Steelhead Reflections, Time for Trout
After an incredibly long and drawn out spring steelhead run, we finally wrapped up one of the best seasons in recent memory. Despite the late start and flood conditions in mid April, 2026 spring steelhead was nothing short of phenomenal. Fish numbers were consistently high across all of our migratory systems, and the average size was solid as well. Yesterday walking over a bridge on the Boardman River in Traverse City, I noticed half a dozen steelhead holding in a fast run. Pretty spectacular for the middle of May.
As the flood waters receded in April, we sought out the clearest and lowest flows we could find. As soon as we were able to safely float, we started running into flat-out incredible angling for both trout and steelies. The high and dirty water offered them safety, comfort, and abundant opportunities to migrate. It was undoubtedly some of the sportiest rowing I’ve done in Michigan, but we played our cards safely and enjoyed relative solitude during peak season. To put it mildly, it was a fun couple weeks.
My sincerest gratitude to everyone that booked days with me this spring. There was a fair bit of rescheduling, last-minute changes, and other variables that kept us on our toes as the extreme conditions of this spring rolled on. We made it work, and I think we all came away smiling at the way things played out. Again, thanks to everyone that has supported Green Drake Outfitters; whether it's booking a trip, reading this report, or mentioning us to a friend.
Partnering with Vandenberg Guide Service, we hosted several all-inclusive steelhead trips through Michigan Angler’s Retreat this spring. Each retreat was a lot of fun, as they offer a great opportunity to fish multiple river systems over several days in Northern Michigan. We look forward to our future retreats as we have several on the calendar for fall Salmon season, as well as Spring 2027 steelhead. Click the link below to learn more about our all-inclusive trip options.
The last week or so, we’ve transitioned entirely to trout fishing. In general, fishing has been modest. We’re finding fish on every trip, and even running into some great ones, but overall the late spring has delayed our staple May hatches like the Hendricksons. Streamer fishing has been the go-to in the absence of good bugs. Larger patterns like articulated sparkle minnows, deceivers, and circus peanut variants have been the most consistent. We spent a day throwing small jerk baits, x-raps and thundersticks, and had fun watching fish chase them aggressively. It certainly is a fun way to fish brown trout for those that don’t fly fish, or haven’t quite mastered the challenging art of streamer fishing in our small and forested rivers here in Northern Michigan.
Looking forward, my schedule will largely focus on preparing for my upcoming season in Alaska with Alaska Fly Anglers. We’re less than a month out from our first float trip in Katmai National Park. This is always the time of year when my blood starts really pumping for those long Alaskan summer days. I have quite a bit of gear to prep, organize, fly boxes to top-off, and other chores to make sure everything is squared away.
Fall Salmon Season
With late August and September only a few months away, the fall Salmon season will be here before we know it. We have availability for trips on the Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Betsie Rivers. Jet boat, drift boat, and raft options available. Group trips can be arranged for parties up to 8 anglers. Check out the Michigan Anglers Retreat page to explore all-inclusive salmon fishing packages that combine lodging, guiding, and dining.
While we primarily pursue these fish with spinning gear and hardware, early season King Salmon will aggressively eat a stripped streamer on a fly rod. The first two weeks of September are our best shots to accomplish this. With not many opportunities in the Great Lakes to land a fish in the 15-20 pound class on a stripped fly, this is an exciting chance to check that box as a Michigan angler.
2026 Salmon Fishing Guide Trip Rates
Full Day Trip for 1 or 2 Anglers (7-8 Hours) ~ $550.00
Half Day Trip for 1 or 2 Anglers (4 Hours) ~ $425.00
Our fall Salmon calendar is about half full. For those interested in planning a day on the water, reach out when you can!
Recent Reviews
“Just finished two fantastic days of fishing on the Pere Marquette with Cole. He put us on some nice steelhead and brown trout despite the obstacles the high water presented us. He was a real pleasure to fish with, and his knowledge of the Michigan rivers was impressive. As a bonus he is also a good cook! We are booking 2 boats with him next year!” ~ Jim M.
“Top notch experience on an iconic river with great success. Awesome instructional services, especially with new fly fisherman. Strong expertise and quality guides. Can’t say enough about our experience. We loved it!” ~ John C.
“Had a great experience. They were very accommodating, especially considering I have no experience with this type of fishing. The all-inclusive package was well worth it, great lodging and the food was excellent.” ~ Nolan W.
Cheers to spring finally springing, these warm temps have been long awaited here in Northern Michigan. Good luck to everyone on the water, I’ll finish with a handful of pictures from the homestretch of the spring season.
Cole DeVault
