Wednesday, September 1st, 2010.

Thirteen days between updates covering a spectacular lunar phase, making August memorable throughout the HeadWaters Region...

A wade trip one afternoon and a float the next through the middle-Manistee were some highlights of my time afield. Exploration in August ususally brings reward the following dry-fly season as the penchant to visit places far or near becomes overwhelming this time-of-year. Yes ants, beetles and terrestrials bring sulking trout to the fly; but visiting otherwise unknown or neglected locations has the potential for discovery. And that's the fun I seek once the dog daze settle upon us. August is now a footnote and fall won't be denied as we head into the final holiday weekend of Summer-2010. It's been remarkable for numerous reasons. Many are chronicled in the most recent newsletter from the Anglers of the Au Sable, RiverWatch. It'll be on-line soon at www.AusableAnglers.org   

Discussions or negotiations, subject to your disposition, continue in Lansing tomorrow amoung members of the Coldwater Conservation Committee; established to dole out those  remaining Gear Restricted miles afforded by a legislative act nearly a decade back. The march to 212 goes on... Look for some positive news concering extended seasons on waters flung both near and not-so-far! It seems shameful that this land of beautiful rivers offers only a mere 120 miles of Gear Restricted Opportunity when we posses nearly 36,000 miles in total. Especially when you consider the posititive economic impacts enjoyed by peer states like Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, California, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Pure Michigan  could certainly promote the beauties harbored in these waters and there'd be plenty of room for Michiganders and visitors alike!

My work affords me travel through surroundings described by rapturous tongues... The lexicon I've collected over 49 years leaves me woefully inept. How does one paint a pallete describing the whipoorwills' call or the night-hawks' feeding flight while emersed in soothing waters? Our lunar companion, so accursed for his apologetic light illuminates these environs sparingly each month; romantics and poets may be lost without his sullen ways. And constellations would surely miss their opportunity to comingle their histories with  his. A virtual blast from the past, predictable and captivating despite the dampner showered upon night fishermen of every ilk. Yet an evening in shadows is still worth the price of admission!

Tightlines!

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

Morning turns again to night, August, in thunder, rolls over the tip of our Mitt. An inch between dawn and day-light leaves the place washed and renewed. Fog streams through treetops coaxed on north-westerly winds along the expanse of Otsego Lake. I don't remember gray  looking so attractive... The fog and mist are simply beautiful.

We cased flyrods last Thursday leaving for the Straits and points north toward Superior. This spectacular summer is waning though many have suffered under its record-bearing burden. A crusie beneath Might Mac and another along Pictured Rocks, the astounding shorelines around Muinising leaving me again smitten. This State is truly Great!

Cindy, Drake and I spent hours basking in Superior within ear-shot of Au Train Island; idyllic sands awash from dune to dune. Finally to Marquette to visit Marvin and a mine owned by Kennecotte... An open sore on an otherwise beautiful landscape. Land that belongs to we, the residents of this great State and these corporate raiders will abscond with 13 billion dollars in nickle bound for China and their stainless-steel appliances.

I took a taste of the Salmon-Trout River as it springs from the shallow, glacial outwash nestled between two spines of the Huron Mountains. This mine will be directly beneath the spot I knelt. I hope the Ojibway are successful protecting the rights afforded them in the Treaty of 1836...

Tightlines!

Monday August 9th, 2010.

I like sequential happenings like what we're seeing today; the eight month, the ninth day in our centuries 10th year. 08/09/10 Time for an update.

There's been plenty of chuckles during conversations with friends and family about the cause of that headache detailed in my last update. Various debates or bets now simmer suggesting something associated with trout as the likely culprit... A syndrome, soon to be named and studies sanctioned in the name of medical science? "Not So", according to those who should know. A term I didn't know existed two weeks ago is repeated several times each day during my idle thoughts or in conversations with friends, family, customers, clients and professional assocaites as I prepare to see a specialist this Wednesday. I do hope that strange looking structure is a benign growth that's been part of my make-up since birth; as has been suggested.

As summer segues into August the lake was riled twice to whitecaps this week. First by northerly winds borne of a Canadian front and later by opposite forces rolling out of the plains; bearing heat and humidity. I want not to complain of the oppresive conditions. It won't be long until the polar opposite encases the whole of us; December and those months comprising winter owe us one from last year... But it sure is sticky in these parts!

Here's a link we haven't seen for some time.   http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=apx&gage=svrm4&view=1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1                     It belongs to the Pigeon River at Sturgeon Valley Road, just below Song-of-the-Morning Ranch. Next up should be the announcement with details of the actual dam removal responsible for denegrating this proud little river. Some wheels move slowly but time helps heal even small water-bodies like this jewel. There will be more to report before snow and cold overwhelm us leaving me dreaming of ephemeral sojourns. 

Tightlines!

Thursday July 29th, 2010.

Tonight an update of a different sort; one that may be a fresh beginning or some strange form of reality...

Fishing the Deward Tract last Monday under star-laden skies simply wasn't what I've become accustomed to. Much of June and July have been slightly odd so the nagging ache in my head didn't worry me much. The thing wouldn't quit and in fact my discomfort grew exponentially; until I was looking for my fishing partner ready to get home and simply place my head upon a pillow. And then it got worse!

Tuesday morning I awoke to walk Drake and attend to my real estate business prior to work at Gates Lodge. Mention of my situation to neighbors soon resulted in a call to my MD, and an ensuing trip to his office. A short series of questions after vitals led to a trip deeper in the hospital bowels, for a CAT-Scan. Of course the readings showed an abnormality beyond acceptable levels and thus the admission to ER later Tuesday for a MRI. All of this ruining any hope of fishing that evening though the moon would rise around midnight and cloud cover was prevelent.

Yesterday was spent awaiting the review of Tuesday's drama and by 3:30p.m., I was being referred to a neurological surgeon for further evaluation...

What's it all mean? Don't know right now but there were some good discoveries amidst the fear. Some fine people stepped forward to offer help and there is grey-matter in this knoggin' of mine! Unfortunately there's a 2.4 cm growth crowding my pituitary gland; and that might be a problem.

The truth is I've already turned my attention to the fall season anticipating time in October and November chasing steel! So the second season has fallen victim to a mild winter; a sort of tug-and-pull, give-and-get scenario played out in nature. As a buddy said this evening, Who knows what strange and beautiful things await you in the next bend?

Tightlines Friends!

Sunday, July 17th, 2010.

While portions of the country now swelter in record heat; the area bound by these Great Lakes remains an oasis; filled with small flies associated with July and August... Trico's, ants and olives too!

The past several weeks have been busy and productive professionally, so I've been selective regarding time afield ... Mornings are my favorite once the calendar turns toward the heart of summer and I find great enjoyment chasing these miniscule offerings over midnight jaunts in search of leviathans on large flies.

Gentle rain this afternoon beckons; perhaps a nap?

Tightlines!

Thursday, July 8th, 2010.

Small flies in the morning; dimpling trout through an early fog, segues to night in a river-delta awaiting flies the size of bats... A change in the summer session now underway throughout the Headwater Region!

Monday, started early with a ride to the upper North Branch prior to 7:00am; already 75 degrees! Trico's, having hatched hours earlier, were nearly done spinning by the time Drake and I hit the water. Trout were doing what these trout do, inhaling thimble-after-thimble of spent duns from their natal waters. Then olives in numbers worthy of spalshy rises... These too become fodder once evening decends as we welcome the second of summers' seasons... The small season in morning and the gargantuan fly at night...

Moisture is spreading overhead this morning bearing needed relief from oppressive temperatures and humidity. Streamers or a lazy float fishing insects in the film; either seems great to enjoy a day on the river! It's all good as 2010's firework display is history over Otsego Lake...

Tightlines!

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010.

As we rolled through June into July; the need for another evening searching for Hex simply fizzled... So I'm left wondering how a couple buddies did last evening while I opted-out and they pursued quarry on the Jordan; a final time this Limbata Season? I hope they smacked 'em to warrant a trip Sunday night!Seems that river could be in-play yet this weekend as we delve into the holiday festivities with our buddy Keith Scott in Bellaire at Short's Pub. Check out his updated web-site... http://www.keithscottblues.com/ The guy's become a freak for fly fishing the past two seasons.

Morning becomes a fine time as we welcome the smallest of our major hatches... Trico's! They've begun their two-month emergence on the upper North Branch just in time. Their annual arrival can be credited with salvaging the sanity of friends and associates in peril because of big bugs and late-night forays around the Headwaters' Region.

Temps near 90 degrees the next two days will make a huge difference in the general tenor of this summer season... A good 4th of July weekend to all. Here's a recap of June and the moisture; much needed moisture, that came with it!

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/news/display_cmsstory.php?wfo=apx&storyid=54334&source=0

Tightlines!

Friday, June 25th, 2010.

Unstable atmospheric conditions chased me twice this week just as H. Limbata were rolling in numbers ample to cause real havoc... A similar story the prior two weeks around and throughout the Headwaters' Region. Our hex-season is nearly complete as the solstice welcomed summer and June had yet to welcome its full-moon. Can Trico's be far-off?

The ghost-fish from the Jordan is no longer an appirition and I'll be fine with what has been a strange June indeed if lighting and heavy rain hold-off until 10:30pm this particular evening. Another shot at a Lake Michigan hog visiting its' natal water is all I'm hoping for now...

Business has been solid around my coverage area and I've been dedicated to making the most of the opportunities before me. Several days each week at www.GatesLodge.com  and motivated buyers and sellers have made time on the river all-the-more rewarding! Sleep has become necessary too in ways I've not known until this season... Must be part of the privilege of growing older, leaving me flat-footed where once was a spring in my step.

Tightlines!

Sunday, June 20th, 2010.

Dad; a word of "thanks" on this particular Sunday...

Moisture making the rounds pushed water levels and insects around benefiting trout and general fishing well-beyond the Hex Vex! 3-4 inches fell between Friday the 11th and Thursday the 17th. The flush we didn't receive with our spring run-off!

A certain fish from the Jordan is bound to haunt me until my next encounter with a similar apparition somewhere near this parallel... Twice I heard and saw the kyped-jaw of a leviathan surround my offering, sure my fly had fooled the potadromous pig! Feeling leader, tippet and fly slide through cartlidge-filled-mouth is what drives me this time of season. Hex do this to all-manner of living found in their realm! An insect that molts thirty-times over a three-year nymphal cycle resembling a small bat once freed of it shuck; destined to fly a gaunlet of winged creatures bent too on the adults demise...

A trip this late-afternoon to the Pigeon includes an opportnity to help another buyer own a place on one of these great rivers; and of course some twi-light spent awaiting an evening rise just north of the Gaylord Moraine!

Tightlines! 

Sunday, June 13th, 2010.

A quick word to those citizens that took time to attend a public meeting concerning Gear Restrictions... Thanks! Regardless of your position; the fact that one would take time to attend such a matter means much.

Imagine a 90-minute light-show accompanied by a percussive ensemble unmatched for crescendo anywhere on the planet; awating the largest may-fly on this continent! Ensconced by a three-inch rain event leaving Headwaters streams briming full of liquid relief... Our drought now ending just as the solstice gives notice to another sweet season. Summer!

Floating the lower Jordan this evening in search of  H. Limbata and piscatorial creatures called Skamania... The rain. It's all-good!!!

Tightlines!

Friday, June 4th, 2010.

The prognostications weren't far-off regarding H. limbata and the arrival of June!

The largest of the big bugs have made their presence known around the Headwaters Region and true to form fish and those that chase them have lost their minds... A good thing despite the continued pattern of warmth and dry persisting over northern Michigan this past week; until yesterday as moisture and cooler river temps helped drive water temps back into the 60's.

A virtual variety of dry-fly options are now on the menu throughout the area though we're running far below norms on every creek and tributary feeding  these blue-ribbon trout streams around the Gaylord Moraine. But some relief is in the forecast!

Also of note: Public Meetings next Tuesday and Thursdy in Grayling and Gaylord beginning at 7:00pm. Gear Restrictions and the unfullfilled promise of more special regualtions on these very special waters... Our Wild-Trout deserve these! See last Friday's post for details.

Tightlines!

Monday, Memorial Day, 2010.

A word of thanks to those men and women that have served our Country; and those here at home awaiting their return...

Thank You!!

Friday Evening, now May 29th, 2010.

Little winter, mild spring and dry early-summer have conspired to spread good cheer amoung dry fly fishing fans including yours truly; but one must wonder what the price will be on the other side of this spectacular season? More rain than we or the landscape can handle? Or fire the like of which few have ever seen? But know this... It has fished beautifully!!

More spinners than neccessary this eveing on the Au Sable holy water followed by an epic emergence of E. Simulans completes the cycle on the upper system including the North and South branches; days and weeks earlier than most can recall experiencing. Great Stuff with a couple caveats: 1) It's too weird living with the overwhelming sensation that it's really mid-Jine and 2) Before June arrives we could be void of the seasons brown-drake on the upper Au Sable system. Both are transpiring before our very eyes; in plain sight of those willing to witness an extremely unique period in the Headwaters of Northern Michigan. Drought early in the cycle...

On to the colder waters west and again north of the 45th parallel... Looking for a reprieve from dry and hot conditions; giddy understanding that rain will make all right!  So we wait on H. Limbata before June; really?!? Some I know actually think so...

Weeks of discussion between Michigan Trout, The Headwaters Chapter of TU, Anglers of the Au Sable and the Au Sable River Big Water Preservation Association have broken down as we approach a series of public meetings concerning Gear Restrictions for our blue-ribbon trout streams. And that's too bad!

I had the good fortune Thursday to tour a series of sand traps on the upper Mansitee River with the good samaritan responsible for cleaning those traps last fall when the Department made clear it wouldn't be doing so. $15,000 went to remove the smothering effects of sand in three sections of the Deward Tract before the fall spawning season began. Fisheries personel informed membes of the Anglers that these and a trap above the Mason Tract wouldn't receive needed cleaning because the State simply didn't have the money; so a fan of wild trout stepped up to the proverbial plate and made the fiscal contribution required for maintaining two fabled streams. An example of why relationships between we fisherman and those appointed to do the Publics bidding matter...

Here's more regarding those meetings:

Team,

Below is some good information about the Gear Regs in our area. The Headwaters Chapter has met on two different occations to find a resolution to the Pigeon River. This was unsuccessful. We now need to turn out at the Public Meeting for the Pigeon River on June 10 at 7:00PM at the Northland Sportsmen's Club. 

If you care about the future of catch-and-release, flies-only angling in Michigan , we need you and your fishing friends to be in Grayling on Tuesday night, June 8, for an important meeting at the Crawford Au Sable Primary School Cafeteria, 306 Plum Street (in Grayling).

That’s our best chance to show the Michigan Department of Natural Resources how serious we are about protecting the wild fisheries of the rivers we love.

New trout stream regulations proposed by the DNR Fisheries Division fall short of what many anglers told the DNR they wanted.  Five specific problems:

1. UNUSED INVENTORY: By law, the DNR can impose gear restrictions such as “flies-only” and “catch-and-release” fishing on up to 212 miles of river.  The new regs as drafted call for only 160 miles of gear restricted water. So, one-fourth of that gear restricted inventory remains unused. 
2. NO ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FOR THE MANISTEE OR PIGEON RIVERS: The DNR received very strong public comment in favor of additional gear restrictions on both of these rivers. (For the Manistee, the general idea was to extend flies-only fishing above M-72). Both the Manistee and Pigeon meet most, if not all, of the department’s own criteria for gear restrictions. A coldwater committee of angling groups lobbied intensely for additional restrictions on these streams. Still, the DNR says no. It appears that only very strong public pressure (as in high attendance at the June 8 meeting) could convince the DNR to reconsider. 
3. WEAKENED BROOK TROUT REGS:  The brookie size limit will drop from 10 inches to 7 inches on many rivers throughout Michigan .
4. A DEAL’S A DEAL: The Legislature authorized up to 212 miles of gear restricted water in 2002 as part of a compromise that also allowed kids under 12 years of age to harvest trout from the no-kill stretches of the Au Sable and Pere Marquette rivers. Today, kids can kill trout on our best waters but we’re not even close to 212 miles of gear-restricted water. At this point, it’s an unfulfilled promise. 
5. WE’RE WAY BEHIND OTHER STATES: Research is compelling in fisheries across the country… Flies-only, catch-and-release restrictions improve fisheries and also improve local recreational economies.  Under the DNR’s new regs, only 3 stretches totaling 21 miles are catch-and-release, flies only.  Seven peer states – Pennsylvania, Wisconsin , Colorado , Montana , Wyoming , California , and Idaho – have almost 400 combined stretches of catch-and-release angling. We’re not asking for the moon -- even if the Michigan DNR authorized gear restrictions on a full 212 miles, three-quarters of the state’s blue ribbon trout water would still be open to all forms of fishing.

We need a large turnout on June 8 to reinforce our angling culture. The DNR needs to see our strength in numbers. Angling groups have already worked very hard this year to beat back DNR attempts to actually relax the flies-only, no-kill designation on the South Branch of the Au Sable! You can expect some officials in the DNR to continue to attempt to erode our hard-fought fly-fishing protections unless we all keep showing up.

And, we also owe a word of thanks to the DNR for listening to angler comment and improving fishing regulations in several ways, including new gear restrictions from Wakeley to McMasters and in Mio on the Au Sable Mainstream and higher brown trout size limits (up to 18 inches) on portions of the South and North branches of the Au Sable.

So, please have your say before public comment on gear restrictions is closed and new rules go into force for the 2011 fishing season. To read the full draft of 2011 regs, go here… (http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dnr/Review-Michigan-Trout-Streams-for-Gear-Regulations_322301_7.pdf)

The DNR will hold numerous meetings across the state in early June to discuss the trout regulations. The full list of meetings is here… (http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153--237622--,00.html). But, as you’ll see, most of the meetings are in relatively remote locations. The Grayling meeting on June 8 is our best opportunity to present strength in numbers. Again, it’s at 7 p.m., June 8, at the Crawford Au Sable Primary School Cafeteria, 306 Plum Street in Grayling.

Please be there!!! 

Tightlines!

Friday, May 21st, 2010.

As an avid fly fisherman I'm astounded by the amount of time dedicated to things meterological!

 http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=apx&zmx=1&zmy=1&map.x=202&map.y=167

Looking over various updates I'm struck by the theme associated with nearly all of them... What about the weather?

Some relief last week segued into another storyline. The Headwaters Region is dealing with an on-going drought and those conditions are producing some harrowing moments around the Gaylord Moraine. Maybe we'll get rain today? We can only hope so.

Winged carpenter ants are on the move and the jack-pine plains hold plenty of soil fresh for colonization. Sulphurs are the predominate mayfly hatch though yellow and olive stones are numerous in riffles and runs. We're quickly approaching E. Simulans arrival! Evening spinner falls can be a smorgasbord leaving one feeling humbled or exhilerated. Tuesday was terrific while Wednesday I had my fanny handed to me. Last evening I saw more fisherman than rising trout. Today there will be stories and tonight I'll tumble through Deward looking for E. Invaria and the last of any true Hendricksons. More Yellow in the immediate forecast and let's hope for rain...

Tightlines!

Friday, May 14th, 2010.

More like it! 50 degrees prior to the noon hour, skies lifting and winds diminishing after a beautiful rain event... Measured by many as a normal spring rain; this liquid gold makes official the transition from dark to light; welcome May flies, colored yellow. Great afternoons this time of year; especially when cold winds blow causing duns to tumble; trout awaiting them within the bubble-line.

This weekend will provide fantastic evening spinner falls!!

Tightlines!

Saturday Snow, May 8th, 2010.

A peculiar slant for the latest report. Miserable conditions as snow and generally lousy weather invade the region bearing seasonal blessings that are bitter though much needed... Forcing me to grab an extra layer of under-garment before leaving the house near the 45th parallel this morning. It's been some time since the long-johns were really necessary!

Several inches of mositure-laden snow are falling around Gaylord today, eclipsing our entire total received in all of March; and that's a good thing! Even now the sky is lightening as temperatures move into the upper 30's; melting the white stuff as quickly as fresh falling can accululate. The steady drip from the eaves is reminescent of spring rain yet the ground is shaded in white. Might this be the final snow of a sadly misplaced winter season? I predict it's so...

Wednesday evening, making my way home from the Lodge, I spent the remaining light working the tail-out of a well-known pool. My companion was a recent flly-fishing convert known for his ability to pick and strum... www.HeavyBlues.com  The enthusiasm displayed by this Cat reminds me of a hundred others I call "Brother".

Hendricksons and mahoganies spun their magic and several decent trout made hay while we flailed about them; with some success.

The latter part of this week reminded me of pay-back; for all those great early-season trout caught on dries. Easterly breezes, falling barometers and crashing temperatures will help even up the seasonal imbalance. Something that has to happen before moving too early into the next round of mayflies... Those yellow bugs classified as Sulphur...

This cold has me considering anadromous trout... Steelhead for a final time this season somewhere below the Straits? Maybe tomorrow or later this afternoon... A short cast from Lake Michigan? Before the next front allows me to forego and forget those extra layers always packed in the fish car. 

Tightlines!

Thursday, April 29th, 2010.

Has a forecast of sun and clear skies ever been so borish or alarming?? More this week but for last Sunday, when moisture riding Easterly breezes brought showers to the heart of the holy waters... As if on cue! Hundreds joining the Anglers of the Au Sable to celebrate the life of founding President, Rusty Gates. Fish On Gator, Fish On! www.AuSableAnglers.org

Those breezes brought much needed rain and slowed the pace of an extremely early spring season; but only for a couple afternoons. Evening lows plunge and frost has been commonplace despite solid hatches of Hennies, Caddis and Mahogonies. Anything close to 60 degrees and insects spin creating fantastic catching opportunities now three weeks and counting. Later today and all this weekend we'll be flirting with warm and potentially moist conditions; perfect for colder flowing creeks and small rivers not named Au Sable.

Discussions are ongoing as work groups have nominated specific rivers for Special Regulations.  Nearly 100 miles remain available by virtue of the Michigan Legislature and organizations like the Anglers and Headwater TU are out to get their home rivers assigned some of these! www.HeadwatersTU.org

Meanwhile the equestrian lobby is pushing hard for more access in the Pigeon River State Forest though they now have 300 miles of designated riding trails; but they've got the ear of a few key members of the esteemed and afore mentioned legislature; so our work here is really never done!

Comments were completed by Monday's deadline concerning the Environmental Impact Statement for well number 1-8 in South Branch Township. Remember that one? Our thanks to Marvin Roberson and the Mackinaw Chapter of the Sierra Club for their continued diligence in this matter! 

A few photos to add to my journal and a fresh leader to tie to the four-weight later this afternoon... Should make for a decent report when next I settle down on this keyboard. Welcome May...

Tightlines!   

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010.

So we've turned the official corner into another season and we're enjoying the bounty of early Spring... Winter clearly in the rear-view leaving its mark for reasons different than most. December was the coldest this year. Welcome to Opener, 2010!

 Hendricksons and Mahoganies, Black Caddis and Black Stones; trout on the North, South and Au Sable main stream and soon those waters closed since October. Peculiar how quickly time travels, leaving memories and lines sketched in our minds; familiar faces signal another season begun with a hand-shake and smile.  Just more than a decade, passed since my introduction to this place. Immersed in Headwaters...

This weekend encapsulates the best of what's possible here. www.AuSableAnglers.org  

There will be trout and insects, stories and exaggerated truths'. An occasional grumble or curse; those caught and those bigger that got away! No matter the weather, or the hatches, no spinner fall or evening rise. It's on and it's over in a blink of an I...

Tightlines! 

Saturday, April 17th, 2010.

"Careful what you wish for..."  The fickle-nature of meterology in Northern Michigan! We'll encounter all form of atmospheric condition traversing winter and spring. What was sun and summer-like Thursday, is now snow riding bitter north winds. The local forecast suggesting 39 degrees for our high. Rather stark compared with 80, two days ago; gathered on the Au Sable main-stream awaiting the culmination of E. subvaria's work within the holy waters. A minor event; buffeted by winds reminiscent of July; epoch because of companions and their giddy enjoyment of such simple matters. Trout and insects co-mingle beneath dwindling light making for high drama. Little else carries such gravity once the seasons collide. It's On... then Off... Then back to more seasonal as we approach the traditional opener around the Great Lakes State. 

A banquet tonight supersedes time today as 200 guests gather for the 32nd Annual Headwaters TU Banquet near Gaylord. Good stuff for those inclined to support local organizations that make a difference!   www.HeadwatersTU.org

Next Sunday the 25th of April we'll gather shortly before 11:00am to honor Rusty Gates and his life-long contribution to the Au Sable and upper Manistee rivers as the founding President of Anglers of the Au Sable. We'll be finished before noon so get there early!  www.AuSableAnglers.org

April Colors traversing these morains are remarkable. Diminutive shades, red, yellow and a dozen green, highlighted this morning in brazen white... Overhead, Gray on Grey, rushing somewhere, a tuft of snow blows from a neighboring roof line... We're all lookng Up...

Tightlines!

Thursday, April 8th, 2010.

Mmm Mmm, Good!! Like that old jingle were the steaming bowl of soup sits so appealing on the family dinning table; and there's all that activity in the back ground as youth scurries about racing to a seat, refuel, before launching again for another round... It's snowing this morning in the Headwaters Region! Such welcomed relief arrived last Saturday as Hennies hatched in significant numbers before the noon hour over the Au Sable North Branch. Rain arrived too before our float was finished; enhancing the day with a half-inch of liquid-life... A harbinger of more to come throughout the past week; culminating in several inches of sugar snow now forecast and arriving ever-so promptly! Our rivers rising...

Wonderful news for conservation supporters this week as the MDNRE, MITU and Golden Lotus, Inc., agreed on settlement terms including the removal of the dam at Song of the Morning Ranch on the Pigeon River... A link here with layman-language details the course of removal action...

http://headwaterstu.org/SOM-GoldenLotusDamOrder.pdf

So Olives have replaced Stones and four-weights occupy space reserved for sevens or eights... Cold, wet and otherwise glorious conditions the next twenty-four will segue toward 50's and 60's as Saturday rolls toward Sunday, bumping again into Monday, leaving sun and the possibility again of minor falls of flies spun; hearty things that have to go... And the wily trout know why to lie.  What would have happened if the shot from half-court had fallen??

Tightlines...      

Good Friday, 2010.

It's officially scary... Red Flags, Burning Bans, Rain Dances and other assorted adjectives in use to describe just how weird and dry we are. Here's one for consideratin. NO MEASUREABLE PRECIPITATION IN MARCH! No kidding!! Actually just finished speaking with Scott at the NWS-Gaylord location. He informs me of 15/100th's inches of moisture recorded between March 11-13th during foggy weather; the result of atmospheric conditions mixing with what remainded of our ice and snow pack... Leaving this place with the feel of central California or Arizona, not Northern Michigan. More such stuff to ponder if you're inclined.  http://www.crh.noaa.gov/news/display_cmsstory.php?wfo=apx&storyid=50448&source=0

No fooling friends! The thermometer was stuck on 60 this morning at 4:00am and it's done nothing but move up since... So now what? Do a bunch of fishing fools accustomed to freakish snow, cold and howling diablos need to become accustomed to short sleeves and hot pants versus fleece and long-johns? I guess so because water temps have zoomed to a point of no-return; 54 degrees was recorded at numerous outposts within the week. And the bet regarding Hennies by 04/10 has now been settled... Though I'm anything but comfortable with the conditions surrounding us. There's too much fuel on the ground and to many possible sources of ignition as we approach the Easter Holiday Weekend. Sporting natural tans that make George Hamilton envious just isn't we Michiganders' Style... It's creepy crazy and simply not right!

So I won't root against Sparty again this week but I love the notion of Butler University playing in it's hometown while hosting a National Championship! Just like the possibility of rain later this weekend; anything can happen in a game, on a river or in life...

Tightlines! 

Friday, March 26, 2010.

More this week as last week...   http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=apx&zmx=1&zmy=1&map.x=203&map.y=167

Temps nearly zero this morning as cold, dry tumbles into the river valley. A northerly wind again today brings no needed relief from conditions catagorized as critical. Historical discussions and comparisons of '89' are cropping up several times each day from those that remember or where around for the last major burn... But there's an early season bonus that comes with too much sun and too little snow from far-too-mild weather.

Black stones and afternoon water temps that spike dramatically are cause for giddy moments as floating lines and #14 drys now compete with 8-weights and egg patterns... No need to travel hours fighting the flotilia unless chromers and steel make it necessary... All under high skies filled now of bitter-blue.

The first trout landed each year on a dry-fly brings a sense of good. Beauty held in the eyes of one older; far older this year! This shouldn't be the case in late March but something reserved for the days before our general opener... This early gift bequeathed now will require repayment... Nature will call our note due. So I enjoy this uncanny spring despite the lingering knowledge that "all-is-not-right".

Tightlines... 

Friday, March 19, 2010.

We'll welcome the next season later this night. More sun than necessary and so little moisture has fire crews on the ready for what's inevitable. A fine time last weekend in the motored-city participating in the annual expo. But no rain here to speak of... These Ides were barren though portions of the State received nurturing moisture.

The spring run is on along our west coast. Water temps rose here this week as afternoon sun moved the liquid into the mid 40's. Our atmosphere shrieks blue and afternoons topped 60 all week long... We'll have great early season dry fly fishing. Snow forecast for this weekend has now been dismissed and the long-range synopsis looks dire... Heavy clouds but no rain?

Black stones, midges and small early-season olives have casued some resident trout to nudge about. Maybe we'll see E. subvaria before the 10th of April; maybe not... A bet is a bet. And Merit Energy wants no part of the Michigan Supreme Court. More to come...

Tightlines! 

Friday, March 12, 2010.

This morning before any hint of light something stirs around us... Moisture moving south to north on an easterly breeze carries much needed rain... Our annual trek to metro-Detroit and the Midwest Fly Fishing Expo is underway. http://www.midwestflyfishingexpo.com  A weekend-full of stories told with an embellishment or two... We'll talk about what we hope to accomplish this season or should have in others past...

I'll be working the booth on behalf of Anglers of the Au Sable for portions of the weekend as well as that of Homewaters Recreational Real Estate... I hope to see you there!

43 degrees at the 45th parallel this morning with light rain and fog forecast early; followed by a few rising rivers ahead of frosts' loss... While we pay it forward the swamp will be loosed of the dark seasons' grip... The Ides of March are bringing with them another Season in the Headwaters Region.  

Tightlines!

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010.

Somewhere between night and morning, winter and spring, work and play, living and simply surviving... February has come and gone and with it any more trepidation or trembling concerning winter 09-10. A piece-of-cake and a-walk-in-the-park compared to the prior one or those considered normal up here. The shortest month of the year is often blamed for feeling like the longest despite the fact that it produces more sunshine than those preceding it; even at 28 days. It must be the lunar impact on such things?

I'm headed for Lansing in an hour to attend the Coldwater Resources Committee meeting scheduled by the MDNRE Fishery Division; specifically to support arguements for more "gear-restricted" waters. I'll likely post links or commentary of the experience within this report to augment what's been written this morning... But know this... Little black stones have become a common site on several rivers known for their springtime visitors. Anadromous fishes will be nosing into gravel as we welcome a new season to Michigan's blue-ribbon rivers!  In like a lamb...

Tightlines!

Thursday, February 11th, 2010.

Winter has been neither harsh or exasperating; in fact we're running a snowfal deficit of more than 6 feet from this time last year! The sun has shone plenty while nary a night has forced the mercury to plunge into negative, mind-numbing readings associated with these environs... All too pleasant really for the 45th parallel in mid-February.   http://www.crh.noaa.gov/apx/climate/graph/snow/snowgraph.php

A minor thaw in January helped light rain compact the existing snow base and we've waited for fresh system moisture and lake effect for nearly a month. Neither has transpired but areas south and east of the region are pummelled by blizzard conditions rivaling anything recorded in a century... Conditions would be dire if this were June and July and the woods were full of summer users. El Nino` may be adjusting our seasonal norms right now but the jet-stream is  prone to change even as the days-light lengthens. Just 72 days until the general trout season is upon us!

With this in mind a few points of interest that may impact our enjoyment of area trout streams and the wild fish that inhabit them...

1). Regulations and Gear Restrictions Due the MDNRE. Here's a link to Anglers of the Au Sable and this organizations recommendations for the upper Au Sable and Manistee River Systems... www.AuSableAnglers.org  The official comment period ends tomorrow, 02/12/10!

2). Once in Court, always in Court? The Victory won doesn't mean the case is over in Kolke Creek versus Merit Energy of Texas...               http://www.record-eagle.com/local/local_story_042075024.html  Briefs are being prepared to argue before the Michigan Supreme Court to codify the victory and correct the ruling in Nestle Corp. vs. Michigan Citizens For Water Conservation. A complicated matter but necessary for residents of this Water-Wonderland!

3). Asain Crap! a/k/a Carp...  A whirlwind of political manuvering and machinations that leave me wondering; Is It Already Too Late??

http://theroundriver.com/2010/02/10/mr-carp-goes-to-washington/

http://www.michigan.gov/gov/0,1607,7-168-23442-231330--,00.html  and yet another link...

http://michiganmessenger.com/34502/granholm-on-asian-carp-meeting-at-white-house-we-have-a-disagreement

Item #3 could make most of items #1 and #2 rather meaningless if the Crap continues to invade and spread at its current rate!!

Tightlines!

Wednesday, January 13th, 2010.

Some much hoped-for breaking news... Plus temps are rising this afternoon as a fever infects several suspected trout bums known for winter trout and steelhead fishing! Enjoy the following.

Contact:Hugh McDiarmid Jr.: 248-660-4300

Environmental Council: Becky Humphries a smart, sound choice to lead new MDNRE

The Michigan Environmental Council today praised Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s selection of Becky Humphries to lead the new Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Humphries, formerly director of the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), will oversee the agency created by the merger of the DNR and the state Department of Environmental Quality.

“Becky Humphries is a proven leader with a strong commitment to the protection and sound management of the state’s natural resources,” said Chris Kolb, president of the Michigan Environmental Council. “She combines solid executive and managerial experience with a passion for the state’s environmental health and an open-door approach to public input on important conservation issues.”

Humphries was the preferred choice of virtually the entire Michigan environmental and conservation community. That support was based on her track record of accessibility, willingness to take public input from myriad stakeholders, and pragmatic approach to solving problems confronting the state’s natural resources.

Kolb said her challenge will be to effectively operate an agency whose core services have been decimated by budget cuts during the past decade.

“This is a good day for Michiganders who care about our Great Lakes, great cities and great forests and the economic activity and health benefits that they generate,” said Kolb. “But the real challenge is to find stable, secure funding sources to ensure that these ‘Pure Michigan’ resources continue to be the foundation of a strong economy and high quality of life.”###

Friday, New Year's Day, 2010.

With the prior year barely in the rear-view mirror I thought it appropriate to write a report detailing the year that just was... And to wish those of you visiting this site tidings for a healthy 2010! I trust the upcoming days, weeks, months and year treat you kindly and include healthy hatches, ample spinner falls and cooperative wild trout.

The fly-fishing and conservation world had some tremendous victories this year and some truly monumental loses. Amoung them were resolution of the USFS-Savoy Energy plans for mineral exploration near the Fisherman's Chapel under the Au Sable Rivers' South Branch adjacent to the Mason Tract. Another ruling regarding remedial waste from the same industry will be heard by the Michigan Supreme Court based on arguments involving Kolke Creek, the headwaters of the Au Sable Main Stream. Battles that required invlovement of hundreds of conservation-minded individuals supporting area groups financially with capital and professional services. More information is available at www.AusableAnglers.org

Most readers and advocates of the area know that friend and mentor Rusty Gates, died December 19th, 2009. Sadly, another staunch conservation veteran passed quietly while home on the Manistee River last Tuesday evening, December 29th. Mr. Joseph Kutkuhn.  

If you're a fan of the Au Sable's sister river, The Manistee, then you're inbebted to and need to know more of this most regal fellow... An early supporter of the natural river plan for the upper Manistee River and a founder of the Upper Manistee River Association. www.umrasite.org  

Joe, a retired USFWS biologist, saw tremendous potential in this jewels upper watershed... He helped create nirvana left of carnage from over-developed timber and mineral extraction. He was every bit the professional scientist with charm and a pleasant demeanor that disguised his fervant love of the Manistee River. That charm could quickly rise to animus if your intentions were not virtuous toward His river!  Most recently his deft communication skills resulted in needed clean-up of several sands traps within his beloved Deward Tract. As State funding left this necessary activity to the Citizens', Joe took matters into his own hands this summer and the upper River is so much the better for it! The bounty of which we gladly receive...        Thank You, Mr. Kutkuhn! 

Also breaking late in the year was an Executive Order from the office of Michigan's Governor. EO # 45 will combine the DNR and DEQ into the MDNRE! Simply put, this may be good or it may be not. What is most troubling to many is the governor will now appoint the Director of this combined entity instead of the Natural Resources Commission doing so. More consolidation of governmental control versus citizen over-site is how I see it. A political appointment replaces what's worked relatively-well for 60 years...  I'm hopeful that the current DNR Director', Rebecca Humphries, will win the appointment! I've provided a link if you're interested in supporting her appointment.   http://www.michigan.gov/gov/0,1607,7-168-21995-65331--,00.html

About the fishing..? Short sticks and quick trips. Most live vicariously through a lucky few able to hit the sweet spots on area rivers. Pan fish for New Years Eve or early-winter streamer fishing that would shame even Spring... The full-moon will once again wane as we wind our way toward longer days and warmer nights. A high today, nearly 20 degrees; set hours ago; the thermometer now plunging as the annual trek to the North Branch begins full of folly. Students now writing the next chapter in this book of Life. Our mentors work now done, we who survive owe them and others not-yet known, this diligent and delirious exercise, in futility?                     Perhaps...  Happy New Year.

It's Y I Fish... Tightlines!

Sunday Morning, December 20th, 2009.

December both forgiving and cruel... Broken tippet between the first and second fly as a beautiful rainbow called Steelhead boils the bubble-line. Now a mirage and memory of lore; gone but not forgotten. He's why I Fish .

The individual most responsible for my indefensible addiction slipped away last evening. His devotion to this riverine-wonderland has made an indelible mark on many... I can't say any better that which is said in the following link. Farewell Gator, Farewell!

http://theriverspecialist.com/gates/rusty/Fishing%20Report.htm

Tight-lines My Friends!

Look Over My Annual Reports for the prior 7 Years!