

MICHIGAN SALMON FISHING
TRIPS RUN SEPTEMBER 6th - OCTOBER 6th
From the end of August to early October, King and Coho Salmon migrate from Lake Michigan into many rivers along the west coast of Michigan. Tinger Guide Service specializes in targeting these fish with a fly rod on remote upper stretches of the Betsie River and Little Bear Creek south of Traverse City, Michigan. Private access allows us to float stretches of river inaccessible to other fisherman. This results in beautiful, scenic floats where it is common to see more bald eagles than other fisherman. Throw in large numbers of fish and you have the recipe for a great day on the water!
Both stretches of river are cleared of large debris early in the season to ensure safe travel downstream. However, they are kept overgrown to promote healthy trout habitat as well as deter other boaters from floating it. For these reasons the boat may have to be pushed over a sandbar, under a log, or through brush... but that just adds to the experience!
We target these Salmon early in the run when they are fresh, aggressive, and staged up in large holes. Bottom bouncing techniques work best when run with egg flies, wooly buggers, or egg sucking leeches. Certain days will allow us to strip streamers for these fish as well.
Spinning gear can be provided to cast thundersticks or float skein under a bobber if anglers wish. Double check with your guide to ensure that this is an option.
A hot lunch is served stream-side on all full day trips. Please inform your guide of any food allergies or requests.
Now offering an all-inclusive salmon fishing package; food, lodging, and fishing all in one! Come enjoy a tasty continental breakfast, hot streamside lunch and 5 star dinner with us. The lodge is tucked away on a dirt road and nestled along the banks of the Betsie River. You are likely to see salmon as they swim by- and feel free to fish for them! CLICK HERE FOR LODGING DETAILS.
PRICING
* A third seat can be added for an additional 150$, but must be cleared by the guide first.
**Lodging check-in 5pm the evening before your trip and check-out 9am the morning after.
MICHIGAN STEELHEAD FISHING
TRIPS RUN NOVEMBER - APRIL
From November to May large numbers of Steelhead migrate from Lake Michigan into a number of rivers along the west coast of Michigan. After spawning in the late spring these fish return to the big lake and repeat the process for 8-10 years. These chrome fish are very aggressive as they have to maintain their bodyweight, and are usually plenty willing to crush an egg fly or spawn sack!
Tinger Guide Service targets these magnificent fish in the Betsie River and Little Bear Creek with both fly and spinning techniques. Once spring hits and the weather starts to warm we find fish in deep holes, on gravel, and in runs. Customers have success fly fishing with both nymphs and streamers, while spin fisherman use spawn bags and spinners. The weather can be variable this time of year but the exhilaration of landing a beautiful Steelhead makes it worth the effort!
A hot lunch is served streamside on full day trips. Please inform your guide of any food allergies or requests.
PRICING
* A third seat can be added for an additional 150$, but must be cleared by the guide first
GEAR LIST:







All-Species
Fishing License
Polarized
Sunglasses
Appropriate clothing (raincoat, extra layers, ect.)
Camera
Waders
(Optional)
Cooler
(Optional)
20% Gratuity
Appreciated
MICHIGAN LODGING
BETSIE BLISS LODGE
The Betsie Bliss Cottage located on the banks of the Betsie River & surrounded by nature.
All Species
Fishing License
ABOUT YOUR GUIDE
ALEX ERMATINGER

Alex grew up fishing in Northern Michigan for Salmon and Steelhead, which sparked his lifelong passion for fishing and being in the outdoors.
Alex attended Northern Michigan University and received his BS in Environmental Science and Biology. After working in Chemical Engineering and then Pharmaceutical Research, he realized that his true calling was to be a fishing guide. In 2017, he decided to make a career switch and moved to the Western Slope of Colorado, guiding his first year with the Smith Fork Ranch before moving to the Gunnison River to guide for Gunnison River Expeditions. To book a fishing trip with Gunnison River Expeditions visit: GunnisonRiverExpeditions.com
In the late fall Alex spends his time guiding big-game hunts with Heartland Pride Outfitters. HPO is a first-class hunting outfitter that specializes in Whitetail, Mule Deer, Elk, Antelope, Merriams and Rio Turkey hunts. To book a hunt visit: HeartlandPrideOutfitters.com
Alex returns to Michigan each September to chase salmon on remote stretches of Northern Michigan rivers, guiding on the same rivers that he grew up fishing.
CONTACT
Please give us a call to discuss and schedule your next trip!
We look forward to hearing from you.
Call:
269.303.1339
Email:

Scott H.
Alex did an amazing job helping us learn and was abundantly patient with my son. Alex got my son hooked up with a 20+pounder and they successfully landed it. We caught several fish and taught us plenty. You can’t go wrong with Alex as your guide!!! Gracious, patient, considerate, well-equipped, always smiling, and very knowledgeable.
TESTIMONIALS

Linda K.
Our all day trip included an extremely skilled and knowledgeable guide Alex along with his companion dog, appropriate equipment and a wonderful shore lunch. Alex thought about everything and it was easy enough to learn fly fishing and enjoy the day. It was the most perfect of days with just the right amount of action and relaxation… and I even caught my first King Salmon!

Lindsey H.
This was my first fishing experience, Alex was very patient and taught well while keeping everything really fun! The lunch was so perfectly prepared while I was able to keep fishing, they day was absolutely worth it! I went home with a 30lb salmon and cant wait to book again next year!

Norah M.
The greatest catch of a lifetime (besides my husband) a 31 lb fresh male King Salmon. The day included a scenic river float, scrumptious meal on the bank, and relaxing until bam! Fish on!! and the chaos of the fight begins!! Alex is extremely knowledgeable of the area and fishing in general, and just an all-around great guy. It won’t be the one that got away with Alex there for sure! We have success every trip out with Alex. Looking forward to going again!

Kyle W.
We had an absolute blast. Alex knows where the fish are and is amazing at teaching you how to catch them. I had never fly fished before jumping in the boat and wasn’t even sure id be able to do it. I’ve been on 20+ salmon trips and that was the best trip I’ve ever had.

Andrew W.
Alex and Tinger Guide Service is our go to for Salmon fishing, never had any issues and we have used them multiple times. Professional and all around great experience."