Lower Kalamazoo River Report

What a beautiful time of year to live or visit Michigan. The sun is shining, day time temps are touching the 70’s and the foliage and flowers are starting to bloom. Out on the river we are seeing ducklings, fawns, and other new spring life. With little rain the past couple weeks we are starting to see steady consistent flows. Water visibility is still variable making a stealthy approach less crucial.

Recent scouting trip with my Lola, my best fishing buddy.

We are starting to see some bug life and there are a few dragonflies about, however, the topwater bite is still a ways off for the lower Kalamazoo. It won’t be long, though, until frog patterns plopped and stripped through back eddies will produce explosive blowups.

Weighted fly’s and jig shanks help get the fly low without snagging on bottom.

While day time temps are in the 70’s and 80’s, night time lows are still getting down to the mid 40’s cooling our waters after a warm day. With this being said, the name of the game is low and slow. The most productive fishing requires getting the fly down and fishing it slowly. Patience is key as most fish are not charging after flies but rather slowly meandering by. Weighted crawfish, clousers, and sinking lines will be your best friend this time of year.

Patience and slow moving flies produce some of the largest fish of the year.

When fishing the lower Kalamazoo this time of year, pay attention to slower moving water. Getting flies tight to structure and down deep will pay dividends. It may not be a numbers game this time of year, however, quality fish can be found with patience and persistence. If you’re interested in more information or would like further updates make sure to sign up for updates directly to your inbox.

Good luck out there, it’s only going to get better from here!

Cheers,

Allen