Trip Overview
Fall Fishing Report: Muskegon River
As autumn arrived, the river transformed into a breathtaking canvas of golds, reds, and oranges, mirroring the changing season in both landscape and spirit. The crisp mornings gave way to comfortable afternoons, creating the perfect setting for our veterans to immerse themselves in the serenity of the water.
This fall, we saw incredible steelhead runs, their acrobatic leaps reflecting the resilience and strength we so often find in those who join our program. The trout and smallmouth bass fishing remained steady, with beautifully spotted browns, vibrant rainbows and bronze backs made their presence known. Each catch, whether landed or simply felt in the fight, became a symbol of patience, perseverance, and the deep connection we share with the river.
Beyond the fish, the true reward this season has been the growth within our community. Veterans new to fly fishing and/or light tackle found confidence in their casts, while returning anglers refined their skills, passing knowledge down the line to those just starting out. The river has once again proven itself a place of healing, offering moments of reflection, camaraderie, and peace.
As the leaves now fall and the season shifts toward winter, we carry forward the lessons learned on the water. Lessons of resilience, patience, and the power of nature to restore the soul. We are grateful for each veteran who stepped into the current this season and look forward to many more opportunities to fish, learn, and heal together in the seasons ahead.
Tight lines,
Eric
“It's such an honor and privilege to have an opportunity to develop a new skill and spend time in nature with some awesome dudes!"
- Matt
"Thank you again for such an awesome trip! Time spent on the river helped me relax and feel a sense of accomplishment. This program offers much more than just an opportunity to go fishing. Healing, fellowship, and service!
- Andy
Recent Trips
Summer 2024
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 MoreJuly 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.
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Experience a unique guided float trip down the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and/or the White River located in West Michigan.