Water Temp
61°F
Clarity
Slightly stained
Weather
Warm, sunny breaks
Water Level
Normal
The Kalamazoo from Plainwell down through Allegan is in prime shape. Flows have settled, water has dropped to mid-60s, and the smallmouth have moved up onto the rocky stretches.
Wade or kayak — both are working. The float trip from the Plainwell access to the next take-out has been hot. Best fish have been on top in the slick water behind the bigger rocks. Walk the bait through the seam slowly.
On overcast mornings the topwater bite holds all day. On bluebird afternoons switch to a tube or a small jig and target the eddies. The fish are aggressive but they are not chasing anything in fast water — they want it slow and steady through the slack.
Several 18-inch class fish reported. A couple of legitimate 4 lb river smallies released. Cleanup of the river continues to pay dividends — this fishery gets better every year.
Sample content — replace before publishing.