TK's Northern Michigan Fly Fishing Report July 14, 2012

The Dog Days Continue

Posted by Ted Kraimer - July 14, 2012

We had some cooler evenings lately which has helped water temps cool off and the fishing improved. The long-term forecast is calling for some rain which is needed as the Manistee and Boardman Rivers are running low and clear which is the norm for this time of year.

Trout fishing with hoppers and other terrestrials are a good bet right now and each day the fish prefer something different – some days lots of motion on the flies while other days, dead-drift presentations are better – mix it up and change flies often. Tricos have been hatching in the morning and the trout are keying in on them. Since these flies are small consider tying them on the back of a larger fly to serve as a indicator. Streamer fishing has been slow with the clear water but should improve after some rain – consider using some smaller patterns this time of the year.

Bass and Bluegill continue to be as close to a sure-thing for those looking to do some fly fishing. Local lakes have been fishing well  as these fish seem to thrive in the warm weather.  Poppers, spiders and sliders have been active on the surface while swimming baitfish and mid-sized streamer patterns have been working well sub-surface. Target the drop-offs and weed beds as these types of structure are key when the sun is out.

Smallmouth bass fishing on the lower river is mixed but more fish have moved into the lower Manistee and are preferring streamers over other types of flies lately.  JJ Specials, crayfish, and baitfish patterns fished on sink-tips have been the most reliable.

Good Luck,

Ted

Terrestrials & Trico hatches in the Months of July & August – start your mornings off on a cool, quiet trout stream.
Salmon: The end of August begins our salmon season extending through September. Limited dates available.
Steelhead: The end of September means it’s time to focus on fall steelhead – extending though November
Booking for all 2012 Seasons and through June 2013 – reserve your place in the boat