What To Expect

How It Starts

In March 2021, Traverse City Program Lead Dave Jankowski received a call from a gentleman interested in purchasing a lodge for Veterans' use. Shortly after that, we met with the Oweners and discussed the potential for this to become a destination venue. Later in June of that year, we met again to lay out the plans, and the work commenced. In June 2023, the job was completed on the PHWFF’s latest venue: Oak Heart Lodge!

Oak Heart Lodge was modeled after Freedom Ranch and will follow the same schedule with a Tuesday arrival and Saturday Departure. As many as eight Participants and two Trip Leads will have the opportunity to stay in a first-class lodge and experience a guided fishing trip on some of Michigan’s prestigious rivers. The lodge is designed with accessibility and can accommodate up to four guests.

The Waters You Will Fish

Oak Heart Lodge is located along the Muskegon River, which is situated in the heart of many blue-ribbon rivers and streams in Michigan.

  • Guided trips will be from boats with occasional wading per the guide’s discretion.

  • This is a fly-fishing venue only.

  • Unlike most northern waters, the Muskegon rarely sees an “ice out” and holds many different fish species throughout the year. From Steelhead to Trout to Smallmouth Bass and King Salmon, the fishery offers opportunities year-round.

  • In addition to the rivers noted, Oak Heart Lodge will also fish local inland lakes, offering opportunities for Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass.

  • Fishing for Steelhead in January and February can be challenging for anglers with the cold weather. Fish are present on the river can be caught. Generally, lower numbers of Steelhead are caught at this time.

  • Fishing as we know, is conditionally based on weather, timing of seasonal migratory runs, water levels and gernal fishing pressure. Oak Heart will endeavor to keep your Trip Leads informed prior to your visit to ensure the best possible angling experience.

What To Expect During Your Stay

Your Program will be staying five nights at the Lodge. Here’s what to expect:

  • Oak Heart asks that your team does not arrive at the Lodge until after 2 pm Eastern. They will orient the Guests, help facilitate bed selections, and provide an overview of what will happen during your stay. Plan on a special dinner that night prepared by Oak Heart! Lare you will ake our lunch for the following day of fishing.

  • Wake up early to have coffee and breakfast, grab and pack your lunch in a cooler provided by the lodge, and meet your guides for a float trip day. After a day of fishing, dinner has been arranged ahead of time and is ready for your team to prepare. After dinner, you will make your lunch for the next day.

  • Wake up early to have coffee and breakfast, grab and pack your lunch in a cooler, and meet your guides for a float trip day. Like Wednesday, dinner has been arranged ahead of time and ready for your team to prepare. After dinner, you will make lunch for the following day.

  • Wake up early for coffee and breakfast, grab and pack your lunch in a cooler, and meet your guides for a float trip day. Plan on a special dinner prepared by the Oak Heart!

  • Wake up to a team-made breakfast, share your memories, and depart by noon Eastern.