November 3rd 2023
Another week of shorter days and dark mornings, and even our first snow of the year, but the clocks roll back on Sunday and we have a "long weekend" to look forward to. Steelhead fishing has been a bit slow to start this year. There are certainly fish around, but it doesn't seem like we have gotten a big wave of fish in any river yet. There are a lot of skips around in the Grand River, and not a lot of big fish yet.
River levels are once again falling, but there is rain in the forecast so I am optimistic about the upcoming week. If you are headed out this weekend focus on making your first drift your best, and covering a good amount of water to find fish. Remember half the battle with steelhead is whether there are fish in the river. They are around, but you may have to cover some real estate to sniff them out. Eggs are still very much on the menu, if your are nymphing. Swinging is also producing some fish. Water temps are dropping but haven't plummeted, so the fish that are around are likely to chase.
Trout fishing remains consistent and can be a great way to spend the afternoon if you want to focus on getting fish in the net. Euro nymphing is paying the bills , but streamer fishing this time of year can also be very good and often provides solitude from the crowded steelhead streams.
Whatever you end up doing this weekend, get out and enjoy the fall weather. Snow will be here for good before we know it.