The Michigan Department of Natural Resources

It is that time of year when fishing reports are harder to come by as most anglers turn their attention to deer hunting. Those heading out for the firearm season are reminded that late fall and early winter offer prime fishing on the inland lakes for hungry walleye, pike and bass. It is also a good time to catch big perch, bluegill and crappie. The main river systems offer steelhead, brown trout and even walleye. Pier and shore anglers can catch steelhead and whitefish.

SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Muskegon River: Has steelhead but the low water levels are not helping. Anglers are floating spawn or wax worms under a bobber, casting spoons or plugs and fly fishing.


NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Manistee: Pier and surf anglers are catching steelhead.

Manistee River: Anglers are catching some steelhead however the lack of rain has led to low water levels which makes fishing more difficult. Find the deeper holes.

Ludington: Steelhead were caught in the surf and off the piers in the early morning or late evening.

Pere Marquette River: Low water levels continue to challenge steelhead anglers. Fish are being caught in the deeper holes. Most are drifting spawn or flies.