River Clean-Up this Saturday….November 2, 2019
We will be meeting at 8:30 am at the shop to sort out float plans and hand out trash bags; then re-group for dinner between 6:00 – 6:30 (contact the shop if you can join us, so we have a head count for dinner)…Please make an effort to give something back to our amazing resource and join us for a great cause! We provide the trash bags, cover car spots and even host a great cook-out afterwards! We just need willing and able bodies to help us…every little bit counts. Then join the crew at Barski’s on Sunday – November 3 for their third annual Beer Dinner (menu coming soon). Sounds like a great way to kick off some fall/winter steelheading!?!!
We received another bump in water with LOTS of rain in the extended forecast. (Please keep in mind, my description of the river conditions are a snap-shot of this moment…the visibility and water-levels are going to fluctuate until my next report). The upper river is dark tea with limited wading (you can wade; just not cross in some of the “normal” places). The middle and lower sections are higher and darker. This is a very timely bump in water to flush out the remaining kings and send lots of loose eggs down stream. Chrome is coming home!
The egg bite is still good, but nymphs and streamers will start playing a bigger role. (Clown eggs, nukes and estaz nukes are my favorites…plus, hexes, stones, sparrows and PT’s out of the nymph box). Bright egg-headed swung streamers or flashy stripped flies will start generating attention…hang on!!! Also, try to use the heaviest leader you can get away with to land your fish. As always, the best fly is good presentation! Make your first couple casts count. Don’t overlook tossing some spinners and Hot-n-tots too! Just a friendly reminder…BEADS are illegal in the “Fly Water”…thank you!
Steelhead fishing last week was challenging, but extremely rewarding! Covering water, good presentation and patience earned some very exciting rides. Saying the fish were “HOT” does not do them justice…unbelievable. My juices are flowing as November nears and I am ready…let’s go fishing and make some memories!
New shop hours are 7am to 5pm seven days a week…feel free to call for current conditions and/or make a reservation. My current open dates are – October 31 November 8, 10 – 12, 16 – 22, 26 December 3 – 5. First come, first serve; however, we still have plenty of availability between Steve, John Robinson, Donnie and Kam…our expanded guide staff will cater to ever need and technique. Plus, Kam is happy to do trips on the Muskegon and Grand. Give us a call 231-745-3529.
Thanks and see you out there!
John
