With enthusiasm and optimism, we trekked 250 miles from the comforts of the city to the shores of the Au Sable River. With fishing gear, plenty of whiskey and underwear in tow – we were prepared for days on the river in hopes of pulling out trout, salmon or lingering smallies from Michigan’s holy waters.

We struck out. While we attempted a few different stretches of river, the fish have surely found themselves hunkered down in deep pools on wider expanses of the river. There is no doubt the fish are there, just not where we were or could get to this day. So we highly recommend a fishing guide if you need to scratch that fishing itch in the heart of winter.

But hey, we got two days of fresh, crisp winter air. A beautiful cabin on the shores of the quiet, scenic Au Sable River. The meals served at Mel’s Pine Pantry in Roscommon kept us full and happy, Jack’s Place served Miller High Life cold and we met some new friends at Gate’s Lodge. So while the bounty of fish was not quite there, the places, people and emersion into the pines was worth everything.

MWG cannot recommend enough a winter getaway and the Au Sable is a perfect place to do so. There are many lodging options available through Airbnb or the beautiful Gate’s Lodge. You can get on the water, practice the craft, soak up the solitude and experience the Great Lakes Good Life.

Cheers…