Michigan Weekly DNR Fishing Reports for Salmon and Steelhead – Manistee River – Muskegon River (248) 210-0827

Michigan King Salmon Fishing Reports ~Salmon are here~

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.

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

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 2020 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

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

When fishing for steelhead trouts, you will find significant differences in their luring compared to the other rainbow trout. The art of it can be explained by going through various steelhead fishing reports. The steelheads follow anadromy, which is going back to their exact birthplace for mating. They also venture into freshwater spaces and spend their lives at sea, unlike the rainbow trout, which dominantly occurs in the pacific ocean tributaries.

Selecting the proper bait and lure for steelhead fishing is, as before, an art. Here we will try to explain in an accurate perspective how to properly utilize equipment, time, and mentality to get your best catch of the day, every day.

Seasonal trends matter

When you go through steelhead fishing reports online, you will find that summer and winter steelheads differ from each other. Oftentimes are known as “summer-run” and “winter-run” during their respective seasons. Beginning in early November and continuing up to May, the winter season trouts are close to maturation and provide a lot of nutritional value.

During the onset of April, however, they start their migration to freshwater, keeping in mind their reproductive maturity on eggs and sperm production availability. They continue to do so and are finished with the whole migration process by the time November comes in. However, the reproductive maturity of summer-run fishes varies substantially as compared to their winter counterpart.

The important points you need to look through before angling, depending on the season, are as follows:-

Summer-run steelheads are the most preferred as their metabolism is high during warm and comfortable water. They have more sexual aggression and mate well
Summer-run steelheads, however, do not fully mature before they have migrated from saltwater to freshwater
Winter-run steelheads have limited spawn timing as they are not reproductive ready during that season
Various steelhead fishing reports suggest going for the summer-runs, hence more sought after as mentioned before
Though different in their migration timings, both variants have spawn timings during the early summer and spring seasons

Time management is the key to a good catch

As mentioned in the earlier paragraphs, you need to get the timing right for your catch. Summer-run or winter-run is up to you to decide but getting a little insight on these will help you make a more educated decision. The winter fishes are in a race against time for their maturity and are predominantly moving to ocean tributaries from where they will go into the freshwater for summer maturation.

Keeping a steady plan to get a catch will help in the long run: –

Follow the weather trend and the shoreline temperatures. Any indication of the temperature going down will push the fishes early into the river
Depending on your area of living, check for local steelhead fishing reports to figure out the best possible time of getting a good catch
Sometimes, aggressive steelheads do not even realize the water temperature and are all excited on their own. When the temperature starts to drop but is still holding in the high to mid-region, that can be the chance to get a catch if you have missed out on it at the beginning of the season
During rainfall, a large number of fishes start pushing from the lower to the upper region of the river. Look for signs in the weather and take the opportunity if it presents

Look for reviews on catches and seasons online

Various online forums and archives are available where you can analyze the trends of a season and where a major variety of catches are being found. Being resourceful and gaining a lot of insight with steelhead fishing reports will ensure you find the best spot, time, bait, and lure for your angling needs. Whatever little information you may find, it will keep you in the loop on what’s going on in the scene and allow you to plan according to it.

Browsing in your local domain of anglers, you can find what type of trait works in what kind of environment. Following the hearing in these situations will make a difference in how you approach a catch. You can even book trips with professional anglers available in your locality and follow their path. Keeping in mind these simple characteristics of peers as they are light with years of insight and reports with the fish variant, their migration cycle, time of reproduction, and bulk availability in a particular area.

Conclusion

Researching steelhead fishing reports and monitoring the season and weather will help you determine the ideal timing for your catch. Flies work great as bait, and the aggressive fishes seem to love them when caught. Timing your lure for the peak season and keeping up with the local fishing scenario will go a long way for angling in the current and future seasons.

Are you looking for some quick fishing insights from experienced anglers? Our informational site provides you with a collection of steelhead fishing reports from yearly archives, along with the knowledge for bait and timing management. Head on to our website to go through our catalog of reports and what your fellow anglers are catching during the peak seasons. Get in touch with us at (231) 750-0673 or mail us at chadbetts@hotmail.com

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.

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports (231) 519-7348

Water levels are finally back to normal with very good Steelhead Fishing conditions on the Muskegon, Grand, and Big Manistee Rivers. Starting to more bright Spring Steelhead entering the lower river. Float fishing with beads and spawn continues to produce the most fish. Fly Fishing with Black Stone flies are also producing.

Click here to Book Now or text to Book >>
(231) 519-7348

Fall Steelhead Specials > Half Days now available in the morning, or afternoon. $295 per two anglers.
Guided full day > Muskegon River, Grand River, Manistee River. All Inclusive guided Steelhead. $395 Per Two Anglers.

It’s hasn’t much felt like Fall the past few days. Fortunely for us, the Steelhead have not noticed that its been cold. Steelhead have been very aggressive and feeding well. It’s still November in Michigan. Water temperatures continue to hold in the high to mid 40’s. Steelhead are feeding and jumping when hooked! Look for good numbers of Steelhead in the Muskegon and Grand Rivers. Trout beads and spawn are both fishing well. Please CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW>
Or Text (231) 519-7349

Michigan’s Best Kept Secret – Michigan Fall Steelhead Fishing on the Muskegon River. Over the past several weeks, steelhead fishing on the Mighty Mo has been excellent. Good numbers of Fall Steelhead have ascended the river with the recent rains. King Salmon have just about finished their annual spawning migrations. Steelhead seek spawning gravel to feel on Chinook Salmon eggs deposited into the gravel shoals. This makes for outstanding Fall trout bead fishing for Michigan Fall Steelhead. Look for perfect Steelhead fishing conditions over the next several weeks.

Late October and November offer the best Steelhead fishing in the Mid West Great Lakes area. These rivers become packed with fall steelhead after the salmon die off. Bead fishing is excellent at this time.

Michigan Spring Steelhead Fishing is in full swing. Big Manistee River below Tippy Dam is fishing well. Muskegon River below the Croton Dam seems to be fishing the best with good concentrations of Spring Steelhead on spawning gravel. Steelhead fishing should continue well into mid to late may. (231) 519-7348

Michigan Fishing Reports Steelhead Fishing remains very good on the Muskegon and Big Manistee River below Tippy Dam. Both Steelhead and Trout catches are doing very well. We have guide dates available. (231) 519-7348

Fully Guided Spring Steelhead Trips for Michigan Rivers. Full Day Trips ( 8 hours) $395 Half Day Guided Fishing Tours (4 hours) $295 ** All Gear, Tackle, Rods, Reels, Fishing Cleaning Provided** Super Prime Spring Steelhead Dates & Half days available.

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports - Michigan Steelhead Fishing - Steelhead Fishing Great Lakes

Tasha with an absolutely gorgeous Winter… I mean April Steelhead! Warmer weather ahead! Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports

Scott with a chromer. Starting to see the main push of Spring Steelhead in the upper sections of the Muskegon River. Prime Time is here! Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports for Great Lakes Steelhead.

You definitely wouldn’t know it with the weather lately but, right now we are finally heading into the peak of the Michigan Spring Steelhead season on the Muskegon River. Both the Big Manistee River below Tippy, and the Muskegon River below Croton dam are fishing rock star now for steelhead. Good numbers of both winter and spring steelhead are spawning. Water temperatures have finally hit the magic 40 degree mark. We’re starting to see a lot of fish on gravel.

Best techniques right now are bobbers and beads, micro jigs tipped with wax worms (Water is low and gin clear so small is the key) Small spawn sacks in natural colors ( White, orange, peach netting) And of coarse, chuck and duck fly fishing. Sight fishing has been very good with the lower, clear water. Fish have been spooky so light tippet, and smaller, dark flies have been working best. Michigan Fly Fishing Guides

Look for a lot more spring steelhead to show up during our next significant rain fall. There’s a good number of steelhead still in the lower section that are ready to push into the upper river. Coming soon!

Eric with a colorful buck. Fishing is on fire right now! Next week should be peak week!

Bright Chrome hens! Lots of Steelhead starting to hit gravel and spawn! Spring Steelhead are here.

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports for the Muskegon River. Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River is now in full swing!! Good numbers of steelhead in the upper river with a fair number beginning to spawn. Water levels and temperatures are perfect for the bite, and I think the DNR is finished shocking walleye for this week.

River conditions look favorable over the next week or so. Fishing is phenomenal right now and it should stay that way for awhile.

Best Steelhead fishing techniques for Spring Steelhead: Float fishing (bobber) with trout beads or jigs tipped with wax worms. Fly fishing to fish on gravel is going strong. Dull colored flies, stone flies, hexes, and green caddis are all putting fish in the net. Casting small crank baits has also been working well.

White River Trout Fishing Report Click here to Book Now.

Emily with a gorgeous hen. Fishing is outstanding right now!

Michigan Fishing Reports - Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports - Steelhead Fishing Great Lakes MI

Matt and Emily has some really good fishing. Afternoon’s are also fishing well.

Spring Steelhead Fishing Report – (231) 519-7348

Fully Guided Spring Steelhead Trips for Michigan Rivers.
Full Day Trips ( 8 hours) $395
Half Day Guided Fishing Tours (4 hours) $295

** All Gear, Tackle, Rods, Reels, Fishing Cleaning Provided**
Super Prime Spring Steelhead Dates & Half days available.

Good numbers of bright steelhead in the Muskegon River from Thorn apple access to Pine St.

Spring Steelhead fishing is phenomenal right now! Good numbers of chrome steelhead

Water levels have been dropping and clearing rapidly making for some world class steelhead fishing. Cloudy, over cast days have made for exceptional fishing with good numbers of throughout the Muskegon River system. Large pods, or groups of steelhead moving up river daily. It may be possible to hook 15 plus steelhead in one spot, and many of the other locations, not have many fish. There are also plenty of steelhead of gravel now. Fly fishing to spawning steelhead on gravel (Sight Fishing) is going strong. For those of you that fish near the Croton Dam, the Michigan DNR will be shocking walleye from Croton Dam through the Pine St. area. The DNR shock boat generally stays above the Pine St. Boat launch. Phenomenal Spring steelhead is finally going strong right now. Water clarity, and water temperatures are absolutely perfect for fishing steelhead at this time.
Muskegon River Stream flow – 1800 cfs. (Excellent wading) Clarity – Gin Clear Water Temp – 37 degrees.

The guys from Canada putting a beatin on em eh? Centerpin Float Fishing – Bobber down! (3/17)

Sam with a gorgeous Spring Steelhead. (3/13)

Bob and Don really got into ’em the past couple of days. Finally some Spring Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River. Large chartreuse spawn sacks have been key!

Alex with her first steelhead. We were pretty happy have you ladies on the both. Landed some great fish this weekend. (3/4)

The guys from Texas should be grinning from ear to ear with this great buck. This was truly an awesome fish!! Michigan Spring Steelhead Fishing. (3/17)

Trevor with a colorful Spring Buck. Starting to see some fish on gravel – water tempratures are starting to warm. (3/13)

Don landed this beautiful buck steelhead this morning. Steelhead fishing is excellent right now! (3/8)

Dr. Mike, Myself, and Chris had a great Sunday on the water. We finally had some cloud cover day. That helped us out a ton! We landed some nice Spring Steelhead while fly fishing. (3/4)

We saw our first Robin this morning! Spring has sprung and steelhead fishing is in full swing.
Starting to see good numbers finally in the upper river. Darker fish still, I think the push has moved around a bit and shuffled the deck. The water is still on the cold side to be moving chromers around much. Spring fish (True Spring Steelhead) should show up this week if the weather holds. We’re still catching a lot of winter hold overs but new fish are on the water. White River Trout Fishing Reports Arkansas
Water levels are absolutely perfect. The Muskegon River has a nice 3′ – 4′ stain but is mostly clear now. Water levels are premo and hold their own at 3320 cfs. Brighter colored baits and beads have been fishing the best.

Spring Steelhead fishing is now in full swing! Water levels are perfect with lots of new fish in the upper river.

Grace displays a gorgeous hen from the Muskegon River. Spring Steelhead fishing is excellent right now!

Spring Steelhead fishing is in full swing now! Recent flood waters have now receded on the Muskegon River. Water levels are now near perfect. There has been a big push of fresh chrome fish in the upper sections near the Croton Dam. Decent numbers of fresh spring steelhead near the dam. As water levels begin to drop, there should be more spring fish entering the river, and heading for the upper gravel sections of the Muskegon River.
Hot Stone Flies for Steelhead (Free Shipping on fly orders)

Best steelhead fishing techniques have been bright colored trout beads underneath a float. Bobber fishing has been the way to go lately. Jigs and wax worms continue to put lots on fish in the net during high water. Larger, brightly colored jigs have been working well. Spawn sack of fresh scraped steelhead skein are awesome during high water periods, where scent is the key! Spawn sacks in hot pink and chartreuse have also been producing some great fish.

We do have Spring Steelhead dates available for the Muskegon River. It is best to reserve your date on theRates Tab of the website. If you are looking for a trophy steelhead for the wall, we recommend two days of guided fishing to get a larger steelhead. Guided trips are ALL INCLUSIVE, and come with all the gear, tackle, bait, and flies. Anything you may need (Except lunch) is already provided on the boat. Fish cleaning is also included. Guided Full Day is $395 per two anglers. Guided Half Day is $250 per two anglers. A third angler may be added to any trip for an additional $100. Text to book>>> (231) 519-7348

Fall Steelhead – Rockstar Status (231) 519-7348

Guided Fall Steelhead Fishing Trips for Michigan Rivers. Full Day Trips ( 8 hours) $350
Half Day Guided Fishing Tours (4 hours) $250
** All Gear, Tackle, Rods, Reels, Fishing Cleaning Provided**
Super Prime Steelhead Dates & Half days available.

Muskegon River Steelhead – Massive 23 lbs Male Steelhead landed while float fishing with beads. Giant Fall Steelhead.

Bright Chrome Steelhead is the name of the game. Muskegon River is the home of the chrome. Good numbers of fish this fall.

Mild temperatures over the last week have definitely helped the Muskegon River Steelhead fishing. Water temperatures still hovering in the mid 40’s with the river level being medium to low. Water is perfect and quite clear, with a slight tea stain look to it.

Small spawn sacks, beads, and jigs tipped with wax worms are all fishing well. Steelhead seem to be above average in size this fall. We have been landing some duker steelhead!

Recent Water Levels have now stabilized into perfect Steelhead fishing conditions. Levels are normal and very clear. Spawning Salmon have brought in large numbers of bright chrome, giant Fall Steelhead into the Muskegon River near Newaygo. Lots of steelhead have now pushed up into the Croton Dam area.

Definitely one of the largest year class of steelhead in over a decade. If you want a trophy wall mounter,this November is going to offer opportunities for trophy fish. There’s big Steelhead and lots of them.

Steelhead fishing has been exceptional this Fall. Big fish & lots of them.

Michigan Fall Steelhead have been huge so far this season! Fish of a lifetime!

Double digit Steelhead are going to be the norm this year. Salmon, Steelhead, and Trout are huge this year! Michigan Steelhead Fishing.

Jeff displays a gorgeous Fall Steelhead from the Muskegon River below Croton Dam. Best Steelhead fishing in over a decade. This is the year for a trophy Steelhead over 20 lbs,

Big Smiles and Lots of fish being landed. More Great Steelhead Fishing to come. Muskegon River.

Steve displays a giant Manistee River Fall Steelhead. Steelhead fishing is excellent right now!

Brian with a gorgeous salmon, This is the time of year that every angler prays for – Chrome jumping through the morning mist. Whether it be Salmon or Steelhead. It’s game on right now.

Three inches of rain last week was certainlty a game changer. Droves of Steelhead, Coho, and late season Kings just poured into the rivers early this week. Big numbers of Fall Steelhead shot straight into the upper sections of the river, feeding voraciously on fresh King Salmon eggs. Coho are also beginning to spawn, chumming roe for steelhead. Lake Run Brown trout on the move. Pink Salmon, and Lake Trout. How could it possible get any better? I know the tree stand is calling but damn, is fishing great right now or what? Over the next three weeks, fishing is rockstar status!! Big fish and lots of ’em! Text to Book>>> (231) 519-7348

Jim with a prime fall steelhead. Average is abouth 5 lbs larger than normal – Averaging a fish per hours. Bobber down!

Home of the Chrome! Fall Steelhead fishing is on fire. Fish are huge this year. If you want a mounter Steelhead, this is the year to so it. Chrome Bullet Steelhead.

Spring Steelhead – Come Catch Some! (231) 519-7348

The pictures above tell exactly how I love to spend my early March days with clients. Limits of bright silver chrome, spring steelhead, fish in the net! Winter is over and spring has sprung! The Muskegon river is now full of these beauties! Steelhead fishing has been right on track so far this week with new fish entering the river daily. The past three days have offered some very good steelhead fishing. Water temperatures are about normal. The warm spell last week brought in a lot of steelhead into the upper sections of the river. Water conditions are just about perfect with water levels, clarity, and temperatures. It will be very nice this season, not having snow melt flood conditions this year. It’s gravy time from this point forth.

Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

We’re a guide service devoted to catching Steelhead, however, it’s nice to show off some big brown trout from time to time. Stone flies are going!

Lindsey with a butter ball brown trout. Catching some nice browns with the steelhead. The last few days have been great!

You guessed it. Steelhead fishing is still really good and continues to improve. Water levels are perfect. Clarity is improving day by day. Water clarity today was 3′ – 5′ visibility. We were fly fishing today and landed 7 fish on stone flies, and trout beads. Brighter colored beads fished well, along with the egg sucking stone fly.
Muskegon Stream Flow: 5720 cfs Water temperature: 36 degrees Clarity: 3′ – 5′ Wading: No

Starting to see bright silver spring steelhead on the Muskegon River, Michigan.

Chrome Spring Steelhead throughout the system with more entering the river each day. Significantly warmer weather ahead should get fish moving big time!

I’ve been posting fishing reports for over 15 years, and I’ve been trying all day to think of the best way to explain this so everyone is on the same page. Most clients read a fishing report and then will book a date three weeks after the post was originally made, and then wonder why they had a three fish day on a guided trip, instead of the double digit days they had seen me post about weeks prior…The best way to explain this particular fishing report, THERE IS A SHIT TON OF STEELHEAD IN THE RIVER… NOW!! As in, you should’ve booked two weeks ago and should be fishing NOW. The Muskegon, White, and the Grand Rivers are all loaded with chrome steelhead with hardly anyone fishing them. News Flash folks…The main Spring Steelhead run has been here for four days now. I’m not sure why people are waiting to fish, but this is me telling you to book your trip now, not two weeks from now, but NOW! They’re here, with a lot more coming..

Not Joking… Helen Keller could catch a limit of Steelhead right now… (231) 519-7348

Everything is way ahead of schedule now due to the warmer weather. Water temperature on the Muskegon River is 37 degrees! (Should be 33 on a normal year) The Ice is now completely gone from Croton and Hardy Reservoir, which normally keeps the water temperatures low late into April.

The Spring Steelhead migration this year will likely be much shorter than normal. I believe steelhead will finish spawning by early to mid April. March will be the month to fish. Warmer weather ahead, conditions look spectacular for steelhead fishing this week. Highs in the 60’s for February. No doubt that steelhead will be on the move, and hopefully start spawning with the warmer water temperatures!

Spring Steelhead should be in full swing after this week!

You may Book Spring Steelhead Dates through the (Rates Tab) or through email. ( chadbetts@Hotmail.com ) Emails will be answered within 24 hrs or less, You may also call or text me regarding questions on winter / spring steelhead trips. We will continue to guide throughout the winter. My cell for immediate questions,
texts regarding Spring Steelhead fishing. (231) 519-7348

Winter Steelhead Fishing has been Excellent!

Oliver with a gorgeous winter steelhead. Fishing has been excellent with lots of steelhead being landed daily. Guide trips are going well. Lots of fish this winter. (1/16)

Warming trend coming up this week for steelhead fishing. Water levels on the Muskegon River are perfect right now, dropping at (2530 cfs) Wading is possible right now – Be careful – Use pull tab floatation vests. Boating is good. Spawn and trout beads have been fishing well. Stone flies and fry patterns for fly fishing. Water temp is 34 degrees. So fish slowly, and cover the water efficiently. (231) 519-7348

Jackie with one of many steelhead from yesterday. Steelhead are larger, more stout this winter. Good numbers of steelhead & trout. (1/1)

Winter Steelhead fishing has been excellent over the past week or so. Good numbers of darker steelhead in the upper sections near Thornapple or Pine St.
Lower river – Newaygo Down stream – has less numbers but brighter fish. Steelhead still continue to move through the system, with new fish coming in from the lake. Typically, the Muskegon River gets fresh steelhead throughout the winter months.

Rigging & Casting for Steelhead (How to – Video)

Winter Steelhead fishing is absolutely one of the best times of year to fish! Good numbers of Steelhead with a handful of anglers on the water.

Big smiles & big fish! It’s no wonder why so many anglers choose the Muskegon river as their top fishing destination during the winter!

One of the greatest things about the Muskegon River Winter Steelhead fishery is, no matter how cold it is, the Muskegon River never freezes! Being a tailwater river below two giant reservoirs, the Muskegon is a top draw dam, taking water from just below the ice, keeping water tempratures always just above freezing. This makes the Muskegon River one of the best Winter Steelhead rivers in the nation, offering excellent steelhead and trout fishing fishing throughout the entire winter. Fishing is incredible all winter long, this year is no exception!

Myles with a gorgeous chrome hen steelhead. This kid was on fire today! Float Fishing Beat Down on Steelhead!! (12/1)

Jessica & Adyson with a prime example of why we steelhead fish during the winter!! (Jessica landed this buck!) Great day with great new friends! (12/5)

Bead-O-Lishious! Great Fall Steelhead on the Muskegon River. New Fish coming in with the bump in water levels! (12/1)

Toby and Myles put a hardcore beat down on some Steelhead today! Big numbers moving in from the lake with much warmer than normal, water tempratures (46.4 degrees). Chrome steelhead coming in from Lake Michigan. A very nice bump in the water levels, 2270 cfs, making for some killer steelhead fishing for December! Look for excellent Steelhead fishing for the next few weeks! Game on for Fall Steelhead!!

We have guide dates available for all West Michigan Rivers. Please text us >> (231) 519-7348

Big rains on Monday brought water levels up, bringing fresh chrome steelhead, and much better fishing conditions. December should be excellent!!

Higher Water Level Bump has made for some phenominal Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon and Pere Marquette Rivers.

Recent rains have brought the local rivers, Muskegon, White, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee River levels up from previously low levels. This should help the fall steelhead and trout fishing tremendously for the month of December. December is always an exceptionally good month for steelhead fishing, this year prove to be great again this year! Water tempratues are still in the high 40’s so steelhead are agressive and taking spawn well.

Kris & Kris with a gorgeous Pere Marquette River Steelhead. PM and Manistee River are fishing well right now. Good numbers of fish in both rivers. Cooler temperatures have turned on the Steelhead Fishing in West Michigan.

A good day of Fall Steelhead Fishing on the Muskegon River. Alex, Petru, and Irina with some nice hatchery steelhead for the table.

Michigan Steelhead Fishing Tours on the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee Rivers. Steelhead fishing has been very good over the past few days. Cold nights definitely have steelhead on the move to the upper Muskegon River below Croton Dam. Chinook Salmon are about finished for this year making for some hungry resident trout. Other food sources, caddis larvae, scuds, sculpin, and golbies have been high on the menu. Croton Dam to the Pine Street access has been fishing well with lots of steelhead, and resident rainbow and brown trout. Steelhead fishing should remain strong over the next several week. Especially with rain the forecast. expect better, more consistent steelhead fishing for later November and December, as more Steelhead enter the lower Muskegon and Manistee Rivers. Text to book>> (231) 519-7348

Brian with one of the most beautiful, well earned, steelhead I’ve seen in a long time. An absolute dime piece!! Big Steelhead this year!

Starting to see good numbers of Fall Steelhead on the Muskegon River. Steelhead sitting behind the salmon.

Game on for Fall Steelhead! Recent rains last night have brought the Muskegon River up to a decent, and “Fishable” level for Steelhead and Trout. The Chinook Salmon are about finished but still remaining Coho and Lake Trout. This rain should give the river a boost and bring in our main batch of migratory Steelhead.

Big Manistee River is already in full swing with lots of Steelhead through out the entire river system. Tippy Dam has been fishing very well. There continues to be lots of King Salmon, Coho, and Lake Trout.
More chrome to come!

With this year’s salmon season beginning to wind down, we’ve been hooking 5 – 10 chrome bullet Steelhead a day by “accident” while fishing for salmon. If this is any indication of how steelhead fishing is going to be this fall, we’re in for one heck of a Fall Steelhead migration! Drifting small spawn sacks, eggs flies, or trout beads behind the spawning Kings has been key. Steelhead are hefty and stout this fall. Similar to the Fall of 2013.

These Steelhead are big and jumping like crazy when you hook ’em! We will be guiding both Steelhead and Salmon for the next week or so, then focusing on pure steel. We can’t wait to catch more chromers!

Girls fish too!! These Steelhead have been amazing this week. Water temperatures in the mid 50’s have steelhead going crazy! Hard hits and big air! Pure Michigan Chrome!

Carley with a gorgeous Fall Steelhead. Things are on track for epic fishing this fall. Good Steelhead numbers so far.

River Conditions Right Now!

Muskegon River: Flowing at 1300 cfs Temp. 52
Levels are quite low and gin clear. Wading is a good option. Challenging for jet boats.
Muskegon River is fishing well.

White River: 375 cfs. Temp. 52
Great wading and Drift boats. Low and Clear.

Grand River: Water is coming down. Murky
6th Street is fishing well.
Temp. 52

Manistee River: 1710 CFS Temp. 53
Dropping. Low and Clear. Wadable at Tippy Dam.
Mid sections fishing well.

Trip Options at this time of year.

Muskegon River: $350 for 2 anglers. (8hrs)
Guided half day. $250 for 2 anglers. (4.5 hrs)

Manistee River: $395 for 2 anglers. (8hrs)

Pere Marquette River: $395 for 2 anglers.

White River: Raft Trip $395 for 2 anglers.
White River walk in – $300

Grand River: Below 6th St and down.
$395 for two anglers.

Muskegon River Fishing Report – Spring Steelhead.

May Steelhead is going strong on the Muskegon and Big Manistee Rivers. Nice weather with great fishing opportunities! (5/4)

Abby and Mike with a gorgeous Muskegon River Steelhead. May fishing is great with Steelhead & Trout fishing. Come make some Memories with our Muskegon River Guide Service. (5/4)

Steelhead fishing has been very good over the last few days. Water levels are up again to a more navigable level, making for excellent fishing. Both larger Trout and Steelhead have been feeding heavily on Chinook Salmon fry along the shoreline. Salmon fry patterns have been working well. Water temperatures are also warming up making for good streamer fishing, although Steelhead is still are main target. It won’t be long until the Muskegon River Sucker spawn. Trout fishing will be phenomenal this year with tons of hold over trout! Text Us @ (231) 519-7348

Late April steelhead fishing has been excellent. Lots of fresh chromers still entering the river. Steelhead fishing should continue well into early June. (5/4)

Rich with a bullet hen. More fishing spawning with May Steelhead yet to come. (5/4)

Spring Steelhead has been full speed ahead for the past three days! We are now entering the absolute best Steelhead fishing of the year from now until Memorial Day. Fly fishing has been excellent! Float fishing has been outstanding as well with double digit hook ups being the norm right now. Egg flies, beads, and green caddis have all been fishing great. Several steelhead & trout a day are also coming on small salmon fry.

** Side note: We’re super excited about the MILLIONS of Chinook Salmon fry along the shoreline. This is fantastic news. I haven’t seen this many fry in many years. Should make for some phenomenal trout fishing.

(GRAVEL & SIGHT FISHING IS EXCELLENT RIGHT NOW FOR THOSE WHO ENJOY THAT!)

There are now lots of Steelhead in all three stages, pre spawn tight hens, spawning steelhead on gravel actively spawning, and quite few drop backs in the mix, heading back to Lake Michigan. I’d consider this “Peak” for the season fishing and should last until the first weeks of June.

We still have short notice dates and guides available if you want to get in on the hot fishing action!

Full days ($350) and afternoon half days ($250) are available on the Muskegon River for Steelhead.

Email >>> ChadBetts@Hotmail.com or Text >>> (231) 519-7348.

Chrome bullets and double digit days! Spring Steelhead are now – Lots of new fish! Muskegon River Steelhead Guides Available.

Jennifer with a chrome Muskegon River Steelhead. It’s prime time right now for these beauties!

This is definitely “Peak Week” for Steelhead on the Muskegon River. Big numbers of Steelhead are here now. Double digit days have been the normal since the water levels have come down. Water levels are perfect for Steelhead fishing. 3′ – 5′ of visibility. Water is generally clear with a tea stain. Brighter colored flies, beads, and spawn have absolutely been pummeling Steelhead in a big way! Weather forecast also looks great for spawning steelhead on gravel. There are now lots of fish on gravel. Fly fishing has been excellent at this time. Lots and lots of new chrome Steelhead showing up Daily. Also tons of big trophy walleye as well.

Spring Steelhead are here! Lots of great fishing for the next month! Steelhead fishing is excellent right now. Toby with a gorgeous bright chrome hen. (3/24)

Big Buck Steelhead – Muskegon River Steelhead fishing is great. Lots of new chrome fish coming in from the lake. Fikret from Bosnia, with a giant buck Steelhead! (3/24)

Over the past three days, steelhead fishing has been outstanding with lots of fish entering the Muskegon River in good numbers. Some steelhead are starting to hit the gravel and are beginning to spawn. Everything is ahead of schedule this year with no ice and warmer temperatures. Float fishing has been excellent with double digit days ahead. Water levels have been perfect, a light stain, and 40 degrees. Excellent steelhead fishing conditions. Call or text for open dates. >>> 231-519-7348

Bright Chrome Bullet Steelhead on the Mighty Muskegon River. Fishing has been improving.

Matt with a great looking buck steelhead. A good mix of spring / winter mix. Fishing is great right now!

The stage is set! Water levels are perfect, temperatures are ideal. Its game on for bright chrome bullet steelhead fishing! The past two days have been on fire to say the least! New chrome fish are being caught each day now with a good mix of winter steelhead. It’s “Prime Time” right now with plenty more bullets that are sure to come! Steelhead are pouring in from lake Michigan. It’s going to be an early run for sure!

Category: Michigan Steelhead Fishing Report