Lake Michigan Fly Fishing Adventures

Most fly fisherman probably don't think of Southern Lake Michigan as a fly fishing destination but for any avid fly angler the possibilities are endless.  The big water not only offers a possibility at giant fish on the fly but also a challenging and rewarding experience.  If your still learning how to fly fish this might not be the best trip to learn on but for a avid fly fisherman who wants a new experience this is a must.  Please note equipment for these trips are not included.

These trips are all done out of my current boat, which makes stability much more comfortable on Lake Michigan.  For an ideal trip 1-2 fisherman are perfect, a third is possible but the fisherman will have to take turns if fly fishing.

December thru March - Coho Salmon, Brown Trout, and Steelhead Trout

This time period is prime time for aggressive Coho Salmon, Brown Trout, and Steelhead Trout.  In December and January (weather permitting) the opportunity to catch some quality Brown Trout is great, as February and March get started the catch becomes more of a mixed bag as the highly aggressive Coho Salmon move close to shore. 

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April and early May and July, Aug, Sept.- Smallmouth Bass and Carp

Early Spring can be a great time for big smallmouth that are pre-spawn and very hungry.  April and May are the best times of the year for a trophy smallmouth on a fly rod.  Fish in the 4-5 lb range are common early in the season.  As summer sets up and the fish become in a post spawn pattern they start to congregate which makes for a feeding frenzy.  Numbers as well as size are very good thru the entire summer.  Plus we can get them to come up and eat off the surface on the right days!

Carp are always available but Spring would be a better choice especially April and all of May.  These fish can be a challenge even for the best fly fisherman.  Their mood depends on the day but are around in abundance daily.   

June, July, August - Freshwater Drum

If you looking for great action and big fish this is for you.  These hard fighting, very aggressive, schooling fish can't not resist a crayfish or goby pattern.  Normally we are fishing heavy current just letting our baits float near the bottom with the current.  This is a lot of fun and a great way to get on some big fish. 

November and early December - Lake Trout

In November massive amounts of Lake Trout return to shallow water to spawn.  They are easily caught under normal conditions and good water clarity but can be challenging in cloudy water conditions.  This has become my favorite fishing season on Lake Michigan.  A great challenge for any fly fisherman but the reward is worth it.  These giant fish love a slow steady presentation which a fly can easily mimic.

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