Spring Fishing!

Big Manistee River, April 16, 2015.

It looks like spring is finally here!  The water level is 2,390 CFS and the water temperature is 47 degrees.  The much needed warm weather and rain we have been waiting for has arrived, and along with that has brought a good number of spring steelhead into the Manistee River system.  

I have been catching some chrome hens along with some colored up males. The steelhead have been found primary on or around spawning reds.  I have had alot of luck with fly fishing gear along with spinning tackle.  With the higher water level and discolored water, yarn egg flies have been the ticket. Especially multicolored clown eggs.  Orange, chartreuse,  pink, and light roe in any combination have worked well.  Steelhead buggers, black stone flies and salmon fry have been effective. Brighter beads in a assortment of different colors and sizes have also done the job.  

I have been concentrating mostly on bottom bouncing to get down to the fish.  The trout fishing has been picking up as well and have had some luck on shad rap rapalas in natural rainbow or black and silver varieties.  Bait fish streamers have also worked well. With the water up and more warmer weather on the way I predict some of the best fishing is on its way!  I have a few open dates available this month and in early May.  Give me a call and let’s get after them! – Chris