Grasshoppper

Grasshoppers are one of the most familiar insect groups in the world and are widely distributed throughout North America.  There is an estimated 600 species that have been identified in North America and approximately 61 recognized species (comprising one family Acrididae) found here in Michigan.  Each species displays unique diversity in form and function as well as habitat preferences.  Grasshoppers can be found in a plethora of habitat types such as coniferous and deciduous forests, floating aquatic vegetation, grasslands and meadows, and along the edges of lakes, swamps, marshes and streams.  Grasshoppers can be found year round in Michigan and the peak months of adult activity and reproduction occur from late June through the middle of October and this can even extend into November for some species.  Now ask yourself, how can I use this information to improve my fly fishing success for trout later in the year after all the major hatches have concluded?  For starters this information portrays grasshoppers as one of the most important hatches of the year and if you do the math the hopper season is over 3 1/2 months long!