Shop Hours 9am – 5pm (Closed Wednesdays until March)
We have been enjoying some awesome breaks in the weather and the river has been fishing pretty well for steelhead! The river is in usual winter mode and water levels are normal. Although the calendar says January; it hardly feels like it…but that is all about to change. It was nice while it lasted and I took advantage of a couple end of the year guide trips, some fun fishing with buddies and even logged my first trip of the new year yesterday.
We are looking forward to putting 2020 in the rearview mirror! A huge THANK YOU to everyone that has supported us through a difficult year…weather it was your kind words, all our partners/suppliers/employees help, random encouraging actions and the continued dedication from our loyal clients and customers. I truly feel blessed after weathering that storm and surviving. Although it is NOT over…we are facing new challenges in 2021, but we will cross that bridge down the road. We have all remained safe and healthy thus far and hope everyone is staying safe and healthy as well!!!!
We have been preparing for spring and placing inventory orders daily. This fall was tough getting products and we are preparing to have full shelves again this spring. We are committed to providing exactly what you need and even having the things you just “want”! Plus, our spring guide dates are filling quickly (and it’s not too early to book a summer trout trip)…but, we still have some excellent availability both with guides and lodging…give us a call – 231-745-3529.
The river is in good shape and running at normal levels. There are a good amount of fish throughout the entire system. Some fish even think it’s already spring and have decided to start spawning…don’t worry, it’s only a few and this happens every winter. There is some snow and colder weather heading our way right now. Keep an eye on the extended forecast and try to time your trips around those periods. The days are getting longer and we are getting closer to March everyday. I am looking forward to March, but I have plenty to do before then.
The bite has been a mixed bag lately on both eggs and nymphs. Pale clowns, estaz nukes, standard nukes and big rag eggs are still getting bit. Stones, hexes, sparrows and fry have been productive as well. The streamer action has been hit and miss dependent on water & weather conditions. Smaller natural colored streamers in normal water levels and bigger brighter patterns in higher water levels. Swinging streamers in the winter is a great way to cover water, escape reality and enjoy some solitude…give it a try!
FYI…we have changed our Guide Rates/Policy to be more aligned with many other regional outfitters. We will NO longer be charging for flies or lures. Guided trips are $475.00 for a full day trip (one or two anglers) year round, $700.00 for a full day with three anglers (However, only certain guides offer the 3 man trip. Check with the shop when booking.) and $375.00 for a half day trip (one or two anglers) but, only available in the off-season. A full day consists of 8 hours fishing and a half day is 4 hours. Each guide will have a large assortment of productive flies for each trip. We will continue to provide top of the line equipment, clean boats, a grilled lunch and drinks.
Enjoy the solitude of the season! Better days are ahead and looking forward to catching up with everyone this spring. We are hoping for a good spring steelhead season and back to a “normal” trout season. Thank you for a great fall!!! Be safe and be thankful, we can safely enjoy our beloved sport/hobby/lifestyle outside wading the wild and scenic Pere Marquette River.
Later,
John