Kings | Top Michigan Fishing Video Production Company
The Wild Blue Films headed out into the wild unknown to seek adventure in northern Michigan in pursuit of giant king salmon. Michigan in the fall is a feast for the senses. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning vibrant hues of gold and crimson, and the rivers glisten gold and silver.
But the real show is happening beneath the surface of the Platte and Betsie Rivers. Thousands of salmon, driven by instinct, are returning to their birthplace to spawn. It's a natural spectacle that draws anglers from all over. This year's trip was particularly special. It was about more than just catching fish, it was about connecting with nature's rhythm, testing our skills against these powerful beasts, and experiencing the raw beauty of Benzie County.
The journey to salmon camp is half the adventure. We chose a route less ordinary, opting for the S.S. Badger car ferry across Lake Michigan. This historic vessel adds a touch of nostalgia to the trip. We anxiously await our destination as we cruise towards Ludington, the Michigan gateway to our fishing adventure.
The S.S. Badger is a journey back in time. This coal-fired steamship has been ferrying passengers and vehicles across Lake Michigan for decades. It's a unique experience, unlike any other mode of transportation. The four-hour voyage is a relaxing interlude. It allows us to soak in the vastness of the lake and anticipate the angling adventures that await. The gentle rocking of the ship was hypnotic and the warm sun on the deck made us realize these days are limited.
As we approached Ludington, the excitement was real and robust. The sight of land after hours on the great Lake Michigan is always welcome. It signals the start of the adventure. The drive from Ludington to our basecamp, Winding River Campground, is short and scenic. It winds through charming towns and past glimpses of the rivers we longed to fish.
Winding River Campground is nestled right on the banks of the Betsie River and it ground zero for targeting chinook salmon. We are camped right on the river. We choose kayaks to target the kings for their maneuverability and stealth. They allow us to access the shallow riffles and deeper pools where the salmon congregate. Our preferred method for targeting king salmon is fly-fishing. It’s more hands-on, kind of like driving a stick shift vs. an automatic.
There's something uniquely satisfying about presenting a well-tied fly to these powerful fish. The tug on the line when a king strikes is electrifying, sends jolts throughout your body. They say the tug is the drug. It's a battle of wills that tests both angler and fish. The challenge is part of the allure.
King salmon are known for their strength and acrobatic displays sometimes leaping over five feet out of the water like an Olympic pole vaulter. Landing one is a true accomplishment. It's a testament to patience, skill, and a little bit of luck. But we are gluttons for punishment and will trade an arthritic arm for the memories. Soon we will have a campfire, throw on the local 80’s rock station, pour a whiskey and eat good.
Timing is everything when it comes to salmon fishing. The king salmon run typically peaks in mid-September to early October. This year, we hit it just right. Other years we have been too early or too late. The water was alive with these massive fish. We landed several impressive kings, their greenish-silver glow gleaming in the autumn sun. The annual salmon run is a testament to the interconnectedness of nature. It's a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these precious resources for generations to come.
The coho salmon run, however, proved more elusive. Coho, also known as silvers, typically arrive around the same time as the kings. Unfortunately, their major run seemed to have already taken place but there were still a number of them around. The unpredictable nature of fish migration is a reminder that we are but visitors in their world. Despite the coho run, we weren't disappointed. The success we had with the king salmon was worth the trip.
While here, be sure to check out Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Its towering dunes and pristine beaches are breathtaking. A drive along highway M-22 is a scenic treat. This iconic route hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape.
As our trip drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we shared, the adventure around every bend in the river, the cool nights, and the warm bon-fires to liven our souls.
We were thankful for the opportunity to witness the salmon run, truly an amazing sight. The hospitality of Winding River Campground, with its friendly staff and prime location, enhanced our trip. We're already looking forward to our next fishing adventure in northern Michigan. The spring steelhead run will be calling soon, and we will be there to answer.
As we head into the winter months, we are anticipating another adventure as well…winter steelheading. If you think the best time to fish for steelhead is in the spring or fall, you might want to think again. Winter is actually one of the best times for steelhead fishing in Michigan. The cold months of December, January, February, and early March are prime time for steelhead because good numbers of trout and steelhead load up in the rivers during these months, making them a bit easier to target and catch.
What’s also very nice is angling pressure is minimal during winter so you’ll usually have the river all to yourself. The steelhead are also more predictable during the winter. They tend to hold in deeper pools and slower runs where the water is a bit warmer. Egg patterns, nymphs, and small jigs work wonders in the winter months. Winter steelhead fishing in Michigan is not only doable, but it’s also some of the best fishing you’ll experience all year.
