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

Good numbers of Fall Steelhead showing up on the Muskegon, and Big Manistee Rivers. Look for excellent fishing in the upcoming month. Float fishing with beads, and spawn has been good. Water has been clear so a ninja presentation has been working well. 8mm beads, light leaders, and small floats make a low profile presentation. Look for lots more Steelhead coming into the river over the next several weeks. Text >> (231) 519-7348

Michigan King Salmon Fishing Reports ~Salmon are here~

Michigan DNR Fishing Reports for Manistee River. King Salmon have been pouring into Western Michigan Rivers!

Heading into the peak weeks now for Salmon fishing. 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 Thunderstick 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.
Text to Book >> (231) 519-7348

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 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

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Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Report – (231) 519-7348

We are starting to see a handful of bright Fall steelhead on the Muskegon River. Fall Steelhead enter the river, following the the Michigan King Salmon in Mid October. Fishing is excellent at this time, with egg imitations being the key to success. The Muskegon river gets a large run of Michigan Fall Steelhead during November.

Welcome Spring Steelhead anglers -Marching is warming up, and April is closing in. Warmer weather and great Steelhead fishing is going now!! Water is low and clear, making for good but stealthy Steelhead fishing. Muskegon River is now starting to get good numbers of Spring Steelhead moving throughout the river system. Water levels have been consistently and clear, with good clarity. Look for Steelhead fishing to remain good during the rest of April, and early May.
Full Day Guided Steelhead
Text to Book (231) 519-7348

A good selection of trout beads, small spawn sacks, and Salmon egg beads, all working well. Natural colors, as water has been very low and clear. Flourocarbon leaders, a bit light line, and a smaller presentation has been key. Small jigs and wax worms are also very good during March. Black jigs are exceptionally good, due to the large amounts of winter stone flies in the river system. Black Stone flies are a key, and major food source for Michigan, Spring Steelhead.

Look for Steelhead fishing to continue to remain strong over the next month or so. Big Fish, and lots of em! March and April offer excellent Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River.

Good number of Michigan Fall Steelhead on the Muskegon River. Not a whole lot going on for Smallmouth Bass on the Muskegon River, however, Steelhead fishing has been excellent!! November is the best time for Fall Steelhead.
A good selection of trout beads, small spawn sacks, and Salmon beads, all working well. Natural colors, as water has been very low and clear. Flourocarbon leaders, a bit light line, and a smaller presentation has been key. Look for Steelhead fishing to continue to remain strong over the next month or so. Big Fish, and lots of em!

Hot and Humid weather and the Muskegon River Smallmouth Bass have been on fire!! Top water Smallie action has been really good over the past several weeks. Summer fishing is in full swing. Right now we are guiding for Smallmouth Bass, Trout, Walleye, and Pike. I would consider fishing excellent at this time. Smalllmouth Bass fishing is really good right now. I also bought a bunch of new gear for Smallmouth fishing so all brand new stuff for the Smallmouth trips on the Muskegon and Manistee Rivers. Make a Fishing Reservation Today!!
(231) 519-7348

We plan on guiding the Muskegon River through September 3rd. After that, we will be on the Lower Pere Marquette River for Fall King Salmon. We start Salmon Salmon on September 3rd on the Pere Marquette River. Manistee River Salmon Fishing below Tippy Dam will begin on September 23rd. We’re really excited about the size of Salmon this year!! They’re huge! Most Salmon this year have been 18 – 25 lbs this year! Make Salmon Reservations Now!!

Best Dates for Michigan Salmon Fishing are September 3rd through November 1st. Late October is peak for Manistee King Salmon. Coho Salmon on the Big Manistee River Tend to go a little later, October and November.

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Michigan King Salmon ~ Manistee River (231) 519-7348

The Big Manistee River is now at full peak, King Salmon fishing! There are lots on fresh Kings entering the river from the Lake Michigan, with new fish entering the river daily. Good numbers of Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and a handful of Fall Steelhead. Best methods for fishing have been floats and skein eggs. Red or bright pink, has been the ticket for fish holding in the deep holes. Casting Thundersticks has also been working very well, especially during the morning hours. Salmon are also beginning to dig gravel and spawn. Flossing is in full effect. Long leaders with pencil weights, and dark flies have been fishing very well for spawning salmon.

Water levels are low and clear, making for excellent wading below Tippy Dam. Look for good fishing over the next few weeks. Plenty of Salmon, with a bunch more coming.

If you need some Salmon fishing supplies, or rod and reel combos, stop in at Pappy’s Bait and Tackle. They have everything you need! You have Herb clean your fish. They also have Salmon for sale, from the Little Manistee River.

We have guided Salmon trips available for the Big Manistee River below Tippy dam. Full Day ( 6hrs) $450 per 2 people. Half days available (4hrs) for two anglers. Fish cleaning, and all gear and tackle is included.

Text or book on the website. (231) 519-7348

Much more mild than normal, Winter tempratures have offered anglers some great Steelhead fishing oppertunities. The Muskegon and Manistee Rivers has had excellent migrations of Fall and Winter Steelhead, with fresh Steelhead entering from the lake daily.

Trout Beads, Spawn Sack, Jigs with Waxworms, all fishing well.

Text to Book >> (231) 519-7348

Click here to make a Steelhead Fishing Reservation

Manistee River below Tippy Dam, has been fishing extremely well. Good numbers good, clean Fresh King Salmon, have loaded up on the gravel shoals. Absolutely, lots of salmon! Steelhead are also starting to show up in good numbers. Recent rains from this week, have brought in a lot of new fish as well. Things are look good, as late October is super prime time for the Big Manistee River King Salmon fishing in Michigan.

Big Manistee River Salmon and Steelhead – Guided Fishing Adventures in Western Michigan.

Hatch Master’s Evening Special – 5pm -10pm

Fly Fishing Evening (After work) Special for two anglers – Muskegon River
( $295 for two anglers – 4.5 hours )

Both Trout fishing, and Smallmouth are going strong on the Muskegon River. Gravel redds on the Muskegon River continue to have Red Horse Suckers, and Great Lakes Suckers spawning on the gravel shoals. King Salmon Fry (Salmon Smolt) are the main food source in the river at this time. Sucker Spawn for trophy Brown Trout is coming soon.

Morning Spinning Brown Trout – Smallmouth Bass Trips
Trophy Brown Trout on crank baits – Smallmouth Bass on soft plastics.
7am – Noon ~ ($295 for two anglers)
All inclusive guided fishing on the Muskegon & Big Manistee Rivers.

We are very excited to be able to resume guiding at this time. Both Steelhead and Trout trips are now available. If you had a deposit from April, you may now float it to a new date. Now is also a great time to book a Michigan Fall Salmon trip as well. Many of our rescheduled trips have moved to September and October. Its a good time to get on the salmon calendar now.

We look forward to fishing will you. Thanks for the helping us get through this!!

Full Day Guided Fishing Reservation or Text to book (231) 519-7348

Michigan Trout Fishing Report – Trout fishing on the Mighty Muskegon River and Big Manistee River, has been going well. Good numbers over both winter hold overs, (12″ – 18′) and this year’s recently stocked hatchery Michigan Trout. (8″ – 10″) Plentiful Trout makes for a really great day of guided fishing with constant activity. Lots of Trout, and lots of catching. Both morning (light Spinning tackle) and afternoon-evening trips are going well.

A variety of techniques have been working very well for Michigan Trout fishing. The best techique for Trout has been casting spinners on light spinning tackle. This technique in not a big fish trick but, more a less a numbers gig. Great for kids, (We pinch the barbs down, barbless) Because it’s much safer, and doesn’t injure the Steelhead and Salmon Smolt that we catch. I’m personally a fan of barbless hooks for Trout. Tons of Trout are caught so it’s not a big deal to lose a few. This in an excellent trip to introduce kids into river Trout fishing.

We are offering all inclusive, guided Trout Fishing Trips for the Full Day for $350 ( $50 Discount for Summer) and the evening “Hatch Master’s Special, evening dry fly Trout fishing trip. (4pm – 9pm) for $250 – Evening Trips.
Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Report.(231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Fishing Report – The Muskegon is currently low. Water temps are in the low 60s. A fair amount of King Salmon are in the Muskegon River but can be difficult to approach in the very clear, low water. Trout fishing has been excellent! Trout can be caught on trout beads, egg flies, green Caddis, Caddis pupa, various nymphs, and also egg flies. Expect Steelhead and Salmon fishing to greatly improve over the next couple weeks. It has been raining often, bringing up river levels.

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.

Spring Steelhead fishing is in full swing on the Muskegon River. Water levels have bumped up, making for excellent fishing. Grace with a gorgeous spring Steelhead from today. New fish moving in from Lake Michigan.

Longer daylight is really improving the Spring Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River. Longer days trigger the steelhead to migrate up river into the spawning sections near the Croton Dam. Water levels are perfect. We expect a large, early run of steelhead in later February, early March. Good water conditions help fish migrate and move freely through the Muskegon River system.
Best bites have been on small spawn sacks, trout beads in natural colors, and feather jigs tipped with wax worms. Fly Fishing has also been good, as steelhead key heavily on small black stone flies during early Spring. Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

Check out our NEW guide service in Arkansas White River Fishing Guides
Trophy Brown Trout on the White River.

Eugene with a gorgeous Spring Steelhead from the Muskegon River. Steelhead fishing has been very good and continues to improve. Longer daylight brings new fish.

Spring Steelhead Fishing – Steve with a beast! New Bright Steelhead entering the river in good numbers. (1/24)

Kyle with his first Steelhead in Michigan. Warmer weather has improved fishing conditions. Spring is just around the corner.

Spring thaw is bringing more Steelhead into the upper river. Croton Dam Steelhead Fishing has been good. (1/24)

Now Booking Muskegon River Spring Steelhead Trips.

There’s no question that the Muskegon river offers the best Steelhead fishing in the Great Lakes region. We have prime Spring Steelhead dates available for Steelhead during March, April, and May for the Muskegon and Big Manistee Rivers. Guided trips are all inclusive. (All gear, tackle, bait and flies provided) Fish cleaning is also included at no charge. We look forward to fishing with you this Spring season!!
Text to book>>> (231) 519 7348

Michigan Winter Steelhead – The Muskegon River offers the best steelhead fishing in Michigan. Because the Muskegon River is a mid draw dam, the Muskegon River never freezes, allowing anglers an opportunity for good steelhead fishing throughout the winter months. Trout fishing is also excellent. Trophy Brown Trout spawn during December, offering shots and some very big trout. (231) 519-7348

It looks like we’re finally going to get a reprieve from these brutal cold temperatures. It’s finally tolerable to get out and fish! This weather feels a lot warmer, almost mild temperatures. The good news is, that nobody has been on the water bothering the fish! Steelhead and Trout should be unmolested and biting well.
The Muskegon River is a tail water fishery which means, Consumers Energy takes water from the river about ten feet below the ice on Croton Pond. The water for the river is several degrees warmer. This means that the Muskegon River never freezes below the Croton Dam. Warmer water temperatures allow us to fish – guide through out the winter months. Unlike the Pere Marquette, White, Rogue, and Grand Rivers, the Muskegon River Never freezes. Offering very good Trout and Steelhead fishing all winter long.
Steelhead and Trout fishing has been consistently good throughout the winter. Good numbers of Steelhead in the upper stretches of the main stream.
Best techniques during the winter months are presentations that slow the bait down a bit. Back bouncing spawn sacks, back trolling plugs, drifting trout beads under a float, or chuck and duck fly fishing are all productive methods that we use when the water is cold. Steelhead metabolism is slow this time of year, techniques that keep the bait in their face, are the best producers.

Guided Winter 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 Spring Steelhead Dates & Half days available.

Don landed this gorgeous West Michigan Muskegon River Brown Trout. Winter time can offer some outstanding Trout fishing. Trophy Browns spawn during December.

Casey with a gorgeous bullet hen. Recent rains helped shuffle the deck – Bring Chrome fish.

Top 5 Tips for Winter Steelhead.

Staying warm and comfortable is by far the most important thing while fishing during the winter and early spring. Basic components such as keeping the head and feet warm is key. Don’t skimp on a good hat. Insulated is the key. A hat that is insulated with a bill goes well with polarized sunglasses. You get twice the glare in the winter. (Sun & Snow) Another major wicking socks go on your feet first, then your heavy wool socks. These socks wick moisture away from your skin. If you haven’t tried them, they’re seriously a game changer. Part of staying warm is good boots. Muck Boot Artic, Sorrel Blizzard, and Mickey Mouse boots are some good ones, notice I did not say waders. Wicking socks (Polycapilene Socks) resemble woman nylons, usually black and thin, wicking socks go on your feet first, then your heavy wool socks. These socks wick moisture away from your skin. If you haven’t tried them, they’re seriously a game changer.
Gloves are another major deal with fishing steelhead in the winter. There are a million brands and styles out there. I’ve tried all of them and settled on old school military style fingerless rag wool gloves. These stay warm even when wet, and lead into another key. Hot Hands shakable hand warmers. There things are phenomenal!!
Rag wool gloves keep the hand warmers exposed to oxygen. I put hand warmers on the back side of my gloves (Not the palm side) This allows the hand warmers to warm the blood flow going into your finger tips, and stay out of your way while casting. Use the Hot Hands brand, the Grabber brand just plan suck, barely warm up and are dead in a few hours. Hot hands get very warm and last 10 plus hours.
For hardcore Winter – Spring Steelhead fishing I love to wear a water proof shell. Snow boarding pants or snow pants work exceptionally well for fishing. They repel some water and trap a lot of air to keep you warm. I wear heavy duty fleece pants under snow pants. I layer the hell out of my upper body. I want to stay warm but also need range of motion for fishing. I start with long sleeve under amour against my skin, then a synthetic thin hoodie, (Patagonia or Outdoor Research) with a regular cotton hoodie over everything. Last but not least, a down vest. Down keeps my core warm and I can cast and row well.
Guiding and being on the river every day, I get to watch clients not dress properly and freeze while they’re fishing. Most anglers or clients, don’t really understand that while steelhead fishing, you’re not super active, and the river always seems about 10 degree colder than the main land. Also the air above the river is very damp, making things feel colder . Before each guide trip, I text my clients a list of warm clothes to wear on their fishing adventure. People hook and land a lot more trout and steelhead when they’re warm.

Here ‘s a quick list of the best clothing for Winter – Spring Steelhead.
Warm Winter boots, Snow pants, Polycapilene socks. wool socks. Hot Hands hand warmers. Under armor shirt, quality synthetic hoodie, XL Regular hoodie, down west. Rag Wool fingerless gloves.
Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

I haven’t had too much time to update the report with the artic weather last week. I’ve been getting a lot of texts as to, How are the boat launches? I took a drive this morning, here’s what I found. Croton Dam Launch (Just below the dam) Croton Launch is plowed shut so it’s not usable. Pine St Launch is plowed completely for parking. The boat launch itself is clear but very icy. Salt, sand, or ash is a must for Pine St. but overall it looks good. Thornapple Launch is in excellent condition. Plowed with a bare spot to launch. Maybe a bit of salt. Henning Park launch is excellent. Plowed and sanded. Didn’t get a chance to hit Bridgeton but usually that is usable but shelf and pancake ice down there.

Chad Schaub and Zack are doing guided ice fishing trips for those who are interested. Ice conditions are excellent!! Clear blue ice. 4″ – 6″ in most areas. Ice fishing guides are doing very well on Blue gills, Specks, and Pike. Not much going so far for Walleye and Perch yet. Jake and I are still doing Steelhead and Trout Trips on the river. Text to Book >>> (231) 519-7348

Good numbers of fall – winter steelhead throughout the system on the Muskegon River. New fish coming in from Lake Michigan.

After a few days of some wild weather, steelhead fishing has returned to normal. There has been several decent pushes of steelhead moving in from Lake Michigan. The lower sections of river have been fishing well as steelhead move into the winter lies. Water temperatures are beginning to cool, so slower techniques have been fishing the best. Drifting spawn sacks along the bottom has been working well, along with back bouncing, drifting beads, and jigs tipped with wax worms.
There’s been a good mix of chrome and winter hold over steelhead in most of the sections. Lake Run Brown Trout are starting to become a big deal. Brown’s spawn during December so this is an excellent time to look for a trophy Brown Trout. Pine St to Henning park holds the best gravel (slower, deeper, and a bit more fine than steelhead prefer) for these beautiful fish. Streamer fishing has been best for big Brown Trout.

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

Trophy Lake Run Brown Trout Spawn during December. Both the Big Manistee River (Above Pic) and the Muskegon River, get a decent migration of big Brown Trout through out December and early January.

MICHIGAN WEEKLY DNR FISHING REPORTS FOR STEELHEAD – MUSKEGON RIVER – GRAND RIVER – MANISTEE RIVER – (231) 519-7348

Michigan King Salmon fishing is in full swing now! Good numbers of Michigan Salmon, both Coho, and King Salmon, have entered Western Michigan rivers in good numbers, Heavy North Western winds have put the salmon against the shorelines, and entering the rivers. Pere Marquette River, and the Big Manistee River have consistently produced good catches of salmon, both from the boats, and wading. Text to book a Salmon fishing guide>> (231) 519-7348

We are open, and guiding now!! Trout & Smallmouth Bass is very good on the Muskegon River at this time. Casting crank baits. streamers, or anything that resembles Salmon fry at this time. Salmon fry are the main food right now. Sucker Spawn is also going strong at this time. Excellent trout fishing coming up!!

Welcome to the weekly Fishing Reports for the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Grand, 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 Steelhead and Trout fishing. We recommend booking Betts Guide Service for guided Steelhead fishing guides.

The best available Michigan Steelhead Fishing Dates are February, March, April, and May. Best Steelhead fishing dates are November, March, April, and May. We offer conventional tackle, spinning gear, and fly fishing techniques for Steelhead.

Make Fishing Reservations for Steelhead Fishing. (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. Brightly colored beads have been working well. Fly Fishing with Black Stone flies, and Salmon Fry patterns are also producing.

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

Michigan Steelhead Fishing has been excellent on most western rivers. Muskegon River, Grand, and Big Manistee River have been fishing exceptionally well for Steelhead. Float fishing with beads or spawn has been best. Casting small crank baits has also been good. Tiny jigs tipped with two wax worms has also been producing fish. Steelhead and Trout both love a small jig tipped with wax worms. Back dropping plugs has also been doing well for Fall Steelhead.

Great Success! Michigan offers the best is Steelhead fishing. Good numbers of bright Fall, Winter, and Spring Steelhead. There’s no doubt the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Grand Rivers offer the best Steelhead fishing in the Mid West. Lake Michigan has ample food and forage base for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Lake Trout, and King Salmon. Extra food has made for some larger that average Steelhead and Salmon this fall. We should have excellent Steelhead fishing throughout the late Fall and Winter

The best available Michigan Steelhead Fishing Dates are February, March, April, and May. Best Steelhead fishing dates are November, March, April, and May. We offer conventional tackle, spinning gear, and fly fishing techniques for Steelhead. Make Fishing Reservations for Steelhead Fishing. (231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Fishing Report (231) 519-7348

Michigan Smallmouth Bass Fishing - Muskegon River Guided Fishing

Michigan Salmon season is upon us! The Muskegon River is no exception. Good numbers of King Salmon have entered the Lower Muskegon River rear Giles Road, and Maple Island. Water levels have been consistant, and fish have been steadily moving up river towards their natal spawning areas. We should continue to have good fishing on the Muskegon River for the foreseeable future! Text to Book a Salmon Guide>> (231) 519-7348

March is upon us!! Welcome to Michigan’s number one Steelhead fishing destination and guide service. We’re happy to have the opportunity to guide and fish the Muskegon River, located in Western Michigan, near Grand Rapids. Over this past week, we have had unseasonably warm weather for Steelhead fishing this winter. Conditions for Steelhead have been absolutely perfect, and the Mighty Mo has been fishing exceptionally well. Good numbers of bright Steelhead throughout the system. Henning Park to Thornapple Launch has been fishing well. Boat launches are clear, and ice free.

We’ve had some very good Steelhead fishing this week. Double digit hook ups some days, with beads and spawning being the key! Trout beads with a hint of chartreuse and orange have been on fire! Usually neutral, natural colors work best during the winter, low clear water but beads with a little “pop” in color have been getting smashed like crazy!

While fishing for Steelhead during the Winter months, be sure to bring a variety of bait. Often times, in colder water, scent is the key. Steelhead skein spawn sacks, Waxworms,wigglers, or salted Emerald Shiners all contain a massive amount of scent, this gets Steelhead feeding in cold water temperatures.

Your fishing location also plays a key roll during the Winter months. Slower, deep water with boulders, rocks, and gravel is typically the most productive for Fall and Winter Steelhead. Rocks help break the current and give the fish a sense of security in clear water, especially on sunny days. Steelhead tuck tightly into rocky areas during the day. Spend time in these sections of water, and you’ll be rewarded with some nice fish. Larger Trout also hold in these areas.

Welcome to Michigan’s Smallmouth Bass Shangri la ~ Muskegon River Fishing Report~ (248) 210-0827 ~ Smallmouth Best fishing has been exceptionally good on the Muskegon River so far this summer. Perfect water conditions, excellent weather, and spectualar amounts of crayfish have made for some outstanding trophy Smallmouth Bass fishing on the Mighty Mo. Top water Bass fishing has been phenominal with the hot water! Lots of Muskegon River Smallmouth.

We offer guided Smallmouth and Northern Pike fishing adventures, just 30 minutes North of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Both spin fishing, bait caster, and fly fishing is available for these great fish. Good numbers of Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Bass, Musky, and Panfish, can be caught on each guided trip in Northern Michigan.

Many different techniques have been effective for Smallies on the Muskegegon River. Fishing a section of soft plastics, tube jigs, Ned rigs, top water hard baits, spinner baits, and Rapalas all work well during the day. During the afternoon and evening, top water is king, with explosive strikes and larger fish! Muskegon River Fishing Report and Smallmouth Bass guided fishing trips are available during the summer months. June, July and August are best, before the King Salmon Migration.

Smallmouth Bass fishing is exceptionally good during July and August on the Muskegon River. Hot weather makes for heart stopping, top water hits, and big jumps!! Crank baits, top water, and soft plastics are the name of the game during summer in Michigan. Michigan Smallmouth Bass fishing reports suggest that is is going to be a great summer!! Lots of Northern Pike, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, and a few trout below the Croton Dam.

Welcome Spring Steelhead anglers – March madness is upon us! Muskegon River is now starting to get good numbers of Spring Steelhead moving throughout the river system. Water levels have been consistant and clear, with good clarity. Look for Steelhead fishing to remain good during the rest of March, well into April, and early May. Full Day Guided Steelhead

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Look for Steelhead fishing to continue to remain strong over the next month or so. Big Fish, and lots of em! March and April offer excellent Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River.

Good numbers if Michigan Fall Steelhead on the Muskegon River Steelhead fishing has been excellent !! January and February are the best times for Michigan Winter Steelhead. Starting to see lots of Steelhead moving through the lower river, into the Newaygo – Croton Dam section.

Recent rains have brought good numbers of Michigan Fall Steelhead into the Mighty Muskegon River, near the Croton Dam, and through the Newaygo area. Water levels are perfect now for Fall Steelhead. King Salmon are starting to die off, creating an epic “Egg Bite” for spawn sacks, and Trout Bead fishing. Trout beads mimic drifting salmon eggs.

Both the Michigan Fall Steelhead, and the Michigan King Salmon, have been much larger this season. Ample food in Lake Michigan has made great food, and growth for out migratory friends. Look for Steelhead fishing reo remain strong well throughout December, into January. November is the best month for these crown jewels of the Muskegon River.

Best techniques for catching Muskegon River Fall Steelhead, have been float fishing with a Trout bead or spawn sack suspended underneath a float, drifting with the current. This techniques produces a very natural drift, representing a salmon egg along the bottom. Back bouncing fresh salmon eggs directly on the bottom, produces a lot of steelhead.
Chuck -N-Duck fly fishing has also been very productive. Fresh salmon eggs or Steelhead Skein, is the key to this technique.

Michigan Trout & Smallmouth Fishing Reports for the Muskegon River, Pere Marquette, and Big Manistee Rivers.

Hatch Master’s Evening Special – 5pm -10pm

Fly Fishing Evening (After work) Special for two anglers – Muskegon River
( $295 for two anglers – 4.5 hours )

Fly Fishing the Caddis Super Hatches has been excellent! Each evening, we are having Gray Drake spinners, Isonychia emerging may flies, Pale Morning Duns, and Cinnamon Sedge Caddis . Fly fishing has been very good.

We look forward to fishing will you. Thanks for the helping us get through this!!

Full Day Guided Fishing Reservation or Text to book (231) 519-7348

Upcoming Fishing Oppertunies: Spawning Steelhead in May. Muskegon River Sucker Spawn for Trophy Trout. Hatch Fishing Dry Flies , Muskegon River Smallmouth in July and August.

Steelhead fishing has been very good on the Muskegon River over the past several days. Water levels are perfect and the water clarity is crystal clear. Starting to see Steelhead spawning on the gravel shoals, starting to dig gravel with some fish on redds. Fly Fishing will improve as more fish begin to spawn and become active. Stone flies are fishing well, and Salmon fry are also starting to emerge.

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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.

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(231) 519-7348

Warmer weather has made for some excellent Steelhead fishing. This Winter has been much more mild, than years past. Fresh batch of bright Steelhead just showed up the past couple days. Lots of action and activity with Steelhead and Resident trout. Fishing has been excellent. January and February are my two favorite month of the year to fish for Steelhead. Good fishing with few anglers on the water.
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(231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Reports – Heavy snow last night made for some epic Steelhead fishing today on the Mighty Muskegon River. Good numbers of fresh Steelhead and double digit days right now. Lots going on. November is definitely the time to be on the river. Huge fish with huge smile! Click here to Book Now or text to Book >>
(231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Fall Steelhead Fishing Reports – Steelhead fishing has been very good during the past week or so. Good numbers of Steelhead in the upper Muskegon River near the Croton Dam. Float fishing with beads or spawn has been very productive. Double digit hook ups have been the norm for this time of year. Many resident trout are also caught throughout the day. Half Days ( $295 for 2 anglers) $395 for 2 anglers) Fish cleaning is free and included. Click here to Book Now or text to Book >> (231) 519-7348

Water levels are up and and crystal clear. Most of the leaves and eel grass have blown out making for easier fishing. Water Temperature is holding at 50 degrees. Levels are high and clear. Wading in not an option at this time. Level is holding at 4000 CFS.
Plugging is now an option and has been very productive. Float fishing with trout beads or spawn has also been fishing well. Steelhead are beginning to drop into their normal late Fall – Winter lies. Most of the Salmon have all died off, still a few flag tails hanging around. Steelhead Fishing is excellent right now, and should continue to be excellent well into December.
The Muskegon River and Grand River are now the most productive. We are offering both morning and afternoon half days for $295. Full days are also available each day for only $395. All Inclusive Jet Boat, Guided Steelhead Fishing. Click Here to Book Now>> (231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Report – Good numbers of Michigan Fall Steelhead in the Muskegon River at this time. Recent rains has brought a nice batch of Steelhead into the river. Water levels are now back to normal, and Steelhead fishing is very good. King Salmon are still in the river system but, are in poor condition, and fading quickly.

Resident Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Steelhead rely heavily on King Salmon eggs as a food source. Keying in on eggs makes for some World Class, Alaska style, trout bead fishing. Fall Steelhead are a Rainbow trout on crack! If you have never experienced the exhilarating runs, acrobatic jumps, and screaming speed of the Steelhead, now is and excellent time to fish for them. November is the best month for Fall Steelhead, and the Muskegon and Manistee River offers lots of them. Click Here to Book Now>> (231) 519-7348

Muskegon River water levels have been nearly perfect. Rolling at 2260 cfs. Water temps hovering around 58 degrees. Very good temperature for Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead. We’ve been spending time float fishing behind spawning King Salmon. Starting to see good numbers of Steelhead, and very happy about the larger resident Brown Trout. Looking forward to some great fishing for the next month. November should be excellent with the recent flow rates.

Finally starting to see some good numbers of King Salmon on the Muskegon River. Recent rains, and cooler temperatures have brought more fish into the river system. These salmon are huge this year, and are still a ways from spawning.

Best technigues have been float fishing salmon skein through the deeper holes. Casting thunder sticks in the morning. Fly Fishing has also been productive during the day. We landed these giants casting crankbaits but, lots of technigues have been working well. Muskegon River runs late for salmon season. Mid to Late October is best for Muskegon River Salmon.

Muskegon River Fishing Reports for Giant Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Musky, and Walleye. Located on the lower Muskegon River below Newaygo, Michigan. Click Here to Book Now>>

Muskegon River Smallmouth Bass Fishing has been excellent! Water levels are now back to Summertime low levels. Top water bass fishing has been the name of the game. The hotter, the better!! Smallmouth Bass absolutely love hot and humid weather. Buzz baits and cranks have been fishing really well. Weather and water are nice. It’s a fantastic time to be on the water. Call or Text to book, or reserve online. (231) 519-7348

Very good insect activity and dry fly fishing over this past week. Hot humid weather has really got the May flies going. Gray Drake, Hexes, Isonychia, and lots and lots of Caddis during the afternoon. Landing lots of quality Rainbow and Brown Trout below the Croton Dam. Fly Fishing has been excellent. Weather and water are nice. It’s a fantastic time to be on the water. Call or Text to book, or reserve online. (231) 519-7348

Getting into Smallmouth Bass, Trout, and Pan Fish. These Michigan guided fishing trips are fun, and fast paced with tons of fish CATCHING! Muskegon River offers World Class Smallmouth Bass fishing. Local Lakes offer very good pan fish, Blue Gills, Crappie, and Rock Bass. These are excellent light tackle trips for children and adults alike. Just makes for an excellent, fun filled, catching trip on the water!

$295 – $395 ~ Text to Book>>> (231) 519-7349

Muskegon River Trout Fishing – If you love huge Brown Trout, now is the time! Muskegon River Sucker Spawn is in full swing. Trout gorge on eggs and nymphs dug up from the spawning suckers, providing opportunities for trophy trout in Michigan. Streamer Fly Fishing and Casting crank baits is fishing very well for numbers of solid trout.
New Trout Fishing Regulations for Brown Trout – Muskegon River. 15″ limit is wonderful, providing us with a lot more larger trout. Making for better trout fishing! Text to book>> (231) 519-7348

Evening Hatch Master Specials for Muskegon River Trout Fishing – 4:30pm – 10pm. ($295) Hatch Fishing at it’s finest! Caddis, Gray Drake, Isonychia, and Sulphers. Become the Dry Fly Jedi
Muskegon River Guided Fly Fishing.

Full Day Guided Trout Trips $395 ** All Inclusive Guided Fly Fishing Trout Guides **

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Report

Water levels are are prefect ( Clear @ 4200 cfs) with lots of Steelhead of gravel. Fly Fishing has been the best technique at this time. Free style nymphing with black stone flies, salmon fry, and small natural trout beads are all fishing well. Many bright Steelhead with lots more entering the river. Prime Time is several weeks behind this year with Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing lasting well into May and early June. Good numbers of Steelhead and Trophy Brown Trout at this time.

Steelhead Fishing Should remain good, double digit hook ups until early June. Water temperatures are much colder than a normal year. Steelhead Fishing is exceptionally good right now!

(231) 519-7348

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Report

Water levels are are prefect ( Clear @ 5000 cfs) with lots of Steelhead of gravel. Fly Fishing has been the best technique at this time. Free style nymphing with black stone flies, salmon fry, and small natural trout beads are all fishing well. Many bright Steelhead with lots more entering the river. Prime Time is several weeks behind this year with Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing lasting well into May and early June. Good numbers of Steelhead and Trophy Brown Trout at this time.

Steelhead Fishing Should remain good, double digit hook ups until early June. Water temperatures are much colder than a normal year. Steelhead Fishing is exceptionally good right now!

(231) 519-7348

Steelhead fishing has been phenomenal the past several days. We are now heading into the peak weeks with big number hook ups, and lots of fish! Fly fishing now takes center stage with good numbers of Michigan Spring Steelhead on gravel and actively spawning. Water temperatures are perfect at 42 degrees. Visibility is very good, over 10′ visibility. Sight casting to fish is now an option. Fly Fishing for spawning Spring Steelhead has made for some double digit days on the Muskegon River below Croton Dam, just upstream of Newaygo, Michigan.

Finally! The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Our first good push of Muskegon River Spring Steelhead. Bright Silver Steelhead just showed up over the weekend. Water temperatures are still cold but we have seen many Steelhead beginning to spawn and hit gravel in some locations.

Spinning fishing light tackle with floats and spawn, trout beads, and jigs and waxworms. All of which are fishing very well.
Fly fishing should pick up later this week as water temperatures begin to warm, and spawning becomes heavy.

Water levels are finally back to normal Spring levels. Muskegon River is running at 5440 cfs. Clarity is very good at 5′ and clearing. We had an excellent day fishing with Greg and Luke. We landed a ton of nice Steelhead this morning. I feel like today marks the first batch of Muskegon River Spring Steelhead. Lots of Steelhead now entering in from the lake with the major push starting this week.

What’s working? Jigs tipped with wax worms worked well for us this morning. Florescent colors seemed to work best. Trout beads have also been working well. medium sized spawn sacks in chartreuse and pink, all working very well. Small jigs tipped with small ice fishing plastics have also been good. Michigan Steelhead Fishing Reports – Muskegon River.

What a gorgeous spring chrommer…

Starting to see good numbers of bright spring Steelhead. New fish coming in…

Update: Water Levels are at 5440 cfs, Levels are up but the clarity remains good. Visibility is 5′. Should make for some phenomenal Spring steelhead fishing next week! We are finally getting some much needed warmer weather! Temperatures are scheduled to be above freezing for the next week. Starting to see good Spring Steelhead movement throughout the Muskegon River System. Longer daylight, good water levels, and warmer temperatures should certainly kick up the fishing a notch. Full day $395 Half Day $295

Fishing fresh steelhead spawn has been excellent. Smaller spawn sacks in natural colors have been fishing well. Steelhead Trout Beads, in natural, 6mm and 8mm all fishing very well. Starting to see a few early spring stone flies. Fly Fishing should become a major thing during the next several weeks as steelhead gorge on stone flies.

Toby with a chromer. Bright Steelhead Year Around

Evan displays a gorgeous Spring Steelhead.

Some our best Spring Steelhead fishing takes place during late February and early March. Steelhead feed heavily on King Salmon Fry, Gobies, Sculpin, Scuds, Green Caddis, and after waking up from Winter’s slumber, Steelhead absolutely love the late Winter Stonefly.

Trout beads drifted along the bottom perfectly represent Brown Trout or King Salmon eggs. Hand painted trout beads look identical to salmon eggs.

Flies that represent Scuds, Sculpins, and Coho Salmon fry are also very effective near the Croton Dam. The Muskegon River never freezes so we fish all winter long, offering great fishing year around.

Drifting Trout Beads, tiny spawn sacks, or jigs tipped with wax worms has been fishing best for Muskegon River Steelhead, Brown Trout, and Salmon. Good numbers of Michigan Spring Steelhead throughout the main Muskegon River. Lower sections near Maple Island, Bridgeton, and Newaygo are all fishing well. Pine St and the Croton Dam have lots of resident trout and spring steelhead. There should continue to be steelhead well through the spring months. Steelhead usually peak here in late March and early April.

Giant Spring Steelhead from the Muskegon River near the Croton Dam. Muskegon River Spring Steelhead

Spawn sack and Bead fishing is going well right now. Bright Steelhead entering the river.

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing

Recent rain has greatly improved the Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River. The middle sections have been fishing well. Pine Street to Henning seems to have the most fish.

We are now starting to see good numbers of Muskegon River Fall Steelhead entering the lower Muskegon River near Giles and Maple Island. Fall steelhead ascend the river to feed during the fall months. King salmon eggs are the main food source for steelhead during November. Trout beads, small spawn sacks, crank baits, and swung flies all fish well for Steelhead this time of year.

Water temperatures play an important role for migratory fall steelhead. The best water temperatures for Steelhead in Michigan are between 55 to 45 degrees. These water temperatures make for excellent steelhead fishing in Michigan. Screaming drags, incredible jumps, and mean head shakes make for thrilling fights with Michigan Fall Steelhead.

Croton Dam to Newaygo offers some of the best Fall Steelhead Fishing in Michigan. Excellent runs and deep pools in this section of river, it offers great holding water. Pine St to the Thornapple access also has fantastic trout fishing for Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, King Salmon, and Steelhead. Smallmouth Bass can be found here during the Summer Months.

Muskegon River Fishing Reports

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Reports for the Croton Dam and Newaygo Area for Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead

Muskegon River Steelhead Fishing Reports for the Croton Dam and Newaygo Area for Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead.

During the Fall months, the Muskegon River receives a large amount of Steelhead. Steelhead can be fished throughout the Winter and into Spring Months (10/28)

Trout fishing remains strong. Good numbers of Muskegon River Trout feeding behind the spawning King Salmon near the Croton Dam. Fishing Reports for the Muskegon River near Newaygo.

MUSKEGON RIVER STEELHEAD is the ultimate game fish and the crown jewel of Michigan Rivers.

Steelhead are the only freshwater game fish that will strike a fly savagely in 35 degree water, leap relentlessly, make blistering lightning quick runs, and test every fly fishing skill you possess.

Honest 18lb Steelhead! No doubt the largest year class of steelhead since the mid ’90’s. Steelhead are plentiful and huge this year!

Like Salmon, Steelhead are born in rivers but spend their growing years in larger bodies of water. Our great lakes Steelhead return to the rivers when they reach sexual maturity after three or four years of growth in the big lake. After spawning commences in late spring Steelhead migrate back to the big lake and start the process all over again the following years.

These beautiful fish average 8-10 pounds with an occasional monster caught close to 20 pounds each year. Join us for an experience of a lifetime fishing for one of the most sought after fresh water game fish in the world. These world-class fish are available in the fall, winter, and spring.

FALL STEELHEAD (October thru November)

Fall Steelhead fishing is your best opportunity throughout the year to experience the true power these fish have to offer. These Great Lakes Steelhead migrate into our rivers in October following the migration of the Chinook or King Salmon. These bright silver bullets cruise behind spawning salmon redds in search of discharged eggs.

If you truly want to experience Steelhead fishing at it’s best, join us for a fall Steelhead fishing trip. You will not be disappointed!

WINTER STEELHEAD (December thru February)

Winter fishing for Steelhead is one the best kept secrets throughout the Muskegon river system due to numbers of fish throughout the river and you virtually have the complete river to yourself. Steelhead will ascend the Muskegon river all year long due to its warmer tail water and ice free flows providing for some spectacular fishing December through February.

Betts Guide Service prides itself on being able to offer you some of the best winter Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon. It has been common to experience double digit hook ups even on some of the coldest winter days.

If you have never experienced the sheer tranquility and peacefulness of winter Steelhead fishing on the Muskegon River, give us a try; it’s a great way to shake the winter blues in Michigan.

SPRING STEELHEAD (March thru May)

Beginning in late February, the winter Steelhead move up river and begin their migration to their spawning areas. During March, April, and May Steelhead begin to polish gravel and begin to spawn. During this time, Fly Fishing for Steelhead is at it’s best. Anglers can visually seek Steelhead and make casts to the spawning Spring Steelhead. Sight fishing to Steelhead on gravel and watching them take flies makes for a very exhilarating experience.

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 $250 / 4.5 hours ~ Morning Light Tackle $350 / 4.5 hours
Full day guided fly fishing $449 / 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.

Muskegon River Spring Steelhead Report – Croton Dam – (231) 519-7348

The Muskegon River is now at full peak, King Salmon fishing! There are lots on fresh Kings entering the river from the Lake Michigan, with new fish entering the river daily. Good numbers of Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and a handful of Fall Steelhead. Best methods for fishing have been floats and skein eggs. Red or bright pink, has been the ticket for fish holding in the deep holes. Casting Thundersticks has also been working very well, especially during the morning hours. Salmon are also beginning to dig gravel and spawn. Flossing is in full effect. Long leaders with pencil weights, and dark flies have been fishing very well for spawning salmon.

Water levels are low and clear, making for excellent wading below Croton Dam. Look for good fishing over the next few weeks. Plenty of Salmon, with a bunch more coming. If you need some Salmon fishing supplies, or rod and reel combos, stop in at Pappy’s Bait and Tackle. They have everything you need! You have Herb clean your fish. They also have Salmon for sale, from the Little Manistee River.

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 for Muskegon River.

Steelhead fishing has been incredible. The main push of steelhead is here now during May. Water temperatures are equivalent of April 20th. Steelhead is way behind schedule and fishing is great. Our main focus has been sight fly fishing for steelhead on gravel. River water has been gin clear therefore sight fishing has been excellent. Good pockets of fish in the upper Muskegon River near the Croton Dam. Similarly, Mid section above Pine St has been doing well. Temperature and clarity is very good. Best Steelhead flies have been brown pheasant tail nymphs, salmon fry patterns, sack fry, olive hares ears nymphs. Small egg patterns are also working well. Apricot, Steelhead orange, Oregon Cheese, and golden nugget, all working well in #8, or #10’s. Consequently, Steelhead Egg Flies Fishing should remain great for the nest 10 days or more.
Open May Steelhead Dates

After May 15th, guided steelhead trips are $395 for the full day. Half day afternoon trips are $295 for 4.5 hrs of steelhead fishing.

George with a beautiful hen. Spring Steelhead are just beginning to spawn. May will be very good with lots of steelhead well into June this year.

Jordan with a giant buck steelhead. Double digit days just starting to rock! Spring steelhead just now beginning to spawn.

Two Steelhead on at a time! Yes, It’s about to be really really good fishing! New steelhead still coming in from Lake Michigan.

These steelhead have been gorgeous! Spring has been a month behind with very cold water temperatures hence fishing is just now getting good !

Open May Steelhead Dates:

After May 15th, guided steelhead trips are $396 for the full day. Half day afternoon trips are $295 for 4.5 hrs of steelhead fishing.

If you’re sitting in your office cubicle, bored, or sitting at home, NOW is the time to get out of the house and fish! May Steelhead dates are filling quickly. We are only offering the $295 half day Spring special until May 15th.

Water temperatures are still very cold! 44 degrees. We are landing at least one steelhead per hour on the Muskegon. It’s a great time to be on the water with little angling pressure and lots of fish. Fishing has been excellent with last week’s high water which shuffled the deck and brought in lots of new steelhead from the lower river. Likewise, Spring Chromers coming in from the lake with more to come!

It’s nearly May 5th and over 90% of the Michigan Spring Steelhead migration has not even begun to spawn. Similarly, all of the spawning hen steelhead have not spawned yet. Fly fishing for steelhead is phenomenal right now! If you seen the weather pattern for the past month, you’d swear it was March at best which makes this year’s spring steelhead feel the same way!

Water temperatures are just barely in the 40’s with the vast majority of the steelhead not even ready to spawn. Gravel fishing over the past couple days has been PHENOMINAL! Double digit days have been the norm with the weather finally warming up, and water levels dropping to a perfect level. The drop has made for some very good fly fishing! Visibly sight fishing for steelhead on gravel is probably some of the best steelhead fishing you’ll ever experience. Watching a fish take your bead or fly. Exhilarating!!

Best Steelhead tips and techniques

Right now, free style nymphing for steelhead has been our best bet for numbers of steelhead. Trout beads and small black stone flies, salmon fry patterns, or green PM Caddis have all been working well. Sight fishing to spawning steelhead on gravel has been very effective. Long leaders and quality drifts has been the key to success. Running lines with a small amount of weight, and a two fly rig, or one trout bead with a stone fly dropper.

How To Catch More Trout

Bobber fishing on spinning tackle has also been effective. Very small spawn sacks in natural colors have been the best for both trout and spring steelhead. Brown trout have also been very active around spawning steelhead. Look for big numbers of steelhead during May this year. Steelhead are now just getting started and should go well into June this year.

Super Prime Spring Steelhead Dates & Half days available. Text to book >>> (231) 519-7348

Michigan Smallmouth Bass & PanFish Fishing Report

Hot Weather has kicked the Smallmouth Bass fishing into overdrive! Top Water Bass Fishing has been excellent the past few days! These Michigan guided fishing trips are fun, and fast paced with tons of fish CATCHING! During July and August, the Muskegon River offers World Class Smallmouth Bass fishing. Local Lakes offer very good pan fish, Blue Gills, Crappie, and Rock Bass. These are excellent light tackle trips for children and adults alike. Just makes for an excellent, fun filled, catching trip on the water!
Text to Book>>> (231) 519-7349

Michigan Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guides

Top water action for Michigan Smallmouth Bass. Summer is finally here, along with warmer weather, comes great Smallmouth Bass fishing in Michigan. Crank baits, top water and soft plastics are producing good numbers of Smallmouth bass on the Muskegon River. We have also been landing a few nice Walleye, and Northern Pike as well.

With the Pan Fish Spawn going on now, good numbers of Blue Gill, Crappie, Rock Bass, and larger Yellow Perch are being caught on our Pan fish trips. Tiny, soft plastic tube jigs, little Nipper jigs, and hair jigs are all producing limits of big Blue Gills and Crappie. Pan fishing is excellent throughout the summer months. During this hot and humid weather, the Smallie fishing is very good. The hotter, the better for Smallmouth Bass in Michigan.

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

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

When fishing for Michigan Steelhead, you will find significant differences in their gear, compared to the other Rainbow Trout. The art of Steelhead fishing can be explained by going through various steelhead fishing reports. The Steelhead are anadromous, which is going back to their exact birthplace for spawning. They also venture into freshwater spaces and spend their lives in the Great Lakes, unlike the Rainbow Trout, which dominantly occurs in the Pacific North West ocean tributaries.

Selecting the proper bait, beads, and flies for steelhead fishing is, as before, an art. Here we will try to explain in an accurate perspective how to properly utilize gear, 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 Steelhead differ from each other. Often known as “summer-run” Skamania Steelhead and “winter-run” Little Manistee Strain Steelhead, during their respective seasons. Beginning in late October – early November and continuing up into late May, the Spring season trout are close to maturation and provide a lot of nutritional value. They are excellent eating!

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 Steelhead are the most preferred as their metabolism is high during warm and comfortable water. They have more sexual aggression and are hard fighters!
Summer-run steelhead, 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-run Skamania Steelhead, 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) 519-7348 or mail us at chadbetts@hotmail.com

Category: Muskegon River Fishing Report