Michigan's fishing lodges lure devoted DAC anglers
Michigan’s fishing lodges lure devoted DAC anglers BY RACHELLE DAMICO
Michigan is home to some of the best freshwater fishing in the world, and summer is a great time to pack up and take a vacation to some the best fishing resorts the state has to offer. Whether one wants to stay at a luxurious lodge, a comfortable bed and breakfast or a cabin with renowned guides and on-site fishing shops, there are a number of top Michigan resorts offering something for everyone. Many of the lodges come highly recommended by DAC Rod and Gun Club members. One such lodge offering members great fishing and luxurious cabins is Barothy Lodge, where one can fish steps away from a cabin. Located on the Pere Marquette River, bounties of Steelhead, Brown and Rainbow Trout and salmon are waiting in the river. DAC member John Conway, who frequents the lodge with other Rod and Gun Club members, said that Barothy is his favorite fishing resort. “It’s a beautiful place to stay,” said Conway, an investment advisor. “The river is fantastic, and they accommodate all of your needs.” There are 15 private lodges to choose from, from romantic onebedroom log cabins to substantial 9-bedroom lodges. Each lodge includes a fullyfunction kitchen, washer and dryer, fireplace, deck and 38
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
barbeque. Among the most lavish of lodges is the Whitetail Lodge, which includes a hot tub, sauna, pool table and a deck overlooking the river. Local guide services can be booked through the resort. The lodge is family-friendly and includes many other onsite activities such as a fishing pond, a swimming pool, a playground and hiking trails along the Manistee National Forest. Enjoy a gourmet meal, learn from renowned guides and discuss the day over the fire at Gray Drake Lodge. This upscale bed-and-breakfast is right on the Muskegon River, known for its abundance of steelhead, Pacific salmon and brown trout. The three-story cedar lodge surrounds a scenic woodland setting, which can be viewed off of the spacious deck. Knowledgeable tour guides are experts on the river and can help whether one is a novice or a fishing expert. Owner Matt Supinski has fished all over the world and authored several fishing guides. “Matt is a renowned expert,” said DAC and Gun and Rod Club member Bradley Mikolajczyk, who joined the DAC in 2010. “It truly is a unique experience.” Gourmet meals are provided, including a chefprepared dinner. Relax with a massage after a long day of fishing, or enjoy the Jacuzzi. Share stories at the fire pit The Barothy Lodge on the Pere Marquette River.
The Muskegon River Lodge.
at night and retire to a variety of comfortable rooms upstairs. It’s newly constructed neighboring lodge, Trout and Eagle Lodge, is also a great option to stay for a more private setting. Stainless steel appliances, a spacious kitchen and dining area, a flat screen TV and a relaxing jetted tub are some of the amenities to look forward to. Both lodges offer amenities such as catering, manicures and pedicures and grocery shopping services on request. Fish where Thomas Edison, John Rockefeller and Henry Ford once spent their summer vacations. The historic Fuller’s North Branch Outing Club opened in 1916 by entrepreneur Thomas Douglas. Douglas opened the club as a base for first class accommodations and access to sporting pursuits for such skills as
fly fishing. Today the club holds itself to those same ideals, it’s a full-service fishing lodge and bed-and-breakfast owned and operated by the Fuller family. The Fullers restored the lodge in 1996, keeping everything as original as possible, from the glass windows to the light fixtures. Twelve unique guest rooms, a cozy lounge, spacious sitting rooms and a gigantic wrap around porch offer a historic retreat. One can even stay
in the suite where Thomas Douglas and his wife Martha once occupied, which includes a private bath and screened-in porch. The club sits on the Au Sable River, Michigan’s most famous trout stream. Fishing guides help visitors become acquainted with the river and teach or offer tips on fly fishing. Among the club’s most knowledgeable guides is Todd Fuller, who operates the guide services and fly shop. Stock up at the historic fly shop for fishing accessories, gear and gifts. Enjoy the privacy of a sizeable log cabin with wrap-around decks, a spacious walkout, and scenic views of the Muskegon River. The Muskegon River Lodge is situated on 12.5-acre property on the river, where one can catch Pacific Salmon, steelhead and Brown and Rainbow trout. Walk out
discover the beauty and charm of this
Michigan treasure There’s a very special something about our collection of lakeside communities that creates memories you’ll share for years to come. 800.845.2828 Vacation Packages Petoskey
BCV 3660 DAC News General Travel Ad.indd 1
u
Harbor Springs
u
Bay Harbor
u
Boyne City
4/21/14 3:15 PM
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
39
Your Single-Source Provider Outsourced Human Resource Experts:
to the deck and fish along the river, or guide services can take one out on the river and offer tips on fly fishing. DAC and Rod and Gun Club member Matt Rost enjoys staying at the Muskegon River Lodge. “It’s a phenomenal place to stay,” said Rost, a member for 15 years. “The river is always fishable and you can fish through steelhead throughout the year.” Enjoy a meal in the spacious kitchen, or indulge in a gourmet chefprepared meal. Relax in the hot tub or cedar sauna, lounge by the fireplace or play poker in the game room. Hit the Pere Marquette River with educated guides or stock up at the Orvis fly shop at the highly touted Pere Marquette River Lodge. The lodge offers a variety of guides that can teach ow to catch the river’s steelhead, Brown and Rainbow Trout and salmon. Several guides are trained to teach both children and adults, as the lodge offers seasonal fishing schools and lessons. “It’s a nice place and it’s a big hub for fly fisherman,” said Chip Lemmen, who has been a DAC member and Rod a Gun Club member for four years. The main lodge features a great room with a stone fireplace and mounted game, as well as a dining hall with a full kitchen for gatherings.
PEO - Professional Employer Organization Employee Benefits Payroll + Tax Administration Commercial Insurance Health Care Reform Labor Law Compliance Staffing: Contract/Direct/Temp Workplace Safety Consultants 401(k) + FSA DAC Members: Mike Bulgarelli & Joe Saccucci
P: 248.671.1400 | CoStaffServices.com 40
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
The Gray Drake Lodge.
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Whitetail Lodge at Barothy.
A grill and campfire are also onsite, where guests can share stories of their catch. Rooms feature amenities like whirlpool tubs, cable television and mini refrigerators where you can store your bait. Also available are a series of cabins or a pair of houses near the river. Located in the hub of a fly fishermen’s paradise, Gates Au Sable Lodge is situated on the banks of the Au Sable River’s “Holy Water,” an internationally known stretch famed for its fly hatches and quality trout fishing. Erected in 1940, this historic lodge was originally a tavern and dance hall establishment. The lodge is now family owned and operated, offering a series of motel-style cabins. The Brown Trout Suite features two bedrooms and living area with a stone fireplace. A restaurant features home cooked meals. A fly shop is conveniently located above the lodge, where experienced staff members can help one stock up on tackles and accessories. Guides include full-time fly fishing experts who know the Au Sable River inside and out. For smaller parties looking for a conveniently located lodge and fly shop, the Old Au Sable Lodge offers guides that pride themselves on their knowledge of the river. “The guides really know their stuff on both the AuSable and Manistee
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To learn more about AOG products and services, scan the QR code below
Contact Harry Brookes 248.549.0150 x1180 [email protected]
making your marketing work
Scan the QR Code with your QR Code software on your smart phone (if you don’t have the software yet, you can download it for free!).
4303 NORMANDY CT. ROYAL OAK, MI 48073 TEL 248.549.0150 FA X 248.549.5270 W W W.ARBOROAKL AND.COM
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
41
Pere Marquette River Lodge.
Rivers,” added Mikolajczk, who also stays at the Old Au Sable Lodge. “It’s convenient to have a fly shop below and you’re on the Au Sable but you’re also a short drive to the Manistee.” The lodge accommodates up to six people and includes a deck overlooking the river, an entry room for stowing gear, a full bath and a living area with a flat screen TV and a kitchenette. Grill a meal on the grounds or relax at the fire pit by the river. Located near the Baldwin River, which boasts a large population of brown JAC101710DACad.pdf trout, Baldwin Creek Lodge 4:54 1 10/20/10
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DAC NEWS MAY 2014
specializes in guided fishing trips for steelhead, Brown and Rainbow trout and King and Coho Salmon. The trip provides all of the fishing necessities – including tackles, rods, flies and steels. Guides are prepared to help novice fishers or the most excelled anglers. The lodge offers 13 motel-like cabins that offer wireless internet and cable television, several of which offer views of the Baldwin River. The grounds include picnic tables, grills, fire pits and fish cleaning station. There are also other great options for fishing vacations this summer. Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highland resorts offer private fly fishing lessons and guided fishing trips, and amenities like stocked fishing ponds and complimentary fishing poles. PM Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa
also offers fishing lessons and guided fishing trips for both novices and experienced anglers. One can fish off the boardwalk at the Lake House on Cass Lake LLC, which provides access to Walleye, Smallmouth bass, Largemouth bass and other desirable fish. Riviera Resort on Houghton Lake is home to fish like Walleye, Bluegill and Perch. The Lighthouse Inn, located near the Black River in Port Huron, is home to fish such as Walleye, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass and catfish. Members at Hunter’s Creek Club, a premier sporting club, can enjoy fishing tournaments on the 60-acre lake full of fish such as bass, pike and bluegill. Members can rent boats and enjoy access to the Flint River nearby. Fishing seminars for both children and adults are also available.
Michigan is home to some of the best freshwater fishing in the world, and summer is a great time to pack up and take a vacation to some the best fishing resorts the state has to offer. Whether one wants to stay at a luxurious lodge, a comfortable bed and breakfast or a cabin with renowned guides and on-site fishing shops, there are a number of top Michigan resorts offering something for everyone. Many of the lodges come highly recommended by DAC Rod and Gun Club members. One such lodge offering members great fishing and luxurious cabins is Barothy Lodge, where one can fish steps away from a cabin. Located on the Pere Marquette River, bounties of Steelhead, Brown and Rainbow Trout and salmon are waiting in the river. DAC member John Conway, who frequents the lodge with other Rod and Gun Club members, said that Barothy is his favorite fishing resort. “It’s a beautiful place to stay,” said Conway, an investment advisor. “The river is fantastic, and they accommodate all of your needs.” There are 15 private lodges to choose from, from romantic onebedroom log cabins to substantial 9-bedroom lodges. Each lodge includes a fullyfunction kitchen, washer and dryer, fireplace, deck and 38
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
barbeque. Among the most lavish of lodges is the Whitetail Lodge, which includes a hot tub, sauna, pool table and a deck overlooking the river. Local guide services can be booked through the resort. The lodge is family-friendly and includes many other onsite activities such as a fishing pond, a swimming pool, a playground and hiking trails along the Manistee National Forest. Enjoy a gourmet meal, learn from renowned guides and discuss the day over the fire at Gray Drake Lodge. This upscale bed-and-breakfast is right on the Muskegon River, known for its abundance of steelhead, Pacific salmon and brown trout. The three-story cedar lodge surrounds a scenic woodland setting, which can be viewed off of the spacious deck. Knowledgeable tour guides are experts on the river and can help whether one is a novice or a fishing expert. Owner Matt Supinski has fished all over the world and authored several fishing guides. “Matt is a renowned expert,” said DAC and Gun and Rod Club member Bradley Mikolajczyk, who joined the DAC in 2010. “It truly is a unique experience.” Gourmet meals are provided, including a chefprepared dinner. Relax with a massage after a long day of fishing, or enjoy the Jacuzzi. Share stories at the fire pit The Barothy Lodge on the Pere Marquette River.
The Muskegon River Lodge.
at night and retire to a variety of comfortable rooms upstairs. It’s newly constructed neighboring lodge, Trout and Eagle Lodge, is also a great option to stay for a more private setting. Stainless steel appliances, a spacious kitchen and dining area, a flat screen TV and a relaxing jetted tub are some of the amenities to look forward to. Both lodges offer amenities such as catering, manicures and pedicures and grocery shopping services on request. Fish where Thomas Edison, John Rockefeller and Henry Ford once spent their summer vacations. The historic Fuller’s North Branch Outing Club opened in 1916 by entrepreneur Thomas Douglas. Douglas opened the club as a base for first class accommodations and access to sporting pursuits for such skills as
fly fishing. Today the club holds itself to those same ideals, it’s a full-service fishing lodge and bed-and-breakfast owned and operated by the Fuller family. The Fullers restored the lodge in 1996, keeping everything as original as possible, from the glass windows to the light fixtures. Twelve unique guest rooms, a cozy lounge, spacious sitting rooms and a gigantic wrap around porch offer a historic retreat. One can even stay
in the suite where Thomas Douglas and his wife Martha once occupied, which includes a private bath and screened-in porch. The club sits on the Au Sable River, Michigan’s most famous trout stream. Fishing guides help visitors become acquainted with the river and teach or offer tips on fly fishing. Among the club’s most knowledgeable guides is Todd Fuller, who operates the guide services and fly shop. Stock up at the historic fly shop for fishing accessories, gear and gifts. Enjoy the privacy of a sizeable log cabin with wrap-around decks, a spacious walkout, and scenic views of the Muskegon River. The Muskegon River Lodge is situated on 12.5-acre property on the river, where one can catch Pacific Salmon, steelhead and Brown and Rainbow trout. Walk out
discover the beauty and charm of this
Michigan treasure There’s a very special something about our collection of lakeside communities that creates memories you’ll share for years to come. 800.845.2828 Vacation Packages Petoskey
BCV 3660 DAC News General Travel Ad.indd 1
u
Harbor Springs
u
Bay Harbor
u
Boyne City
4/21/14 3:15 PM
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
39
Your Single-Source Provider Outsourced Human Resource Experts:
to the deck and fish along the river, or guide services can take one out on the river and offer tips on fly fishing. DAC and Rod and Gun Club member Matt Rost enjoys staying at the Muskegon River Lodge. “It’s a phenomenal place to stay,” said Rost, a member for 15 years. “The river is always fishable and you can fish through steelhead throughout the year.” Enjoy a meal in the spacious kitchen, or indulge in a gourmet chefprepared meal. Relax in the hot tub or cedar sauna, lounge by the fireplace or play poker in the game room. Hit the Pere Marquette River with educated guides or stock up at the Orvis fly shop at the highly touted Pere Marquette River Lodge. The lodge offers a variety of guides that can teach ow to catch the river’s steelhead, Brown and Rainbow Trout and salmon. Several guides are trained to teach both children and adults, as the lodge offers seasonal fishing schools and lessons. “It’s a nice place and it’s a big hub for fly fisherman,” said Chip Lemmen, who has been a DAC member and Rod a Gun Club member for four years. The main lodge features a great room with a stone fireplace and mounted game, as well as a dining hall with a full kitchen for gatherings.
PEO - Professional Employer Organization Employee Benefits Payroll + Tax Administration Commercial Insurance Health Care Reform Labor Law Compliance Staffing: Contract/Direct/Temp Workplace Safety Consultants 401(k) + FSA DAC Members: Mike Bulgarelli & Joe Saccucci
P: 248.671.1400 | CoStaffServices.com 40
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
The Gray Drake Lodge.
Č
Ħ
Whitetail Lodge at Barothy.
A grill and campfire are also onsite, where guests can share stories of their catch. Rooms feature amenities like whirlpool tubs, cable television and mini refrigerators where you can store your bait. Also available are a series of cabins or a pair of houses near the river. Located in the hub of a fly fishermen’s paradise, Gates Au Sable Lodge is situated on the banks of the Au Sable River’s “Holy Water,” an internationally known stretch famed for its fly hatches and quality trout fishing. Erected in 1940, this historic lodge was originally a tavern and dance hall establishment. The lodge is now family owned and operated, offering a series of motel-style cabins. The Brown Trout Suite features two bedrooms and living area with a stone fireplace. A restaurant features home cooked meals. A fly shop is conveniently located above the lodge, where experienced staff members can help one stock up on tackles and accessories. Guides include full-time fly fishing experts who know the Au Sable River inside and out. For smaller parties looking for a conveniently located lodge and fly shop, the Old Au Sable Lodge offers guides that pride themselves on their knowledge of the river. “The guides really know their stuff on both the AuSable and Manistee
ĦĦ
ĩ Ĉĩ ć ĩ ťţťĩŪŪŨĩŨũũŢĩ
ļ ļ
ťţťĩŪŪŨĩŨũũŢļĩĩ
visualize Visual Visualize ize communication DIGITAL MED ILLM LAY G M ITEM
To learn more about AOG products and services, scan the QR code below
Contact Harry Brookes 248.549.0150 x1180 [email protected]
making your marketing work
Scan the QR Code with your QR Code software on your smart phone (if you don’t have the software yet, you can download it for free!).
4303 NORMANDY CT. ROYAL OAK, MI 48073 TEL 248.549.0150 FA X 248.549.5270 W W W.ARBOROAKL AND.COM
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
41
Pere Marquette River Lodge.
Rivers,” added Mikolajczk, who also stays at the Old Au Sable Lodge. “It’s convenient to have a fly shop below and you’re on the Au Sable but you’re also a short drive to the Manistee.” The lodge accommodates up to six people and includes a deck overlooking the river, an entry room for stowing gear, a full bath and a living area with a flat screen TV and a kitchenette. Grill a meal on the grounds or relax at the fire pit by the river. Located near the Baldwin River, which boasts a large population of brown JAC101710DACad.pdf trout, Baldwin Creek Lodge 4:54 1 10/20/10
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
42
DAC NEWS MAY 2014
specializes in guided fishing trips for steelhead, Brown and Rainbow trout and King and Coho Salmon. The trip provides all of the fishing necessities – including tackles, rods, flies and steels. Guides are prepared to help novice fishers or the most excelled anglers. The lodge offers 13 motel-like cabins that offer wireless internet and cable television, several of which offer views of the Baldwin River. The grounds include picnic tables, grills, fire pits and fish cleaning station. There are also other great options for fishing vacations this summer. Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highland resorts offer private fly fishing lessons and guided fishing trips, and amenities like stocked fishing ponds and complimentary fishing poles. PM Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa
also offers fishing lessons and guided fishing trips for both novices and experienced anglers. One can fish off the boardwalk at the Lake House on Cass Lake LLC, which provides access to Walleye, Smallmouth bass, Largemouth bass and other desirable fish. Riviera Resort on Houghton Lake is home to fish like Walleye, Bluegill and Perch. The Lighthouse Inn, located near the Black River in Port Huron, is home to fish such as Walleye, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass and catfish. Members at Hunter’s Creek Club, a premier sporting club, can enjoy fishing tournaments on the 60-acre lake full of fish such as bass, pike and bluegill. Members can rent boats and enjoy access to the Flint River nearby. Fishing seminars for both children and adults are also available.
