Muskegon River, MI

[S.Trutta]

Fished the Muskegon River in western Michigan over xmas break with my dad and a local guide trying to get into some winter steelies. We floated the section below croton dam and couldnt have asked for a nicer day. It was balmy for michigan, high of about 30, and little to no wind. They were not generating so the water was running about 1400 cfs and clear as gin. The water temps were up a few degrees and everything seemed to be in line for a good day of fishing. We fished hard for 7 hours, throwing everything from egg patters, hex nymphs, wiggle nymphs, bts, estaz patterns, steelhead buggers, etc. without so much as a single strike. The guide was beyond words, saying they have been hooking a handful of fish in each trip in worse conditions. We did see 2 big boys holding in some slow water near the bank but they werent cooperative. All in all it was fun, but the notoriously picky michigan steelies won the fight. Can't wait to chase them down with a 7wt in the spring when your fingers arent numb and the fish numbers are up.

Rich

[fishmonger]

Notoriously picky steelhead. That phrase is straight out of the "Department of Redundancy Department", if you ask me.

I have fished 11 days on good water with fish present, and had one take. It did not result in a hookup. I figure I'm just that much closer to my next fish.

FM

[kamp karp]

Can I get the name of that guide (if you would recommend him that is). I'm probably taking the family up to White Lake this summer and would love to sneak away for a while. I've never fished the Muskegon but hear it can be very good if you know where to go. Thanks.

[S.Trutta]

Sure thing. His name is Fred Steuber, and he guides out of silverside outiftters. Their webpage is www.silversideguide.com I believe Fred is the owner or one of the owners and is extremely knowledgable on the Muskegon, Manistee, and the Pere Marquette. If you decide to go with them tell him I gave you the recomendation.


Rich