Fly Fishing Lessons on Michigan's Best Waters
Private Trip
Shore Fishing
Professional fly fishing instruction for all skill levelsShorebased lessons on scenic Michigan riversOneonone personalized coaching experience
There's something magical about watching your first fly line roll out across the water, and Michigan's rivers provide the perfect classroom for learning this timeless art. Whether you've never held a fly rod or you're looking to polish your technique, our one-on-one lessons put you right where the fish are biting. We've been guiding folks through their first casts and first catches for years, and honestly, there's nothing better than seeing that lightbulb moment when everything clicks. Michigan's diverse river systems give us brown trout, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout to target, so you'll get hands-on experience with different species and their unique behaviors.
Your lesson starts with just you and your guide – no crowds, no pressure, just focused instruction tailored to your skill level. We'll meet at one of our top-rated spots along Michigan's river network, where the water conditions are perfect for learning and the fish are cooperative. The beauty of a private lesson is that we can spend as much time as needed on the basics, whether that's your casting form, reading the water, or understanding how trout feed. Michigan's rivers offer incredible variety – from deep pools where big browns lurk to rocky runs where smallmouth bass ambush prey. You'll learn to read these different water types and adjust your approach accordingly. The natural setting here is world-class, with clear water that lets you actually see fish react to your flies, making it easier to understand what's working and what isn't.
We'll start with the fundamentals of fly casting, breaking down the motion into manageable parts so you're not overwhelmed. The key is timing, not power, and Michigan's rivers give us plenty of space to practice different casting angles and distances. You'll learn the basic overhead cast first, then progress to more advanced techniques like roll casts and mends – essential skills for fishing moving water. We provide all the gear you need, from properly balanced rod and reel combos to a selection of flies that work best on our local waters. Part of your lesson includes understanding fly selection – when to use a dry fly versus a nymph, how to match the hatch, and why presentation matters more than having the "perfect" fly. Michigan's insect hatches are legendary, and we'll teach you to recognize what the fish are feeding on and how to imitate it effectively.
Brown trout are the crown jewel of Michigan's river systems, and for good reason. These fish are smart, selective, and put up a fight that'll test everything you've learned. Browns typically hold in deeper pools and undercut banks during the day, becoming more active in low-light conditions. They can reach impressive sizes in our waters – we're talking fish that'll make your drag sing. What makes them so exciting to target is their wariness; landing a good brown trout means you've truly mastered the fundamentals of fly presentation and stealth.
Smallmouth bass bring a completely different energy to your fly fishing experience. These bronze fighters are aggressive, acrobatic, and absolutely explode when they hit your fly. Michigan's rivers are perfect smallmouth habitat, with the rocky structure and current breaks these fish love. They're most active during warmer months and will chase streamers, poppers, and even large nymphs. The best part about smallies is their willingness to eat – they're less picky than trout, making them perfect confidence builders for new fly anglers.
Rainbow trout are the athletes of the trout world, known for their spectacular jumps and powerful runs. In Michigan's rivers, they tend to hold in faster water than browns, often feeding actively in riffles and runs. Rainbows are typically more aggressive than browns but still require good technique and presentation. They're especially fun on lighter tackle, and their silver flanks and pink stripe make them beautiful fish to photograph before release. Spring and fall are prime times for rainbows, when they're most active and feeding heavily.
Learning to fly fish opens up a whole new world of angling opportunities, and Michigan's rivers are the perfect place to start that journey. Our personalized approach means you'll progress faster and build confidence quicker than trying to figure it out on your own. Plus, you'll leave with insider knowledge about our local waters, fly patterns that work, and techniques that'll serve you well wherever your fishing adventures take you. The memories you'll make and skills you'll gain are worth every minute. Don't wait – Michigan's fishing seasons are prime right now, and there's no better time to get started. Book your lesson today and discover why fly fishing has captured the hearts of anglers for generations.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the wariest fish in Michigan rivers, typically running 12-18 inches with some reaching over 20. They love cold, clear water and hang out in deep pools, undercut banks, and around fallen logs during the day. Fall is prime time when they feed aggressively before spawning, especially in low light. These fish are smart - they've seen every fly pattern and will test your skills. What makes them special is their incredible fight and how they'll jump when hooked. They taste great too with firm, flaky meat. Here's a local trick: during mayfly hatches, cast your dry fly upstream of rising fish and let it drift naturally. No drag on the line or they'll spook instantly.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are perfect for learning fly fishing - they're aggressive and willing to take both dry flies and nymphs. Most run 10-16 inches in our rivers, with their signature pink stripe making them easy to identify. Look for them in faster water, riffles, and below pools where they feed on drifting insects. Spring through fall offers great fishing, especially during evening hatches when they rise freely. These fish are acrobatic fighters that'll jump and run, making every hookup exciting. They're also tasty with delicate pink flesh. Rainbows are more forgiving than browns, so they're great for beginners. Local tip: during caddis hatches in late spring, try an elk hair caddis drifted through the bubble lines - they'll hammer it.
Micropterus DolomieuSmallmouth bass are absolute fighters that'll give you a workout on light tackle. These bronze-backed beauties average 12-15 inches in our rivers, with bigger ones hiding in the deeper holes. You'll find them around rocky structure, fallen trees, and current breaks where they ambush crayfish and minnows. Spring and fall are your best bets when they're active in shallower water. Summer pushes them deeper during the day. What guests love most is their scrappy attitude - they'll jump, run, and fight like fish twice their size. Plus they're excellent eating with firm white meat. My go-to tip: use a weighted woolly bugger in olive or brown and strip it slowly along the bottom near rocky areas. They can't resist it.
Baldwin, MI