The Muskegon river near Newaygo, MI is flowing near average for this time of winter, as a result of the recent rains, snowmelt and related runoff into most all rivers of west Michigan.
Fishing for both trout and steelhead has been fair-good for "winter" conditions. It seems like some days the bite is very good, but not the next and sometimes that's just the way it goes during the colder, winter months.
Fish are there to be caught though and for the patient & persistent angler, it's simply a matter of putting in the time.
Top flies have been simple egg flies in soft pastel colors & combinations, as well as drab, downsized nymphs such as hare's ear, PT's, tan and black stones, hex's and midge larva.
The streamer bite has been very hit or miss, with water temps rather cold, fish aren't as likely to chase down streamers consistently.
Water temps are in the low to mid 30's.
A traditional tailwater fishery, the Muskegon is a true "big river". It spans more than 100 yards at its widest points and flows over 200 miles south and west from northern lower Michigan, into the port town of Muskegon on the lake Michigan shoreline. This rich river system is home to numerous insects & hatches and host to resident rainbow and brown trout. The Muskegon river also receives migratory runs of fall salmon and spring steelhead that provide outstanding big game action for the fly fisher. Most all fly fishing techniques are employed on the mighty Muskegon, from dry fly to indicator nymphing, streamers and bottom bounce nymphing for migratory big game.
