Daniel Nealy

Join Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies for an unparalleled exploration of Michigan's rivers, where unforgettable experiences await! As your trusted Michigan fishing guide, Captain Dan takes immense pride in providing guests with memories that will linger long after the trip. His extensive experience, positive energy, and unwavering passion for water and fishing create an infectious atmosphere that extends warmly to all. Embark on your adventure aboard the Hyde Drifter, a comfortable boat designed for two fishermen. As Dan skillfully navigates the river, you can savor the breathtaking sights or indulge in fishing right from the boat using the convenient leg locks. Whether you choose wading or fishing from the boat, the float trip allows you to cover vast stretches of river and increases your chances of encountering a plethora of fish! For those who prefer a more intimate approach, the Walk and Wade option offers a delightful experience of exploring the river on foot. Dan's love for the water is at its peak when guiding guests through fisherman trails in pursuit of hidden gems and big fish. While various tackle options are available, Dan's preferred technique is fly fishing gear, providing you with top-notch equipment, including flies tied by the captain himself. With Dan as your willing and patient teacher, you'll discover that there is no wrong technique when it comes to catching fish. Depending on the season, your target species might include the mighty Steelhead, majestic Salmon, captivating Trout, or thrilling Bass, offering you a diverse and exhilarating fishing experience. To make your trip even more enjoyable, Capt. Dan goes the extra mile by providing grilled lunches (weather permitting), water, and snacks for full-day trips, and snacks and water for half-day trips. Before setting out on your adventure, don't forget to bring your fishing license to ensure a smooth journey. Join Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies and immerse yourself in a day of pure bliss and relaxation. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, Captain Dan's guiding expertise will elevate your fishing skills and create cherished memories on Michigan's picturesque rivers. So, don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of fishing with Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies!

EPSG:4269

Some Fly Water FUN with MY FISHING BUDDIES!
#salmon #salmonfishing #flyfishing #peremarquette

River Days with the Crew

Great WEEKEND so far on the river, and I still have Sunday to GO!
#salmon #muskegonriver #pike #largemouthbass #guidedfishing #fishingmichigan

Exciting fishing trip in MI with 3 fish caught

Strong Weekend on the River

What an AMAZING MUSKEGON RIVER 2025 SALMON SEASON IT WAS! There were many unforgettable memories made, a lot of laughs, a lot of heartbreak, and a ton of thrilling salmon battles. THANK YOU to all my clients who supported me this season. 
I'll be sharing many more pictures and videos soon!  
Steelhead, Trout, Smallie, and Pike are still going strong if you want to get out before winter hits us!

A group of 7 people fishing for 5 rainbow trout in Alma

Muskegon River 2025 Salmon Season Recap

Thanks to returning Fishing Buddies Declan and Jenna for fishing with me several days this season. We had a blast every time!

Grateful Season with Declan & Jenna

New Fishing Buddies Corey and Nate put a beat down on the Muskegon River Smallmouth. No Giants, just a lot of feisty Smallies, too many to count. Smallmouth fishing is FIRE right now. Let's FISH!

Nonstop Muskegon River Smallmouth Action with Corey & Nate!

I needed to do a Pike "SCOUT" trip with Fishing Buddy Rick... WE FOUND THEM! FYI... those are all different fish!!! Let's FISH!
#pike   #fishingmichigan   #fishingfacebook   
#fishingmichiganrivers   #tforods   #pfluegerreels   #zmanfishing  #fishing   #fishingtrips   #fishingguide   #pikefishing 

Pike Fishing Scout Trip Success on the Muskegon River!

These monsters will be coming to the Muskegon River in October. It will be a fast and furious few weeks, and I'll be booked up soon. Don't miss out on your chance to battle these beasts. Contact me to book a trip before it's too late!

3 rainbow trout caught while fishing in Alma

October on the Muskegon River Brings Big Salmon – Book Your Spot Now!

New Fishing Buddy Matt came all the way from Bloomington to experience the HARD FIGHTING Muskegon River Smallmouth. There is still plenty of time to get out for Smallies on the Muskegon! 
#fishingmichiganrivers #fishingmichigan #fishing #smallmouthbassfishing #smallies #smallmouthbassnation #tforods #pfluegerreels #zman

Three people fishing on the banks of Alma river

Hard-Fighting Muskegon River Smallmouth Action with New Fishing Buddy Matt!

Join Dan Nealy’s Fishing Buddies for guided river trips this September! Whether you're chasing your first pike or your personal best smallmouth, this is your chance to fish hard, laugh loud, and enjoy every cast!
✅ What’s biting: • Smallmouth Bass — explosive topwater strikes & aggressive runs • Northern Pike — fast, toothy, and ready to crush your gear
✅ What you’ll get: • Expert guidance from Dan Nealy • Honest gear tips, tackle setups, and fishing reports • Dog-approved company * Maybe some delicious snacks or a grilled lunch
📍 Where: The Pine River & The Muskegon River 📅 When: All September long 🎟️ Spots are limited — BOOK NOW!
C: 517-937-9408

September Guided Trips on the Pine & Muskegon Rivers – Target Pike & Smallmouth!

SMALLMOUTH FISHING IS AWESOME RIGHT NOW ON THE MUSKEGON RIVER - DO NOT HESITATE ON GETTING ON THE RIVER WITH ME!
#muskegonriver #fishingmichigan #fishingaddict #smallies #smallmouth #smallmouthfishing #GuidedTrips

Hot Muskegon River Smallmouth Bite – Book Your Trip Today!

Northern Pike

End of Summer Smallies and Pike

Smallmouth Bass

I'm sad to summer go, but for me, we enter my favorite time of year! With most people going North to pack rivers to chase King Salmon, I'm loving how quickly the rivers I enjoy become quiet!!! I do river fishing Salmon, but I'm over the crowds and prefer to have miles and miles of river to myself. 

With the cooler nights, I'm starting to find Pike more spread out throughout the Pine River and on the hunt to prepare for their winter. Classic Mepps #5's have been working the best for me with the majority of fish still caught near structure but have found some out in the open cruising for a meal. As it continues to get cooler, I'm anticipating someone getting a true Michigan Giant this FALL!

Smallies and Whopper Ploppers aren't as fire as it was a few weeks ago, but it's still producing. But Smallies remain aggressive as they're starting to prepare for colder days and want to take advantage of an easy meal. 

October is prime Salmon time for the Muskegon - book with me before I fill up and I anticipate I will soon!

Captain Dan

TOO HOT TO HANDLE - Topwater is fire!

BLOOP...BLOOP...BLOOP...BLOOP...SMASH!
If you love that sound or if you haven't ever experienced it, NOW IS THE TIME! The rivers are running really hot, and the Smallies are fired up and very willing to leave cover for a big top water meal. 30 plus fish days are very possible right now. My favorite about August is it seems the river becomes very quiet as kids start to gear up for school and fall sports and other fisherman are starting to think about Salmon fishing. It's very possible to only see a few if any fisherman on the river.
I've had a few chances to get out on the Pine River to "SCOUT" for big angry Pike. The Pike bite has been good, but no GIANTS to report. I look forward to finding some as we begin getting into some cooler nights and mornings here in a few weeks. If you don't like the busy Salmon rivers, getting out for fall Pike fishing can be very relaxing and rewarding!

Angler reeling in a 19-inch fish in Michigan

Largemouth Bass

Finding the Summer Pike and Smallmouth

I've had more interest in Pike fishing this summer than ever before. Pike can be finicky fish and totally shut down if it's "TOO NICE" out. However, if you can fish for them during the correct conditions, cool and cloudy, you'll have a really good chance for a special day! I hope I continue to get more interest in Pike fishing. I love pike fishing in the fall; cool weather, colors changing, quiet on the river and BIG Pike roaming around the entire river, looking to feast before winter.
Smallmouth fishing on the Muskegon has rebounded after a week slow spell. During a recent trip I had a single client put over 15 Smallies in the boat while using the same Whopper Plopper. While mixing in some Ned'ing and tossing big spin blade's we were finding a mix of medium to large smallmouth. I anticipate the smallmouth fishing to continue to be strong through September. Don't wait to get out, get a hold of me today!

Fisherman with 35-inch northern pike in MI

Catch of the day: a mighty Northern Pike, 22 inches long, reeled in from the waters of MI.

Impressive Northern Pike caught fishing in Alma

The last 4 weeks have seen some up and downs. There were some extremely cold nights that lead to some extremely slow mornings, while bundled up in our winter gear. However, the extreme heat and lack of rain warmed the rivers up to mid-summer temps fast. The trout fishing on the Muskegon has been absolutely incredible and trout biting almost anything we tie to our lines. A few clients were fortunate enough to land some special Muskegon River fish. One a beautiful 20-inch brown trout landed on a flashy wollybugger while fly casting for his first time ever! The 30-inch Summer Skam while bass fishing was as an epic battle that I've ever seen and that won't soon be forgotten.
While top water hasn't consistency been as productive for me this season, the Ned rig in the river is hard to beat. For a few weeks we were finding some fish in slow water and then maybe some in deep and some right off the bank. They were hard to nail down day to but trudging spots and moving while changing Ned colors paid off most days. But with the river temps rising fast, big deep bends is the ticket. Finding the right weight, for the depth and current is important. But working a deep bend can really pay off with multiple fish.
I'm looking forward to more early summer Smallie fishing, while all 3 rivers I'm running right now are producing awesome numbers of Smallmouth and a lot of large fish. This is my favorite time of year, SUMMER SMALLMOUTH!

Early Summer Heatwave

Smallmouth Fishing is here and it's FIRE

SMALLIE FISHING IS FIRE right now. The time is now. TOP WATER action is out of this world. If you know me, river Smallmouth fishing is my favorite Michigan has to offer and right now is my favorite time to fish them. Finding soft water with top water can reward fisherman with monster Smallies trying to blow up your offering. I'm still seeing a few fish on beds, and I think the next 3 weeks will be amazing fishing. Already this season, there have been 6 Smallies over 20 inches to the net and a few lost that I think were in that ballpark. I have fished the Muskegon, the Pine, the Chippewa and the Tittabawassee all in the past week and have great action on all four rivers.
You just can't beat slowly floating down the river, enjoying a beautiful Michigan Summer day while casting for these hard fighting river fish. It beats flying up and down the river to sit in one spot for an hour before flying to the next spot. BOOK your trip ASAP before it's too late.

Captain Dan

Smallmouth Bass caught while fishing in MI

Starting to find some Salmon on the Muskegon River but we're about a week behind from where we were last year. Starting to see more Coho each trip as well. 

I've done several scout trips on the Muskegon River in the past week, and I've seen a handful of Kings each day. The water temperature below Croton continues to stay in the upper 60's, which is slowing the Salmon migration down. We did get a shot of cold rain Tuesday night which will help, but with more warm temperatures coming, who knows when the bigger pods will move in. 

All I know is that I'll continue to grind it out and work my tail off to get into the Kings that are around and any day now, the salmon will fill in! 

Salmon season is a little behind...

GIANT Smallmouth on Top-Water

Smallmouth fishing on the Muskegon River continues to stay strong. If you like top-water bass fishing action, now is the time. These bass seem to be locking in on top-water action again like post spawn. 

Ned Rigs continue to produce, but this week it's been hard for my clients to put down the Whopper Plopper rod, and I can't blame them. Blow up after blow create heart stopping action, heartbreak and intense anticipation! 

We continue to pick up about one bonus Pike every trip, some on Ned Rigs and some on Whoppers. 

Trout fishing has been a little slower, but I'm expecting that to change with some rain and slightly cooler weather in the forecast. 

There is still plenty of time to get out and fish these awesome river fish on the Muskegon River! 

Rod - Spin Tackle
Tackle - Whoppers & Ned Rigs

Breathtaking landscape of Alma, a fishing paradise

Smallie fishing on the Muskegon has been FIRE! 

Smallie fishing on the Muskegon River continues to be great! I've had client's boat multiple fish over 16 inches. Recently a client landed a Smallie that measured at exactly 20 inches and 4 pounds! In the same trip, his BUDDY landed a 17.5 inch largemouth, which is the largest one I've ever seen up that close to Croton Dam. 

Whopper Plopper is the popular choice of my clients and for great reasons. It's easy to use, it makes a cool sound going through the water, and leads to great anticipation on every cast. The Plopper has been giving us great results, why change it? We've been finding fish a few feet off the banks where it starts to drop and continue to have fish chase the lure down near the boat. It's so much fun to watch!

Trout fishing has remained strong in the upper 1.5 miles. Panther Martins in heavier currents and drops is our go to. I haven't had a chance to fish Skams yet but looking forward to trying over the next few weeks. 

Get a hold of me and let's get after them!

Spin rods - Whopper Plopper and Panther Martins

A single fisherman holding a fishing rod in Alma

Smallmouth bass caught on fishing trip in MI

Smallies and MORE SMALLIES

Panther Martin - Yellow Gold Blade & Black Gold Blade

Rainbow Trout

Summer Fishing - Big Smallmouth and plenty of trout

Included one 17 & one 18-inch smallmouth. 

The number of smallmouth bass in the Muskegon River is impressive. 

The Ned rig in deeper holes or slow slack water and Whopper Plopper in shallows continues to produce. The river is low, so fishing cover and shade is key. Go light with your leader!

The traffic on the river is in full summer swing. Get out early to beat the crowd and the heat!

Get a hold of me to get out fish-float-fun!

A lone fisherman in Alma, holding a 15-inch catch

King Salmon, Pike, And Smallies

Chinook Salmon

Awesome day on the waters. King Salmon keeps showing up. There are still a ton of kings in the Muskegon River. Plus, here's a Pike and a Smallie we caught during our trip. 


Anglers enjoying a great fishing trip in Alma

Strong number of King Salmon in Muskegon River

Over the past 10 days I have seen a strong number of King Salmon in the Muskegon River. There are still fish in every stage of their cycle. I wouldn't be shocked if there is still another solid push of fish yet to come. 

I also had a client hook into a bright Steelhead that was a little too hot to handle. They are starting to show up. 

I really look forward to the end of October and early November on the Muskegon River. Most people transition to hunting, and I'm left with a fair number of Kings, Coho and some Steelies! 

Float fishing skein with spin gear. 

Casting Thunderstick's.

Running double flies and chuck and ducking

KINGS and COHO starting to show up on the Muskegon River!

Coho Salmon

<div>KINGS are starting to show up on the Muskegon River. Not in big numbers yet, but if you cover water and try different techniques, your efforts will be rewarded.&nbsp;</div><div> </div><div>There are a good number of Coho in the river. The trick is getting those fish to bite right now. We had success with Brite Thundersticks.&nbsp;</div><div> </div><div>With the cold nights this week and some bump in water, I expect Kings to start showing up in numbers.&nbsp;</div>

<div>Spinners and Thundersticks&nbsp;</div>

KINGS starting to show up on the Muskegon River!

Big numbers in PM Lake

It was incredible to see the number of staging Kings in PM lake this weekend. With continued cooler nights and some shot of rain, the upper river should be loaded now!

I took a friend of mine to the Fly Water Sunday to enjoy some peach and quite on the river. It didn't disappoint. With very few people on the river and enough fish to keep us busy it was a successful day of hooking fish and not coming close to landing any!

9 ft Ugly Stik - Size 40 Pflueger President Reel

Dark Jr. Deep Diving Thunderstick

Muskegon Fishing Report

We went out this morning and got this 27-pounder Salmon! This could be you! 

Solitary angler enjoys the great outdoors in MI

Fisherman catching a chain pickerel in MI

Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies - Wading And Fly Fishing Specialist

Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies Guide Service welcomes you for a day full of adventure. Join Daniel Nealy, who has years of fishing experience in these waters. The Pine River is his home stream, but you can also do trips on the Chippewa and Muskegon Rivers.

Dan Nealy’s Fishing Buddies is your go-to guide service for unforgettable fishing trips on Michigan’s scenic rivers. With years of experience and a passion for the sport, Captain Dan creates an exciting and welcoming experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re after the thrill of battling Steelhead, the challenge of fly fishing for Trout, or a relaxing day casting for Bass and Pike, Dan’s expertise ensures a rewarding adventure. Fishing from the Hyde Drifter, a comfortable boat designed for two anglers, you’ll have the perfect setup to take in the beauty of Michigan’s rivers while targeting some of the best freshwater species the state has to offer. Specializing in float and wade fishing, Captain Dan offers flexible trip options to suit every preference. The Walk and Wade trips provide an immersive experience, allowing anglers to explore hidden fishing spots along Michigan’s best rivers, including the Muskegon, Pine, Tittabawassee, and Chippewa Rivers. With high-quality tackle and hand-tied flies provided, you’ll have everything needed for a successful day on the water. Full-day trips even include a grilled lunch (weather permitting), along with snacks and drinks to keep you fueled. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to refine your skills or a beginner eager to learn, Dan Nealy’s Fishing Buddies delivers expert-guided trips designed to create lasting memories. Book your adventure today and experience Michigan fishing at its finest!

Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies Guide Service: The Ultimate River Fishing Experience from Michigan

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Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies Guide Service from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

Purchase an E-Gift card and your loved one will apply that unique confirmation code to the booking at checkout from https://www.nealysfishingbuddies.com/muskegon-river-fishing-guide-rates

Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies Guide Service: The Ultimate River Fishing Experience from Michigan

Captain Daniel Nealy’s love for fishing started in the heart of Southern Michigan, where he grew up exploring the region’s abundant lakes and rivers. From an early age, he was drawn to the challenge and excitement of freshwater fishing, developing a deep appreciation for Michigan’s diverse fish species. While attending Central Michigan University, his passion for river fishing took hold, especially as he pursued Smallmouth Bass on the Chippewa River. This fascination with moving water and the techniques required to target fish in dynamic river systems became the foundation for his career as a fishing guide. A defining moment in Daniel’s journey came when he was introduced to Steelhead fishing on the Pere Marquette River. That unforgettable day resulted in multiple Steelhead catches and an impressive Brown Trout, sparking a lifelong commitment to mastering Michigan’s river fisheries. His dedication to learning and perfecting various fishing techniques, from fly fishing for Trout and Steelhead to using light tackle for Bass and Pike, has made him one of the most knowledgeable guides in the state. Whether it's chasing the annual Salmon runs or exploring hidden fishing spots, Daniel’s expertise ensures an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. When he’s not on the water, Daniel enjoys life in Alma, Michigan, with his wife, Aleisha, and their energetic dogs—Berkley, Caddis, and Stella. Their household also includes two adventurous cats, Orvis and River, a fitting tribute to his love for fishing. Beyond guiding, Daniel is passionate about youth basketball programming, where he mentors young athletes with the same enthusiasm and patience he brings to his fishing clients. His ability to teach, encourage, and share his knowledge makes him not just a skilled guide, but a trusted mentor for anglers eager to refine their techniques. The Boat – Comfortable &amp; Designed for the Perfect River Fishing Experience. Every fishing trip with Captain Daniel takes place aboard a Hyde Drift Boat, specifically designed for navigating Michigan’s rivers with ease. The boat comfortably seats two anglers, allowing for a more personalized and immersive fishing experience. With stable leg locks for added support, anglers can confidently cast and fight fish from the boat. Whether drifting quietly along the Muskegon River, Pine River, Tittabawassee River, or Chippewa River, this vessel provides an optimal platform for fly fishing, spin fishing, and light tackle techniques. For a well-rounded adventure, Captain Daniel offers grilled lunches on full-day trips and provides water and snacks to keep anglers energized throughout their experience.

Check the map to see where we fish! The red zone is our prime spot, shifting with the seasons. Pins mark where we’ll meet—just show up, and let’s get fishing!

Meet Captain Daniel Nealy – Your Expert Michigan Fishing Guide

Our Latest News & Updates

Experience world-class fishing and riverside camping on the Muskegon. Book your 2-day adventure with Fishing Buddies now!

Float Camp

Premium 2-Day Muskegon River Camping & Fishing

Fish Michigan rivers for bass, trout, and pike with expert guides. Six hours of action-packed angling.

River Rivals

Michigan's Premier 6-Hour River Fishing Trip

Experience world-class fishing on Muskegon and Pine Rivers. Target multiple species over two 6-hour trips. Book your bucket-list adventure now!

River Duo

Ultimate 2-Day Michigan River Fishing Adventure

Expert-guided 4-hour Pine River pike charter in Alma. Target 28-40+ inch northern pike plus bass.

Pike Quest

Top-Rated Pike River Fishing Trip in Alma, MI

Fish Pine River's best waters for bass, pike and trout with expert guides. Book your Michigan adventure.

River Mix

Michigan's Top-Rated 5-Hour River Fishing Trip

Target aggressive salmon and steelhead on Michigan's rivers with expert guides. Book your adventure.

River Rumble

Premier 6-Hour Salmon & Steelhead River Trip

Target King Salmon, Steelhead & Brown Trout on Michigan rivers with expert guides. Book now!

River Catch

Michigan's Best 7-Hour Salmon & Steelhead Trip

Chase salmon, steelhead & brown trout on Michigan rivers. 5-hour guided float trip includes gear, snacks & drinks. Book your premium fishing adventure today.

River Rush

Top-Rated 5-Hour Salmon & Steelhead River Trip

Kids 17 & under fish FREE with adult on 6-hour Muskegon River trip targeting bass and more. Book now!

Kids Fish Free

Kids Fish FREE August Muskegon River Newaygo

Discover the best parks, museums, and family-friendly activities along the Muskegon River.

Things To Do 

Things To Do In Muskegon River MI

Get your Michigan fishing license easily with our step-by-step guide. Learn where to buy, what you need, and check fishing regulations for your next adventure!

Fishing License

Michigan Fishing License

Target aggressive smallmouth bass, northern pike and trout on Pine River. Book your guided adventure.

River Frenzy

Expert-Guided 7-Hour River Fishing Adventure

Book now for $25 off per angler on 5-hour guided river trips targeting smallies, trout & pike.

Summer River

August Special River Trips Fishing Buddies MI

Please Bring Your Valid Fishing License.

Fishing Licenses

Frequently Asked Questions Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies Guide Service Pricing and Packages 1. How much does a fishing trip with Dan Nealy’s Fishing Buddies Guide Service cost?Pricing depends on the trip length and target species. Rates typically start at $250 for a single angler and $310 for two people on select trips. Full-day trips and seasonal specials are also available. Contact Captain Dan for up-to-date pricing! 2. What’s included in the price of a fishing charter?Each trip includes high-quality gear, tackle, and expert guidance from Captain Dan. Snacks and drinks are provided, and full-day trips may include a grilled lunch (weather permitting). 3. Do I need to pay extra for bait on my trip?Live bait, such as Wild Golden Shiners, may be available at market price per dozen for certain trips. Artificial lures are always included in the trip cost. 4. Is there an additional charge for extra guests?Yes, the base price covers one or two anglers, but a third guest can join for an additional $50 per trip, depending on the type of excursion. 5. Are fishing licenses included in the trip price?No, anglers must purchase a Michigan fishing license before the trip. You can easily buy one online through the Michigan DNR website or at local retailers. 6. Do you offer any discounts or seasonal specials?Yes! March and April Pike trips on the Pine River feature discounted rates. Follow Dan Nealy’s Fishing Buddies on social media or check the website for the latest deals. 7. What’s the best trip for first-time anglers?A half-day guided trip targeting Bass, Pike, or Trout is ideal for beginners. You’ll receive hands-on instruction and use top-notch equipment for a fun, stress-free experience. 8. How do I book a fishing trip with Dan Nealy?Booking is simple! Call Captain Dan, send a message online, or visit the website to reserve your preferred date. Trips fill up fast, so book early!

Michigan River Fishing Territory Information	

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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