Trip Overview
Summer Fly Fishing Report: Muskegon River
This summer, the Muskegon River has been a haven for veterans participating in our fishing outings, combining relaxation with the excitement of the sport. The program has taken advantage of the river’s prime conditions, offering veterans a chance to connect with nature, hone their skills, and bond with fellow participants.
Fishing Highlights:
Trout: Early mornings have been rewarding for trout anglers, with cool water temperatures supporting consistent caddis and mayfly hatches. Veterans have had great success using dry flies like Blue Winged Olives and Elk Hair Caddis. Nymphing has also been productive during midday lulls.
Smallmouth Bass: A true favorite among our groups, smallmouth bass have provided steady action. Veterans enjoyed using topwater poppers and baitfish streamers to draw aggressive strikes, especially in riffles and near submerged logs.
Steelhead and Salmon Preparation: Late-summer outings included tips on targeting migratory fish as early steelhead and salmon begin staging downstream. This has built anticipation for future trips in the fall.
Beyond the Fishing:
These trips are about more than just catching fish. Veterans have relished the opportunity to unwind in the serene environment of the Muskegon River, learn new techniques from guides, and share stories on the water. The therapeutic benefits of fly fishing—combined with the camaraderie fostered on the water—have made this summer season truly memorable.
As the summer draws to a close, the Muskegon River remains a treasured place for veterans to cast a line, recharge, and find peace in its currents. Here’s to a successful season and many more to come!
Tight lines,
Eric
“What a beautiful day on the river! I'm so grateful for the unique and uplifting experience! Thank you to the staff of Flyin' Heroes for their time, effort, and commitment to the veteran community!"
- Tyler
"Thanks for an absolutely fantastic day on the water!
- Jim
Recent Trips
July 2023
During the month of July, the program switched gears from cold water species to focusing our attention to the backwaters and bayous of the lower Muskegon River. Our main target species included both large and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskellunge (musky). Hot and humid afternoons and the ever increase canoe/tubbing “hatch” pressure, kept our focus on the early morning or late evening bite. Thunderstorms rolled through the area helping to keep the system charged with higher than average river levels. Conditions were ideal for our veteran anglers for pursuing fish on a variety of tactics.
Read MoreJune 2023
Our program recently had the privilege of working with a Marine from West Michigan. Our team assembled at the beautiful Muskegon River Inn located in the quaint downtown area of Newaygo, Michigan. The Inn is conveniently located in close proximity to some of the best tailwater trout fishing in the state. June is an excellent time to pursue trout on either a dry fly or a traditionally swung wet fly. Several varieties of mayflies, such as the famous gray drakes, sulfurs and iso’s are common along with caddis and the occasional large stonefly. Needless to say, the Muskegon River is full of aquatic life and provides a substantial food source for trout and other game species that reside in its waters.
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