Salmon fishing for the first time

Since you're just starting out, keep it simple. Grab some firetiger Thunderstick Jr's. and cast into any and all deep water. Use a slow retrieve and make sure to cover a lot of water.

 

I have fished a lot of the rivers in that area but the Betsie is my favorite. I have always fished there with skein and a bobber. This year I am heading there with spinners and hard baits. Been talking to several river salmon fisherman and I too am starting with fire tiger thunder sticks and blue and chrome hot and tots. If you have never been on the Betsie be safe, there are some sharp drop offs. Cover a lot of water and don't believe the guys that say they don't bite once they hit the rivers. Good luck

 

I'd bring several of everything you decide to bring.
Sometimes they're up in the wood (or take you there )

 

Wood... lol

 

What do you guys run for line in the river when casting? I'm going to make a trip up to the Manistee here soon and was thinking of running 20# braid that way I could still run my steelhead sized reel but up the capacity with the thin braid. I plan on getting a lure retriever as well because I'm sure I'll be hung up plenty.

 

I've been running 6/20 Power Pro for years...never had a problem with it. It's a great braid that casts well.

 

Than you sir. Are you running a snap or tying direct? I'm also gonna change out the stock hooks as I know how those beasts are. I've just never river fished them.

 

Like above posts stated there is a lot of wood in many of the holes and along the banks. Landing a powerful fish like a salmon in the narrow Betsie is such a thrill! Good luck - tight lines.

 

Hopefully I will get that same thrill u are referring to in just a few days. Tight lines

 

I tie it direct, snap sometimes just get's in the way, no need to really change out plugs.

 

I use a snap clip, but it doesn't hurt to just tie direct.

 

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