Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Safety is a must if you’re going ice fishing. Be sure to use the buddy system and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Wearing a life jacket may seem silly however it will not only help keep you afloat should you fall through the ice but more important, it will save your life.
SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA
Rain and warm temperatures took out most of the ice. Any remaining ice at this time would not be safe.
Muskegon River: Water levels were up but those fly fishing have caught steelhead when using bright colored flies.
Manistee River: While catch rates improved during the warm spell, the bite will be different now as artic temperatures move into the region. Water levels were up some after the rain and snow melt.
Pere Marquette River: Is producing the occasional steelhead or brown trout.
