Kings of September
September has flown by as we’ve made the transition from our summer season in Alaska to our home base here in Northern Michigan.
Early in the month, cold weather and Northwest winds ushered in the first big waves of fall Chinook salmon. Fresh, hard-fighting fish in great numbers made for some very exciting days on the water. As the month progressed and temps rose, the run slowed and our fish settled into their pre-spawn holes and runs.
Over the last few years we’ve been in a consistent pattern of warm, low-water falls and this one seems to be tracking similar. All of our migratory salmon and steelhead rivers are in much need of rain. Despite the low water, fishing has remained very good as we roll into October.
Remaining Available Salmon Dates: October 4, 9, 13, 14, 15
Chad with a fantastic buck that fell for skein
The lower sections of our rivers are consistently offering the most aggressive fish. Just a few short miles from Lake Michigan, these kings are still looking for meals. Skein, spawn bags, and large soft beads under floats has been the standard ticket to success.
Rick joined for a day of scouting and had a great time
Throwing crankbaits with spinning gear has been a fun way to get them lately as well. Thundersticks, plugs, and Arctic Spinners have all had their days of success. It’s always amazing to watch them chase and crush a crankbait in the shallows even on a hot, sunny day.
Navigating our smaller waterways, finding great opportunities and solitude
As of today, we’re still catching fresh kings entering the river. I suspect the run will continue well into October, especially if temps drop and we get another cold-front with Westerly winds.
Chrome Chinook fresh out of Lake Michigan
Duane made the trip north for salmon and landed some awesome fish
Tim with a brute that took us for a long ride
Looking Forward
With just a couple weeks of prime salmon season ahead, we will soon be shifting gears to fall steelhead and trout fishing.
The big fall migration of steelhead is just starting to kick off. We’ve landed a handful throughout September, but the larger numbers will be heading upstream over the next three months. We’ll be chasing them from the big rivers in the jet boat to our smallest tributaries in the Hooligan Raft.
In addition, October, November, and December can be excellent brown trout angling. Both pre and post-spawn fish will be looking for meals and willing to chase streamers and small crankbaits throughout the fall.
Guide Trips
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.
Fall Packages
“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.