Fishing Report - May 15

The Kalamazoo River is starting to stabilize and the flows are perfect for floating. Water temps are in the mid 50’s to low 60’s likely indicating spawning mode for our smallmouth. Rivers are more variable than our lakes, and depending on upcoming weather, we expect the water temps to hang around the 60’s and gently climb.

Gorgeous stripes and war paint on this trophy bass caught during the pre-spawn.

Fish should be holding in slower water were making nests and temps stay consistent. Look for pebbles, sandy substrates, and transition zones where fish can find prey easily. Remember to pause your fly and allow the fish to follow and strike in cooler water temps.

The end of spring fishing is near, however, there are opportunities for big fish to be had as post-spawn is just around the corner. Sinking lines and slightly weighted flies are still the name of the game, but it won’t be long till the fish start lookin up. Be ready with floating lines, floating bugs, and maybe some frogs.

A small feather game changer can be an extremely effective fly this time of year.

Contact me to get on the books for a spectacular June-September season. I look forward to sharing more with everyone and hope y’all have a great time on the water.

Cheers,

Allen