Up to this point the Grand River steelhead run has been poor. We received a decent bump in water level and the conditions and timing were just right for bringing in a good push of fish, but it never seemed to happen. Besides some of the guys fishing at the face of the dam, most have really been working for fish. Even the guys fishing the dam boils are not putting up the numbers you would usually see. It is not a lost cause yet, we still could get a big push of fish and we have been getting some good steelhead, its just been tougher than what we had hoped for. The Muskegon River at this time is in good shape. The color and level are both good. The fish seem to be steadily coming in the river. Fishing has not been easy, but we have been putting some good fish in the boat. Bobber fishing with spawn bags and/or beads and backbouncing have been our productive tactics along with covering water. I some some spring dates available if your interested in getting out. Give me a call at 616 813-5989 if you’d like up to date information.

Well it looks like winter has finally made an appearance over the last few weeks here in West Michigan. Frigid temps and some bouts of both lake effect and system snow, we knew it was only a matter of time after being spoiled in January with some with some pretty nice weather. Obviously, area rivers are not in good shape with shelf ice, slush flows and areas of the rivers basically froze over. All this will come come to pass though as we are on the heels of spring. Once we can get back on the water, we anticipate some good fishing as there were a decent amount of steelhead in most systems already. Get in touch with me if your interested in getting on the water for the spring steelhead run. I have March and April dates available. We are also booking summer warm-water species charters and fall king salmon trips. Trips and prices can be found on my website. If you feel like chatting I can be reached at 616 813-5989 or email steel-header@live.com

Winter steelhead fishing has been good for us the last few weeks. At this time, the Grand River is at a good winter level and the color is just about perfect. We have been catching a fair amount of bright, fresh fish along with some darker fish that have been in the river awhile. Patience and covering water to hunt them down will usually result in success. We have mainly been float-fishing with beads or bait. The Muskegon River is at a decent winter level and generally clear to gin clear. It has been fishing a little tougher than the Grand for us, but has had its good days. Again, a good mix of fresh and dark fish are in the system. We have been backbouncing and float-fishing, with everyday being different as to what works best. Most don’t consider January as prime-time steelheading, but when you can get out on the water it has just as much potential as any other time of the year to have a good day. The scenery this time of year is awesome, especially after a fresh snowfall, and the fishing pressure is low. Get in touch with me to experience a winter day on the river. I have openings throughout the remainder of the month and beyond. 616 813-5989 steel-header@live.com