by Gary Talarico

I am amazed that the fishing and the weather is about as good as it gets and there is hardly anybody up north enjoying this bonanza of outdoor fun. I know most of us are in kind of a holding pattern right now with the war on terror, the sluggish economy along with the late blooming weather. The best part is it's not too late to head north and have an exceptional experience. Get away from the pressures and frustrations of every day life and head north for a great time. There are lots of great deals out there whether you need lodging or a campsite. The fishing is about as good as it get anywhere or anytime. Just check out some of this months pictures and you will see what I mean. Now pay attention because your choices are many.

The northern Lower Peninsula is hot with walleye right now along with bass, pike, salmon and panfish. The Cheboygan River is giving up lots of catfish and smallmouth bass along with a few pike and salmon. Mullett and Black lakes have been giving up good numbers of walleyes trolling hard baits. The creeks and streams have been excellent for brook trout, especially after the recent rain. Don't forget the great one day Salmon tournament on August 2 in Cheboygan. It has become quite an event with over a hundred boats expected this year. Call Brenda at Outdoor Adventure Store for details. Check out the picture of one of last years successful participants. The action out of Lake Charlevoix has been great. The bass have been very hungry with some real monster smallies being boated. Fish in the 4‑6 lb. range are very catchable. There have been huge pike hitting trolled hard baits or suspended big minnows under a bobber. The brown trout have started but not heavy yet, in a week or two it should be fantastic. Give Dave at Boyne River Bait a call for latest conditions and reports.

In the UP the action has been fast and furious. In the Munuscong and Raber Bays area, near Pickford, the walleyes have been very cooperative this season. There also has been some big pike boated along with some huge perch and the occasional muskie. The muskie bite better in the fall so plan a trip to this legendary water now. Dan's Resort is my recommendation for an all‑inclusive place to lay your head and launch the boat. Don't forget to stop by Wilderness Treasures too, along with the best selection of baits and advice in the area, they have a wonderful gift shop so you will come home bearing gifts other than the kind you have to wash or repair! Another super hot spot right now is the Manistique Lakes area around Curtis. The south lake is giving up lots of walleye along with some pike, perch, bass, panfish and the occasional big muskie. The Big lake is red hot with smallies gorging on about everything you throw at them. There’s a lot of great and extremely reasonable lodging available, just check out the Curtis section in this months Fish Finder. When in Curtis, head for JR's Sport Shop for all your bait and tackle needs along with a good dose of advice on where to find those tasty finned treats. Beware, there might be a few "fish stories" mixed in, although most fishermen don't exaggerate, right?! Lets not forget Drummond Island also. The herring have started in Whitney Bay along with the salmon all around the island. There have also been big numbers of smallies hooked around the plentiful rock structures that surround Drummond. If you have never been to Drummond Island you are missing out on a jewel of Michigan.

As you can see, it is a wonderful time to go north and experience what the great outdoors has to offer. Whether it is with some pals or the family, you won't be disappointed. All the folks in the magazine are eagerly awaiting your call so don't delay, the snow will be flying before we know it! And don't forget to get your picture taken and bring it to one of the advertisers in the magazine to  have it placed in the Fish & Game Finder!