Consummate Sportsman

Sneak Peek

2012-01-31T19:56:00.001-05:00

We had another good day pulling plugs on the river today. Between the 3 cameras onboard, Ric and I captured some great footage.

Now the real work (editing) begins. Stay tuned...

Tip-up Walleyes

2012-01-29T08:27:00.000-05:00

My wife and I finally had the opportunity to get out for some walleye on the hard water. We were quick to take advantage. They wanted nothing to do with jigs that night, it was all a tip-up bite.

Here's the vid.

Pluggin' for Steelhead

2012-01-26T21:56:00.001-05:00

Several days ago I had the opportunity to fish with a couple of the most hardcore steelheaders that I've ever known. The Heller brothers take steelhead fishing to a whole new level. They're good, and very intense.

For a change of pace we decided to pull some plugs in the lower river. With the recent thaw and rain, the river was up roughly 25%. This proved to be just enough excess water to shake things up, and reignite the fishing.

Watching these two interact with their witty banter provided more than enough entertainment for the day. The multiple, savage strikes that ensued by pulling plugs was just an added bonus. With so much going on in the boat, I decided it was best to simply sit back and film while letting the experts go to work.

To shoot this, I utilized 3 cameras. A fixed GoPro on the dash, a "mobile" GoPro on a homemade pole mount, and a Panasonic handheld camera. I basically used the dashcam as a fulltime, always on camera. I'd then intersperse the others after we'd hook up with a fish.

Be sure to watch this in HD on full screen mode. It's much more entertaining that way.

Bucks of 2011

2012-01-22T22:11:00.003-05:00

These are a few of the better bucks I was able to capture on camera throughout 2011. Unfortunately, none of which I ever laid eyes on in person.

To the best of my knowledge, most survived the hunting season. I'm anxious to see if I can get some pictures of these same bachelors next summer. With any luck, I'll finally get a crack at one of them next fall.

January Slab Hunt

2012-01-21T22:36:00.001-05:00

Winter Chrome 2012

2012-01-17T17:22:00.001-05:00

Nite Bite Crappies

2012-01-13T19:54:00.001-05:00

Last of 2011

2012-01-11T15:25:00.001-05:00

On my way home today I decided it was probably time to pull the last of my trail cameras from the woods. There were some pretty interesting shots to be seen.

See if you can spot the buck in this next shot... He's a good one too. Unfortunately this was the only picture I've seen of him all year.

First Ice 2012

2012-01-10T17:14:00.000-05:00

This has been the best fall/winter on the river that I can recall in recent memory. The wet fall of 2011 has produced some beautiful chrome bullets on the end of my line in the river, as well as on the lake. It really has been superb.

The mild, arguably warm fall has now given way to winter. Much to my suprise, it's been a mild winter so far. Unlike last year's never ending blizzard that lasted from November through most of April.

Winter is by far my least favorite time of year. With that said, there are some activities that I do enjoy during this season that help to pass the time. Painting and tying jigs, steelhead fishing in the rivers, downhill skiing, and of course ice fishing.

Several weeks ago we had established enough ice to safely fish. So I made my way to a lake 40 miles north of here that's known to give up some good numbers of slab crappies.

I wasn't disappointed with the results! Check it out.

December Dime

2012-01-01T10:30:00.001-05:00

Christmas Chrome

2011-12-29T15:56:00.002-05:00

Smoked Salmon Dip

2011-12-28T13:55:00.001-05:00

This is the worlds greatest smoked salmon dip. Seriously. I had a few requests for the recipe over the holidays, so here it is.

Ingredients

12 ounces of chopped smoked salmon
8 ounces of cream cheese, warmed
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of mayo
1 T hot sauce
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 bunch of green onion, finely chopped

Directions

Warm cream cheese, until slightly runny in microwave
Mix cream cheese with chopped salmon
Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, and mayo
Add onions and garlic
Stir well
Cover and refrigerate for at least several hours
Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, french bread, pretzel rods, or your favorite dip-delivery implement!

Great Lakes Steelhead

2011-12-26T14:24:00.001-05:00

Mint Anyone?

2011-12-24T13:38:00.002-05:00

I hate those cheap flimsy plastic containers that wax worms and spikes are sold in. They're just not durable enough to withstand a trip afield, and I usually end up with sawdust all over my gear.

Here's my solution.

Centerpin Steelhead

2011-12-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

Ice Cold Steel

2011-12-11T12:40:00.002-05:00

Frosty Morning

2011-12-09T18:24:00.000-05:00

A couple pix from my latest card pull that I thought were kinda cool.

Float Fishing in HD

2011-12-03T09:38:00.002-05:00

This was my first attempt using my new Gopro Hero2. The footage was shot last Thursday when I made a quick stop at the river. I think it turned out pretty well.

November Steelhead

2011-11-25T15:31:00.001-05:00

Measuring Success

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's been 54 days since the whitetail deer season opened here in Michigan. For the bulk of that time I've been perched in trees and in ground blinds, waiting and watching...

Deer hunting can be extremely boring. Anyone that tells you otherwise is lying to you. Hours on end counting trees and birds is really what deer hunting boils down to. A test of endurance.

So why do I continue to venture afield toting a bow or rifle if it's so damned boring? Simple. The excitement of taking my chosen animal far outweighs the boredom.

As I've addressed in previous posts, my 2011 deer pursuit has been a real challenge. Earlier in the fall during the bow season, I shot a buck that I was sure I made a lethal shot on. I didn't know it at the time, but my arrow had lodged in his front shoulder and not penetrated into his heart or lungs. I never touched a vital organ.

After tracking him for hours on end, the blood trail turned cold.

For the first time, I'd wounded a deer.  It was devastating for me. Not getting my buck wasn't what bothered me. It was that I'd wounded an animal and didn't finish the job. I was absolutely sick.

As the season progressed, I'd seen a few more bucks well within my range with a bow as well as my trusty rifle. But nothing I was willing to put a tag on.

Let me back up for a moment. For the first time in my life, I'd prepared for this 2011 deer season months in advance. Starting in March I began to scout new locations for stands. I trimmed trees, and hung treestands. I planted food plots. I put out trail cameras throughout the spring and summer to take a census of my properties. I moved the cameras to new locations in the fall to best interpret the deer's changing movements.

As of yesterday, I was 53 days into the season... buck-less.

I decided it was time to change it up. I needed to make a move to some new ground.

A fresh, unexplored piece of state land did the trick.

I loaded my pack with enough food and gear to spend a day afield. I didn't yet know where, I just knew what I needed to do.

I hiked back several miles where I came upon an area that the natural topography made a funnel of sorts.  Several fingers converged into one basin along a swamp edge. There were a half dozen very well used trails in the area, as well as numerous rubs and scrapes.

This was the spot I'd been hoping to find. I climbed atop a suitable ridge and sat myself down against a massive maple, settling in for an all day vigil.

I'd no sooner got myself set up when I scanned the far swamp edge to discover several does emerging.

I now had little doubt I was onto something. It didn't take long, and a buck followed the does out. "Here we go" I thought to myself as I eased up my bino's to get a better look.

He was out about 200 yards. I was elevated well above him so I was basically looking out through the tops of the small trees below. There was no way I could fit a bullet through. I'd just have to be patient.

20 minutes pass, and the buck eventually wanders out of sight. I pull out my bleat can, and let out a few seductive yelps. This did the trick. The buck comes charging over the far ridgetop searching for his new found love.

This time I've got a clear shot, and I took it.  My bullet found its way across the steep ravine and punched through the buck standing atop the far ridge. One of my longest shots in to date.

At first I wasn't sure of the hit I'd made on him. I slowly collected my gear and hiked down to where the buck ran to the bottom and bound away. Sure enough, I discovered a few spots of blood, but not a lot.

My heart sank. "Not again..." I thought.

I searched 2 different fingers before I finally discovered the correct route the buck took in his final moments. I glanced further up the hillside where I discovered he laid amongst the pine needles in the early morning light.

For me, success in the deer woods isn't measured by points or inches. It's measured by a sense of accomplishment, and this buck certainly fit the bill. My in-season scouting/hunting mission had paid off.

My buck is obviously not huge, but I'm hugely proud nonetheless.

Shifting Gears

2011-11-17T21:03:00.000-05:00

My deer season has been terrible. I've passed on a handful of small bucks. Very few opportunities at shooters in many hours afield makes for one cranky hunter.

Especially when I have hundreds of trail camera pictures of my hit list bucks from earlier in the year. It seems they have just disappeared into thin air. To say I'm confused is a serious understatement.

My mind has begun to wander to grand visions of chrome. River chrome. It won't be long until I make the annual exchange of my centerfire for my centerpin.

I've missed the river.

Things are looking good for my favorite hobby of winter. It's been a wet fall, and the river has had a nice push of fish. I can't wait.

In fact, the river is falling fast. It might be time to toss my waders into the truck... hmm.

Very Promising Discovery

2011-11-02T22:54:00.000-04:00

It was a downpour of driving rain here in northern Michigan today. My buddy and I opted to speed scout a new piece of public ground over soaking in a treestand all night.

This proved to be a wise decision.

Almost immediately we discovered an abundance of deer runs that looked more like dirt bike trails, they were so worn down through the grass. We appropriately named this new (and highly secret) location, "Booner Bottom."

One of a half dozen rubs uncovered.

Bird Feeder Buck

2011-10-31T17:32:00.000-04:00

My mom enjoyed my trail camera pictures so much that she had to have one of her own. As you can see, she set it up overlooking the bird feeder in the yard.

Perhaps I should find a suitable tree nearby for a stand?

Trailcam Check

2011-10-27T08:03:00.000-04:00

To The Trees!

2011-10-21T21:49:00.005-04:00

It's official. I've waited long enough. Deer fever is in full effect. I haven't set foot in my best stands yet this fall. I've been saving them for just the right moment.

That time has come. It's finally here.

So I've traded in my fishing rods for my trusty bow. Until further notice you'll find me perched 20' above the forest floor, lying in wait for some mossy backed bruiser.

To be continued...

A classic shot of my father, brother and me at our camp in the western UP.

Upland Bird Hunting Video

2011-10-20T16:41:00.002-04:00

My buddy asked me to edit some awesome footage he captured in the grouse woods with his new Go Pro camera. Here's the final cut I came up with.

Good work with the camera Fred!

Offshore Steelhead Video

2011-10-14T14:01:00.000-04:00

More Fall Chrome!

2011-10-12T20:01:00.003-04:00

Pulling body baits over deep water (200'+) has been paying BIG dividends for us as of late. It's going to be pretty difficult to trade in the boat for my bow as the whitetail pre-rut begins in the next few weeks!

Tim strains to hoist a pair of monster steelies - 9lb & 13lbs!

Fall Chrome

2011-10-10T22:43:00.000-04:00

Did I mention fall is my favorite time of year?

Manitoba Highlight Reel

2011-10-08T17:29:00.001-04:00

Manitoba Waterfowl Hunt

2011-10-05T21:30:00.001-04:00

I flew into Regina, Saskatchewan where my father and brother picked me up on their way from their homes in western Montana. We continued driving the rest of the way into Manitoba where we spent a week chasing ducks.

We shot a mixed bag of mostly divers. Redheads, Bluebills, and Canvasbacks were the norm with an occasional puddle duck mixed in.

It was a wonderful trip that I won't ever forget. Here are a few of my favorite photos from our Canadian adventure.

Fight fight!!

2011-09-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

Smoked Salmon

2011-08-21T12:38:00.000-04:00

Fresh from the brine, ready for the smoke!

4 C dark brown sugar
1 C pickling salt
Garlic powder to taste
Pepper to taste

Begin with skinless salmon or trout fillets. Cut the fillets into manageable sized pieces being sure to remove any bones.

Mix ingredients. Generously cover each piece of salmon in a glass baking dish. Refrigerate for 6-8 hours. Flip the fish around once or twice throughout this time to be sure each piece is evenly covered in seasoning.

The brine will have become a soupy mess after the salt has done it's job of pulling the moisture from the fish.

Rinse each piece and set it out to air dry on your smoker racks for a few hours until a pellicle forms - the tacky (not wet) layer covering the fish. I like to apply a little extra pepper at this point as well.

Now simply smoke for your desired time! That's it. Plain, simple, and quite delicious!

Biggest of 2011

2011-08-14T15:48:00.001-04:00

We dropped the boat in around 4:15 am at our local port. As we cleared the stub pier in the pitch black, the moon was just sinking over the lighthouse. With reports of fish entering the harbor lately we decided to drop a few lines and do a lap inside before we proceeded out to the big lake.

There wasn't any action on the inside to speak of, so we moved to the outside of the piers and began to deploy our full spread. We were running the usual downriggers and dipsey divers in conjunction with leadcore put out to the sides on planer boards.

The next hour or so was uneventful until all hell broke loose at once. First a downrigger popped and Kush went to battle. Then a long line went off, and Tim stepped up to bat. As I steered the boat away from oncoming traffic, I looked back to see another leadcore line was screaming so I took that fish.

All 3 of us were fighting fish, and it was still too dark to see much. We certainly couldn't tell where each of our fish were. Before we knew it we had a tangled mess directly behind the boat, when a fourth line started screaming. There was nothing we could do but watch as we tried to sort out our situation.

Then a diver rod goes off! So essentially we've got 5 fish hooked up all at once, and only 3 men on board. It was interesting to say the least.

20 minutes later or so, we had three kings laying in the bottom of the boat. The smallest was 15lbs! The other 2 we hooked up with at the same time got away since we couldn't get to them.

An hour and a half later, a 2 color leadcore with a plug attached starts screaming. Before Kush had a chance to get to the rod the planer was 100 yards out and still going. There was no doubt this was a monster.

As Steve brings the fish closer he realized there wasn't going to be much controlling the angry beast. It was going to go wherever it wanted to. Sure enough, the fish decided that heading over to the opposite side of the boat to check out the 2 other planer boards was a good idea.

After tangling into both of the other leadcore sets, we finally subdued the beast. It could hardly fit into the net! It truly was an incredible fish. 26lbs on the Boga to be exact. Our biggest to date!

Congratulations Steve. That's one excellent king salmon you caught!

Reactivated Scrape

2011-08-12T21:02:00.001-04:00

About two weeks ago, I put out my trail camera on an old scrape that I discovered last spring while scouting. Once the camera was in place, I went ahead and stirred up the scrape with a stick then doctored it with a little of my own "special blend."

Much to my suprise, it worked...

They're Still Chewin'

2011-08-09T21:32:00.000-04:00

Peak Salmon Season

2011-08-06T08:23:00.000-04:00

Prime time for big adult king salmon is happening right now. Fish are staging just outside river mouths in preparation of their fall spawning run. This period of the chinook season can offer easy pickin's for the savvy angler.

From port to port all along Michigan's coastline the techniques don't change much. Downriggers, dipseys, and weighted lines like leadcore and copper will all take fish. It's really just a matter of finding where they are, and zeroing in on a pattern. Then simply give 'em a lot of what they want!

The last few trips have been quite fruitful for us. The coming weeks should be even better!

Salmonoid Chaos

2011-07-30T13:10:00.001-04:00

My wife and I hit the water last night around 6 pm, not really knowing what to expect. The salmon bite has been so hit or miss for us up here lately that it could have easily gone either way.

I sent out a spread of leadcore, copper, dipseys, and downrigger lines and headed northbound. About an hour into the troll all hell broke loose. First, one of the dipsey rods started slamming like crazy. I handed that off to Tiff and she went to war with an angry king that was easily in the high teens.

Next a downrigger fires with another smaller king in the 12lb range. I took that one. So here we were, doubled up and trying to steer the boat in the wind, keep clear of each other's fish, and keep out of the other deployed lines.

While she was busy fighting her fish, and me trying to control mine, a third rod with a 250' section of copper line started screaming. But there was nothing we could do but watch as we didn't have a third set of hands aboard!

A few minutes later a FOURTH salmon hit our other copper line on the other side of the boat. Yet again we could only watch as it seriously worked over the drag, quickly peeling off line!

Tiffany's fish was first to the net, then mine. Unfortunately the third and fourth managed to break free before we could get to them.

About an hour later we popped our 5th and final fish on the same dipsey & spoon setup that took Tiff's first brute. It was a high diver out 150' combined with a magnum Mongoose.

Suprisingly there was no twilight "suicide bite" to follow up the chaos, where the fish hit everything that moves. There has actually been a lack of this hot bite for many of my trips this year.

Normally as the sun dips into the horizon, the lake comes alive with both bait and hungry salmon. It can be super hot fishing, but not this trip.

3 for 5 ain't that bad though. Especially for the year we've been having on the big lake. I'll take that any day!

2011 hit list

2011-07-24T14:48:00.001-04:00

This year's hit list just got larger...

Finally!

2011-07-22T16:38:00.001-04:00

Several nights ago we finally got into some good numbers of fish on the big pond. A SWR (secret weapon rig) on a downrigger was the star of the night. A close second was a 150' section of copper line with a mag spoon trailing behind.

Unfortunately we ended up actually landing only 6 of the 11 salmon we hooked. The fish were crushing the spoons too. Every king had all 3 hooks of the treble buried in its jaws. Short strikes, and hardly hooked fish certainly weren't the problem.

I had to learn the hard way that Berkley Vanish is complete garbage sold as fishing line. I donated 4 spoons (at $6 a pop) to the lake because the Vanish wouldn't hold. This was even on several different rods. To add insult to injury it wasn't breaking at the knot, but instead broke mid line! WTF?!

Never again. I stripped that trash off and replaced it with some new fresh mono.

Enough about the Vanish already. Here's the good stuff.

Chrome Compilation

2011-07-15T15:58:00.000-04:00

The salmon and trout fishing in the northern reaches of Lake Michigan has been mediocre at best this year for us. With that said, we have still managed to land a handful nice specimens worth noting.

The first is a 21lb king that Tim landed last week. The big girl crushed a plug parked at 70' down off a downrigger. After being hooked, she peeled off an enormous amount of line heading to Wisconsin.

Tim brought the angry chinook closer and the fish then managed to hop over a dipsey, and two copper lines before charging forward ahead of the boat! I ended up netting it from the bow!

Something tells me that one will be tough to top this year.

The other noteworthy fish was a pure chrome steelhead that we boated last night. This fish slammed a magnum Silver Streak Black Screwball on 150' of copper line. It tipped the scales at 9lbs.

Why Fish?

2011-06-30T21:52:00.001-04:00

Is it the challenge of the hunt? Or perhaps it's the brief pause we take from our chaotic life to become part of nature for even the shortest period of time. Or maybe it's that undeniable jolt of adrenaline you get when a trophy peels off line with reckless abandon.

We all have our reasons to fish.

Last night I had the opportunity to get out on Lake Michigan for a quick salmon trip. We got into some fish, quite a few actually. Enough for several meals for both Tim and me. No real monsters, but some solid chromers.

Not only did we have a riot battling the salmon, we got to take in some scenery that would take your breath away.

The view alone was worth the trip.

Trailcam Check

2011-06-17T14:05:00.000-04:00

How to Mount Antlers

2011-06-13T18:59:00.000-04:00

Do you have some antlers that you'd like to showcase, but aren't quite sure how to go about it? Look no further. You've found an easy and inexpensive technique to display your trophy.

Begin by removing the antlers from your buck. I find it's easiest to do so by cutting in from the front of the head right around the eye sockets, moving toward the rear of the rack. Then you simply make a vertical cut directly behind the antlers to complete the cutting process. The more bone attached to the antlers the better. You can always cut off any excess later.

Now take a knife and cut all the hide away. It's important that there is none left.

Once this is done, place the rack into an old pot and fill it with water until just covering the skull cap. Boil and then simmer for an hour or so until the remaining "meat" is practically falling off the bone. A word of advice here; complete this step outside, or at least when the wife will be gone for a few hours because it stinks.

Once the flesh is peeling off the bone, you'll need to scrape what's remaining off the skull cap with a knife. Set this meat aside for some tasty soup later.

Your de-fleshed rack should look something like this.

You'll need to mount the antlers to a backboard. For this you'll need to cut either 1/2" or 3/4" plywood into a desired shape. I prefer 1/2" for it's easier to cut. Sketch an outline on a piece of cardboard to start. This is the basic shape that I use.

It's important to pre-drill the skullcap before you send the screws through. This insures no cracking is exprienced. For screws you don't need to use anything special here. I just use 1" dry wall screws.

Now the real fun begins. Grab an old tupperware or ice cream container and mix up some plaster. It's important to only mix a small portion at a time for it dries super quickly.

Apply then mold to your desired shape. This is the most time consuming and important step, so don't be afraid to take it slowly. Be sure to sculpt the plaster around the bases, but not cover them.

Give the plaster a few days to dry, or even a week in the summer months. You can tell it's ready for sanding when it no longer feels cool or moist to the touch.

Start sanding it with some course paper, and as the rough outline emerges, finish it off with fine paper.

Scrape away any plaster that has accumulated on the rack. There will normally be some around the bases. It should just pop right off with a small flat head screwdriver. When you're finished, wipe the rack down with a wet towel.

All that's left is to paint! Be sure to pick an easy paint to work with. For this job I prefer paint with primer already mixed in.

Since I needed to paint one rack today, I decided to touch up a few others that needed it.

So there you have it. A very unique way to put your trophy on display. Give it a try!

An Unexpected Discovery

2011-05-27T15:14:00.002-04:00

I headed over to one of my favorite rivers in pursuit of stream trout early this morning. As I made my way along a ridge top in the early morning sunlight, I looked down to step over a log only to discover this little guy on the other side!

After a few photos, he'd had enough of the annoying intruder. He tried to stand up to run but couldn't quite do it. There wasn't enough strength built in his legs yet, so he simply fell over and laid back down again virtually disappearing into the landscape.

I knew momma couldn't be far, so I packed up my camera and I was once again on my way.

Expecting?

2011-05-24T17:56:00.000-04:00

I pulled the card from a trailcam this afternoon. There were several dozen pictures captured, but the ones that caught my attention most was of this big fat doe. I'm thinking she's expecting some time here in the near future?

Now contrast the belly size to this other doe that was hanging with the big girl above.

Regardless of the verdict, I'm looking forward to seeing some newborn fawns on the cameras soon.

Spring Chinooks

2011-05-21T17:22:00.018-04:00

Recent reports of king salmon trickling back into our home water along northern Lake Michigan spurred Noah and I to give it a go this morning. We met at Chum's corner at 4:30 am and we were on our way.

Upon quickly launching, we made the 3 mile run out to “the bank” in the pre-dawn glow as the sun just started to peek over the horizon. It sure was a beautiful morning.

After deploying a spread of downriggers, dipseys, and short sections of leadcore we ended up hooking into two angry little spring kings, but only managed to put the net under one of them.

The first hook up came off a downrigger with a Bloody Nose, and the second came on a 2 color leadcore dragging a mini Halloween.

Noah had a tough time controlling this little monster as it zig zagged and leaped throughout our spread, eventually tangling in a high line on the outside planer board.

After covering miles of water throughout the morning I’m saddened to report we hardly marked many fish, or bait for that matter. We certainly didn’t see any large pods of kings that have been present around this time in years past. My theory is that everything is just a bit behind this year due to the cold spring we’ve been experiencing. Heck, the water temperature off the bank was hovering around 41 degrees!

Regardless of the lack of salmon for us this morning, it sure felt good to finally blow the dust off the downriggers again. It’s surely a sign of good things to come!

Night Time's the Right Time

2011-05-14T23:53:00.002-04:00

The night time walleye bite is not for the faint of heart, or for those that don’t function well with little sleep. We usually don’t float the boat until the sun is just touching the trees. Depending on the bite, we could be back to the launch by 11pm or sometimes much, much later than that.

The payoff is well worth the lack of sleep. It’s not uncommon to have 2, 3, or even more fish hit all at the same time. It makes for an intense situation, especially in the dark of night. It’s a riot when the bite is so hot that the fish pull the line from your hands while you attempt to clip on a planer board.

Preparation is the key to this game. A cleaned out boat with absolutely nothing on the floor is crucial. Headlamps, a strong spotlight, a good rubber net, and some lighted planer boards will greatly enhance your experience and your results.

Water temperature and clarity generally dictates my crank bait selection throughout the year on any given lake. With that being said, each body of water will require a completely different set of baits altogether. What works well on one body of water will be ice cold on the next.

Experimentation with bait selection will eventually lead you to an overflowing live well. Only with time can you really piece together a solid pattern for your chosen inland lake.

It’s still early in the season here in northern Michigan, but we’ve made a handful of late night trips chasing those reclusive ‘eyes and experienced some good success so far.

I’m sure many would debate this, but in my opinion there is no better tasting fresh water game fish than the walleye. This fact partly explains why I show up to work in the mornings with one eye open, and my tie on crooked toting a gallon of high octane coffee.

It’s just pretty damn tough to beat a meal of fresh parmesan crusted walleye caught the night before.

So if you’re up for the challenge, load up the boat with the necessary tools and hit the water after dark. You won’t be disappointed! We'll see you on the water.

Inland Lake Walleye

2011-05-01T09:41:00.006-04:00

My wife and I headed to one of our usual inland lakes that we like to fish for Walleye. We had the boat floating by 8:30pm despite the weather forecast calling for a stiff SE breeze of 15-20mph with gusts up to 30mph and a chance of thunderstorms.

Surprisingly we had the place all to ourselves! Go figure. This was the most vacant opening day of Walleye season I’d seen in years. Not that I’m complaining.

I sent out our spread of 6 inline planer boards with an assortment of crank baits that Mr. Walleye has shown a preference for over the years. We had every color in the rainbow covered, as well as various sizes. Tonight I’d let the fish tell us what they preferred, and adjust accordingly.

We began to zig zag the shoreline, varrying depths from 6' - 12' of water in search of active biters.

About an hour into the troll, all hell broke loose. The outside board on the port side of the boat sank under the weight of a large fish. Tiffany lunged for the surging rod. As I reached for the net in preparation, I realized the middle board on the starboard side was hooked up as well.

We were both battling fish in the dark with the wind fierce as ever blowing us every which way. It was quite a task keeping the boat on track, keeping the two fish out of our 4 remaining deployed lines, as well as staying out of each other’s way!

My fish came to the boat first. Being more concerned with my wife’s fish than my own, I didn’t bother netting it, and just swept it into the boat over the stern. Stupid move. The fish was larger than I’d anticipated, but thankfully both sets of trebles were firmly secured in his jaws so I got away with it.

Tiffany ended up losing her monster ‘eye before it met the net. No biggie, for we were hooked up yet again with another nice & fat Walleye within 2 minutes before I could even send our lines back out!

Not long after the bite turned on, the rain clouds moved in with lightning. We ran for the ramp ending our opening evening going 3 for 5 in a little over an hour.

These tasty morsels will be meeting our frying pan this week. I can hardly wait!

One Cool Cat

2011-04-23T21:19:00.001-04:00

I pulled the card on my trailcams again today only to discover this guy hanging around the area. I've never seen a living Bobcat before. I hope to see him in person this fall!

Bombarding The Beaches

2011-04-22T13:46:00.008-04:00

We hit the launch at 8 am with a high level of anticipation. Conditions looked promising for a troll along the beach, between the thick cloud cover and some chop on the water. This made for ideal feeding conditions for today's quarry Salmo trutta, also more commonly known as the Brown Trout.

As we cleared the pier heads I began setting lines. A combination of crankbaits and spoons would make up today's menu. I pointed the boat at the beach, and as we got to a 10' depth, I turned and began to parallel it.

It didn’t take long before the line closest to the beach took a hit. Before we even realized we were hooked up, the trout began frantically leaping behind the boat. When Kevin spotted the leaping Brown, he quickly grabbed the rod and the battle was on.

We continued down the shoreline for several more miles fishing 10 to 15' of water without a strike. So we turned in large arc being careful not to foul our lines on one another, and headed back in the direction of the pier heads.

We trolled our way back to the general area where we took the first strike of the day, and sure enough we were hooked up again. This fish however was much luckier than the first, and managed to free itself from the hook before we had a chance to even see it.

At this point the winds had intensified, and we’d had enough. We packed it up and headed in after 3 hours of fishing. Not a productive day for numbers, but any day on the water is a great one in my book.

Checking The Game Camera

2011-04-15T18:11:00.011-04:00

I accomplished some spring scouting this afternoon on one of the properties I hunt. While exploring the general area in search of sheds and future stand locations, I made sure to pull the memory card from my Trophy Cam I'd put in a funnel only a few weeks earlier.

As soon as I arrived home I loaded the card into my computer. Although I really wasn't expecting to see much.

To my suprise I'd captured 156 images over a 2 week time span. I had racoons, coyotes, quite a few deer, and even the neighbor's dogs!

Here's a few of the better pics.

In the last two pictures you can see a visible scar on the side of the deer just behind it's shoulder. He/she looks much thinner than any of the other deer too. Perhaps it lost a fight with a vehicle? Or maybe an arrow? Any other guesses?

2010 Fishing Compilation

2011-04-05T20:27:00.002-04:00

Spring Trout

2011-03-20T10:02:00.003-04:00

After a brutal winter, the ice had receded to the point where we could launch my boat. It’s finally time to troll the shallows of Lake Michigan for the trout of spring. Browns, Steelhead, and Lake Trout are up in the "skinny" water waiting to be had.

We launched at 4pm and fished until dark around 8, dragging a combination of body baits and spoons until the sun finally set.

Unfortunately the fishing was slow. I hooked up with a real pig of a fish for a brief minute but before I had a chance to identify it the hook pulled and off she went. This later turned out to be the only opportunity of the evening.

At least I got to blow the dust off the boat and prepare her for a busy spring!

Stay tuned...

Manistee Steelhead

2011-03-07T21:44:00.006-05:00

I waded the big Manistee yesterday for a few hours with my centerpin. It was pretty tough fishing. The bite window was only about an hour long right at daybreak, but during that time I landed a few resident trout and this colored up buck.

Frozen Stiff

2011-01-17T20:22:00.010-05:00

I had the day off from work, so I decided to make the run down to one of my favorite stretches for wintertime Steelheading.

It was cold. Brutally cold. The temp gauge in my truck registered at 16 degrees. Combine that with a stiff breeze out of the south, and you've got some tough conditions to wade in.

I gave it my best effort to tough it out. Obviously the situation was less than ideal, but I still managed to land 15 stream trout ranging from 12-20", and one skipper Steelhead.

All fish came on a pink jighead with a white powerbait body, tipped with a waxie. This was the hot combo of the day for whatever reason. I couldn't get them to touch anything else. Lord knows I tried.

I knew it was time to call it quits when I could no longer feel my fingertips. I was shivering uncontrollably. I actually felt like I was becoming delirious.

After 4 hours of braving the fierce winter elements, I'd had enough. I awkwardly hobbled my way back to the truck in my neoprene waders that were now frozen stiff.

With my heater blasting away, I drove home satisfied that not only I caught a few fish, but that I beat old man winter... at least for a few hours.

Christmas Cohos

2010-12-19T11:49:00.008-05:00

Andrew and I hit the local stream today in search of some Steelhead and late running Cohos. After a bit of searching, we came across a nice pod of Cohos with several Steelhead mixed in. We threw spawn, spinners, crankbaits, and even waxworms before we discovered what they really wanted... fresh steelhead skein.

After we popped a few fish, I dropped my rod and started filming. Here's the video.

Adventures in Mexico

2010-10-18T22:24:00.008-04:00

Last Saturday, Tiff and I were finally married and subsequently hopped on a plane bound for Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It’s basically on the very end of the Baja Peninsula. Technically, it’s considered a desert, so it hardly ever rains there.

A beautiful place, and definately a great spot for a honeymoon!

I convinced my bride that we absolutely had to fish at least once. From everything I’d read in the past, the fishery needed to be experienced while we were there. With her approval, I booked our trip with Silverado Charters out of the port in Cabo.

We left the dock at 6:30 am, and subsequently pulled alongside a “baitboat” in the harbor. It was basically a small boat with a big livewell that holds live bait. We purchased a dozen or so large baitfish (not really sure what they were) and left on our way.

As we cleared the giant rock cliffs outside the harbor we turned and headed northwest.

This is one of 5 baits we ran right on the surface, at 9 knots less than 30' off the stern. I couldn't believe how fast we were fishing. You could ski behind the boat at the pace we were moving!

Not long after lines in, my bride hooks up with a feisty Dorado.

I couldn't believe how high they could jump! This is a solid 4' in the air...

Shortly thereafter I looked behind the boat, and spotted a giant Wahoo 2 feet over the tops of the waves, with one of our baits in his mouth! It was an incredible strike to witness.

I battled that fish for quite a while before we brought it to the gaff.

The mate hooked it, then the fish struggled and released itself from the gaff. We lost my first Wahoo.

We then covered some serious ground over the next hour or so without a strike. Then out of the blue, we had a Marlin show up alongside the boat! You can't really see it here, but the fish was literally within 50' of the port side. It reminded me of jaws, with its fin slicing through the waves.

We circled around the fish several times, and even threw some live bait at it in an attempt to get him to go, but he just wasn't interested in biting. So sadly we were forced to move on.

Another mile or so down the shoreline, our center rod starts peeling line like crazy as the captain (who doesn't speak much English) starts screaming "MARLIN!!"

I move quickly into the battle chair, as the fish is burning off line at a furious pace. Before I could even think of taking some back, it had peeled off 200+ yards. The captain throws the boat in reverse, and begins to back down to the fish in an attempt to regain some line. With waves crashing over my head I try to reel down to the fish.

Over the next 30 minutes, the fish makes a dozen amazing jumps off the stern of the boat.

Eventually we had to turn, and run at it going forward because the waves were just too big to back down to it.

Talk about a shoulder workout! It was pretty intense reeling in all that line as the boat is quickly cruising toward the fish.

Once the Marlin was finally subdued, we brought it alongside so the mate could grab hold.

We snapped one more pic, and sent her on her way.

So there you have it, one of the most exciting fishing adventures I have ever experienced. The best part is, I got to share it with my favorite person.

Top 5

2010-09-24T19:35:00.005-04:00

Fall has finally arrived here in Northern Michigan! This is by far my favorite time of year, and these are my top 5 reasons why:

5. Colorful Foliage

4. Cooler, Humidity Free Temperatures

3. Ridiculous Perch & Walleye Fishing

2. Offshore Steelhead Action

1. Bow Hunting

Now, get outside and enjoy it!

Summertime Means Salmon

2010-08-22T14:21:00.005-04:00

It’s been a great summer. Plenty of fish to be had, and much warmer temperatures than last year. We actually got to fish in shorts and T shirts this summer! What’s not to love about that?

I must admit the heat we experienced did have its drawbacks though. For one, we had to work harder to put fish in the box this year. The warmer air had in turn warmed the normally cool lake Michigan waters, driving the salmon deep. Most of our trips have been spent probing the 200’ depth range around half way down.

Typically Salmon in the upper portion of the water column are easier to catch. They can see more of a variety of colors closer to the surface. This is due to the lights ability to penetrate the water. This also widens the range of lures that can be used effectively in shallower water.

When they’re holding deep, the opposite is true. Glows, purples, blues and greens are my color choices for the most part.

Another stark contrast between this year vs. last, was the clear preference for spoons versus plugs. Last August I was running an all plug program that consisted of both Silver Hordes and J-plugs. Fast forward to this year, and I can’t buy a strike on the very same baits. It’s been mostly a spoon and fly bite for us. Perhaps the warmer water has something to do with this as well? Only time (and some more experimentation) will tell.

So far we’ve put quite a few fish in the box over the 15lb mark. To date we’ve boated more than 60 Chinooks. I hope to break 100 by the end of the run. Interestingly, the 20lb. Great Lakes King still eludes us this year. I hope to fix this soon!

Every year there seems to be one or two trips that really stand out. Last year’s top adventure was when my brother and I boated 8 adult Kings out of the 10 we hooked during his first ever salmon trip.

This year’s epic tale happened several weeks ago when I took Dr. Josh and his now Fiancé out for a Salmon trip out of Frankfort. Josh had been Salmon fishing before, but Laura hadn't.

We set off around 6 p.m., and as we cleared the pier heads I realized we were in for a bumpy ride. The lake was rolling that day with 2-3 footers. In a larger craft this wouldn’t be an issue. However in my 16’ Lund, those waves were plenty big enough to bounce us around quite a bit.

After a slow crawl through the waves, we eventually made it out to the 140’ range and I began to set lines. I sent a magnum Green Alewife down to 90’ and turned to set the other downrigger. As I sent down the second line, the first rigger popped. I set the hook, then passed off the rod to Laura. 10 minutes later she boated her first king. A 14 lb brute!

Over the course of the next 3 hours downriggers, braid dipseys/flies, and copper all took fish. By the end of the night, the bite was so intense that I was forced to cut our spread down to only two lines- the two downriggers. I could hardly even keep those in the water! It really was complete chaos on the boat.

Throughout the evening we experienced two doubleheaders, and one triple! This makes for an interesting time trying to steer the boat, fight fish, and net them all while battling 2-3 foot swells.

When it was all said and done, we ended the evening with 12 kings in the box. We’d also lost another 6 fish in the midst of the pandemonium. My 94 quart cooler was so full in fact, that I could no longer close the lid! It really was a night to remember.

Needless to say, I’m looking forward to what the rest of the summer will bring. Thankfully there are several more weeks of big adult salmon to be had here in northern Michigan. As you can imagine, I intend to take full advantage!

Grilled Salmon Recipe

2010-07-24T21:24:00.006-04:00

We have a handful of ways to prepare Salmon/Trout on the grill. This recipe is one of my favorites. The best part is it’s ridiculously simple.

Salmon can be a bit touchy to properly prepare, much like a fine steak. If it’s overcooked, it’s not nearly as tasty as it should be. So be sure to keep checking your fish for “doneness.”

How “done” your fish should be is simply a matter of personal preference. Some like a fairly raw Salmon steak, while others prefer well done. Most (me included) fall somewhere in between.

Ingredients:

Salmon
Brown Sugar
Soy Sauce

Place your salmon fillets skin down in a baking dish.
Cover the fillets in an ample amount of brown sugar. I mean, completely cover them. You can’t use too much brown sugar.
Add a few splashes of soy sauce on top of the fish/brown sugar. Keep adding soy until it makes the consistency of syrup or molasses.
Marinate for 24-36 hours in the fridge. Every once in a while stop by and spoon the sugary goodness back on top of the fish.

Cooking instructions:

We’re cooking hot and fast here people! Our goal is to caramelize the brown sugar onto the fish.

Put the grill on high for 20 minutes or so before you put the fish on. Spray the grates with Pam or similar non-stick spray (very important.)

Place the salmon on the grill, skin side up. Cook for 2 minutes. Now give the steak a quarter turn. This will give you a great “checker” pattern of grill marks on the fish. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Flip the fish to skin side down. Finish cooking for 2 more minutes (so your total cooking time should be around 6 minutes.) Check for doneness…and keep checking it. This is the most important part so don’t screw it up! Thicker cuts of fish will take a bit longer than 6 minutes to cook.

Once it’s done to your liking slide a spatula between the skin and your beautiful salmon steak, leaving the skin on the grill.

Enjoy!

Salmon & Trout Video

2010-07-17T18:44:00.003-04:00

I shot this last week aboard the "Slo Mo Sean" out of Frankfort, MI. We were there to celebrate my buddy Dustin's last days as a single man. Although it wasn't super hot action, we still managed to box some nice salmon and trout on tape.

For more of my videos, check out my YouTube channel.

The Kings of Spring

2010-06-27T13:49:00.009-04:00

The King Salmon of late spring are a furiously powerful fish. After a long winter spent in the solitude of the dark depths of Lake Michigan, they begin their summer feeding frenzy with unbridled intensity. Once hooked, these fish tear off line with such a reckless abandon it makes even the most seasoned of anglers cry for Mommy.

While these fish haven’t yet packed on the necessary weight to make their final migration upstream to spawn, they can still deliver one hell of a punch.

I’m not entirely sure what makes spring Kings fight so hard. Maybe it’s the cold water, or maybe they’re just whipped into a feeding frenzy after a long cold winter. Whatever the reason, it’s tough to top the beating you’ll receive from a mid-teen King in late spring.

In May, when the water temps on Lake Michigan were hovering in the mid-fifties we began pursuing Salmon. With the water being this cold, you could find fish anywhere from top to bottom on any given day. The bonus Brown, Steelhead, or Lake Trout is a very real possibility as well.

My system consisted of several leadcore rods, with shorter sections of lead. In particular, 3 and 5 color set-ups were hot. We’d also mix in several downriggers and dipsey diver rods. The riggers and leadcore were outfitted with spoons.

The Kings didn’t seem to want anything other than a big, juicy meal. So for the spoon selection, we went with magnums. The Dipsey rods were paired with flasher/fly combos. My personal “go to” combo was an 8” Spindoctor and a Rapture Hypnotist fly.

If I put out a shorter leadcore rod with the intention of targeting Trout, I’d put on a Dreamweaver Super Slim. Those puppies are just plain deadly!

For the Salmon spoons selection any of the Chilly Willys, Dolphins, Kevorkians, or Michael Jacksons will take fish. Just as long as they were… you guessed it, magnums. Once the twilight bite is set to begin, I'd switch over to Moonshine Spoons. My favorites there are Bloody Nose, Happee Meal, Mongolian Beef, Carbon 14, and Flounder Pounder.

As I write this, spring has now given way to summer. I can say it’s been a warmer summer so far hence the water has warmed accordingly.

With this change in water temps, the salmon have moved deeper, and the bite has been deep as of late. 90+ down over 120+ of water has been working as recently as this weekend.

The fish are starting to pack on some size too. At a weigh in last week for our Wednesday night fishing league in Frankfort, the average fish weighed was in the 15lb range. Needless to say, I’m really looking forward to the next few months once these babies grow to full maturity!

Stay tuned…

Parmesan Crusted Walleye

2010-04-30T20:44:00.010-04:00

Now that it's Walleye season it's time for some great eating! That's really why I deprive myself of much needed sleep night after night chasing these tasty fish. Sure they're fun to catch, but they're more fun to eat.

As far as recipes go, it's tough to beat deep frying Walleye. Another time tested classic is pan frying with a light coating of cornmeal and flour.

But if you’re looking for a little different (and delicious) way to prepare one of America’s favorite fish, look no further. This recipe makes enough for two. Add ingredients as needed to make a larger batch.

Ingredients

1 lb. Walleye fillets
2 cups Italian Bread Crumbs

1 cup FRESH grated parmesan cheese (very important to use the good stuff, not the canned crap in the fridge)

1/2 Stick of butter

1 Egg

1 Lemon

Directions

Dip fish in beaten egg.
Combine bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Dredge fish in this mixture.
Lay coated fillets out on a baking sheet.
Drizzle melted butter over fillets.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Lemon pepper is a nice addition too.
Bake at 400 for 20 minutes.
Serve with lemon wedges.

Trolling for Trout

2010-04-12T20:24:00.025-04:00

When old man winter finally releases us from his chilly grasp here in the northern part of the country, there are many activities available for sportsmen to celebrate the old man's retreat.

Whether it’s pulling fish through last ice on your favorite lake, or standing knee deep in your favorite Steelhead stream, springtime is one of the best opportunities to take advantage of phenomenal fishing opportunities. For some, that includes slowly trolling Lake Michigan in pursuit of her various trout species in extremely shallow water.

We had a very early spring this year here in northwest Michigan. By mid-March we were experiencing not only mid 60-degree days, but also seeing the water temperatures around my favorite ports rising quickly. This meant more active fish… sooner!

Some Lake Michigan anglers prefer to hit their local piers and river-mouths with spawn bags. Others enjoy a slow troll, dragging body baits or spoons for hungry Steelhead and Browns.

I awoke my Lund from her winter slumber during the first week of March in anticipation of the upcoming long lining to be had out on the big lake. Little did I know how good the fishing would really be this year.

This spring trolling has had one steep learning curve, for it’s been my first spring with a boat large enough for the big water.

We began the year fishing the ultra clear waters of the Lake Michigan close to the shoreline. This tactic produced a few fish, but as the season progressed we experienced far greater results fishing the cloudy river water that pours into the lake.

This cloudy water was generally warmer than the overall lake, hence attracting the cold-blooded trout looking to warm themselves out of the chilly waters of early spring.

Our spread consisted of 6 inline planer boards made by Church Tackle. TX-12’s are the perfect size for spring trolling. Couple the planer boards with your favorite body baits, or short sections of leadcore with spoons, and you'll have a deadly presentation.

Rapalas, Bombers, Thundersticks, Thin Fins, and various small spoons will all take fish on any given day.

We have several star producers that will always have a place in the line up. I’d then throw a few experimental baits into the spread just to try for the day, looking for the next fish catcher to add to the regular line up.

An added bonus to spring long lining is that you never really know what is at the end of your line when you experience a strike, until the fish is in the net. It very well could be anything from a Steelhead to a King Salmon. This year we’ve boated mostly Browns and Steelhead, with an occasional Lake Trout mixed in.

A few weeks from now the Salmon will begin to show back up here in the northern expanses of Lake Michigan and we'll be ready.

As spring soon gives way to summer we’ll once again transition to targeting Walleye and Salmon, but the Trout of Spring will not be soon forgotten!

Steelhead Jigs

2010-02-15T19:51:00.012-05:00

Over the past few months I’ve been painting, and tying up some steelhead jigs in various sizes and colors. I use marabou most, and sometimes I’ll incorporate some other materials. This weekend was the first time I had the opportunity to try out my new concoctions.

I headed down to one of my favorite stretches for winter steel with my new jigs and my centerpin. Without a recent report of how the river was fishing, I really had no idea what to expect. Would the water be high or low? Clear or stained? This would most definitely affect my decision on which jigs to run.

As soon as I set foot in the stream I quickly realized that the water was very low and gin clear. Subtle colors would be key today. Thankfully, I came prepared.

After moving through several runs searching for my first fish, I finally hooked up with a pig of a Steelhead. He ate a jig I call the “Flesh Fly.” Basically, it’s a yellow 1/32 oz head painted yellow, tied up with some bright orange marabou covered by a more subtle cream colored marabou. It looks much like an old chunk of salmon skein left over from the fall Chinook run- dislodged from the rocks and drifting harmlessly downriver.

After a prolonged battle with the very angry male, he finally began to roll just beneath me in the current showing his submission. As quickly as I could, I slid the old warrior buck gently onto the bank. I laid my pin over him for a quick photo opportunity before releasing him back to the river to fight another day. I would guess he was pushing somewhere in the neighborhood of 12lbs.

I was so excited with the results of my jigs that when I got home that night tied up a few more “Flesh Flies” and stocked up my jig box with a handful of new prototypes to try next time. I made sure that my next trip to the river I'd be more prepared for low/clear water with more subtle colors patterns.

Two days later- (today) is president’s day and therefore the New York stock exchange is closed for the holiday. I took full advantage of the day off, and headed to the river for another test drive with my new jigs.

I went straight back to the same run the old buck came from 2 days earlier. After a few dozen or more casts, and several various jig patterns presented, I decided it was time to move. My next area to attack was slightly upstream. It had a slow and deep run next to some faster current, forming a nice seam- winter Steelies love current seams.

I tied on a new prototype- “The Trifecta.” This jig is a white 1/32 oz head tied with 3 colors of marabou. White, cream, and orange. I tipped it with a single wax worm, and launched it into the seam.

The float ran through the entire run without so much as a bump.

I recast slightly to the right- more into the slower water. Almost immediately I was rewarded as my float zipped under surface, and simultaneously a big Steelhead came rocketing out of the water. Fish on! There was no doubt he ate my jig with a reckless abandon.

Several minutes later, I beached yet another big male. This one had a bright pink stripe down his side- a beautiful fish. He probably went 8-9lbs. Once again, I snapped a few photos, and sent him on his way.

All in all, I would have to say that my new Steelhead jigs are a smashing success. I’m going to have to make up many, many more!

Winter Steelhead?

2010-01-10T17:55:00.007-05:00

When people think of January in northern Michigan, most envision shushing down a newly groomed slope, or snowshoeing though fresh powder in snow covered pines. I on the other hand think of Steelhead. Yes indeed, I love to fish for Steelhead in the dead of winter.

January and February are a great time in northern Michigan to take a walk along the streams that are legally open to fishing year round. Streams that the DNR still allow for winter fishing get a fair push of Steelhead during the “traditional” runs of fall and spring. But just because the major runs occur before or after the winter, don’t think for a second the fish aren’t there.

What’s great for the diehard river angler is you can still fish some great waters in the dead winter, and more often than not have the place to yourself. Just be sure to layer properly, and have a good pair of neoprene waders for the task. Oh, and a pair hand warmers couldn’t hurt either.

I rose early this morning with visions of chrome Steelhead at the end of my line. Cramming down a leftover biscuit from last night that would serve as my breakfast, I threw my Steelhead gear into the bed of my truck over top of the current contents- my ice fishing equipment.

Today was not going to be the usual winter ice-fishing trip. Today, it was time to make my first trek to the river of a new decade- 2010.

I arrived at one of my absolute favorite stretches for winter Steelhead just before daybreak. As I put the truck in park, I glanced down to check the outside temperature. The dashboard read 3 degrees. “Oh boy” I thought, the sun can’t come up soon enough!

I raced to the back of the truck to put on my layers as quickly as I could. The crisp morning air stung my hands and face. It’s amazing how fast you can get dressed when it’s so cold your nostrils freeze shut! Once I was ready to go, I gave my rod a quick spray down of an anti-icing aerosol to help to keep the guides from freezing closed.

Shortly thereafter I was walking along the banks of the stream. I moved along slowly, trying to decide where I’d place my first cast.

It didn’t take long to choose. I selected a small area of slow water along side a run where I knew fish would like to lay, just outside the current. Slow or “slack” water, is a great holding area for winter fish. They want to expend as little energy as possible in such cold conditions.

Just upstream of my position I watched at least 4 fish rising to take some sort of emerging insect. Hatches at this time of year are a rare occasion, which I don’t get to witness very often.

Since I was running bobbers and jigs, I decided to pass by those fish on my way upstream and come back later once the hatch had subsided. I’d bank on the fact that the fish wouldn’t go too far.

This proved to be a tremendous decision several hours later when I returned.

Over the next several hours I moved my way upstream and landed around a dozen stream trout, ranging in size from 12” to 20”. During this time I watched a Coyote hunt his way along the ridge behind me clueless to my presence, as well as two Bald Eagles buzz by overhead. This is why I love winter river fishing. Not only are the fish hungry and feisty as ever, but also the scenery just can’t be beat!

Most of my fish thus far were found in the slack water, or the seam where slow current meets faster moving water. Pink and yellow jigs equally caught fish. Although I was happy to catch all these trout, I was somewhat disappointed I couldn’t connect with a Steelhead.

No longer being able to feel my toes, I’d decided that the ham sandwich and hot coffee waiting for me back in the truck was too good to push off any longer. I began to hike back downstream along the path I’d come up earlier. I passed by several runs where I’d taken fish earlier, and even where the Coyote had walked through.

Then I came upon the run where I’d watch the trout rising early this morning. I had to fish it. It was too tempting not to at least give it a shot. My sandwich and coffee would wait for me!

I slipped back into the stream as quietly as possible. At daybreak the fish were feeding no more than 6 feet off the bank, so I figured they couldn’t be far.

I re-baited and made my first cast to the top of the run, and sure enough my float sank, and I had another angry little Brown trout at the end of my line.

I then proceeded to make 8 more casts- and land 8 more fish!! THIS was the spot! There was no doubt the fish loved laying in the slack water. In fact the water here was so slow, it was barely moving.

Over the next hour I landed 28 more trout without even moving my feet. I couldn’t believe how many fish were holding there! The run was so tiny for so many fish. It was no more than 6 feet wide by 20 feet long. Cast after cast I kept pulling fish out of it. In fact, it got to the point where I didn’t even bother using bait anymore!

I had passed by this little honey hole countless times over the years, with not so much as a glance. Boy, am I ever thankful I saw those fish feeding there earlier because otherwise, I’d never have given this dandy little spot a try!

When it was all said and done, I ended the day around 1:30pm with a total of 40 trout landed & released, and countless others lost. This was by far my most productive day of fishing on any stream, and I never even saw another person!

The next time you’re thinking January, think Steelhead! I assure you, you won’t be disappointed!

Michigan Deer Opener

2009-11-18T19:40:00.014-05:00

With the Michigan rifle season slated to begin on a Sunday, my original plan was to pass on the opener, and hunt later during the week once things settled down a bit. I wasn't about to venture out into the woods with the "pumpkin army."

My plan went out the window at about 5 p.m. the night before opening day. My buddy Steve called and offered to join him with a few of his family members on their farm about an hour away, in Kaleva. Without hesitation, I accepted.

The next morning I met Steve at his house at 5 a.m. At the kitchen table he drew up a map of where I was to hike in and find a place to sit. After carefully surveying my options, I had a tenative plan.

A short truck ride later filled with tales of past hunts, I was dropped off at a field edge in complete darkness. With my headlamp and the map Steve had drawn for me on a piece of scratch paper, I found my way to the field I was to watch at first light.

Due to the hilly terrain, it was difficult to find a vantage point that would allow for me to see the field in its entirety even though it was only 250 yards across at its longest point. So against my better judgment, I decided to sit atop a hilly knoll in the middle of the field, hoping the tall grass would hide my outline.

I settled in and munched an apple waiting for the sun to warm the chilly mid-november air.

With the rising light level came the first gunshots of the season. At first it was a single shot, followed by another, and yet another. Clearly the deer were moving.

As it became just light enough for me to survey my surroundings, I could hear deer passing by in the thicket directly behind me. I twirled around and pulled out my calls.

I turned the can call over and with it came the sound that every buck in the rut wants to hear. "WAAAAAAAH!!" In english, this can be translated to: "Come and get me big boy." I followed the bleat with a handful of short quick grunts.

Within 30 seconds a deer appeared at the field edge. I couldn't believe it. This was the first time I'd ever called a deer with any success. It was still too dark to make out what exactly this deer was, but I was betting it was indeed a buck.

My calling worked a bit too well for the deer came trotting directly at me. I crouched on my little grassy knoll, hoping for the best.

At this point I really wished I had just sat down at the opposite timber edge, the very place that my intuition told me to sit. Needless to say, it was too late for looking back. I had a deer bearing down on me!

I raised my rifle and rested it in my shooting sticks while searching for my buck in the scope, but I couldn't find him! It was like he vanished just as quickly as he appeared. Gone into thin air. I lifted my head slowly from the stock of my 280 still scanning the thicket edge.

There, only 17 paces away- perfectly hidden by the grass and terrain was my deer and now he knew I was watching. He was close enough to make out his rack- a little spike. One tine was slightly longer than the other, in the 6" range.

Something didn't seem quite right to the little buck. He veered slowly around my position, trying to find his hot doe. I watched him walk by at 25 yards broadside- a perfect shot opportunity.

"Not today" I told myself as I eased the gun down. I'd let him walk, and hopefully I'd be rewarded by the deer Gods later in the day for my good deed...

The sun got higher in the sky and a series of four shots rang out directly behind me in Steve's direction. Then a call to my phone followed: "Got a nice 8." I congratulated him, and explained I'd sit a bit longer before heading back to the truck to see his buck.

Around 10 a.m. I finally met up with Steve and the rest of the gang. As promised, It was indeed a nice buck. Not a monster, but one to be proud of for certain. We decided to head into town for some breakfast to celebrate.

Back in Kaleva around the breakfast table in Lenz' cafe, we drew up a game plan for our next phase of the hunt over some giant pancakes and hot coffee.

First on the agenda; we'd do a few deer drives back at the farm, then head up to Traverse City to hunt on some state land where we knew some good bucks run every year.

The drives turned out to be unsuccessful with no shots presented, so back to TC we went.

By 3:45 I was sitting in an old blind built of ripped stump pieces and logs at the base of a giant Michigan White Pine swaying in the breeze.

The cover was thick. Much thicker than the cover we hunted in the morning. Scrub jackpines and a handful of tall oaks surrounded me. I couldn't see more than 50 yards at the most.

At 4 o'clock on the nose a single shot directly north of my stand rang out. It was so close in fact; I just about jumped out of my own skin.

I begin to scan the cover intensely. How on earth could I spot anything coming at me in here?

Suddenly I hear a twig snap, then another...

I keep scanning the pines, but in a more confined area now. It has to be the same buck. Or at least I hope! Sure enough I spot some movement out in front of me. I pull up my binoculars to get a better look.

"Buck!" A monster by no means, but a shooter in my book.

At this point the nerves begin to set in, and my heart begins to thump hard in my chest. It makes me smile, for this is what hunting is all about.

The deer meanders back and forth in the cover browsing his way toward me. I couldn't believe this was the same deer that had just been shot at a few minutes before. He acted like nothing had happened! Clearly he was not hit, and in fact quite calm.

As the buck moved to cross in front of me he stopped to browse with his head covered by a thick pine. I slowly raised my rifle and rested upon a horizontal log.

He took one more step as I centered the crosshairs on his shoulder and began to squeeze the trigger.

My shot rang out loudly and it startled me- as it should. I knew I'd made a good shot. I tracked the buck with my eyes, and he fell a short 40 yards away.

Treestand Accessories

2009-10-29T20:50:00.011-04:00

A lot of time and effort is put into selecting where to place your treestand for hunting whitetails. Until today, I never realized the importance of making my stand more comfortable to hunt out of. A few post market add-ons can make a world of difference. This insures not only a more enjoyable time spent afield, but allows for as little movement as possible while on the stand.

After searching high and low though local stores, I finally turned to the web to find a bow holder that I could mount directly onto my treestand. I'd grown very tired of screwing those stupid mini hooks into trees, only to have the bow hanging behind me. My search ultimately lead me to Summit Treestands website.Until my search, I had no idea about how many upgrades were available to add to treestands. I personally hunt from an older model Summit climber, and with my few recent additions, it is one sweet setup.

Let me break down what I purchased. First, is the bow holder. Afterall this is what began the search! I mounted it on the front left corner of my stand, and it holds my bow well out of the way, but close enough to grab in a hurry.

Secondly came the sidebags. I used to wear a hunting fanny pack to carry all my gear, then load my climber on my back on top of the pack. Talk about a bulky mess. After mounting these sidebags on the arm rests of my climber, I no longer require a seperate pack. These are very nice. I can keep my calls, release, gloves, hat, handwarmers, food, etc. easily within reach.

My last addition was the "Rapidclimb Stirrups." Before these I had the old strap style setup up on my climber. The rapidclimb system allows me to load my feet into the stirrups without having to bend over to adjust the straps on my feet. This is really handy. Especially in the dark when 25'+ up a tree and wanting to climb down.

If you hunt from a treestand, I highly recommend taking a look at some of the accessories that are now available. It will greatly enhance your comfort and the quality of your hunting time.

Fall Steelhead

2009-10-25T15:59:00.016-04:00

Tiff and I headed out to frankfort this morning for a quick fish. We slept in, so ended up launching around 9:30. As I hit the pier heads we turned and headed south in about 40' of water.

The water temp was hovering around 50 degrees, and the fish were very agressive. Over the next hour we went 3/3. 2 steelies and a laker.

The steelhead came on long lines behind planer boards. One took an orange J-9 Rapala, and the other came on a blue/silver thin fin shad.

There were some fairly good sized waves coming in from the night before, so it was difficult to detect strikes. Both steelies we landed today were small males, so they didn't pull on the planer boards very hard. In fact, the only reason I knew we had a fish on was I could see them jumping about 100' behind the planer!

The laker came on a half core with a Tiger Roughy nailer right in front of the piers. This was actually my first attempt at using leadcore in my boat, so I was quite impressed to take a fish with it.

The rain rolled in around 11, and we bagged it shortly thereafter.

Fall Trolling

2009-10-17T15:28:00.012-04:00

After a fair amount of coaxing, I had McD convinced we needed to head out for some chrome steelies this morning. We left the house at 6 a.m. and the air temp was hovering around freezing. As we launched the sun began to break the horizon. There were some rollers coming in from the north, but nothing we couldn't manage.

A few hours later we finally took our first fish. A nice hen Steelhead hit my new orange Nailer spoon behind a planer board with a 3 oz snap weight attached. My promise to Ryan that we would catch fish today, finally came true! She gave Ryan a good fight, and into the box she went.

Not long after our first fish was boated, we decided to pull lines and head in for some hot coffee and breakfast around 9:30. I reeled in one of the rigger rods and I realized it had actually had a fish attached. Sure enough, we were dragging a small laker for who knows how long. We just took a couple pic's of it, and let it go.We ended the day going 2/3. All in all it was pretty cold on the big lake, but not too cold to reel in a few before the snow begins to fly. As cold as the fall has been here in northern Michigan, that could happen any day now!

Torch Lake Bruiser

2009-09-29T18:00:00.006-04:00

September 27, Kyle Anderson of Rapid City, MI caught this 50-pound 8-ounce Great Lakes muskie. The fish is now the new Michigan state record. It beat the old record, set in 1984, by 2.5 pounds. Anderson was fishing in Torch Lake, near Traverse City.

Congrats to Kyle! More on this story can be found on Field and Stream's website.

Photo courtesy of David Rose.

Deer Vitals

2009-09-26T08:52:00.007-04:00

Archery season opens in less than a week for us here in Michigan. I thought it would be appropriate to look at a vitals chart as a refresher.

It is essential to pick a "spot” on a deer when aiming. By “spot” I literally mean choose a 1”x 1” patch of hair to focus on. Do not take your eyes off your chosen aiming point once a shooter is spotted within range.

For me its helpful to tell myself NOT to look at the bucks beautiful rack and only focus on the spot. This is a great way to avoid good old “buck fever.”

So when that monster struts right under your tree this fall, remember to pick your spot!

New world record brown trout!

2009-09-10T09:50:00.011-04:00

“We’re real happy to bring the world record back to Manistee,” the 66-year-old Rockford angler said after landing a 41-pound, 7-ounce brown in the Manistee River.

“I’ve fished here 20 years and come regularly, and I’ve caught some nice salmon. But never anything like this.”

The huge brown beat the existing world record from Arkansas by 1 pound, 3 ounces. The state record was 36-13. The fish took a black-and-silver Rapala Shad Rap crankbait that Healy cast from fishing guide Tim Roller’s boat. Healy used a Cabela’s XML spinning rod and Cabela’s Prodigy reel loaded with 30-pound braided line.

Photo courtesy of Tim Roller.

Caleb's First Salmon

2009-09-06T22:54:00.016-04:00

This morning’s trip to Frankfort was a special one for we had a newbie salmon angler along with us for the ride. Caleb is Tiffany’s cousin from Bellaire. He’s fished inland waters for Pike and Crappies, and all the other fun stuff that warm water fishing has to offer, but had never tangled with a Salmonoid. Our mission today: get him into his first, and as many big Kings as possible.

On the ride over to Frankfort from our home in TC, Tiffany and I explained to Caleb about some tips and tricks for fighting salmon and how much fun fishing on the big lake can be. We launched at 4:45 and began setting lines shortly thereafter.

Approximately one month ago there was a full moon and a few days after it, my brother and I put a hurtin’ on the salmon in Frankfort. Today I had hoped for the same result, for it was 2 days after a full moon again this time.

I am fascinated with the moon’s effect on fishing, and have been paying much closer attention to the moon’s phase when I head out. What I’ve so far experienced is that fishing on the big lake is great during a full moon at night (well after dark), and in the early morning (before sunrise), yet before the sun sets is generally not effective.

I had barely set out the first line and we’d already had our first fish on. I pulled the raging dipsey rod out of its holder, and handed it off to Caleb. After a few minutes I netted his first King. Needless to say, he was excited!

Not long after that we had yet another fish on, and again Caleb was up for the battle. That fish was in the 8lb range.

Our third fish of the trip was a true giant, although it didn’t begin that way. When I first saw the rod in the holder doing a little “bobbing” it didn’t look too out of the ordinary. I grabbed the rod and set the hook hard, thinking it was another small King. As Caleb began to reel his 3rd fish in, this pig ermerged out of the water 75 yards behind the boat, and I could easily see this fish was different than the others- this was a good one. Its head was massive.

The battle took about 15 minutes but Caleb handled it like a seasoned pro. We put the fish in the net, and breathed a much-needed sigh of relief. What a pig!

Once the sun peeked over the horizon the fish shut right off. We finished the morning with 5 kings in the box. One monster and the rest were perfect “grillin” size. Once again plugs were the ticket taking all fish. We had the most success fishing over 130' - 150', 20-50' down.

What a great first day on the big lake for Caleb. I think it’s safe to say that we’ve got another salmon addict out there!

Fall Steelhead Preparations

2009-09-04T22:18:00.008-04:00

The leaves in northern Michigan have begun to show the slightest hint of a color change. This makes my mind wander to all the wonderful hunting and fishing options that are available to me at this time of year. Not the least of which... fall Steelhead fishing.
Tiffany and I took the boat out to Frankfort today. We ended up taking a small Coho, and a 14lb King. Both came on plugs.
Back at the cleaning station I asked one of the other fisherman if he wouldn't mind donating some of his unwanted salmon skeins, since both of our fish were males. Thankfully he agreed and gave me the two skeins that he had.
After rinsing and vaccum sealing our catch, I moved on to egg preparation. I had read somewhere that an easy way to get eggs out of tight skeins is to place them in hot water for a few minutes first. So why not give it a shot?
First I pulled the skeins out of my ziplock bag, and rinsed them well in cold water to remove any remaining blood. I then filled my sink with the hottest tap water I could get (approx 140 degrees) Then I submerged the whole skeins in the hot tap water for about 5 minutes. Once the alloted time was up, I carefully pulled the skeins out of the water and the eggs literally began to fall out of them. It was wonderful!
No more using a spoon to scrape out the eggs. And best of all... quick and mess free!
Any fisherman that uses eggs for bait has probably experienced the joys of scraping a few skeins in their day. If you're one of those guys, I stongly recommend this technique. It really does work, and work well at that!
One other tip I can share is this; if you're going to freeze your eggs for later use, freeze them BEFORE you vaccum seal them. King eggs break easily, so if you just put the eggs into the bag and seal without pre-freezing, you will surely have a goey mess later when you try to tie up your spawn bags.
Simply place the eggs into vaccum sealer bags, then put them in the freezer overnight. Seal them the next morning- they will be frozen solid and therefore can't break under the pressure of the vaccum sealer. Once again... mess free!
Northern Michigan's fall Steelhead migration can't come soon enough, and this year... I am prepared.

My new toy!

2009-08-17T20:41:00.015-04:00

I just returned from my local bow shop with my new tricked out Mathews DXT. It's set with a 28" draw at 65lb. With 3.75lbs total mass, this bow is just freakin' awesome!

After dinner, I just couldn't wait to shoot it so I took it out in the front yard for a couple quick shots in the rain. This thing can really sling the arrows! They were pentrating my block target far further than my previous bow. I can't wait to use it this fall!

The Chinook 5

2009-08-16T19:53:00.023-04:00

I present to you in no particular order, my top 5 salmon slayers of 2009:

Ultimate Salmon

2009-08-13T22:45:00.015-04:00

Sometimes I prefer my salmon with a light and delicate flavor, especially when it's freshly caught. Other times when a more rich taste is desired, this recipe fits the bill.
"Ultimate Salmon" is now one of our favorite ways to prepare either salmon or steelhead.
Ingredients
1 lb salmon fillet (skin removed)
1/3 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons prepared mustard
2 teaspoons onion, finely minced
2 teaspoons dried dill
3 tablespoons mayonnaise(light is fine)
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
Paprika
Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

If frozen, partially thaw fillets and cut into serving size pieces. Place in a greased baking dish.

Combine sour cream or yogurt, mustard, onion, dill, and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper. Spread on fish.

Bake 20 minutes per inch of thickness of fish if frozen or 10-12 minutes if thawed.

When just done, sprinkle with the cheeses and a dash of paprika.

Broil 1 minute or until the cheese is bubbly and flecked with brown.

Serve with lemon wedges.

A Great Day.

2009-08-07T21:50:00.023-04:00

My brother Lee came to town last night all the way from Montana to attend a family wedding up in Charlevoix. I somehow convinced him to get out of bed at 3:00 am this morning to try our luck with the salmon before heading up for the festivities later in the day.
Man, were the other fishermen out! There were easily 75 trailers in the parking lot at the launch by the time we put in at 4:45 am.

Throughout various publications I've read that salmon fishing can be exceptional in the middle of the night within 3 days of either side of a full moon (a 7 day window). This morning happened to be 2 days within a full moon, and I wondered how this would affect the morning's fishing. The past few trips to Frankfort had produced a fast and furious bite right at dawn, and then it immediately died off once the sun broke the horizon. I hoped today would be different... for Lee's sake of course!

Pre-dawn we'd marked plenty of fish in the 120-150' range, but once the sun began to peek over the horizon all the marks disappeared, as usual. Undeterred I kept running 135' of water, 40-80' down. I figured some fish had to be close by, they all didn't disappear.

We'd been trolling a good hour and a half and it was getting to be well after the usual hot bite time... without a strike. The night before I had decided to set up all the rigger rods with plugs, and with the key time for slamming fish come and gone I was beginning to strongly question my decision.
My feeling was the fish had fed all throughout the night utilizing the bright moon to their advantage, and hopefully the hot bite would be just a bit postponed this morning... or at least I could hope.

Just then, I looked back at the rods and finally, fish on! While Lee battled fish number one, the other rigger went off and I began a battle of my own. A doubleheader! What a great way to introduce Lee to Great Lakes Salmon fishing! After a few minutes Lee netted his own fish off the stern while I tried to "tail" mine in the bow, to no avail. Lee eventually helped me net my fish as well.

Upon boating those first two fish, it seemed every 15 minutes or so thereafter we'd have another one on.... and boy, were the plugs ever hot! So hot, that we actually pulled the dipsey rods because they were just getting in the way! Most strikes came on an ace-hi green or blue splatter backs. Double glow took a few fish as well before the sun was very high in the sky.

Over the next 3 hours, Lee and I put a total of 8 dandy Kings in the box, totaling 85lbs with the largest fish tipping the scales at 18lbs. By far our best catch of the year. We had the one double header to start with, but the rest of the fish came one at a time at various depths. The madness a double header can bring sure is a ton of fun, but it was also nice to pick away at the occasional fish stress free for a change!

We called it quits and headed back to port around 10. Back at the cleaning station there were plenty of guys with 2 to 3 fish in their coolers, but no one rolled in with 8… at least not while we were there. What a fantastic day!

On a side note, one of the most crucial things I've learned this salmon season: when you find some active fish, stay on them. A GPS unit is a handy tool for this very application. For example, today we kept doing giant figure 8's over the same area once we put a pattern together, and boy did it pay off! Being the "small" guy surrounded by immobile giants does have its advantages!

Chinook Chaos!

2009-07-31T16:14:00.023-04:00

I took today off to fish for some kings with Tiffany, with the hopes of avoiding the usual late summer salmon crowds. We were on the road by 3:30a.m. en route to Frankfort. The good news: the fish were there. Bad news: so were the crowds.

Our first hit came at 6:15 in roughly 120' of water as I kicked up the speed to make a turn in front of a half dozen boats riding right off my stern. That fish hit on an ace-hi green splatter back. While Tiff battled her fish I tried my best to navigate through the oncoming armada of boats in less than perfect seas.

Before Tiff realized what happened, the king she had so diligently battled wrapped itself up in one of our dipsey lines.

As I tried to untangle the mess, rigger two started to go crazy with the pull of a large fish. There was nothing either of us could do but watch helplessly as another good king smoked line off the reel at a furious pace, completely unchecked.

Finally, I was able to untangle our massive mess and grab the other rod. As I battled a very angry King, I helped Tiff net her fish- the biggest of the day at 18lbs. We proceeded to net my fish, which later at the dock weighed in at 14lbs.

With 3 of our total of 4 lines sitting in the bottom of the boat, I unhooked fish and tossed them in the cooler as quickly as I could. Before I even had a chance to THINK about letting the lines back out, our only remaining line still in the water (a dipsey) started screaming. I lept up and began the third battle as Tiffany drove the boat.

Shortly thereafter we boated our third fish of the morning, and had 3 beautiful chrome kings in the box. Those 3 fish managed to clear out all 4 of our lines within a quick succession! Tiff and I had to just sit down and laugh for a moment in sheer amazement of the chaos we had just endured.

It was definitely a complete cluster f--- but we were still able to go 3/3 and bring ‘em all in! What's more, You've gotta love a 45lb cooler with only 3 fish in it!

Tis The Season!

2009-07-19T14:51:00.010-04:00

It's official... It's salmon season boys and girls!

Tiffany and I just had to get back out to Frankfort again this morning to tangle with some chrome rockets. Unfortunately the bite was fast and furious just before dawn and then died off, but we still managed to put two nice kings in the box before the action fizzled out.

The larger of the two was 14lbs, but no match for Tiff! Both came on a 5" green splatter back plug.

Man do I love it when a king smokes the downrigger so hard that it starts the drag a-singing while its still in the rodholder! You just can't beat that sound!

Which gives me an idea... I wonder if I could make that my ring tone on my phone. Hmm... food for thought.

"At least we caught dinner!"

2009-07-18T16:24:00.011-04:00

Dispite the weather man's forecast calling for NW winds blowing 10-20 mph, Tiff and I thought we'd try our luck in Frankfort this morning.

As we cleared the pier heads around 5 a.m. we realized that it was going to be a very interesting trip. I could hardly give the throttle any gas due to the waves crashing over the top of the bow, soaking us. So we eased out along side the waves vs. going straight into them. This proved to be an effective tactic.

After stopping far short of our usual fishing grounds in around 50' of water, I only put down 2 rigger lines because I wanted to see how bad the weather was going to get before I set up my entire spread. Mobility was going to be key today.

Sure enough, within 20 minutes of lines down the wind had built substantially in strength, and we decided to bag it.

"Rigger one, brought up and stowed, check. Now for rigger two..."

Literally just as I reached over to grab the rod out of its holder on rigger two, it buckled and released. I immediately set the hook, and passed the rod over to Tiff. After doing battle for about 5 minutes or so we boated a nice king, on a Moonshine bloody nose. I didn't put it on the scales, but I would guess it was 8-10 lbs.

It's too bad we couldn't stay out longer than 25 minutes today, but sometimes it's just not worth the gamble. We lived to fish another day, and at least we caught dinner!

GT Bay King

2009-07-17T09:58:00.007-04:00

There's been rumors of kings showing up in the bay's lately.

Even though the past several trips have been on the slow side for us on both east and west bay, Tim and I didn't let that discourage us from another trip out.

Within an hour of lines down, we had landed this big boy. He tipped the scales at just over 17 lbs. It hit a white Chilly Willy down 65'. What a great fish for July!

We ended the night with 3 small lakers, and the King. It felt great to make up for all the misses we've had the past few trips out!

Monster Brown!

2009-07-12T15:49:00.009-04:00

With the weather forecast calling for a calm morning, Tiff and I headed to Frankfort in hope of hooking into some Kings.

After a few hours of trolling, and not having any action to speak of, Tiff decided to curl up and take a nap up in the bow of the boat.

By the time she had awoken, I had bascially landed this beautiful Brown. He took a dipsey with a white spindoctor and a silver hypnotist fly.

We snapped a couple pictures and then let him go to pass on his superior big fish genes.

Even though the big boy turned out to be the only fish of the trip, he sure made it worth the drive!

Trout Derby 2009

2009-06-07T17:49:00.010-04:00

The Grand Traverse Area Fishing Association held its annual Trout Derby this weekend. Jeff, Tiffany, and I thought we'd give it a shot. The start time was 6am. We had our first fish boated by 6:15. Over the next hour we filled up our first "man" limit. The fish were holding in water 45-55'. By 10:30 fishing had grinded to a halt so we picked up and moved.

Within 15 minutes at our new spot we had boated 3 more lakers and finished off our allowed 2nd "man" limit. That brought our total of boated fish to 11.

At weigh in our official weight was 25.5lbs. This wasn't our actual weight for one of our fish (and our largest at 6lbs) was disqualified for being 1/8" outside the DNR slot limit for West GT bay. What BS! What's even more painful, we had another legal fish in the livewell that we'd swapped out! GRRR! Oh well. Lesson learned.

Our cooler took ninth place, and $50. The winning cooler was 34lbs which took home $750. Tiffany missed the largest womens trout by .14 lbs. Ouch!

We had a blast, and can't wait to do it again next year.

Fisherman - A Great Resource

2009-05-14T11:23:00.020-04:00

In my random internet meanderings I came across this website. I thought that you fellow fisherman would enjoy it. It's definately worth a look. Every knot a fisherman would ever need is clearly illustrated & animated! Very cool.

Tagged Walter

2009-05-09T18:08:00.010-04:00

Tim and I launched the boat last night around 8. By 8:30 we had all the lines set and were making our first turn when the inside planer board began to lag.

I grabbed the rod and brought in my first tagged fish. Pretty cool! It was a 17" Walleye.

Throughout the rest of the night we landed 6 more and lost one hog at the back of the boat. So far this year we've boated 36 'eyes in 6 trips, and hopefully many more to come!

A good one!

2009-05-05T09:27:00.015-04:00

After 15+ years of chasing walleye in northern MI waters, I finally found a real dandy. Last night just before sun down we were long lining crankbaits. There was a slight SE breeze and the water temp was 56 degrees.

I had just sat down and settled in for the troll. Glancing out toward the boards I watched in sheer amazement as my inside planer literally sank with the pull of a large fish. Frantically I lept up and grabbed the rod.

I wasn't immediately excited for I was convinced it was a pike or a smallmouth, for this particular lake is loaded with both species.

As I got the fish closer to the stern its huge head emerged with my perch crankbait securely attached to her upper lip.

She was 24" and 6.5 lbs. What a beauty!

We ended up catching 8 more walleye over the next several hours. That brought our total to 18 fish in 3 trips. Not a bad start to this years season!

Where are the Browns?

2009-05-02T14:58:00.014-04:00

According to the DNR's weekly fishing report "Good numbers of brown trout were caught when trolling in the harbor in Frankfort." So why not give it a try?

After several hours of trolling for browns, this is all Jeff and I had to show for our work. Not that Im complaining! I'll take a 3lb smallie any day!

Both fish took a blue/silver thin fin 65 ft. behind an inline board.

Nite Bite Walleyes

2009-05-01T22:50:00.005-04:00

Tiff and I hit one of our favorite Walleye haunts tonight. The lund was floating just after 7, and shortly thereafter we began to troll. The first bite didn't come until well after dark. Over the next several hours we wound up landing 5. Four of those 5 came home with us.
Nothing makes my mouth water quite like fresh 'eye fillets!

Perchin on the Glen's

2009-04-24T22:54:00.007-04:00

Tiffany and I headed over to the Glen's today to try for some tasty perch. We were greeted by a strong SW wind blasting us at 15-20 mph. After searching "the bowl" for quite some time I finally found a small school of fish.

I tried to hover over them but I just couldn't pull it off. So we just drift fished. We landed a half dozen, with only 3 being eatin size.

The fish just didnt seem to be bunched up yet. I'm thinking they're still spawning, and hopefully the catches will improve in the next few weeks. Little Glen was 50 degrees at the surface, and Big Glen was in the 40's.

Even though we didn't slay the perchies, it sure was a beautiful day to be on the water. You gotta love that first spring day that breaks 70 degrees!

Big Manistee Float

2009-04-11T18:27:00.018-04:00

Jon, Brandon, Chester (Jon's black lab) and I decided to float the big Manistee from Bear Creek to Rainbow Bend today. We slipped the boat in at 7:30 and were met with a 28 degree air temp and howling wind. The fish were in the river, but I don't think in very big numbers... at least not in this section.

We'd be fishing for a good hour or so with no action to speak of, when we drifted up on a likely looking run.

As I casted into the run from the bow of the boat I told the guys "Here's where the first fish of the day is coming from." I was greeted with several "yeah, rights" or "whatever."

Within 5 seconds, my float went under with a "Fish on baby!" What a feeling that was. My first centerpin chromer, and I even called my shot!

About half way through the float we anchored and the boys cooked up some grilled cheese sandwiches and ramen noodles for some fine dining on the riverbank. What a great day to be outside!

The First Chrome of 2009

2009-03-14T19:20:00.015-04:00

It was a beautiful 45 degree day. I thought I'd kill a few hours at one of my favorite spots for early season chromers. From 4-6pm I went 1/2 on steelies.
Throughout 2008 I put 36 Steelhead in hand (the vast majority of which were released.) This young lady represents number one for this year. I gently slid her onto a near by ice chunk floating by for a quick photo before I released her to fight another day. I hope to meet her again in a few years once she's had a chance to grow.

Steel on the Brain

2009-02-15T23:55:00.010-05:00

I just couldn't take it anymore! After the major thawing event we experienced in this neck of the woods last week, I just had to get out and chase some chrome. Today was cold, the wind was blowing hard, and the fish didn't bite. My itchin' for a fight lives on though. Tomorrow I'll be back at it again. Maybe it will be a more successful trip.

Watch out Steelhead...

2009-02-08T18:56:00.009-05:00

I've been loading up on flies to prepare for the spring Steelhead run. It's been too long since I've tangled with a chrome buck!

Post-Cold Front Catch

2009-01-24T20:00:00.010-05:00

Last night it was 28 degrees. When I got up today it was 7. I decided against my better judgement to fish behind the cold front that passed through. After drilling countless holes, and moving to many locations, I came up with these.
Dinner is served!

Gills Galore!

2009-01-18T22:31:00.010-05:00

After much trial & error- and plenty of frustration, I finally figured out how to catch good sized gills through the ice! I found them in 18' of water. I caught them about 10ft down and mostly sight fished. The real trick was to play keep-away from the little guys and wait for the big ones to dart in to take the jig.

For context I put my 8" knife in the photo.

Delightfully Suprised

2009-01-10T22:43:00.016-05:00

Tif and I decided to chase some perch today. I put out a couple tip ups baited with perch minnows to see what was cruising near by the shanty. Little did I know what was really down there.
The bass was slipped back in after the photo to fight another day. The rainbow was... delicious!

Ice, Ice Baby.

2008-12-17T19:58:00.011-05:00

Tiffany and I hit the lake today in search of some delicious panfish. We indeed had some success. The biggest Crappie (and Tiff's first ever) was 12"!