End of the Deep Freeze
What an incredible winter Northern Michigan has experienced. Here in Traverse City, Grand Traverse Bay froze over for the first time this week since 2019. We’re sitting at almost 100 inches of total snowfall for the season, with more on the way. Many of our small and medium rivers are frozen solid, and have been for weeks.
That being said, the two-week forecast is finally showing cracks in winter’s grip. Highs in the 30’s and mild overnight lows are signaling a light at the end of the tunnel. With the official start to spring now just six weeks away, we’re shifting sights to the upcoming thaw and the long-term prospects of spring angling.
While we wait for our small and medium rivers to become free of ice and fishable, our larger tailwater systems like the Manistee will be our primary focus. With relatively well-maintained state and federal launches, access to the “big river” will be favorable. Swung flies, indicator rigs, and conventional spinning tackle will all be employed as we finally get back on the waters we love.
One of the last open-water chromers we laid hands on during the most recent warm-up
Spring Steelhead Guide Trips
Spring steelhead fishing is right around the corner! Currently I have open days available in late February, and throughout March and April. With this hard winter and abundant snow pack, we should have a sustained run of steelhead lingering late into April this season. We’re incredibly excited to spend the next several months chasing these spectacular fish with our guests.
Full Day Trip for 1 or 2 Anglers (8-9 Hours) ~ $450.00
Half Day Trip for 1 or 2 Anglers (4-5 Hours) ~ $325.00
As always, all equipment is provided, as well as a prepared lunch on full-day trips.
This past weekend I joined the crew at Schultz Outfitters in Ypsilanti for the annual Bobbin’ the Hood fly tying event. With over 250 participants, it was an outstanding experience held by a truly stellar community. It was a total pleasure chatting and tying with so many passionate anglers. Huge thank-you to Mike Schultz and his staff for their efforts putting it together, and the invite to be there. Check out their new online storefront at the link below for any/all of your fly angling needs.
On February 24th, from 6-8pm, I’ll be hosting a class at Nomad Anglers fly shop in Grand Rapids. The class will be covering a variety of aspects concerning fly fishing for spring steelhead; timing the run, reading water types, fly selection, leader setups/gear breakdown. This is a fun opportunity for both intro and seasoned anglers to deep dive into the world of steelhead. RSVP at the link below to sign up.
2026 Midwest Fly Fishing Expo
Friday March 6th and Saturday March 7th GDO will have a booth setup at the 2026 Midwest Fly Fishing Expo in Waterford. The event runs from 1-9pm on Friday and 9am-6pm on Saturday. Stop by the booth to chat all things Michigan-fishing or plan your next angling adventure.
Spring Steelhead Packages and All-Inclusive Options
“Best of the Northwest” ~ Three Days, Three Different Rivers - $1,275.00
A unique opportunity to explore steelhead fishing in a trio of river systems in Northwest Michigan over the course of 3 days. One day on a large river system in our jetboat. A second day floating a medium-sized remote river in a drift boat. And a third day traversing a small and intimate river only accessible via raft. Experience the full spectrum of steelhead fishing in NW Michigan.
“Best of the Northwest” is also available as an all-inclusive option, with lodging and all meals provided. Call or email for details and pricing. Available for group trips up to 6 anglers.
As always, thanks for following along,
Cole