Muskegon River Fishing Report – January 12, 2022 – Newaygo, Michigan

Muskegon River Fishing Report – January 12, 2022 – Newaygo, Michigan

A WHOLE lot of shrimp patterns, waiting to be taken for a “swim” in the salt!

The Muskegon river fishing report for January 12, 2022 in the Newaygo, Michigan area is about the arrival of ‘Ol Man Winter, colder weather and how it affects fishing opportunities over the next few weeks.

As some real arctic weather comes through much of the northern United States, it brings sub zero temperatures in some places and snow throughout much of the Midwest that will make river conditions rapidly approach “winter lockdown” for some rivers.  The Muskegon river will still fish for another week, two…maybe 3 from my perspective, but once river temperatures drop to 32.5-33, it’s a matter of angler trying to trump mother nature and fishes metabolism….is and can be done, but fish can be quite lethargic.  Although we’re seeing a bit of relief as I write this report, colder weather in the days ahead is a given.  Click HERE for current and forecasted weather for west Michigan and the Newaygo area in particular.

After many weeks of above average river levels and river conditions in general that were better than I had seen in recent years, this late in the early winter season, this too has changed.  Now we’re seeing below average flows and the return of VERY clear water.  Click HERE for current Muskegon river water flow data.

All this being said, fish are not yet in that lockdown mode, they do need to feed and can be caught.  Many such winter outings are half day trips, where we focus on the warmest part of the day, for river and angler, and fish most days from around 10/11 am – 2/3 pm.

Lastly, should any be considering a spring steelhead trip, summer trout-dry fly outing or summer trout and/or smallmouth bass/northern pike excursion, best to touch base sooner than later, as prime dates in most of those “seasons” will fill fast….and as always, feel free to call if best – 616-560-3195.

For now…

Jeff