Ready to hit the water for some top-notch fishing? Grab your rod and join Matt Brejcha, your go-to guide in Stanwood, Michigan, for a half-day adventure that'll have you hooked. Whether you're after the elusive brown trout or looking to tangle with winter steelhead, this 4-hour afternoon trip is the perfect escape for anglers of all levels. You'll be cruising in style on Matt's custom 18/60 jet boat or drift boat, both kitted out with onboard heat to keep you comfy even when the mercury drops. It's the ideal setup for two fishin' buddies, with room for a third if you want to make it a family affair. So come on down and let's make some waves!
Picture this: you're gliding along Michigan's pristine rivers, surrounded by lush scenery, with the gentle hum of the boat and the occasional splash of a jumping fish. Matt's got you covered with all the top-shelf gear you need, so no worries if you're traveling light. This trip is all about giving you a relaxed vibe where you can hone your skills, swap fishing tales, and most importantly, reel in some beauties. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, Matt's patient guidance and local know-how will have you casting like a pro in no time. And let's not forget the rush when you feel that first tug on the line – it's what keeps us coming back for more!
On this trip, we're not just fishing – we're crafting an experience. Matt's got a few tricks up his sleeve, mixing up techniques to match the day's conditions and the fish's mood. You might find yourself drifting flies, tossing spinners, or even trying some good old-fashioned bait fishing. The rivers around Stanwood offer a smorgasbord of fishing spots, from deep pools where the big ones lurk to riffles that are perfect for some cast-and-retrieve action. And don't worry about the weather – that onboard heater means you can focus on the fish, not your frozen fingers. Matt's always reading the water, looking for those tell-tale signs that spell F-I-S-H, so you're in for a productive day no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
"Matt did an awesome job finding us some great fish. He is knowledgeable and knows how to show his clients a fabulous time. If you are looking to catch some fish ad have a great time then Matt is the guide you want." - Greg
"Wow what an amazing experience and time my dad brother and I had with Matt fishing for steelhead, he's the man to get a hold of if your wanting to have an unforgettable time and land lots of gorgeous fish, highly recommend! Thanks Matt!" - Jackson
Smallmouth Bass: These feisty fighters are a summer favorite in Michigan's rivers. Known for their acrobatic leaps and hard-pulling runs, smallies will test your skills and your gear. They love to hang out near structure, so we'll be targeting rocky areas and submerged logs. The best part? They're aggressive feeders, which means lots of action and some heart-pounding topwater strikes if conditions are right.
Steelhead Trout: The chrome-bright missiles of the river, steelhead are the winter prize many anglers dream about. These sea-run rainbows return to the rivers full of fight, often putting on spectacular aerial displays as they try to throw the hook. We'll be drifting eggs or swinging flies through likely holding water, looking for that telltale flash of silver. Landing a steelhead is a true accomplishment, and the memories of the battle will last a lifetime.
Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, these bruisers migrate up the rivers in the fall, providing an incredible opportunity for anglers. Chinooks can top 30 pounds, turning your relaxing fishing trip into an all-out tug-of-war. We'll be targeting them as they stage in deeper holes, using a mix of hardware and bait presentations. The sheer power of a hooked Chinook is something every angler should experience at least once.
Brown Trout: The crafty residents of Michigan's rivers, brown trout are known for their selectivity and cunning. These spotted beauties prefer cooler water and are often most active during low light conditions. We'll be using finesse techniques, presenting flies or lures that mimic their natural prey. The thrill of outsmarting a big brown is hard to beat, and the vivid colors of a freshly caught brown trout are a sight to behold.
Muskellunge: The "fish of 10,000 casts" is a top predator in these waters, and while they're not as common as other species, the chance at a muskie adds an element of excitement to any trip. These toothy critters can grow to impressive sizes and are known for their explosive strikes. We'll be throwing big lures and working structure thoroughly, always ready for that heart-stopping moment when a muskie follows or strikes. Landing a muskie is a true trophy experience.
Alright, folks, let's recap what we've got here: a killer afternoon on Michigan's finest rivers, guided by a local expert who knows these waters like the back of his hand. You're in for some serious fish action, whether you're chasing browns, battling steelhead, or hoping for a chance at that elusive muskie. Matt's got the boat, the gear, and the know-how to put you on fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. This isn't just a fishing trip – it's your ticket to creating some epic memories and maybe even landing the catch of a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Give Matt a shout, lock in your date, and get ready for an afternoon of pure fishing magic. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're holding up that monster fish for the camera. Let's make it happen!
May 18, 2025
Wow what an amazing experience and time my dad brother and I had with Matt fishing for steelhead, he’s the man to get a hold of if your wanting to have an unforgettable time and land lots of gorgeous fish, highly recommend! Thanks Matt!
May 23, 2025
Brown trout are wary, challenging fish that reward patient anglers. They average 1-5 pounds but can reach 20+ pounds in some waters. Look for them in undercut banks, deep pools, and near submerged logs. Browns are most active in low light, especially at dusk. They're prized for their selectivity and fighting ability - hooking a big one is a real accomplishment. Their pale pink flesh is delicious too. Fly fishing with nymphs or streamers is popular, but browns will hit lures and live bait as well. My local tip: Try night fishing with mouse patterns in summer. Big browns often hunt aggressively after dark, and the surface takes are unforgettable.
Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the largest Pacific salmon species. Adults typically range from 10-50 pounds, with some topping 100 pounds. They prefer cold, deep water but move into rivers to spawn. Fall is prime time as they stage near river mouths before running upstream. Chinooks are legendary for their strength and stamina - expect long, powerful runs that'll test your gear and skills. Their rich, orange flesh is prized for its flavor. Trolling with flashers and cut-plug herring is a reliable method. My local tip: Fish the early morning "bite window" as kings often feed aggressively at first light. Keep your drag set light and be ready to chase these bulldogs downstream when they run.
Muskies are the apex predators of freshwater, growing up to 50+ pounds. These toothy giants lurk in weedy bays, along deep weedlines, and near underwater points. Fall is prime time as they feed heavily before winter. Muskies are the ultimate trophy fish - landing one takes skill, patience, and often hundreds of casts. The adrenaline rush when a big one follows your lure is unmatched. They're not great eating, so most anglers practice catch and release. Casting or trolling large lures is the way to go. My local tip: Don't give up if you see a follow. Muskies often track lures without striking, so try a figure-8 at the boat to trigger last-second hits.
Smallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that'll give you a run for your money. Typically 2-4 pounds, these bronze beauties love rocky areas and underwater structure. You'll find them in clear, cool rivers and lakes, often hanging near drop-offs or submerged logs. They're most active in warmer months, especially early morning and evening. Smallies are prized for their acrobatic leaps and hard-pulling fights - pound for pound, they're one of the toughest fish out there. Their firm, white meat is delicious too. To land one, try working a tube jig or crawdad imitation slowly along the bottom. My local tip: On calm days, try topwater lures like poppers near shoreline cover. The surface strikes are explosive and a blast to watch.
Steelhead are ocean-going rainbow trout that return to rivers to spawn. They average 5-10 pounds but can reach 20+ pounds. Look for them in deep pools, near logjams, and along current seams. Fall and winter are prime seasons as they migrate upstream. Steelhead are prized for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps - hooking one is like tying into a freight train. Their pink flesh is excellent eating too. Drift fishing with spawn sacs or swinging flies are go-to techniques. My local tip: Focus on tail-outs of pools during low light conditions. That's when big fish often move into shallower water to feed. Be ready for heart-stopping strikes and blistering runs when you hook up.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 115
Matt did an awesome job finding us some great fish. He is knowledgeable and knows how to show his clients a fabulous time. If you are looking to catch some fish ad have a great time then Matt is the guide you want.