Muskegon River - Croton - Michigan
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Muskegon River – Croton - Water Flow Chart
Muskegon River – Croton - Weather report & radar
Muskegon River – Croton - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges | Early afternoon | 20-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Midge Pupa |
| February | Midges | Early afternoon | 20-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Midge Pupa |
| March | Blue Winged Olives | Midday | 18-20 | Rusty Spinner, Blue-winged Olive |
| April | Blue Winged Olives, Caddisflies | Midday, Evening | 16-20, 14-18 | Rusty Spinner, Caddis Pupa |
| May | Sulphurs, Caddisflies | Midday, Evening | 14-18 | Sulphur Dun, Elk Hair Caddis |
| June | Drake, Light Cahills | Evening | 10-12, 14-16 | Green Drake Dry Fly, Light Cahill |
| July | Terrestrials, Trico Mayflies | Morning, Afternoon | 18-22, 20-24 | Ant Patterns, Trico Spinner |
| August | Terrestrials, Trico Mayflies | Morning, Afternoon | 18-22, 20-24 | Hopper Patterns, Trico Spinner |
| September | Blue Winged Olives | Midday | 18-20 | Blue-winged Olive, Rusty Spinner |
| October | Blue Winged Olives | Midday | 18-20 | Blue-winged Olive, Rusty Spinner |
| November | Midges | Early afternoon | 20-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Midge Pupa |
| December | Midges | Early afternoon | 20-24 | Griffith’s Gnat, Midge Pupa |
Muskegon River – Croton Access Points
The Muskegon River in Croton offers stellar access points for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are the most popular ones:
- Croton Dam: Start your excursion at the very top, where the river flows out of the dam. An ideal location for salmon and steelhead.
- Pine Street Access Point: This public launch site positions you in a terrific spot for fly fishing and is located a few miles downriver from Croton Dam.
- Henning County Park: With plenty of shoreline access, this park is handy for both wade and bank fishing. It encompasses a vast area, providing ample spots to cast your line.
- Richards Park: Situated below Newaygo, this location promises a peaceful setting for some excellent fishing opportunities.
- Bridgeton Township Launch: Public boat launch that offers fantastic access to downstream sections of the river.
Use caution when accessing the water, as levels and flows can change quickly, affecting fishing conditions and safety.
Muskegon River – Croton Fishing Spots
The Muskegon River – Croton is a stunning location full of excellent spots for fly fishing. Beginners and pros alike will enjoy what this picturesque river has to offer. Below are the best spots for fly fishing:
- Thornapple River: A tributary of the Muskegon that is known for its brown trout.
- Newaygo State Park: Offers excellent access to the river beside plenty of other outdoor activities.
- Doug Harbaugh’s Fly Fishing Tours: If you’re unfamiliar with the area, these tours will guide you to the river’s prime fishing spots.
- Croton Township Campground: With its close proximity to the Muskegon River, this location is perfect for fishing enthusiasts who plan to stay overnight.
- Henning Park: The large area of water adjacent to the park isn’t just for boating – it’s a hotspot for trout and salmon.
Remember, the beauty of fishing on the Muskegon River – Croton isn’t just about the catch, but also the nature around you.
Muskegon River – Croton Local Fish Species
- Chinook Salmon: These fish are primarily targeted during their fall spawning run.
- Coho Salmon: Fly fishermen aim for this species during the annual spring and fall runs.
- Steelhead: These trout are prevalent throughout the year, with peaks in spring and fall.
- Brown Trout: These fish are available year-round and are a particularly popular target during the summer months.
- Rainbow Trout: These trout provide great sport for fly fisherman in the warmer months.
- Smallmouth Bass: Available from late spring through early fall, these fish provide a challenging fight.
- Pike: These large, aggressive fish are targeted for their fight and size. They are most commonly targeted in the cooler months.
- Walleye: While not a traditional fly rod species in many places, the Muskegon River has a substantial walleye fishery and they can be targeted throughout the year.
About the Muskegon River – Croton
Flowing elegantly for 232 miles across Michigan, the Muskegon River boasts a historical journey as versatile as its landscape. Known for its picturesque beauty, this river has been a vibrant life source since ancient times when Native American tribes, like the Ojibwe and Potawatomi, thrived on its bounty.
- In the 1880s, lumbering brought prosperity to the region marking a significant period in its history. Ever resilient, the river recovered and is now a sanctuary for diverse plants and wildlife.
- Croton, a quaint village on the Muskegon River’s bank, juggles both historical charm and modern allure. Once home to a bustling dam providing power, it’s now favored by campers, fishers, and adventure seekers!
Today, the Muskegon River – Croton area continues to evolve, balancing conservation goals with the desires of residents and visitors. It’s more than a river; it’s a testament to nature, history, and community combined.
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