Unbelievably warm air temps have been present lately over the entire Upper Peninsula of Michigan-this warm air has dramatically warmed up some rivers and others have been virtually unaffected.  Good insect activity has been present in the late evenings on most Trout streams in the central U.P. (Brown Drakes, Cahills, and Caddis).  The St.Marys River has been warming up extremely slow this year (currently 52 degree water)-seems like Lk Superior just does not want to warm up with the winds that have been present.  It should start warming very soon though-currently there is a good amount of smelt present &  fish have been taking some advantage of this.  Some midge activity has also been present during parts of the day, but as of now there has been no mayfly activity & only a few caddis are around.  Some great Atlantic Salmon are available, but be prepared to put in some time for your prize!  Some nice Lake Whitefish also began to make an appearance this week, these guys sure make for a tasty dinner! 

Summer in the U.P.- the good life!

As water temps warm the upstream migration begins-this is the current story on the Atlantic Salmon of the St.Marys River.  Currently water temps are in the low 50’s – Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Spring Chinook are present.  Not huge numbers of fish are around, but proper presentations with patience will result in some quality opportunites.  These fish are really angry and some epic battles have made for some very memorable days on the water.  I had the pleasure of fishing with fellow guides Jon Ray and Ed McCoy of Hawkins Outfitters (www.hawkinsflyfishing.com) this week.  They offer guided fly fishing outings on some of lower Michigan’s finest waters for everything from Steelhead to Bass, a first class operation to say the least.  They were rewarded with some absolutely world class fish during their visit here on the St.Marys River and some very exciting moments!   Fish are mainly chasing baitfish right now as not much insect activty is present.  Warm weather has been bumping up water temps slowly this week & should continue to do so for some time.  Resident Trout fishing remains very good as Brown Drakes, Cahills, Caddis and a few BWO’s have fish looking up.  Trout fishing should remain good for a while as water levels remain steady & Trout are happy!  Don’t forget your bug repellent if heading out on the Trout streams,  it been cold & they are hungry!

 

Summertime in the yooper & livin’ is good!