, and body baits. It’s a great trip for kids, offering constant activity. ($250 -4.5 hrs)

“Hatch Masters” Evening Dry Fly Fishing – Instructional Casting. Guided half day afternoon trips that fish well into the evening. Dry fly fishing, nymphing, and sucker spawn fishing. These trips offer shots at trophy trout during the sucker spawn, and big fish on dry flies! Half day trout usually begin around 4:30pm. All gear tackle, and flies provided at no additional charge. ($250 – 4.5 hrs)

Full Day Guided Fly Fishing Adventures. Instructional Casting, Dry Fly Fishing, Nymphing with shots at larger fish during the Sucker Spawn, or on dry flies. Streamer fishing can also be excellent. ($350 – 2pm – dark) All gear, tackle, and flies provided at no extra charge.

Author: Chadbetts