Winter Returns
No shortage of good times lately chasing spring steelhead on the fly! Since my last check-in I’ve been joined by some fantastic guests from years past, sharing great days on the water.
Conditions have been constantly changing as cold temperatures crossed paths with falling water levels and increased clarity. Low, cold, clear water took over the scene. It’s been handwarmers, wool gloves, and buddy heaters set to full.
At this point I sound like a broken record, but we really could use more rain in Northwest Michigan. As far as I can tell, the vast majority of our winter fish have spawned and headed back to the lake following the last high-water event. Small pushes of chrome fish continue in the low water, with plenty of dropbacks retreating from the upper reaches of our systems.
Through the most recent cold snap, the fishing remained pretty strong. Persistence and a positive attitude have been critical. Those willing to brave the icy weather were rewarded with excellent opportunities, despite the cold. Bright, sunny days accompanying chilly temps made the bite tougher - with overcast being far preferred.
Steelhead fishing on fly is not a game of numbers on most occasions, but several trips lately suggested otherwise. Conditions line up with active fish, and all of a sudden, I’m working overtime with the net.
With water temperatures lingering in the mid 30’s much of last week, the numbers of fish spawning declined substantially. This was much welcomed, as I believe this cold snap will solidify great angling for the next three weeks or so.
With the forecast suggesting a gradual warm-up with sporadic precipitation, I’m excited to be on the water over the next couple weeks. Any shot of rain and bump in river levels should bring in fresh arrivals.
Techniques and patterns have remained largely the same. In the low, cold, clear water, paler oranges and yellows have been the most productive egg patterns. Peach beads and egg flies have fished especially well. Stoneflies and fry slowed down for me, although I don’t expect that trend to continue.
Floating lines and indicators are still bread and butter. Slowing down the presentation in the deep winter runs is critical. 6-7gram floats matched with appropriate split shot patterns have been doing work.
Even in the cold water, those big chrome hens have been hanging around slightly faster water near the gravel areas. There’s an urgency to their presence this time of year - they have business to take care of and don’t seem to linger anywhere for long.
Deep pools and runs continue to produce fresh and dropback fish. Pocket water around gravel will improve as water temps rise and remain consistently higher.
Guide Trips
With the spring season wrapping up in April, my availability is starting to run thin. If you want to sneak in one last shot at steelhead, now is the time! I have the remaining days open for trips:
April 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 15
A quick reminder on my daily rates:
Full Day (8-9 Hours) 2 People - $450.00
Full Day (8-9 Hours) 1 Person - $375.00
Half Day (4-5 Hours) 1-2 People - $325.00
As always, I provide all equipment, flies, rods, etc. for all trip options. Beverages and lunch are offered on full day trips at no additional charge.
With the steelhead run likely tapering off in the next month, we’re going to finish out strong. Deep appreciation to everyone who has fished with me so far, it’s been too much fun. I truly enjoy what I do because of the people it connects me with, and the experiences shared on the water together.
Cole DeVault