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Finally - seasonable weather.

Cooler days, lack of sun, snow and rain mix…. This is what most people think of when they think steelhead. While we have had some precipitation, we haven't had enough to provide a big push of water and fish but some new fish continue to find their way upstream. With water temps still in the 40's the fish are still moving a bit to eat but are starting to edge over to the structure of wood and deeper water. Lots of egg patterns in both natural sizes/colors as well as some larger/ bright eggs are still the primary diet of fish. Nymphs are starting to become more productive – hexes, big stones, and bugger patterns are reliable bets. The water has become very clear so be sure to fish light line and or fluorocarbon until the water changes.

The Manistee and Betsie should be getting a few more Lake-Run Browns into the system over the next couple of weeks as we get closer to December. The weir on the Platte has been raised so fish should be throughout the river system when they have good reason to enter the river. The urban anglers fishing the Boardman are finding some steelhead and Lake Trout throughout the river – from the mouth to the dam.

Trout fishing is still a solitary thing until spring. The Upper-Manistee is low and clear but the fish are still willing to eat a streamer. Be sure to fish your streamer a little slower with the lower water temps and change patterns often to find what they are looking for (Hint: Lots of wiggle and swagger).

Firearm deer season is Nov. 15-30th – be sure to wear some hunter's orange for safety.

Good Luck,

The Northern Angler

This Report brought to you by Head Guide, Ted Kraimer www.Current-Works.com