MUSKEGON RIVER

The Muskegon River is probably the best known of our state’s southwest walleye rivers — and for good reason, because it has plenty of them! The entire river system is host to good numbers of walleyes, but the stretch from the Croton Dam downstream to Muskegon Lake may be considered as one of the river’s best.

From the late-April opener through the month of May, look for walleyes to hold in one of the many deep holes or runs created by the various bends in the river. The upper stretch from Maple Island upstream to Croton flows more like the trout stream that it is. This fast, fairly shallow water is better worked with anchoring and casting tactics than the traditional drifting walleye techniques.

Productive methods in this section of the river include casting crankbaits and working bait through the holes. The most productive lures are the shad imitators such as the Rapala Shad Rap. These should be quarter-casted upstream above the hole and then worked slowly down through the hole.

Three-way rigs, not unlike the rigs commonly used for drifting spawn for steelhead, are the best bets for working bait through these holes. Adjust the weight on the dropper until the bait bounces along the bottom with the current. Look for crawlers to work best here. These should be threaded onto a No. 2 Aberdeen hook.

The lower river from Maple Island downstream to Muskegon Lake is littered with downed trees and numerous logjams. There are, however, areas where anglers can target walleyes by vertical jigging and other traditional walleye techniques. Some of the better areas include a spot located off the end of Holton Lake Road, the stretch downstream from the access at the end of Milliron Road in Muskegon Township and the North Branch of the Muskegon River from U.S. 31 downstream to Muskegon Lake.

MENOMINEE RIVER

When it comes to river walleyes, most anglers will stick with the southern half of our state when pursuing their fishing passion. And that’s just the way many Upper Peninsula residents want to keep it. You see, the U.P.’s Menominee River boasts a good population of walleyes that many local anglers have been enjoying for years.

Anglers work the Lighthouse Pier and Government Pier at the river’s mouth and the waters about one mile upriver toward the Scott Dam.

Vertical jigging and slipping with the current is a top tactic here when the water is clear. During dirty water conditions, look for crankbaits with rattles to work best.

For lodging information, the Menominee Chamber of Commerce can be reached at (906) 863-2676.