Copyright © 2023 Hemlock River Guide Service. All rights reserved.
The Guide
Jeff Joseph - Hemlock River Guide Service LLC
Thank you for taking time to visit my site.
I was born in Wisconsin in 1959. After receiving a degree in
Forest Management and Soils from the University of Wisconsin
Stevens Point I traveled north to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to
embark on what turned out to be a 30 plus year career as a
forester.
From the time I arrived in the Upper Peninsula (U.P) I was
overwhelmed with the boundless opportunities available to
fisherman. From the south shores of Lake Superior and Isle
Royale to the islands of northern Lake Michigan and everything
in between, I have spent most of my free time exploring,
learning and fishing the great waters of the U.P.
I have learned over the years that some of the most productive
and consistent fishing waters in the U.P. are the tributary rivers
that eventually feed the Great Lakes. Well away from the big lakes these rivers are fed by
expansive watersheds. Due to the remoteness of the area, many stretches of these rivers have
undeveloped access and are overlooked by most fishermen.
Relatively small in size (300 to 1500 cfs summer flow) these rivers are heavily impacted by spring
runoff (snowmelt) but stabilize nicely in the summer. I have found that Musky and Smallmouth
Bass thrive in some portions of these rivers. Each river I fish has its own unique characteristics
lending to their ability to produce a quality fishing experience.
As a Michigan Licensed Inland Guide with years of experience I would like to offer you the
opportunity to experience some of the U.P’s finest rivers with me.
For the Fly Fisherman, I offer guided float trips for Musky and Smallmouth Bass.
If you are an experienced fly fisherman and want the ultimate challenge in the north, I’ve got a trip
for you. Casting 8 and 9 wt. rods and large flies for musky is a lot of work but the rewards are
great. I have specialized gear and tackle available to use or bring your own.
Fly fishing from a drift boat for smallmouth is great fun too. Cast to mid-river rocks and
overhanging trees holding hungry smallies. These aggressive fish will take top-water poppers as
well as a stripped streamer.
For The Light Tackle Fisherman, I offer guided Musky and Smallmouth float trips from one of my
specialized boats. Stout rods, big baits and aggressive Musky make a recipe for a day of fun. I
have matched rod and reel combinations specifically set up for these powerful fish.
For the Smallmouth enthusiast, spend the day casting top-water baits to fish holding structure and
experience the thrill of an explosive top-water strike. It’s hard to beat the fun and it’s a great way
to spend a summer or fall day. I will supply quality spinning rods and reels and all the tackle or
bring your own if you like.
Again, I thank you for your interest. As your guide, you can trust I will be professional, work hard
and do everything possible to make your experience with me a memorable one.
Fishing Upper Michigan's Finest Rivers