Next AvailableMay 29

Book with Daniel Nealy

Fishing Buddies

5 8 reviews

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Alma MI

Daniel Nealy, Guide at Fishing Buddies

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Join Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies for an unparalleled exploration of Michigan's rivers, where unforgettable experiences await! As your trusted Michigan fishing guide, Captain Dan takes immense pride in providing guests with memories that will linger long after the trip. His extensive experience, positive energy, and unwavering passion for water and fishing create an infectious atmosphere that extends warmly to all.

Embark on your adventure aboard the Hyde Drifter, a comfortable boat designed for two fishermen. As Dan skillfully navigates the river, you can savor the breathtaking sights or indulge in fishing right from the boat using the convenient leg locks. Whether you choose wading or fishing from the boat, the float trip allows you to cover vast stretches of river and increases your chances of encountering a plethora of fish!

For those who prefer a more intimate approach, the Walk and Wade option offers a delightful experience of exploring the river on foot. Dan's love for the water is at its peak when guiding guests through fisherman trails in pursuit of hidden gems and big fish.

While various tackle options are available, Dan's preferred technique is fly fishing gear, providing you with top-notch equipment, including flies tied by the captain himself. With Dan as your willing and patient teacher, you'll discover that there is no wrong technique when it comes to catching fish. Depending on the season, your target species might include the mighty Steelhead, majestic Salmon, captivating Trout, or thrilling Bass, offering you a diverse and exhilarating fishing experience.

To make your trip even more enjoyable, Capt. Dan goes the extra mile by providing grilled lunches (weather permitting), water, and snacks for full-day trips, and snacks and water for half-day trips. Before setting out on your adventure, don't forget to bring your fishing license to ensure a smooth journey.

Join Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies and immerse yourself in a day of pure bliss and relaxation. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, Captain Dan's guiding expertise will elevate your fishing skills and create cherished memories on Michigan's picturesque rivers. So, don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of fishing with Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies!

Upcoming Availability

May 2025

June 2025

Expertise & Attributes

fishing

Bass Fishing

Drift Fishing

Fly Fishing

Good with Families

Good with Kids

Good with New Anglers

I Tie My Own Flies

Nature / Wildlife Views

Technical Fishing

Fishing Techniques

Fly Fishing

What's Included

Transportation

Transportation to and from the trip location.

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Food & Drinks

This guide offers trips with meals and beverages included.

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

What's Included

Transportation

Transportation to and from the trip location.

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Food & Drinks

This guide offers trips with meals and beverages included.

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

Trips Available with Fishing Buddies

Fishing

Starting At $250

4 Hour Trip - PIKE Fishing

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Targeting PIKE, Smallmouth, and Largemouth Bass! It is a shorter trip length and great value to get out on the water and get after some awesome fish when you have a limited window. We'll focus on targeting BIG PIKE (most ranging in the 28 - 35-inch range with some 40+ inchers lurking) with bonus Smallmouth and Largemouth in the mix! 2 fishermen. This trip option is only for the Pine River in Alma. 4-hour trip. The season is from March to December.

2 Days - 2 Different Rivers - 6 hour each

Fishing

Starting At $600

2 Days - 2 Different Rivers - 6 hour each

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: If you can't decide what river you want to fish, why not book 2 trips on 2 different rivers while targeting multiple species? Well, now you can fish both rivers and get a prorated cost! This option is for one trip on the Muskegon River (Summer - Smallies & Trout, Fall - Salmon & Trout) and the other on the Pine River (Pike & Bass) in Alma. Both trips are for 6-hours (longer options if interested) Snacks & Water included Select one date and we'll lock in the 2nd date later. $600 for 1 / $700 for 2

Fishing

Starting At $825

Float and Camp - 2 day & 1 Night

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: If one day of fishing on the Muskegon River isn't enough for you and you want to spend a night camping on the river, staring up at the stars while sitting next to a bonfire, knowing you have more fishing to do in the morning, this is the trip for you! If you have questions about this trip, please reach out! Day 1 - 8-hour float - Lunch and Dinner- Camp set up Day 2 - Breakfast - 4-hour float Food included - tackle included - tents included 2 fisherman max $825 for 1 person / $1,000 for 2 people

Fishing

Starting At $370

Private 7-Hour Bass, Pike, and Trout Fishing

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Spend seven hours on the river fishing for Smallmouth Bass, Pike, Trout, and more! Depending on the season and location, you'll target aggressive fish known for their strong fights. This trip is designed for anglers who want a full day on the water with plenty of action. Choose between spin or fly gear to match your fishing style. Smallmouth Bass fishing runs from mid-May through late October, while Pike fishing on the Pine River starts in late April and continues through November. A grilled lunch is included to keep you fueled for the day. Be sure to bring your fishing license and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Fishing

Starting At $345

Private 6-Hour Salmon and Steelhead River Fishing Trip

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Get ready for an exciting 6-hour float trip targeting Salmon and Steelhead in Michigan’s rivers! Using spin or fly rods, you’ll take on aggressive fish known for their hard fights and nonstop action. This trip offers a great balance of fishing time and value. Snacks and drinks are included, with an option to add a grilled lunch for an additional charge. Steelhead season runs from February to May and October to December, while Salmon season peaks from October to early November. Whether you're chasing trophy fish or just enjoying a day on the water, this trip delivers. Don't forget your fishing license!

Fishing

Starting At $320

Private 6-Hour Bass, Pike, and Trout Fishing

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Spend six hours fishing Michigan’s rivers for Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Pike, Trout, and more! This trip offers an ideal balance of time on the water and value. Use light tackle or choose between spin and fly gear, depending on your target species. The trip price includes one angler, with an option to add a second guest. Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass fishing runs from mid-May through October, while Pike season lasts from early May to November. Enjoy a day of action-packed fishing in a peaceful setting. Be sure to bring your fishing license and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Fishing

Starting At $275

Private 5-Hour Bass, Pike, and Trout Fishing

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Fish Michigan’s rivers for Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Pike, Trout, and more! This trip offers great value and the perfect length to target a variety of species. Use light tackle or choose from spin and fly gear options to match your fishing style. Up to two anglers can join, with water and snacks included. Smallmouth Bass fishing runs from mid-May through late October, while Pike season on the Pine River stretches from early May to November. Whether you're after a trophy catch or just a relaxing day on the water, this trip delivers. Be sure to bring your fishing license and get ready for an unforgettable day!

Fishing

Starting At $370

Private 7-Hour Salmon and Steelhead Fishing

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Experience the thrill of reeling in powerful King Salmon or battling an acrobatic Steelhead on Michigan’s scenic rivers! Spend a full day with the captain targeting these hard-fighting fish using spin or fly gear. Salmon fishing runs from mid-September through late October, while Steelhead season stretches from mid-October to early May. Whether you're after the adrenaline rush of a screaming drag or the challenge of landing a trophy catch, this trip offers an unforgettable experience. Don't forget to bring your fishing license and get ready for an action-packed day on the water!

Fishing

Starting At $295

Private 5-Hour Salmon and Steelhead River Fishing Trip

Fishing Area: Muskegon River

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

My Buddy • 14' Hyde • Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)

Description: Experience the excitement of river fishing for Salmon and Steelhead on this action-packed 5-hour float trip! Using spin or fly rods, you'll target powerful fish that deliver a challenge with every bite. This trip offers a great balance of time on the water and value. Snacks and drinks are included to keep you energized. Salmon fishing runs from mid-September through late October, while Steelhead season stretches from mid-October to early May. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, this trip provides an unforgettable fishing adventure. Don't forget your fishing license!

Vehicle

My Buddy

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

Boat Length:

14 ft

Manufacturer Name:

Hyde

Model Year:

2000

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Nissan

# of Engines:

Horsepower Per Engine:

Maximum Cruising Speed:

14'6 Hyde drift boat. Leg locks for ultimate comfort to stand and cast. Plenty of storage and leg room to feel comfortable while drifting the river.

Boat

My Buddy

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

Boat Length:

14 ft

Vehicle Details

FAQs about Fishing Buddies

What are the trip rates for Fishing Buddies?

What's included in the trip price with Fishing Buddies?

What types of fishing does Fishing Buddies offer?

What fishing techniques does Fishing Buddies offer?

Which fishing species can I catch with Fishing Buddies?

What is the cancellation policy for Fishing Buddies?

Reports and Expert Articles

End of Summer Smallies and Pike

September 5, 2024

I'm sad to summer go, but for me, we enter my favorite time of year! With most people going North to pack rivers to chase King Salmon, I'm loving how quickly the rivers I enjoy become quiet!!! I do river fishing Salmon, but I'm over the crowds and prefer to have miles and miles of river to myself. With the cooler nights, I'm starting to find Pike more spread out throughout the Pine River and on the hunt to prepare for their winter. Classic Mepps #5's have been working the best for me with the majority of fish still caught near structure but have found some out in the open cruising for a meal. As it continues to get cooler, I'm anticipating someone getting a true Michigan Giant this FALL! Smallies and Whopper Ploppers aren't as fire as it was a few weeks ago, but it's still producing. But Smallies remain aggressive as they're starting to prepare for colder days and want to take advantage of an easy meal. October is prime Salmon time for the Muskegon - book with me before I fill up and I anticipate I will soon! Captain Dan

TOO HOT TO HANDLE - Topwater is fire!

August 5, 2024

BLOOP...BLOOP...BLOOP...BLOOP...SMASH! If you love that sound or if you haven't ever experienced it, NOW IS THE TIME! The rivers are running really hot, and the Smallies are fired up and very willing to leave cover for a big top water meal. 30 plus fish days are very possible right now. My favorite about August is it seems the river becomes very quiet as kids start to gear up for school and fall sports and other fisherman are starting to think about Salmon fishing. It's very possible to only see a few if any fisherman on the river. I've had a few chances to get out on the Pine River to "SCOUT" for big angry Pike. The Pike bite has been good, but no GIANTS to report. I look forward to finding some as we begin getting into some cooler nights and mornings here in a few weeks. If you don't like the busy Salmon rivers, getting out for fall Pike fishing can be very relaxing and rewarding!

Finding the Summer Pike and Smallmouth

July 22, 2024

I've had more interest in Pike fishing this summer than ever before. Pike can be finicky fish and totally shut down if it's "TOO NICE" out. However, if you can fish for them during the correct conditions, cool and cloudy, you'll have a really good chance for a special day! I hope I continue to get more interest in Pike fishing. I love pike fishing in the fall; cool weather, colors changing, quiet on the river and BIG Pike roaming around the entire river, looking to feast before winter. Smallmouth fishing on the Muskegon has rebounded after a week slow spell. During a recent trip I had a single client put over 15 Smallies in the boat while using the same Whopper Plopper. While mixing in some Ned'ing and tossing big spin blade's we were finding a mix of medium to large smallmouth. I anticipate the smallmouth fishing to continue to be strong through September. Don't wait to get out, get a hold of me today!

Early Summer Heatwave

June 21, 2024

The last 4 weeks have seen some up and downs. There were some extremely cold nights that lead to some extremely slow mornings, while bundled up in our winter gear. However, the extreme heat and lack of rain warmed the rivers up to mid-summer temps fast. The trout fishing on the Muskegon has been absolutely incredible and trout biting almost anything we tie to our lines. A few clients were fortunate enough to land some special Muskegon River fish. One a beautiful 20-inch brown trout landed on a flashy wollybugger while fly casting for his first time ever! The 30-inch Summer Skam while bass fishing was as an epic battle that I've ever seen and that won't soon be forgotten. While top water hasn't consistency been as productive for me this season, the Ned rig in the river is hard to beat. For a few weeks we were finding some fish in slow water and then maybe some in deep and some right off the bank. They were hard to nail down day to but trudging spots and moving while changing Ned colors paid off most days. But with the river temps rising fast, big deep bends is the ticket. Finding the right weight, for the depth and current is important. But working a deep bend can really pay off with multiple fish. I'm looking forward to more early summer Smallie fishing, while all 3 rivers I'm running right now are producing awesome numbers of Smallmouth and a lot of large fish. This is my favorite time of year, SUMMER SMALLMOUTH!

Smallmouth Fishing is here and it's FIRE

May 26, 2024

SMALLIE FISHING IS FIRE right now. The time is now. TOP WATER action is out of this world. If you know me, river Smallmouth fishing is my favorite Michigan has to offer and right now is my favorite time to fish them. Finding soft water with top water can reward fisherman with monster Smallies trying to blow up your offering. I'm still seeing a few fish on beds, and I think the next 3 weeks will be amazing fishing. Already this season, there have been 6 Smallies over 20 inches to the net and a few lost that I think were in that ballpark. I have fished the Muskegon, the Pine, the Chippewa and the Tittabawassee all in the past week and have great action on all four rivers. You just can't beat slowly floating down the river, enjoying a beautiful Michigan Summer day while casting for these hard fighting river fish. It beats flying up and down the river to sit in one spot for an hour before flying to the next spot. BOOK your trip ASAP before it's too late. Captain Dan

Salmon season is a little behind...

September 27, 2023

Starting to find some Salmon on the Muskegon River but we're about a week behind from where we were last year. Starting to see more Coho each trip as well. I've done several scout trips on the Muskegon River in the past week, and I've seen a handful of Kings each day. The water temperature below Croton continues to stay in the upper 60's, which is slowing the Salmon migration down. We did get a shot of cold rain Tuesday night which will help, but with more warm temperatures coming, who knows when the bigger pods will move in. All I know is that I'll continue to grind it out and work my tail off to get into the Kings that are around and any day now, the salmon will fill in!

GIANT Smallmouth on Top-Water

August 5, 2023

Smallmouth fishing on the Muskegon River continues to stay strong. If you like top-water bass fishing action, now is the time. These bass seem to be locking in on top-water action again like post spawn. Ned Rigs continue to produce, but this week it's been hard for my clients to put down the Whopper Plopper rod, and I can't blame them. Blow up after blow create heart stopping action, heartbreak and intense anticipation! We continue to pick up about one bonus Pike every trip, some on Ned Rigs and some on Whoppers. Trout fishing has been a little slower, but I'm expecting that to change with some rain and slightly cooler weather in the forecast. There is still plenty of time to get out and fish these awesome river fish on the Muskegon River!

Smallies and MORE SMALLIES

July 11, 2023

Smallie fishing on the Muskegon has been FIRE! Smallie fishing on the Muskegon River continues to be great! I've had client's boat multiple fish over 16 inches. Recently a client landed a Smallie that measured at exactly 20 inches and 4 pounds! In the same trip, his BUDDY landed a 17.5 inch largemouth, which is the largest one I've ever seen up that close to Croton Dam. Whopper Plopper is the popular choice of my clients and for great reasons. It's easy to use, it makes a cool sound going through the water, and leads to great anticipation on every cast. The Plopper has been giving us great results, why change it? We've been finding fish a few feet off the banks where it starts to drop and continue to have fish chase the lure down near the boat. It's so much fun to watch! Trout fishing has remained strong in the upper 1.5 miles. Panther Martins in heavier currents and drops is our go to. I haven't had a chance to fish Skams yet but looking forward to trying over the next few weeks. Get a hold of me and let's get after them!

Summer Fishing - Big Smallmouth and plenty of trout

June 24, 2023

The number of smallmouth bass in the Muskegon River is impressive. The Ned rig in deeper holes or slow slack water and Whopper Plopper in shallows continues to produce. The river is low, so fishing cover and shade is key. Go light with your leader! The traffic on the river is in full summer swing. Get out early to beat the crowd and the heat! Get a hold of me to get out fish-float-fun!

A South Michigan Fly Angler with a Passion for River Fishing

December 26, 2022

Fishing Buddies with Captain Daniel Nealy offers top-notch freshwater charter fishing trips in South Michigan’s pristine rivers.

King Salmon, Pike, And Smallies

November 4, 2022

Awesome day on the waters. King Salmon keeps showing up. There are still a ton of kings in the Muskegon River. Plus, here's a Pike and a Smallie we caught during our trip.

Strong number of King Salmon in Muskegon River

October 10, 2022

Over the past 10 days I have seen a strong number of King Salmon in the Muskegon River. There are still fish in every stage of their cycle. I wouldn't be shocked if there is still another solid push of fish yet to come. I also had a client hook into a bright Steelhead that was a little too hot to handle. They are starting to show up. I really look forward to the end of October and early November on the Muskegon River. Most people transition to hunting, and I'm left with a fair number of Kings, Coho and some Steelies!

KINGS and COHO starting to show up on the Muskegon River!

September 29, 2022

KINGS are starting to show up on the Muskegon River. Not in big numbers yet, but if you cover water and try different techniques, your efforts will be rewarded.There are a good number of Coho in the river. The trick is getting those fish to bite right now. We had success with Brite Thundersticks.With the cold nights this week and some bump in water, I expect Kings to start showing up in numbers.

Big numbers in PM Lake

September 13, 2022

It was incredible to see the number of staging Kings in PM lake this weekend. With continued cooler nights and some shot of rain, the upper river should be loaded now! I took a friend of mine to the Fly Water Sunday to enjoy some peach and quite on the river. It didn't disappoint. With very few people on the river and enough fish to keep us busy it was a successful day of hooking fish and not coming close to landing any!

Muskegon Fishing Report

September 5, 2022

We went out this morning and got this 27-pounder Salmon! This could be you!

Ratings & Reviews Summary

out of 5

Based on 8 ratings

recommended

Based on 8 recommendations

May 29, 2025

Great guide with the gear you need to catch fish and a great experience!

May 29, 2025

We had a great time. It was peaceful, had a great lunch, and caught fish.

MichaelSwanson

May 29, 2025

Awesome time best guide ever

May 29, 2025

Dan is an awesome guide. I booked my first trip with him last fall being completely new to fly fishing. I not only learned the basics but he had me pulling in kings in no time. I’ve booked with him 5 or 6 times since and haven’t regretted it a bit. Great guide, great conversation, and awesome fishing.

May 29, 2025