Growing up in Newaygo, I have always felt drawn to the Muskegon River. Since the age of twelve, it has been hard to keep me away from it's gravel riffles and outstanding fishing!

In 1996, I worked at a small bait shop in Croton called the Fisherman's Retreat. It was there I found my calling...fishing guide.

In the fall of 1996, I attended the University of Michigan for fisheries biology but soon learned I couldn't stay away. I guided through college breaks and the summers.

For the past 14 years, I have made the commitment to be one of the most knowledgeable Fly Fishing guides on the Muskegon, Pere Marquette and White rivers. I also truely enjoy Float Fishing for Steelhead, Trout, and Salmon.

I am passionate about guiding for Steelhead, Trout, Salmon. I currently spend over 300 days a year on the water either guiding, scouting new locations, or fun fishing with my friends.

C. (231) 519-7348


Jim Berthiaume
(Jimmy B.) - Jim Berthiaume - Originally from Grand Rapids and was born and raised on the Grand River. Jim has spent most of his time guiding the Muskegon River, Rogue, and Big Manistee.
Jim is well vested as a float fisherman and center pin angler. He has a passion for the "Chrome" and chases Steelies any chance he gets!

Jim is also an experienced guide on the lower Pere Marquette River and Big Manistee for fresh kings! Jim is a calm and patient guide, taking time to instruct and get clients into good numbers of Steelhead, Salmon and Trout.

Dennis Bouwens
Dennis Bouwens - is our resident Steelhead fanatic! He has lived and fished the Muskegon River and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Denny is a Fly Fishing Guide and excellent fly tyer. He has developed many Trout and Steelhead patterns for us over the years. He is also a Master float fisherman. He truly loves guiding anglers into numbers of steelhead!

When Dennis is not guiding spring steelhead trips, he's out in the woodlands searching for trophy tom turkeys. Dennis also guides spring turkeys with over 1500 acres of private land.

Jeff Cooke
Originally from Muskegon, Jeff is the opitomy of a true trout bum! Jeff guides with Gore Creek Outfitters as a Trout Fly Fishing Specialist during the Summer months in Vail, Co.

Jeff is a master Fly caster and is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Steelhead and Steelhead fly patterns. He is a young and patient guide who spends a lot of time and effort teaching anglers casting technique for Steelhead. He works hard to get clients into plenty of Steelhead in April and May.

Jim Lyons
Jim Lyons - ( "Slim Jim") is a Master float fisherman and guides with us; primarily walk-in trips on the Rogue and White rivers. Jim also guides thunderstick trips on the lower Pere Marquette River and Manistee for Salmon. He also has a deft touch for float-fishing winter steelhead and is noted for developing the "jigs and waxworm" technique on the Rogue River.

Click here to contact us for more information about guided fishing trips, rates and availability on the Muskegon, White and Pere Marquette Rivers!

Winter Steelhead - Muskegon River

Betts Guide Service - Fly Fishing specialists on Western Michigan Rivers including the Muskegon River, and Pere Marquette River.

Grand Rapids, MI - Fishing Reports - Chicago Fly Fishing for Steelhead & Trout. Muskegon River Trout Guide. Grand River float fishing for Winter steelhead.