Spring in Michigan is a busy time for sportsmen around the state. While spring may not hold the magic that fall does, it allows a sportsmen several opportunities to spend time in the woods as the weather turns more favorable.
Turkey Hunting
Turkeys have made a major come back in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Hunters may find great opportunities to hunt public land as well as private land for turkeys. We are seeing an abundance of turkey flocks around the state and the population is very healthy. Turkey hunting is a great sport to get youth into the outdoors as well. Early spring mornings are well spent in the woods as birds start chirping and the sun comes through the trees.
Pier Fishing
Spring means fish are on the move! Lake run fish such as brown trout will come close to shore in the spring time. Head to the piers of St. Joseph, South Haven, Manistee, Holland or Grand Haven to catch brown trout or steelhead making their way up river. Be sure to keep a close eye on weather conditions though; they can change rapidly in the spring when pier fishing. However, those that can brave the cold may be rewarded with a nice brown trout dinner!
River Steelhead Fishing
One of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in the outdoor sports world is fishing rivers for steelhead. The Muskegon, Manistee, Au Sable, Grand, Rogue and Pere Marquette rivers offer great fishing opportunities. You can access the rivers at dams and sites within cities as well as in more secluded spots within national forests. You can fly fish; use spawn, spinners, or spoons for steelies. Many use a boat for back plugging or just fishing from the shore in your waders is another option. Steelies offer up arguably the best fight in all of fishing and catching these athletic fish in a river with downed logs and deep runs make it all the more challenging!
Spring Trout Opener
For those that are looking for a more tranquil fishing river experience, simply nothing beats trout fishing. The opening day of trout season across most waters this season is April 30th, as it is always the last Saturday in April. Many anglers prefer to chase trout using fly fishing, while some prefer to use spinners. Whatever your skill level or preference, trout fishing is a very relaxing experience. With some homework, one can find a spot on a stream and fish in solitude. Unlike some fish (like walleye which run in rivers in the middle of cities like Saginaw), trout prefer to live in some of most the beautiful scenery that Michigan offers. Before you go, check your DNR regulations as each stream has different rules on fishing techniques and possession limits. Fun rivers that offer up great experiences are the Au Sable, Pere Marquette, Manistee, Boardman, Two Hearted, Fox, and Driggs.