Discover the Best Hunting and Fishing Adventures This Fall!
Are you ready for the ultimate outdoor adventure in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan? Fall is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re an experienced hunter, an avid fisherman, or a nature enthusiast, this guide will provide all the essential information you need for making the most of your 2024 fall hunting and fishing trips.
Be Ready to Be Legal!
Before you head out on your epic Up North Michigan hunting and fishing excursion, it’s important to make sure you have the correct licenses and understand the laws of the land. You can get your license on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website and review state hunting regulations there. Once you’re squared away with the legalities, you’re ready to enjoy everything Sault Ste. Marie has to offer.
Top Fall Hunting Spots in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area boast over 1,000 acres of public land, making it a prime destination for hunters. The Upper Peninsula is known for its diverse wildlife, and there’s no shortage of excellent spots to hunt whitetail deer, upland game birds, and waterfowl in the fall. Here’s where to hunt in and around Sault Ste. Marie:
- Public Land Access: The Soo provides vast tracts of land open to the public. For the best experience, check out the DNR’s public land map to find your hunting grounds. Remember, private land often borders these public areas, so be aware of property lines. Always seek permission before stepping foot on privately owned land.
- Whitetail Deer: The fall season is perfect for whitetail deer hunting in Michigan. The forests around Sault Ste. Marie offer some of the best opportunities in the state, especially during the early season when deer are most active.
Game Birds and Waterfowl: Hunters can also find an abundance of grouse, woodcock, and waterfowl along rivers and marshlands. The proximity to large water bodies like Lake Superior and the St. Marys River makes Sault Ste. Marie an ideal location for waterfowl hunting in particular.
Fall Fishing in Sault Ste. Marie – The Best Spots
Tahquamenon River
For the ultimate Upper Peninsula experience, the Tahquamenon River is a must-visit for fall fishing. About a 90-minute scenic drive west from Sault Ste. Marie along the Curley Lewis Highway, this spot is as breathtaking as it is fruitful for anglers. You’ll find musky, walleye, and pike cruising the waters during the fall season. For the best results, try shore fishing in the pools below the waterfalls, or launch your boat at the Tahquamenon River mouth boat launch. This area offers unforgettable views and a rewarding fishing experience.
Pendill’s Creek
A local secret located along the Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway, Pendill’s Creek is a hidden gem for fall fishing. The creek, which feeds directly into Lake Superior, is an excellent spot for catching salmon and steelhead during the fall run. To find it, head to the Pendill’s Creek National Fish Hatchery, and follow the boardwalk to the sandy beach that overlooks the mighty Lake Superior. To your left, you’ll see the nutrient-rich creek feeding into the lake – that’s where you’ll cast your line for a successful day of fishing.
Rotary Park
The St. Marys River provides excellent fall fishing opportunities for those targeting northern pike and muskie. One of the most popular spots in Sault Ste. Marie is Rotary Park, where you can cast a line from shore or launch a kayak to explore the waters around Voyageur Island. Don’t forget to bring the family along – there’s a kid’s fishing pond that’s perfect for young anglers to get hooked on fishing.
Ashmun Bay
Just a short drive or walk from downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Ashmun Bay is an easily accessible spot for anglers. Located near the International Bridge, follow Portage Avenue east, and turn onto the dirt road that leads to the Ashmun Bay Boat Launch. With two docks, walking trails, and a unique fishing pier along the canal, Ashmun Bay is a prime location for fall fishing. You’ll find perch, pike, and other seasonal catches here.
Top Gear Recommendations for 2024
Whether you’re fishing or hunting, having the right gear is crucial. Here are our top recommendations for 2024:
- For Hunters:
- Waterproof and Insulated Boots: A must-have for those cool fall mornings.
- Portable Hunting Blinds: Make sure you’re well-hidden and comfortable while you wait for your game.
- Scent-Control Clothing: Stay undetected with the latest scent-blocking apparel.
- For Fishermen:
- Thermal Gloves and Boots: Fall mornings can be chilly, so keep warm with high-quality thermal gear.
- Portable Fish Finders: For those who want to fish deeper waters, portable fish finders are a game-changer.
- Jigging Spoons and Crankbaits: Essential for catching walleye and musky in the fall.
