Mainstream Guides - Newaygo 

5.0
(31 reviews)
 Croton Drive, Newaygo, MI 49337, United States–

Mainstream Guides - Newaygo 

Newaygo, MI, United States
–
18 ft
3
5.0
(31 reviews)

Mainstream Guides invites you to join them on a fishing quest on one of Michigan's abundant rivers. Operated by guide Aaron Spence, this guide service is all about providing fun and adventurous trips for guests of any skill level. Aaron welcomes children over the age of six for an experience they will remember and be able to talk about for many years to come.

You can fish on a number of rivers including Muskegon, Manistee, Rogue, Grand or Jordan Rivers. Depending on the species you prefer to target and the time of the year you go out, Aaron will advise you which river is your best bet.

When it comes to seasons, Chinook and Coho Salmon are available from August 20th to October 31st; Brown Trout is here May 1st to July 31st; Bass is available from May 1st through August 31st; and finally, Steelhead is here most of the year - from September 1st through may 1st.

Fishing is done out of a 16' Wooldridge Jet boat with a capacity for up to three persons. Powered by a 150 HP Mercury Outboard engine, this boat is pretty indestructible and an excellent choice for river fishing. It is equipped with a fishfinder to locate the best fishing spots, life jackets for safety, and an icebox.

Mainstream Guides provide mostly fly fishing equipment for fly fishermen, however, if you prefer spinning rods and bait casters, they carry those, too. Just make sure you let guide Aaron know what you skill level and preferred techniques are, and he'll be able to accommodate you. Aaron also carries lures and live bait when necessary, and provides snacks and drinks on half day trips, whereas full day trips also include lunch.

Note: Fishing locations and start time will need to be decided based on fish migrations and stream activity. You must obtain a valid Michigan freshwater fishing license prior to the trip.

Mainstream Guides invites you to join them on a fishing quest on one of Michigan's abundant rivers. Operated by guide Aaron Spence, this guide service is all about providing fun and adventurous trips for guests of any skill level. Aaron welcomes children over the age of six for an experience they will remember and be able to talk about for many years to come.

You can fish on a number of rivers including Muskegon, Manistee, Rogue, Grand or Jordan Rivers. Depending on the species you prefer to target and the time of the year you go out, Aaron will advise you which river is your best bet.

When it comes to seasons, Chinook and Coho Salmon are available from August 20th to October 31st; Brown Trout is here May 1st to July 31st; Bass is available from May 1st through August 31st; and finally, Steelhead is here most of the year - from September 1st through may 1st.

Fishing is done out of a 16' Wooldridge Jet boat with a capacity for up to three persons. Powered by a 150 HP Mercury Outboard engine, this boat is pretty indestructible and an excellent choice for river fishing. It is equipped with a fishfinder to locate the best fishing spots, life jackets for safety, and an icebox.

Mainstream Guides provide mostly fly fishing equipment for fly fishermen, however, if you prefer spinning rods and bait casters, they carry those, too. Just make sure you let guide Aaron know what you skill level and preferred techniques are, and he'll be able to accommodate you. Aaron also carries lures and live bait when necessary, and provides snacks and drinks on half day trips, whereas full day trips also include lunch.

Note: Fishing locations and start time will need to be decided based on fish migrations and stream activity. You must obtain a valid Michigan freshwater fishing license prior to the trip.

Mainstream Guides
Charter Operator
Mainstream Guides
25 years of experience
ID & credentials verified

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
September 2026
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Half Day Trip - Salmon
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Aug 20 - Oct 31
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip - Trout
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Jul 31
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip – Steelhead (AM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 1
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip - Bass
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Aug 31
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
Half Day Trip – Steelhead (PM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 12:00 PM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 1
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day Trip - Bass
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Aug 31
US $425
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day Trip - Salmon
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Aug 20 - Oct 31
US $525
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day Trip - Steelhead
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Sep 1 - May 1
US $525
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day Trip - Trout
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Jul 31
US $525
Entire boat: 2 people
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
31 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (28)

What anglers say

100%
Recommended

Reviews (31)

  • Craig Cowdery
    Craig Cowdery
    us
    California, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Fathers Day gift!

    Half Day Trip - Trout on June 20, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    We had a great day of fishing. The weather cooperated and the fish were biting. Aaron was very knowledgeable, helpful and patient with my younger son. He had all the necessary equipment to keep up fishing nonstop. I highly recommend.

  • Robb Krueger
    Robb Krueger
    Repeat angler
    us
    Michigan, US
    •
    Member since 2022
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Full day Smallmouth trip.

    Full Day Trip - Bass on July 28, 2022 • 3 adults

    When we arrived into boat ramp Aaron was early and already prepping gear. He let us bring 3 on the boat and had everything well organized. We were able to use his gear or our own and he asked which hand we reeled with to make sure gear was set before we got on the River. Everyone in our group caught multiple fish both before and after he made us a grilled chicken lunch along the River. Aaron is courteous to our group and others on the River. Safe driver and has everything needed for the trip. He got us on fish right away and was open to putting on new lures and letting g us try our own gear. I have done multiple trips on the Muskegon River and this was the best trip and Captain I have experienced. Picture our biggest is a 4.5 lb 20.5 inch Smallie which we release and there were several other decent ones caught.

  • Mounir Djemil
    Mounir Djemil
    Repeat angler
    us
    Ohio, US
    •
    Member since 2019
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Full Day with Captain Aaron

    Half Day Trip – Steelhead (AM) on November 21, 2020 • 2 adults

    Absolutely amazing day on the Muskegon river with captain Aaron. He is amazing! Really cool guy, easy to talk to and really puts you at ease regardless of skill and experience level. Went with my wife and we both got our first ever steelhead! Fishing had been tough on the day, most boats reporting none or 1 fish at best but Aaron was able to help my wife pull in a 6lb chrome despite her having NEVER fished before and being deep into her third trimester! This before helping me hook then fight a 12lb beast for a memorable first steelhead experience. We were able to grill lunch right on the boat, he had great fishing gear and the scenery was awesome. Even saw a doe and 2 bald eagles. Aaron knows every inch of water so well, even predicting (and often preventing) snags before they happened. So satisfied with our trip, the wife is hooked on fishing, we will definitely be back for more. Thank you!

  • Tyson Lahti
    Tyson Lahti
    Repeat angler
    us
    Arizona, US
    •
    Member since 2020
    •
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day Salmon trip with Captain Aaron

    Half Day Trip - Salmon on September 19, 2020 • 2 adults • 1 child

    One in a lifetime salmon trip for my 10 year old son and I. Captain Aaron is friendly, professional and wanted us to have a great time and catch some big salmon. Captain Aaron knows the Manistee river well and set us up with a hot spot and excellent fishing techniques to catch a lot of salmon. We spent more time getting a salmon on the line in the boat than we did in casting out our lines. Aaron knows how to make good fishing rigs and casting methods to get a good catch. Captain Aaron works well with adults and kids in the boat and navigating through the river and among other boats. Highly recommended; hope to get on a trip with Captain Aaron again in the future.

  • Mitch Bull
    Mitch Bull
    Repeat angler
    us
    Michigan, US
    •
    Member since 2018
    •
    20 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Salmon Full Day Trip

    Full Day Trip - Salmon on October 22, 2023 • 1 adult

    Caught 5 big Salmon, Aaron also cooked me a nice Lunch !

  • Brad Mattson
    Brad Mattson
    Repeat angler
    us
    Minnesota, US
    •
    Member since 2018
    •
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Full day Muskegon river

    Full Day Trip - Steelhead on February 19, 2023 • 2 adults
  • Russell Thompson
    Russell Thompson
    us
    Michigan, US
    •
    Member since 2019
    4.7
    Verified

    Book this guide and you will catch big fish

    Half Day Trip - Salmon on October 18, 2019 • 2 adults

    My brother from Texas and I can not say enough good things about this trip. In less than 4 hours we landed 6 big salmon and lost 2, probably even bigger since the line snapped like it was sowing material. The one I am holding was a huge 29 pounder that took us up stream and down stream twice. I held the pole up and reeled with aching arms for 20 minutes or more until he finally gave up. My brother is trying to lift the monster he fought for 20 minutes as well. I am certain without the expert guidance Aaron was providing neither fish would have been landed. We were using light, 14# test leaders. A fantastic trip. Captain Aaron is an excellent guide,teacher, and after the trip I am certain you will consider him a friend as well. I can't wait to go again.

  • Bob Nagy
    Bob Nagy
    Repeat angler
    us
    Ohio, US
    •
    Member since 2020
    •
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Aaron

    Full Day Trip - Bass on August 28, 2021 • 2 adults

    Can’t say enough about this captain! My son and I had an absolute blast. Thanks Aaron!!!

  • Gregory Pocaigue
    Gregory Pocaigue
    us
    Michigan, US
    •
    Member since 2020
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day trip wCapt Jeff

    Half Day Trip - Bass on July 3, 2020 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Great time and experience for my Son... Capt Jeff - Thank you very much!

  • David Lester
    David Lester
    Member since 2017
    5.0

    Great Half Day with Aaron Spence of Mainstream

    Half Day Trip – Steelhead (AM) on April 18, 2017

    First time out with Aaron who donated this trip to my conservation club to support our environment. I have been fishing for Steelhead and Salmon for 40 years and Aaron had us on Browns and Steelhead immediately. Best single half day of Steelhead fishing for me.All fish released. Going out with Aaron this Fall.

Rating

5.0
31 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (28)

What anglers say

100%
Recommended

All reviews (31)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 31 reviews
Craig Cowdery
Craig Cowdery
us
California, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Great Fathers Day gift!
Half Day Trip - Trout on June 20, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

We had a great day of fishing. The weather cooperated and the fish were biting. Aaron was very knowledgeable, helpful and patient with my younger son. He had all the necessary equipment to keep up fishing nonstop. I highly recommend.

Reported catch:
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Brown Trout
Smallmouth Bass
Jen Riefe
Jen Riefe
Repeat angler
us
Illinois, US
•
Member since 2022
•
3 trips
5.0
Verified
Great captain! Lots of fish
Half Day Trip - Bass on July 25, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

Aaron is super professional, nice to be with, and got us to where all the fish were. My son, 11, was thrilled to catch 10 smallmouth on a half day trip. We caught 28 fish total. Definitely recommend!

Jordon Flotkoetter
Jordon Flotkoetter
us
Michigan, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Best fishing trip
Full Day Trip - Trout on May 30, 2026 • 2 adults

My wife and I both agreed this was the best guided fishing trip that we have ever been on. Our guide was very knowledgeable and put us on over 70 fish. We will definitely be back in the future.

Bonnie Alkema
Bonnie Alkema
us
Florida, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Outstanding trip
Half Day Trip - Bass on August 12, 2026 • 2 adults

Captain was fantastic. He knew the river backwards and forward. his boat and gear were top notch and well maintained. I highly recommend them as a guide.

Reported catch:
Smallmouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Donald Hoppe Jr
Donald Hoppe Jr
Repeat angler
us
Arkansas, US
•
Member since 2019
•
10 trips
5.0
Verified
Muskegon river
Full Day Trip - Bass on July 15, 2026 • 1 adult

Had a great day fishing the Muskegon. Caught 3 species of fish. Largemouth, several rock bass and around 30 hard fighting smallmouth. Aaron is a great guide!

Reported catch:
Smallmouth Bass
Largemouth Bass

FAQs about Mainstream Guides - Newaygo

Mainstream Guides - Newaygo offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $350 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip - Bass (4 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip - Salmon (4 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip - Trout (4 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip – Steelhead (AM) (4 hours)
  • US $350 per group, additional US $75 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip – Steelhead (PM) (4 hours)
  • US $425 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Full Day Trip - Bass (8 hours)
  • US $525 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Full Day Trip - Salmon (8 hours)
  • US $525 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Full Day Trip - Steelhead (8 hours)
  • US $525 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Full Day Trip - Trout (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Mainstream Guides - Newaygo, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Fishfinder
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Mainstream Guides - Newaygo include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait
  • Lures
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
  • Lunch (On Full Day Trips Only)
  • Fly fishing equipment (Orvis and Redington )
Mainstream Guides - Newaygo offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing (Jordan, Manistee, Muskegon, Grand )
  • Lake fishing
Mainstream Guides - Newaygo offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing
Top targeted fish species with Mainstream Guides - Newaygo include:
  • Bass (Largemouth)
  • Bass (Smallmouth)
  • Brown Trout
  • Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
  • Salmon (Chinook)
  • Salmon (Coho)

Your operator

Mainstream Guides
Mainstream Guides

Newaygo, Michigan, United States

9 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
64 Customer reviews
Typical response within 5 hours
Member since August 2017

Aaron Spence has been guiding for over 18 years on some of Michigan's finest rivers. The Jordan, Manistee, Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and the Grand River. I look forward to having you out on the water for a great day of fishing.

Mainstream Guides
Mainstream Guides
Fully verified
9
reports
64
reviews
2017
member since
~5h
response
Aaron Spence has been guiding for over 18 years on some of Michigan's finest rivers. The Jordan, Manistee, Pere Marquette, Muskegon, and the Grand River. I look forward to having you out on the water for a great day of fishing.

The fish you can target

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon

Real catches by this captain

  • Great Fathers Day gift!
    Craig C.
    Craig C.
  • Salmon Full Day Trip
    Mitch B.
    Mitch B.
  • Full day Muskegon river
    Brad M.
    Brad M.
  • Fishing with Aaron
    Bob N.
    Bob N.
  • Full Day with Captain Aaron
    Mounir D.
    Mounir D.
  • Half day Salmon trip with Captain Aaron
    Tyson L.
    Tyson L.
  • Book this guide and you will catch big fish
    Russell T.
    Russell T.
  • Fishing with Aaron
    Mark G.
    Mark G.
  • Half day trip with Aaron
    Kenny E.
    Kenny E.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Speed boats
Capacity
3 persons
Boat length
18 ft
Year built
2019
Boat manufacturer
Stealthcraft
Boat type
Jet boat
Engine model
Mercury Outboard
Powered by
1 x 90HP

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
Lake Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Fishfinder
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Lures
Snacks
Drinks
Lunch
On Full Day Trips Only
Fly fishing equipment
Orvis and Redington

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 30 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 30 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
6 years and over
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed
Prefered

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Checks

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