Trail Creek Steelhead

Where they at? Any information regarding the missing steelhead please contact me with details. Fishing above the lamprey barrier has not been productive at all. Fishing below the barrier is fairly scarce as well. Unless the entire winter run of steelhead is hanging below the barrier and into the golf course (private property), there is not many fish in the system. Water is still at unusual heights. Low in most spots. Very slow to zero current in the lower stretches. For this late in the year, there should most definitely be much more fish to be had. Not really sure what the issue is but lets keep our fingers crossed that more fish come in.

Salt Creek / Little Calumet Steelhead

Plenty to be said about the two more unpopular tribs recently. Water looks great. A good amount of fish scattered throughout both systems. Smaller stone flies with some wiggle, 8mm beads in a brighter orange, and small black bunny leeches have been productive. The usual deeper runs with some current is where the fly fisherman should be. Put in some legwork to find the not always prominent “fly water”. Bait rules in slow water so make sure you seek out the right type of water. Good presentation and some persistency will pay off. When I fish the creeks I usually run and gun. When the water temps are low, slow things down. The fish won’t be moving much for your offering. You need to put your offering right in their face.

Dowagiac River Steelhead

The fishing continues to be pretty hot on the D. Caddis and hex, the staples, are still getting it done. Swinging flies has been pretty steady as well. Lots of fish around leading to some good days. Water looks great and its looking like its going to be a killer winter.