The article "The Best…" by Kevin Morlock appeared on the Ludington Area Convention and Visitors Bureau web site in 2008.
The Best . . . by Kevin Morlock
It’s the best. How else could you describe fly-fishing in Mason County?
West Michigan, long recognized as a top fly-fishing destination, combines many classic elements of outdoor adventure: solitude, serenity, space, and, of course, steelhead.
Clean, cool water through every corner of the county, highlighted by the legendary Pere Marquette. Flowing across Mason County on its westward journey to Lake Michigan, the PM alone, draws scores of anglers to its pristine waters every year.
Neighboring rivers; Big Manistee, Little Manistee, Sable, Pentwater, White and Muskegon also add to the sensational charisma of this nationally recognized outdoor destination.
Fly-fishing opportunities aren’t limited to the region’s world class rivers. Within an hour’s drive, anglers have opportunity to fish several river mouths, Lake Michigan and its harbors, and numerous inland lakes. Pike, bass and pan-fish perfectly compliment their cold water cousins. Inland lakes provide choice environs for a lazy days on the water or teaching children to fly fish.
Mason County is so much more than just fishing. The area abounds in family vacation ambiance. Nearly any type of accommodations one could desire, from primitive camping to luxury log cabins on the river, are available in the area. Excellent restaurants, downtown shopping, endless beaches, challenging golf courses, wonderful parks, and vibrant night life combine to create the perfect place for keeping the non-fishing members of your party gleefully entertained while you search for your fish of a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a fast paced, high energy salmon or steelhead trip, or longing for a serene experience casting dries with bamboo to browns, Mason County is the perfect place for a long weekend or extended get-a-way.
| Peak Fly Fishing in West Michigan | |
| Winter Steelhead… | Mid-December – February |
| Pre-Spawn Steelhead… | Late February – March |
| Spawning Steelhead… | April-Early May |
| Fall Steelhead… | Late October – Mid-December |
| Trout on Streamers… | Late April – June |
| Mousing for Trout… | Mid-June – August |
| Trout on Hex Mayfly… | Mid-June – First Part of July |
| Trout with Hoppers… | July – August |
| Dependable Hatches for Trout… | June – Early August |
| Pre-Spawn Salmon… | Mid-August – September |
| Spawning Salmon… | Late September – Early November |
| River & Lake Smallmouth… | Late May – Late July |
| River & Lake Pike… | Late April – August |
| Great Lakes Smallmouth & Carp… | Late May – Early August |
Provided by Kevin Morlock, a writer, photographer and fishing guide who works and lives in Mason County. Kevin has written for or been featured in many prominent publications including: In-Fisherman, Jeep Magazine, Midwest Fly Fishing and the Detroit Free Press. He also finished the Iditarod Sled Dog Race across Alaska in 2007.
To see the article on the Ludington Area Convention and Visitors Bureau site click here…
