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Rising Water Keeps Fishermen Off the Muskegon River

Posted at 12:13 PM, Apr 14, 2014
and last updated 2014-04-15 11:46:24-04

crotonCROTON TWP, Mich. (April 14, 2014) — The Croton Dam is a hotspot for many fishermen and women, but some fishing guide services say the water levels are rising too high and too fast, therefore not making it safe to go out on the water.

“The water looks pretty dangerous right now,” said Bob Mansel, owner of Green Caddis Guide Service.

Water levels on the Muskegon River at the Croton Dam continued to climb throughout the day, Monday, and Mansel did not feel safe to take clients out.

“I guess my clients might have to turn around and go back to Atlanta.”

It’s frustrating for guide services, fishermen and women who hoped to take advantage of peak steelhead season happening right now. In fact, West Michigan’s crop draws people from all over the country.

“The steelhead run in Michigan is one of the best places to go fishing within driving distance of the Chicago Metro area,” said Jason Jacoby.

Jacoby is in from Chicago and his fiancé is in town from Germany. They booked their fishing trip through Betts Guide Service.

With Monday as their only day to fish, they had to make a tough decision.

“We’re not going to go out,” said Jacoby. “”We’re not going to risk our well-being and our future together for a day of fishing on the water.”

The rising water is nothing new for this area of the Muskegon River. The issue is not knowing when and how much it will.

“It’s very frustrating when people travel a long ways to come fish,” said Chad Betts, owner of Betts Guide Service in Newaygo county.

But the couple insists they will be back next year.

If your trip is affected by the high water on the Muskegon River, checkyour companies cancellation and refund policy.