Recent Trips

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.

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.

Our program recently had the privilege of working with a father and son from the neighboring State of Ohio. Both Airmen traveled to West Michigan to explore the lower section of the Muskegon River. Target species for this months trip consisted of Chinook “King” salmon, steelhead, resident northern pike, and smallmouth bass.

There is no better time to be in Northern Michigan than right NOW! The brisk mornings, changing leaves, and our rivers are alive with the annual return of the Chinook “King” salmon. The “run” is on and new fish are entering the river systems daily. Pods of fish can be found throughout the river system. For this month’s trip, Flyin’ Heroes choose to target the fresh Chinooks moving in the lower sections of the Muskegon River.

Long days and short nights have allowed for great opportunities for pursuing early morning/evening warm water species such as northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass. Over the last few weeks, the temperatures in West Michigan have reached the mid 80’s by noon. River temperatures have held in the mid 70’s, allowing for a strong top water bite.