The ports of Grand Haven, Muskegon, and Whitehall/Montague are now under single-pointed hook regulations from Nov. 1 – Nov. 30 (see pp. 30- 31 of the 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations). Plus, on these same waters, it is unlawful to spear or possess spearing gear from Nov. 1 – Nov. 30 (see pp. 16-17 of the 2025 Michigan Fishing Regulations).
Due to our seasonal creel clerks finishing up for the season, the Weekly Fishing Report will be suspended following next week’s report. Early next year, when ice fishing picks up and we begin to receive more reports, the Weekly Fishing Report will resume. In the interim, we recommend calling your local bait shop for information on current fishing conditions.
All anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have a fishing license.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
Muskegon: Anglers found a mix of steelhead and chinook salmon in 40 to 100 feet of water. Orange spoons worked best from the surface down to 80 feet.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Manistee: A few steelhead were caught off the piers and beach while using spawn, but fishing was very slow over the weekend. Boat anglers trolling for chinook salmon and steelhead did well from outside the pier heads to over 300 feet of water. Anglers fished all depths in the water column, primarily using spoons, though flasher-fly combos and plugs had also been effective.
Ludington: The piers were slow but steelhead were reported while using spawn. There was no boat activity to report.
Fishing tip: Bigger fish, bigger meals
Fall is prime time for targeting bigger fish that are feeding heavily before winter. Try using larger baits or lures than you would in summer—fish are looking for a bigger meal. Focus near drop-offs, river mouths, and areas with current breaks where baitfish gather. A little patience pays off this time of year—slow, steady presentations often produce the best results.
