To say that fall in the Eastern Upper Peninsula is a slice of heaven would be an understatement. Consisting of countless miles of shoreline and acres of public land to experience the miracle of nature, Sault Ste. Marie is your destination to take it all in. The area in autumn not only offers glorious fall colors but is prime fishing and hunting time. So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing pole or hunting gear and head to The Soo. Read on for the Ultimate Guide to Hunting and Fishing in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Be Ready to Be Legal!

It goes without saying that before you head out on your epic Up North Michigan hunting and fishing excursion, you must have the correct licenses and understand the laws of the land. Get your license on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website and review state hunting regulations here. Once that is squared away, you’re ready to go!

Hunting

There are over one thousand acres of public land in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area. There’s no such thing as a bad hunting spot in the Upper Peninsula. However, The Soo offers prime whitetail deer, upland game birds, and waterfowl hunting in the fall.  Check out the DNR’s map of public hunting land here. There’s quite a bit of private land that boarder the public land,s so always know where you are and be aware of property lines. To hunt on privately owned land, you must first ask for permission from the landowner before stepping foot on their property.

Fishing

Tahquamenon River

For the ultimate Upper Peninsula experience, fishing the Tahquamenon River is a must. Take the scenic Curley Lewis Highway about 90 minutes west of Sault Ste. Marie to this fishing hot spot. Not only are there breathtaking views of the epic waterfalls, but the musky, walleye and pike are likely cruising the waters around this time of year. Wade into the pools below the falls and try your hand at shore fishing, or you can also launch your boat nearby from the Tahquamenon River mouth boat launch. This fantastic location is yet another spot that caters to anyone who wants to cast a line.

Pendill’s Creek

There’s a secret spot along the Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway that locals hold near and dear to their hearts, Pendill’s Creek. Directly across the street from the Pendill’s Creek National Fish Hatchery, Pendill’s Creek feeds directly into Lake Superior. You know you’re in the right place when you follow the boardwalk that leads you to the sandy beach that overlooks the mighty Superior. To your left will be the nutrient rich creek feeding directly into the water. That my friends, is where you will fish the bounty that is Pendill’s.

Rotary Park

On your next fishing or hunting trip to Sault Ste. Marie, make sure to visit the shores of the St. Marys River. The river provides multiple opportunities for fall fishing. Northern pike and muskies thrive here. One of the most popular places to fish in the Soo is Rotary Park. Even though the air and the water are cooling down, you can still cast a line from shore, or even launch you kayak and fish the waters around Voyageur Island and the small chain of islands nearby. Bring the kiddos and let them fall in love with fishing at the kid’s fishing pond.

Ashmun Bay

You won’t have to go far for some great fall fishing in Sault Ste. Marie. Whether towing your boat or taking a stroll with your fishing pole, Ashmun Bay is the perfect place to cast your reel and is just a two minute car ride or 5 minute walk from the Soo Locks. Follow Portage Avenue east toward the International Bridge and follow the dirt road toward Ashmun Bay Boat Launch. This spot not only has a boat launch, but also has 2 docks, walking trails, and a unique fishing pier on the canal side to sit and cast a line.

Did we forget any impressive fall fishing spots? Where is your favorite place to fish in the Soo? Don’t forget to tag your photographs with #ilovethesoo on your social media so we can share in the fun! For more photos of Fall fishing and beyond follow us on FacebookTwitterInstagram, and Pinterest.