Fly fishing guide and outdoor photographer Daniel Shepler shares his favorite flies for Northern Michigan fly fishing. His recommendations were originally featured in “Fly Fishing: For the Love of Gear” in the May 2016 issue of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine.


From feather, hackle, thread and hook the fly is born. Each one a mini work of art. These six are savvy tricksters.

Slap & Tickle Fly

Slap & Tickle
This fly has exceptional movement in the water that will drive the fish crazy.
$3.50


J.J Special

J.J Special
A classic bugger pattern with a proven track record.
$2.75


Chubby Muffin

Chubby Muffin
An outstanding sculpin imitation, a mainstay of the trout’s diet.
$5.95


Robert's Yellow Drake

Robert’s Yellow Drake
A parachute-style yellow drake that sits well on the water.
$2.25


Isonychia

Isonychia
These flies emerge in small number almost every evening for much of the mayfly season and can be an ideal fly to use for picky trout.
$2.25


Soft Hackle Nymph

Soft Hackle Nymph
More than 80 percent of a fish’s feeding is below the surface. This is a great nymph to solicit a bite.
$2.25


More Northern Michigan Fishing

#2016 #Up_North #Outdoors #Fishing

Photo(s) by Daniel Shepler