Steelhead Season

Fishing has been pretty good over the last couple weeks. We are officially in the throws of steelhead season. Temps are dropping, although they are dropping slowly and that is drawing out fall a bit which we are happy about. 

Steelhead are around in most every river system at this point, and we are setting up for a good winter of fishing. I feel like a broken record but we are once again waiting for some rain to shuffle the decks a bit. Local water is very low and clear which makes things a little difficult. 

Luckily there is some precipitation in the forecast. Hopefully it will be enough to bring the water up a bit and give it a stain again. 

In the low clear water, more natural patterns have been good. Orange to cream eggs and stoneflies have been good. Check out this monster stonefly we found on a recent trip. 

If you're swinging, downsize a bit. Try fishing something smaller and more natural. If you need some swinging inspiration check out this new book from Muskegon River Guide Kevin Feenstra. He is an incredibly knowledgeable swing fisherman, and I guarantee that you will learn something from reading his book. Available online and in both shops. 

Trout bite has been a bit slow as of late, but we have been finding a few decent ones here and there. As water temperatures drop expect the euro bite to shine. Often the deep stealthy presentations afforded by euronymphing can save the day in the winter. 

We are approaching the holiday season, and both shops are stuffed to the gills and ready to answer all your holiday shopping needs in whatever way feels most comfortable to you. As always the website is open 24/7 and shipping is FREE. Prefer to order over the phone? Give us a call and we will work with you and get your order out that day. We are still offering curbside pickup as an option if you would prefer not to come in the store, just give us a call. If you do want to shop in person, please be respectful and wear a mask in the store. Remember that several of our employees live with people who are immunocompromised and this is a particularly stressful time for everyone.

Big thanks to everyone who continues to support the shops through what has been a very trying year. Stay tuned this week for some holiday specials, and stop by and load up for your next trip! In the mean time check out the new products showing up for fall here. 

Have a great week, and a Happy Thanksgiving! Stay safe out there.