Guided Hex Hatch Fishing Trips

Pere Marquette River Hex Hatch Report – Northern Rivers Outfitters

The long-awaited Hex hatch has arrived on the Pere Marquette River, and conditions are setting up well for some exciting nighttime dry fly fishing. Brown Drakes and Isonychia have been providing excellent evening action, while warmer water temperatures and stable weather patterns are pushing us closer to prime Hex season. Reports across northern Michigan indicate the Pere Marquette Hex hatch is expected to begin building over the next week, with peak activity typically occurring during late June on the flies-only section.  Our guide, Leo Cook has had several very successful hex hatch trips already!

For anglers targeting trophy brown trout, now is the time to prepare. Focus on deeper pools, logjams, undercut banks, and slower-moving sections where larger fish stage before dark. The best fishing often begins after sunset and can continue well into the night as trout key on emerging duns and spinner falls. Warm, humid evenings with little wind generally produce the strongest Hex activity.

Current Hex Tips:
Fish large Hex patterns in sizes 4-8.
Keep leaders short and stout (2X-3X) for better control in the dark.
Make reach casts whenever possible to reduce drag.
Stay patient on the hook set—many takes sound bigger than they look.
Target slower water near woody structure where large browns feel secure after dark.

The next two weeks offer some of the most anticipated dry fly fishing of the year on the Pere Marquette. If weather remains stable and water temperatures continue to climb, anglers should begin seeing increasing numbers of Hex adults during evening outings. Now is an excellent time to book a guided trip and experience one of Michigan’s most legendary trout fishing events. Call us today to secure your awaited date for this river phenomenon. 616-295-8373

Tight lines,

Northern Rivers Outfitters
Guided Fly Fishing Trips • Pere Marquette River • Baldwin, Michigan