Heavy snowfall has made things difficult in several parts of the state, but in other areas there has still been plenty of action.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Overall: The inland lakes still had ice however there is a lot snow on top that will most likely turn slushy and make travel difficult.

Huron River:  The steelhead bite slowed but should pick back up with the warmer weather.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joseph River:  Froze up during the cold spell but warmer temperatures this week should help to open it up.  Anglers have caught steelhead during the warm ups.

Kalamazoo River:  Froze up but should open back up as well.  Look for steelhead and walleye up near the Allegan Dam.

Grand River at Grand Rapids:  Look for increased steelhead action with the warmer weather.  Steelhead and walleye anglers can usually be found below the 6th Street Dam.  Look for steelhead in the Rogue River as well.

Muskegon River:  Water levels were up some with the snow melt.  Those seeking steelhead have caught some nice fish on flies and streamers.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Big Manistee River:   Steelhead fishing should pick up with the warmer weather especially up around Tippy Dam.  The river was frozen in the lower end.

Pere Marquette River:  Should also have some good steelhead action.

With it being streamer tying season we have a new video on our Vimeo page to share.  Russ Maddin shares another streamer that is a must tie.  Using Egg Yarn for the head gives this Maddin creation great action.  Add a few of his techniques to your box and have a great trout season.  Make sure to watch until the end, as Russ breaks down what line and leader setup to use when fishing this great fly.

The post Figure Eight Super Light Video appeared first on Mangled Fly: Fly Fishing Images, Words, Pictures, and Movies.

Our fall season is wrapping up quickly as a major cold air mass bears down on the Midwest. We were blessed with lots of steelhead this season, many of which were quite large. By no means are we done, but things appear to officially be shifting into winter mode. Although swinging is still an option all winter, nymphing really pays the bills when the water chills. (ECHO SHADOW NYMPH ROD)

Steelhead have been abundant, and the trout are mixed in with them. 

By far, dead drifting nymphs has been our most productive method lately. Egg patterns have been great too, especially pink and cream colored stuff. 

This time of year, it can be beneficial to slow down, and work each pool very very thoroughly. With the water being in the mid thirties, steelhead can be more interested in conserving energy, rather than eating. Thus, working the pool 2, 3, or even 4 times through with different flies can eventually work. It’s always amazing how selective they can be. 

Shane spent his birthday on the water and got a nice hen to top it off. Good stuff!