Michigan Fly Fishing Ventures

We specialize in guided fishing trips on several rivers in west Michigan, including the Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Manistee, Grand, Flat and White rivers. The Muskegon river north of Grand Rapids is our "home water". With the use of fly fishing or light spin tackle equipment, our "seasons" vary with the time of the year and the different fish available throughout the year. Fall finds large migratory Chinook salmon entering their natal rivers on their annual spawning run in September and October. Right behind them are fall steelhead, which are fished October - December. During the winter months, we can still fish for steelhead that are "holding over" in the river until their spring spawn, as well as resident trout. Spring brings steelhead into the river for their annual spawning run, followed by large insect hatches of May, June and early July, which provides exciting dry fly fishing for the fly fishing enthusiasts. Mid to late summer months are the best for warmwater species such as Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike. Nearly all fish, during varying times of the year, can be pursued with both fly fishing and light spin tackle. From beginnner to advanced angler, all experience levels are welcome. With over 20 years of service as a full time guide, I have taught literally thousands of people how to fish, with different techniques. From individual to group outings, most all requests can be accommodated. U.S.C.G. Master Captain Jeff Bacon is your guide and instructor.

Fall Salmon, fall steelhead and spring steelhead trips begin shortly after first light, as we meet at a pre-determined launch site and begin the day. Late spring and early summer trout fishing trips start later and we fish up to dusk, often following the "hatches" of insects that provide dry fly fishing opportunities. Mid to late summer Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike trips are scheduled based on forecasted weather and we're often in search of good conditions for some "low light" fishing, either first thing in the morning or last hours of the evening. All equipment is provided and personalized instruction is tailored to ones wants/needs. Soft beverages such as bottle water and soda are provided as well, full day outings include a grilled, streamside meal. Half day outings are 4+ hours on the water, full days are 8+ hours. NOT provided are valid Michigan fishing license and appropriate apparel.

General

• Reservations Required

We cater to all age groups and experience levels. Nobody was "always good" at one thing or another, that's what practice is for. For the first time fly fisher, we follow a mini fishing school format, where a lot of aspects of fishing are covered, such as equipment, basic entemology or "bug talk" where applicable, fish habits and habitat, knots and knot tying, seasonal variations in fishing opportunities, "reading water" and safe wading practices are a few of the things covered. Understanding the capabilities of both our very young, as well as elderly anglers, we put a plan in place at the beginning to ensure it's fun for all. No angler is "too young or old". From individuals looking for a little solitude on the river, to large group outings where other, qualified guides are brought on board to help with, we can/do accommodate nearly any request.

Those traveling to west Michigan for their fishing outing(s) are provided with a list of hotels and Inns that are in the area of the river of choice, and accommodations can be made to suit each of your differing needs. Some areas have extensive choices, others may be limited to just a few options and we talk through this prior to any outing being scheduled and booked.

Rates and policies are covered in detail on our "rates and availability" page of the web site, but the short version is as follows.
All such guided fishing trips are booked in advance and secured with a deposit. Some are booked well in advance, 6 months or more, so long term scheduling is key.
Should something come up and you need to cancel or change your reservation, you can do so with proper notice and all timelines for this are laid out on the above noted page from our website.

"There is no such thing as bad weather, just poor clothing choices".......this holds true regardless of the time of year. With today's apparel having come a LONG way in the last 10 years, quality apparel that's made for such light outdoor activity, is affordable and readily available.

As much of a pet lover as I am, unfortunately we cannot allow pets on board for guided fishing trips. I am still not able to talk to dogs, cats and other popular pets and when in the outdoors, with other outdoor critters around here and there, well...it's a recipe for you know what !

For adults wanting to enjoy an adult beverage while on their outing, you can bring alcoholic beverages, just be reasonable. Safety is priority #1 on my vessels and to best ensure this, please consume alcoholic beverages responsibly.

Michigan Fly Fishing Ventures

Listing # RA-1284151