What should I expect when fishing off the Holland pier in Michigan during the middle of spring?

Ah, the Holland pier in Michigan—what a splendid place to cast a line, especially in the middle of spring! As Mother Nature shakes off her winter coat, the fish in Lake Michigan are becoming more active, making this an exciting time to try your luck from the pier.

First off, you're likely to encounter a range of species, with Brown Trout, Steelhead, and the occasional Chinook Salmon being prime targets. These fish are attracted to the warmer water temperatures and are actively feeding, preparing for their spawning runs. As the water starts to warm, you'll also find Coho Salmon and maybe even a Lake Whitefish or two.

When fishing here, using the right tackle is key. A medium-heavy rod equipped with a spinning reel is usually a good choice for handling the larger fish you might hook. Lures like spoons, spinners, and crankbaits often work well. For bait, you can't go wrong with spawn sacs or minnows.

A popular technique among local anglers is vertical jigging, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when fish are more active. This technique involves dropping your lure straight down and then lifting it up and down to mimic the movement of prey.

Here's a practical tip for you: try to time your fishing with the tide and weather conditions. Fish are more likely to bite when there's a slight chop on the water or during overcast days. This can increase your chances significantly.

Check out this video for a firsthand look at pier fishing on Lake Michigan. It provides some great visuals and tips that could be useful!

Lastly, remember that fishing is all about patience and persistence. Even if the fish aren't biting one day, the experience of being out on the pier, surrounded by nature, is worth it. And who knows? Your persistence might just pay off with a trophy catch!

Happy fishing, and may your lines be tight!