Upper Peninsula Fly Fishing Report – May

Hello and happy May to all our fellow anglers!

Spring has sprung across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and it’s shaping up to be a truly fantastic month for fly fishing. Whether you're chasing chrome or looking for rising trout, or stripping streamers for smallmouth, there’s no shortage of opportunities on the water right now.

Steelhead:
Steelhead season is still in full swing, with fish found in all three stages—pre-spawn, spawning, and post-spawn—spread throughout the rivers. Anglers can choose their preferred approach: indicator nymphing, swinging flies, or stripping streamers. The hot ticket continues to be nymphing with egg patterns and natural imitations like stonefly and caddis nymphs. If you’re looking to swing or strip, a good baitfish pattern like the Covid-19 fly has been producing well.

Trout:
May marks the beginning of our dry fly season, with the Hendrickson hatch kicking things off. Keep an eye out for rising fish during warmer afternoons. Streamerishing is lights-out this time of year if dry fshing isnt on the menu. Patterns like Drunk and Disorderlys (DNDs), Zoo Cougars, and Circus Peanuts are all great choices for targeting larger browns on the move.

Smallmouth Bass:
Don’t overlook our incredible smallmouth bass fishery. As water temps rise, smallmouth are becoming more active and aggressive. Streamer fishing is solid right now, and as conditions warm, expect some explosive topwater action on poppers.

Wherever you find yourself fishing this May, take a moment to appreciate what a special time it is in the UP. Tight lines and enjoy the bounty of spring!