Curly's Photo and Fishing Blog
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Michigan Fishing Report 5/27/10
We have had lots of rain this week with wind. The weekend will be warm and will get fish back on the bite. Otsego Lake has a great walleye bite with some perch being caught. Walleye are biting when we can get out. Remember, if you catch a tagged fish, please report it. Marking programs are implemented for a variety of reasons, including estimating fish growth, mortality, exploitation, and movement. Angler cooperation is an essential component of these programs. To report a tagged fish, http://www.michigan.gov/dnr, or call your local Fisheries Management Office.
Saginaw Bay -Walleye are being taken off Knight Road in 5 feet of water. Between Parish Road and the State Park, walleye were caught on crawlers and rapalas in 8 to 10 feet of water. Catch rates were fair at the mouth of the Saginaw River. Good fishing in the early morning off Quanicassee, Fish Point, Bay Park and Thomas Road in 14 to 18 feet of water with crawler harnesses. Good colors were purple, red, silver, blue and copper. Freshwater drum along with smaller catfish have also been caught. Off Sebewaing, walleye fishing was a bit spotty with a few fish caught in the Slot in 14 to 16 feet of water. Better walleye fishing came north of Sebewaing in 18 to 30 feet of water outside Heisterman Island and 12 feet of water outside North Island. Bay Port was hit-or-miss. Pier anglers at Caseville caught light numbers of walleye and smallmouth bass. Carp and catfish were slower.
Tittabawasse River -Catfish are biting
Saginaw River- Catfish action has been good in Essexville.
Wixom Lake has a great crappie and gill bite. A few pike and walleye also.
Whitehall - Boats reported slow fishing. A couple steelhead were caught off the pier. Water around the pier was a bit cooler and there were a lot of alewife in close. Fish were caught on Cleo’s or alewife.
Mullett Lake - Yellow perch were being caught using minnows and crawlers mainly in waters less than 15 feet deep. Northern pike were caught by those casting and trolling using stick baits and spoons near shore. Walleye anglers found success in deeper water as well as between Needle Point and Dodge Point.
Houghton Lake -Walleye were caught in 6 to 8 feet of water along the weedbeds and bluegills were caught out near the Middle Grounds.
Higgins Lake - Lake trout were caught just off the bottom in 100 feet of water when trolling cowbells with live bait, bombers or rapalas. Lots of yellow perch and rock bass were caught however perch anglers will need to sort out the small ones.
Tawas -Those trolling bottom bouncers with crawler harnesses have caught a few walleye in 30 to 45 feet of water near Buoy #2. Lake trout and channel catfish have also been caught. Closer to shore, anglers took good numbers of smallmouth bass. Pier fishing was slow with the occasional walleye, pike, smallmouth bass or rock bass caught.
Oscoda- Lake trout are in 60 to 150 feet of water and suspended in 10 to 20 feet of water. Fish have been caught on dodgers with spoons. At the end of the pier, walleye have been caught on body baits. Fire-tiger and clown did well.
Charlevoix -Salmon are starting to show up from Fishermen’s Island to North Point. The fish were hard to key in on do to the lack of a thermocline, so running lines at a variety of depths is important. Best colors were blue or green.
Traverse City - Heavy rains have depleted fishing success in both the East Bay and the West Bay. Anglers were still fishing however fewer fish were caught.
Portage Lake - The mayfly hatch has peaked so anglers were having a hard time. Largemouth bass are hitting along the weedbeds and around the docks.
Lake Missaukee - Was producing some nice bluegill along the west side of the lake.
Lake Cadillac - Anglers of all ages are taking a mix of crappie, bluegill, perch and rock bass. Try fishing the weedbeds and along the drop offs. Those trolling crank baits along the weedbeds have caught pike.
Lake Mitchell - Is also giving up fair to good numbers of panfish in the coves and along the weedbeds. Those trolling or drifting crawler harnesses along the east side of the lake have caught some walleye.
Little Bay De Noc - Has a lot of food out there right now with the mayfly hatches and the alewife moving in. Best walleye catches were off the mouth of the Escanaba River but most were sub-legal. Anglers were drifting or trolling crawler harnesses. Night anglers caught a few fish off the ship docks in Escanaba when trolling crank baits or jigging crawlers in 20 to 25 feet of water. Several nice catches of perch were reported in the Narrows when still-fishing minnows in 13 to 25 feet of water. Northern pike were active just off the coal piles at the Gladstone Power Plant. Try trolling crank baits in 10 to 14 feet of water.
Big Bay De Noc - Still had good walleye reports off Ansell’s Point when trolling harnesses with crawlers in 16 to 22 feet of water. Smallmouth bass were active throughout the bay. The fish were off the beds and hitting on crank baits, tube baits or crawlers in 10 to 20 feet of water. There is a large mayfly hatch here as well so anglers were targeting the bug lines in search of fish. Off Fairport, more anglers are salmon fishing as catch rates increase when trolling spoons or imitation meat rigs 40 to 90 feet down in waters 80 to 120 feet deep. Good numbers of steelhead were caught in the shallow waters near the bug lines.
Indian Lake - Catch rates were slow however a few walleye were caught. The biggest concentration of boats has been along the west and the north shore. Smallmouth bass and northern pike were also caught however few were keepers. Some tried anchoring and jigging for yellow perch. Again, the bite was slow but enough fish were caught for a meal.
Cedarville and Hessel - Mayfly hatches are early this year and the lake herring are in. McKay Bay is producing limit catches in 10 to 12 feet of water with a teardrop and wax worm. Those in Cedarville Bay, Musky Bay and the Moscoe Channel are trolling and casting for pike and yellow perch in 6 to 10 feet of water. Perch were averaging 9 and 10 inches. Pike were caught in the Hessel Marina and in the bay when trolling or casting with minnows.
Northwest:
Petoskey - Lake trout have been taken between the pier head and Bay Harbor in waters 100 to 150 feet deep. Most fish were caught 70 to 100 feet down with spoons, flasher/fly combos or peanut combinations. Salmon and steelhead were also caught.
Charlevoix - Salmon are starting to show up from Fishermen’s Island to North Point. The fish were hard to key in on do to the lack of a thermocline, so running lines at a variety of depths is important. Best colors were blue or green.
Frankfort - Has produced some nice catches however anglers had to go out deeper than normal. Pier anglers were catching chinook, steelhead and brown trout but alewife in the area will not last much longer.
Onekama - Boats are starting out in 120 to 140 feet of water early in the morning and trolling spoons 40 to 65 feet down. As the sun comes up, move straight out or a little north and fish 250 feet of water.
Portage Lake - Fishing has been difficult with the mayfly hatch in progress. Bass anglers were doing well working the shoreline and drop-offs with wax worms.
Lake Cadillac - Anglers of all ages are taking a mix of crappie, bluegill, perch and rock bass. Try fishing the weedbeds and along the drop offs. Those trolling crank baits along the weedbeds have caught pike.
Lake Mitchell - Is also giving up fair to good numbers of panfish in the coves and along the weedbeds. Those trolling or drifting crawler harnesses along the east side of the lake have caught some walleye.
Manistee - Salmon and trout have been caught in 80 to 160 feet of water. Try glow spoons in the early morning then switch to green or blue spoons. Pier fishing is slow.
Ludington - Bigger salmon have been caught off Big Sable Point when trolling in waters 50 to 150 feet deep. Try green or blue flies.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - Yellow perch were being caught using minnows and crawlers mainly in waters less than 15 feet deep. Northern pike were caught by those casting and trolling using stick baits and spoons near shore. Walleye anglers found success in deeper water as well as between Needle Point and Dodge Point.
Rogers City - Had very good steelhead fishing within a mile from shore due to a large mayfly hatch. Look for the scum lines which are full of mayflies and other bugs. Anglers were catching a mixed bag of chinook, coho, pink salmon, Atlantic salmon, lake trout, walleye and the occasional brown trout. Try the usual spots such as Forty Mile Point, Adams Point, the State Park or straight out from the harbor. Best depths were the top 38 feet of waters 40 to 70 feet deep with orange, green and silver leadcore. Downriggers with spoons 25 to 35 feet down were also good.
Presque Isle - The best area to fish was Stoneport to the red can when using downriggers and leadcore in the top 45 feet of waters 50 to 80 feet deep.
Rockport - Had low angler pressure but those going out did catch lake trout on green spoons in 130 feet of water.
Alpena - Walleye fishing in Thunder Bay is very good right now with limit catches reported. Waters surrounding Grass Island and the drop-offs near Sulfur Island were the hot spots, with crawler harnesses or body baits that resemble perch. Those fishing the north shore with reef runners also caught fish. All fish were caught in 20 to 25 feet of water. Squaw Bay is a great place for bass. Limited lake trout caught straight out from the boat launch in 100 to 125 feet of water.
Thunder Bay River - Walleye fishing slowed however the fish are still there and some were caught by night anglers fishing off the Ninth Street Bridge or the foot bridge behind the Boys and Girls Club. Those catching fish were using primarily leeches, but green jigs with live bait also caught fish. Legal size bass were caught by those still-fishing with crawlers.
Harrisville - Anglers are reporting good catches of lake trout and walleye. Lake trout are scattered from 60 to 120 feet of water and are suspended 10 to 20 feet from the bottom. A variety of baits seem to be working, from body baits to spoons in shades of white, silver, blue and orange. Walleye were caught outside the harbor and north toward Sturgeon Point in 15 to 40 feet of water with crawler harnesses or body baits.
Oscoda - Lake trout are in 60 to 150 feet of water and suspended in 10 to 20 feet of water. Fish have been caught on dodgers with spoons. At the end of the pier, walleye have been caught on body baits. Fire-tiger and clown did well.
Au Sable River - Walleye are being caught with crawlers and a slip bobber. Catfish are making their way into the river as well.
Higgins Lake - Lake trout were caught just off the bottom in 100 feet of water when trolling cowbells with live bait, bombers or rapalas. Lots of yellow perch and rock bass were caught however perch anglers will need to sort out the small ones.
Houghton Lake - Walleye were caught in 6 to 8 feet of water along the weedbeds and bluegills were caught out near the Middle Grounds.
Tawas - Those trolling bottom bouncers with crawler harnesses have caught a few walleye in 30 to 45 feet of water near Buoy #2. Lake trout and channel catfish have also been caught. Closer to shore, anglers took good numbers of smallmouth bass. Pier fishing was slow with the occasional walleye, pike, smallmouth bass or rock bass caught.
Au Gres - When they can get out, boat anglers were catching walleye in 30 to 40 feet of water between Pt. Au Gres and Pt. Lookout or just south of Pt. Au Gres. Most fish were caught on bottom bouncers with harnesses.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Salmon are still in the area and those trolling in 75 to 120 feet of water have caught them with a dodger and fly. Lake trout fishing was slow.
Ontonagon - Those able to get out have caught lake trout when trolling a couple feet off the bottom in waters 100 feet deep. Orange and green spoons worked best.
Keweenaw Bay - Lake trout fishing was good in Traverse Bay when jigging in 220 to 265 feet of water. Those trolling reported slower catch rates except for one group that managed to take limit catches when trolling a herring dodger and a chartreuse peanut straight out from the marina in 180 feet of water. In the South Portage Entry, those jigging reported slow action but those trolling in 30 to 70 feet of water did well off Newton’s Reef, Farmers Reef, Big Reef and the Mud Banks.
Marquette - Had light fishing activity with only a few coho and lake trout caught near Granite Island and the Sand Hole.
Little Bay De Noc - Has a lot of food out there right now with the mayfly hatches and the alewife moving in. Best walleye catches were off the mouth of the Escanaba River but most were sub-legal. Anglers were drifting or trolling crawler harnesses. Night anglers caught a few fish off the ship docks in Escanaba when trolling crank baits or jigging crawlers in 20 to 25 feet of water. Several nice catches of perch were reported in the Narrows when still-fishing minnows in 13 to 25 feet of water. Northern pike were active just off the coal piles at the Gladstone Power Plant. Try trolling crank baits in 10 to 14 feet of water.
Escanaba River - Had good walleye fishing however many were sub-legal. Most were drifting or trolling crawler harness in 10 to 25 feet of water.
Big Bay De Noc - Still had good walleye reports off Ansell’s Point when trolling harnesses with crawlers in 16 to 22 feet of water. Smallmouth bass were active throughout the bay. The fish were off the beds and hitting on crank baits, tube baits or crawlers in 10 to 20 feet of water. There is a large mayfly hatch here as well so anglers were targeting the bug lines in search of fish. Off Fairport, more anglers are salmon fishing as catch rates increase when trolling spoons or imitation meat rigs 40 to 90 feet down in waters 80 to 120 feet deep. Good numbers of steelhead were caught in the shallow waters near the bug lines.
Indian Lake - Catch rates were slow however a few walleye were caught. The biggest concentration of boats has been along the west and the north shore. Smallmouth bass and northern pike were also caught however few were keepers. Some tried anchoring and jigging for yellow perch. Again, the bite was slow but enough fish were caught for a meal.
Au Train - Fishing was light with scattered reports of lake trout in 140 to 200 feet of water. Surface water temperatures were averaging the low 50’s.
Munising - Had slow fishing overall. Smaller lake trout were caught near the Big Reef and a couple pike were caught off the city dock.
Grand Marais - Those fishing in 180 to 200 feet of water for lake trout reported slow catch rates. Pier anglers did catch a few whitefish along with the occasional coho. The window of opportunity for pier anglers to catch whitefish appears to be closing.
St. Mary’s River - Whitefish and Atlanic salmon have been caught near Sault Ste. Marie near the power plant when fishing near the water discharge. Use wax worms for whitefish or smelt for Atlantic salmon. Raber Bay is giving up a few walleye off Antelope Point for those using bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses in 10 to 14 feet of water. Also, try the Canadian rock pile east of Raber Bay. Good northern pike action in 6 to 8 feet of water around Hart Island.
De Tour - Boats are still trolling in the area known as the “Humps” for lake trout and salmon. Try 55 feet down with green and silver or black and white spoons. Near Drummond Island, the mayfly hatch is in full swing. Walleye have been caught in 12 to 14 feet of water around Grape Island, Edward Island and Butterfield Island.
Cedarville and Hessel - Mayfly hatches are early this year and the lake herring are in. McKay Bay is producing limit catches in 10 to 12 feet of water with a teardrop and wax worm. Those in Cedarville Bay, Musky Bay and the Moscoe Channel are trolling and casting for pike and yellow perch in 6 to 10 feet of water. Perch were averaging 9 and 10 inches. Pike were caught in the Hessel Marina and in the bay when trolling or casting with minnows.
St. Ignace - Boat anglers seeking chinook and lake trout are trolling the middle of the bay and fishing 45 feet down in waters 70 to 100 feet deep. Try green and white or black and orange spoons.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Catch rates were slow because of the mayfly hatch. Walleye anglers found some active fish in waters 25 feet or deeper near the Fermi Plant and near the Michigan and Ohio boundary line when using crawlers. Freshwater drum and white bass were also caught. Catch rates for yellow perch were starting to pick up near the Dumping Grounds between Luna Pier and Toledo Beach. Small minnows were the hot bait.
Huron River - Water levels were up but anglers were still fishing with good results for bass, catfish and carp. Bluegills were hitting on worms. For crappie, try minnows in the backwaters.
Detroit River - White bass are pretty much gone so walleye are moving back in. The mayfly hatch is in full swing. For walleye, try down near the mouth and fish the deeper pockets or along the weedlines. Some are trolling while others are hand-lining with a jig and wax worm or bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses. Flatfish and small spoons were also taking fish. Perch were biting however the fish seem to be moving towards the big lake. Shore fishing was good for bass and bluegills near Pte. Mouillee.
Lake St. Clair - Anglers continue to catch large muskie when trolling plugs. Bass fishing was good for both boat and shore anglers.
Harbor Beach - Salmon mixed with lake trout have been caught on medium and magnum spoons on offshore boards and downriggers 40 to 80 feet down in waters 60 to 120 feet deep. Try adding tadpole weights to get them down deeper. Lake trout fishing is still good for those using dodgers and spin glows right on the bottom. Try medium and large spoons off downriggers as well. Best colors were glow, purple, pink, yellow and green. Steelhead are being taken on color lines in 60 to 140 feet of water. Walleye fishing is picking up, try off the North wall early morning and late evening casting small body baits and spoons in green, purple, silver and blue. Try trolling north of the harbor in 40 to 60 feet of water with a crawler harness, small spoons or small body baits. Perch fishing was slow however bass and pike were still hitting inside the harbor and close to shore.
Grindstone City - A few walleye along with good numbers of whitefish have been caught by those trolling crawler harnesses or small spoons straight out in 30 to 40 feet of water. Fish were caught but no limits to report. A few walleye were caught by those trolling in shallow waters 12 to 14 feet deep. Bass anglers were picking up a few fish close to shore however most of the smallmouth seem to be moving out to deeper waters.
Saginaw Bay - Walleye are being taken off Knight Road in 5 feet of water. Between Parish Road and the State Park, walleye were caught on crawlers and rapalas in 8 to 10 feet of water. Catch rates were fair at the mouth of the Saginaw River. Good fishing in the early morning off Quanicassee, Fish Point, Bay Park and Thomas Road in 14 to 18 feet of water with crawler harnesses. Good colors were purple, red, silver, blue and copper. Freshwater drum along with smaller catfish have also been caught. Off Sebewaing, walleye fishing was a bit spotty with a few fish caught in the Slot in 14 to 16 feet of water. Better walleye fishing came north of Sebewaing in 18 to 30 feet of water outside Heisterman Island and 12 feet of water outside North Island. Bay Port was hit-or-miss. Pier anglers at Caseville caught light numbers of walleye and smallmouth bass. Carp and catfish were slower.
Saginaw River - Catfish action has been good in Essexville.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Boats trolling in 150 to 200 feet of water have caught trout and salmon. Steelhead were hitting on shrimp. No perch report.
St. Joe River - Is still high and muddy. Catch rates for catfish were good before the storms when using cut bait. Some walleye were also caught when drifting crawlers.
South Haven - Boat anglers were catching trout and salmon in 80 to 120 feet of water. Pier and perch fishing were slow.
Grand Haven - Was producing some nice chinook salmon in the bottom 40 feet of waters 110 to 150 feet deep. Try blue and green magnum spoons with a silver or green flasher/fly combination. Pier anglers caught the occasional steelhead on alewife or shrimp under a bobber. The alewife were hard to catch on certain days. No perch to report.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Some nice flathead catfish have been caught on live suckers and small bluegills along the east wall between the dam and Wealthy Street. Channel cats are hitting on cut bait, leeches or crawlers. A few nice bluegill were caught up near the dam. Northern pike have been caught up and down the river. Walleye action slowed with only a few fish caught in the lower river when bouncing crawlers with a small red jig. Millennium Park had bass hitting top water lures, bluegills hitting leaf worms and crappie hitting on minnows.
Grand River at Lansing - Moore’s Park was still unfishable due to high, muddy water. The North Lansing Dam was producing some big bass and decent size catfish. Bluegills were in 5 to 7 feet of water.
Lake Interstate - Is producing bluegills in the morning.
Lake Ovid - Had good bass fishing and catfish have also been caught on crawlers, bluegills or shrimp. Bluegills were small.
Dean Lake - In Grand Rapids was producing some nice perch. Bass and bluegills were also caught.
Reeds Lake - Bass were hitting on blue and chrome rattle traps fished along the weeds and the drop offs. Fair to good pike and bluegill action.
Muskegon - Is producing some nice chinook salmon for those trolling in 110 to 150 feet of water. Most fish were caught between the bottom and 40 feet. Try blue or green spoons along with silver and green flasher/fly combos. No pier or perch fishing to report.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
Panfishing on Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell has been fun. This is that wonderful time of the year when one can be selective and cull the size, species and number of fish needed for a meal. Most catches have been mixed with mostly gills/sunfish, crappie and perch. Some may include rock bass and bullheads.
When it comes to panfish there’s too many areas to recommend. General starting points on Lake Cadillac are the High School shore line on the northeast side for gills, crappie and bass. The deeper east side for crappie especially around the slab piles.
The west side of Cadillac in front of the Mitchell State Park is another area to consider. Good weed patches with drop offs nearby make cover for panfish and pike looking for their dinner.
The two coves on the west side are the best places to start on Lake Mitchell. Weed beds, some cabbage patches always have gills, crappie and bass. Mitchell has a different personality than Cadillac. It’s shallower, weedier and made for bobber fishing. However, there are several deep holes where many of the predator fish live. chances for catching walleyes are good off the State Park Beach area. Drift or troll crawler harnesses along the east sides deeper depths. No monsters, those caught have been in the 15-16 inch range stocked by the DNR. Finally seeing some numbers caught and also several undersized.
Asian Carp’s Spread Spurs New Calls to Close Locks
CHICAGO—Lawmakers and environmentalists said they would ratchet up pressure on Illinois to block commercial waterways that feed into Lake Michigan after the first discovery of an Asian carp beyond existing barriers.
Fishermen this week discovered an Asian carp beyond an electrical barrier 25 miles south of Lake Michigan that was designed to keep the invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. The nearly three-foot-long, 19.6-pound carp was caught in Lake Calumet in Illinois, about six miles south of Lake Michigan.
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REUTERS
An Illinois state fisheries biologist holds up a bighead carp caught in Lake Calumet this week
Previously, the DNA of Asian carp had been found beyond the electrical blockade, but no actual fish. Biologists, environmentalists and Michigan state officials fear the torpedo-shaped fish, which can grow as big as 100 pounds, will starve out local species and decimate the Great Lakes’ $7 billion sport fishing industry.
The discovery of the fish meant “my worst nightmare had come true,” said Michigan Rep. Dave Camp, a Republican who introduced federal legislation in January to close two locks in the Chicago waterway that feeds into Lake Michigan. “We need to act as soon as possible.”
Mr. Camp’s measure has been stalled in subcommittee, but he said Thursday he will introduce a new measure next week calling for the creation of a new barrier. He declined to elaborate on the proposal.
The shipping industry says closing locks that grant access from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River would deal a blow to the local economy. Flood control in Chicago would also have to be re-engineered.
Illinois officials said it was too early to conclude that Asian carp had penetrated the existing barrier in numbers, because only one fish has been found.
“People can draw whatever conclusions they want. We have to do what we do based on science,” said Chris McCloud, spokesman for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “What we have to do is figure out how that fish got into Lake Calumet.”
Mike White, a spokesman for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, said that while it’s possible the fish slipped past the electrical barrier by itself, the carp may have been released intentionally by a local person as part of an ethnic celebration—a “cultural release,” as he described it.
On Thursday, anglers hired by the Illinois natural-resources department continued to fish Lake Calumet and officials discussed the possibility of placing a giant net in a river connecting Lake Calumet to Lake Michigan. On Wednesday, two commercial fishing boats took in more than 300 fish, and none were Asian carp, Mr. McCloud said.
Mississippi fish farmers imported the species during the 1970s to clean up waste at the bottom of catfish and retention ponds. When flooding hit the region in the 1990s, the fish escaped and began a 20-year voyage up the Mississippi River. Asian carp now make up more than 90% of the biomass in some Midwest rivers.
Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox said this week that he would again take Illinois to court over the matter. The state twice tried to get the U.S. Supreme Court to order Illinois to close the Chicago locks after scientists found carp DNA beyond the barriers. The court declined both times, most recently in March.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Warm Weather coming to get Fish Bite Back on
We have had lots of rain this week with wind and cool temps. The weekend will be warm and will get fish back on the bite. Otsego Lake has a great walleye bite with some perch being caught.
Saginaw Bay -Fishing has been up and down with the weather. Popular sites with boat anglers were 20 to 25 feet of water near the Spark Plug, 12 feet of water near the Callahan Reef, 14 to 18 feet of water near the Slot off Quanicassee and northeast to the outside of the islands. Crawler harnesses worked best in shallow waters while both harnesses and Hot-n-Tots were used in deep water. Good colors were pink, purple, blue, silver, red and copper. Walleye anglers have also caught freshwater drum, catfish, white perch, white bass and yellow perch. Catfish were caught near the cuts and the mouth of the Quanicassee River and the Sebewaing River.
Tittabawasse River -High water has the water flow heavy so look for a few days before the bite is back on
Saginaw River- Good numbers of walleye are still being caught on jigs with crawlers from the mouth upstream to the Independence Bridge. This is a good fall-back option if the bay is too rough for comfort.
Wixom Lake has a great crappie and gill bite. A few pike and walleye also.
Whitehall - Boats reported slow fishing. A couple steelhead were caught off the pier. Water around the pier was a bit cooler and there were a lot of alewife in close. Fish were caught on Cleo’s or alewife.
Houghton Lake -Walleye, bluegills and sunfish have been caught on leeches when fishing along the edge of the weedbeds.
Tawas - Walleye anglers did well when trolling crawler harnesses in 20 to 40 feet of water off Tawas Point and around Buoy #2. Bass anglers did well for smallmouth when sight fishing. Pier fishing was slow with only a few bass and panfish caught.
Oscoda- Great fishing off the mouth of the Ausable River with catfish and walleye the main entree.
Charlevoix - Anglers caught a good number of chinook between the Red Can, Fisherman’s Island and Nine Mile Point when using spoons. Even with all the salmon reported, more lake trout were still being caught. A few bass were taken in the shallows near the cement plant and the Pine River channel when using live or artificial crawlers. Walleye anglers are trying but no fish to report yet.
Traverse City - Heavy rains have depleted fishing success in both the East Bay and the West Bay. Anglers were still fishing however fewer fish were caught.
Portage Lake - The mayfly hatch has peaked so anglers were having a hard time. Largemouth bass are hitting along the weedbeds and around the docks.
Lake Missaukee - Was producing some nice bluegill along the west side of the lake.
Lake Cadillac - The bigger bluegills have moved out to deeper waters. Crappie were scattered but found near the city dock in the early morning or evening. Lots of small pike were caught but those fishing deeper found bigger fish.
Little Bay De Noc - Night anglers were taking the better catches of walleye. Most are trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses along the weeds in 8 to 15 feet of water from the Center Reef and north. Off the Ford River, some large walleye were caught out in the “Fingers” in 10 to 14 feet of water. Fair to good perch fishing north of Butler Island when still-fishing with minnows in 6 to 13 feet of water.
Big Bay De Noc - Had fair to good walleye fishing. Those trolling in the evening caught fish from Kates Bay south to Garden Bluff when trolling crawlers or crank baits in 16 to 22 feet of water. The bay had several large mayfly hatches so many were trolling along the so called “bug lines”. The purple lightening harness was the hot bait. Smallmouth bass action was still good. Try off Ogontz in 8 to 12 feet of water or Porcupine Point and Kates Bay in 12 to 16 feet of water with tube baits, crank baits, crawlers or leeches. Off Fairport, anglers marked good numbers of baitfish and catch rates were picking up. Try 40 to 80 feet down in waters 50 to 120 feet deep.
Indian Lake - Has been experiencing a mayfly hatch. Smaller walleye were caught on harnesses with crawlers and leeches along the west shore and the north end of the lake. Some were fishing the rock pike in the middle of the lake but smaller walleye were caught. Anglers were trolling small rapalas a little faster than usual. Lots of small perch along with a few keepers were caught in front of the State Park. Try different colored jigs with minnows or crawlers. Pike and herring were caught by those trolling however most were small.
Cedarville and Hessel - Northern pike are fair off the Hessel Marina pier and in the bay. Anglers are trolling, casting or still-fishing with minnows. With the early mayfly hatches this year, lake herring are present. Those trolling in 6 to 8 feet of water in Cedarville Bay and Musky Bay have caught some nice perch.
Northwest:
Bear River - Had lots of angler activity with rock bass and smallmouth bass being caught on crawlers. Most of the smallmouth bass were undersize.
Petoskey - Lake trout have been caught in Little Traverse Bay when trolling spoons. A couple whitefish along with a steelhead have also been caught. Bass fishing has picked up with some nice fish caught on tube baits.
Charlevoix - Anglers caught a good number of chinook between the Red Can, Fisherman’s Island and Nine Mile Point when using spoons. Even with all the salmon reported, more lake trout were still being caught. A few bass were taken in the shallows near the cement plant and the Pine River channel when using live or artificial crawlers. Walleye anglers are trying but no fish to report yet.
Torch Lake - Is producing some nice trout.
Lake Skegemog - Muskie fishing is picking up.
Traverse City - Heavy rains have depleted fishing success in both the East Bay and the West Bay. Anglers were still fishing however fewer fish were caught.
Frankfort - Reported good catches both north to the point and south to the Herring Hole. Boats are trolling 45 to 65 feet down in waters 80 to 150 feet deep with orange spoons. For lake trout, fish closer to the bottom. With the mayfly hatch in full swing, steelhead were caught higher in the water column.
Onekama - Anglers are fishing straight out from the lighthouse in 150 to 180 feet of water with lures 10 feet above or below the temperature break. Spoons worked best. Dredging operations are still underway so anglers need to use caution in the channel and watch for workers in the area.
Portage Lake - The mayfly hatch has peaked so anglers were having a hard time. Largemouth bass are hitting along the weedbeds and around the docks.
Lake Missaukee - Was producing some nice bluegill along the west side of the lake.
Lake Cadillac - The bigger bluegills have moved out to deeper waters. Crappie were scattered but found near the city dock in the early morning or evening. Lots of small pike were caught but those fishing deeper found bigger fish.
Manistee - Boat anglers are catching salmon in and around the harbor in the early morning when using glow spoons. Once the sun comes up, boats are heading out to waters 100 to 200 feet deep. Pier anglers have caught trout and salmon when casting spoons or using live bait.
Ludington - Anglers have started catching bigger salmon when trolling in 100 to 200 feet of water off Big Sable Point. Try green spoons or flies 50 to 100 feet down. Pier anglers have also caught fish in the early morning.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Rogers City - Better areas to drop a line were Forty Mile Point, Seagull Point, Adams Point and the State Park. Be sure to watch for commercial fishing nets placed between the State Park and Forty Mile Point. Most of the nets were deeper than 55 feet of water and most boats were fishing the top 45 feet of waters 50 to 80 feet deep. Use downriggers set 25 to 45 feet along with 1-5 colors of lead core off planer boards. A bug hatch was underway which provided good fishing for steelhead. Try orange, green, blue, chartreuse and silver spoons.
Presque Isle - A good mix of fish have been caught around the areas of structure straight out from the port, near Stoneport and between the two lights.
Rockport - Lake trout were right on the bottom in waters 100 to 125 feet deep. Spoons worked well. No Atlantic salmon to report this week.
Alpena - Boaters are fishing out from the launch, around Grass Island, and Sulfur Island. Night anglers were bringing in fish however the bite did slow. Try 15 feet of water with crawler harnesses or perch style body baits. Bass and pike were caught south of the port in Squaw Bay.
Thunder Bay River - Walleye anglers were successful when trolling or drifting crawler harnesses. Some nice bass have been caught off the Ninth Street Bridge.
Hubbard Lake - Walleye fishing was fair but bass fishing was very good.
Harrisville - Lake trout have moved into deeper water 80 to 100 feet deep. Spoons and body baits have worked well in silver, orange and silver or blue and silver. Walleye are being caught just outside the harbor and north to Sturgeon Point in 20 to 40 feet of water. Body baits were the most productive.
Oscoda - Lake trout will be found in 80 to 100 feet of water while steelhead were near the surface in 60 feet of water. Lake trout are suspended 10 to 20 feet off the bottom and hitting on spoons.
Au Sable River - Bass are biting well in Iosco County and trout fishing was good near Mio. Walleye fishing has picked up for those using crawlers or leeches.
Higgins Lake - Rain and strong winds have limited fishing opportunities. Anglers are going out when the weather breaks and fishing for smallmouth bass with crawlers or leeches. Rock bass were also caught on crawlers.
Houghton Lake - Walleye, bluegills and sunfish have been caught on leeches when fishing along the edge of the weedbeds.
Tawas - Walleye anglers did well when trolling crawler harnesses in 20 to 40 feet of water off Tawas Point and around Buoy #2. Bass anglers did well for smallmouth when sight fishing. Pier fishing was slow with only a few bass and panfish caught.
Au Gres - Those trolling caught limits of walleye when the weather cooperated otherwise it was hit-or-miss. The best fishing was down toward Pointe Au Gres in 30 to 40 feet of water. Good numbers of freshwater drum and catfish along with the occasional walleye have been caught.
Au Gres River - Catfish were caught down at the mouth.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Chinook and coho have been caught close to shore. Try 12 to 20 feet down in waters 35 to 55 feet deep. No lake trout report this week.
Ontonagon - Wind, rain, and fog has made fishing difficult. Those able to get out did catch coho and lake trout. Coho were taken a few feet off the bottom in 45 to 65 feet of water and the lake trout were 2 to 4 feet off the bottom in 100 feet of water. There is a well defined mud line in the lake right now so working the edge should produce some fish. Walleye fishing slowed with the onset of muddy water.
Lake Gogebic - Does have walleye and catch rates should only improve.
Keweenaw Bay - Anglers jigging for lake trout found fish in 220 to 270 feet of water out from Big Louie’s Point and near the 7 Mile Reef. Off Gay Point and Hermits Cove, lake trout were found in 135 to 165 feet of water. At the South Portage Entry, good catches of lake trout were reported in 30 to 70 feet of water along Farmers Reef, Big Reef, Newton’s Reef and the Mud Banks. Spoons worked best.
Marquette - Bad weather made for slow fishing. A few lake trout along with occasional coho were caught in the lower harbor near the Carp River. Water temperatures were in the mid to upper 40’s.
Little Bay De Noc - Night anglers were taking the better catches of walleye. Most are trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses along the weeds in 8 to 15 feet of water from the Center Reef and north. Off the Ford River, some large walleye were caught out in the “Fingers” in 10 to 14 feet of water. Fair to good perch fishing north of Butler Island when still-fishing with minnows in 6 to 13 feet of water.
Escanaba River - Had fair to good walleye catches for those jigging or drifting crawlers in 10 to 20 feet of water.
Big Bay De Noc - Had fair to good walleye fishing. Those trolling in the evening caught fish from Kates Bay south to Garden Bluff when trolling crawlers or crank baits in 16 to 22 feet of water. The bay had several large mayfly hatches so many were trolling along the so called “bug lines”. The purple lightening harness was the hot bait. Smallmouth bass action was still good. Try off Ogontz in 8 to 12 feet of water or Porcupine Point and Kates Bay in 12 to 16 feet of water with tube baits, crank baits, crawlers or leeches. Off Fairport, anglers marked good numbers of baitfish and catch rates were picking up. Try 40 to 80 feet down in waters 50 to 120 feet deep.
Indian Lake - Has been experiencing a mayfly hatch. Smaller walleye were caught on harnesses with crawlers and leeches along the west shore and the north end of the lake. Some were fishing the rock pike in the middle of the lake but smaller walleye were caught. Anglers were trolling small rapalas a little faster than usual. Lots of small perch along with a few keepers were caught in front of the State Park. Try different colored jigs with minnows or crawlers. Pike and herring were caught by those trolling however most were small.
Manistique River - Was producing some walleye.
Au Train - Anglers reported good catches of lake trout averaging 3 to 10 pounds. Try north of Au Train Island in 140 to 180 feet of water.
Munising - Few boats have been out. Shore anglers have seen a marginal increase in activity with a few perch caught however catch rates for splake were not good.
Grand Marais - Pier anglers reported slower catch rates for whitefish, might be due to the weather. They are using a single egg. Some have caught coho.
St. Mary’s River - Northern pike and walleye action were good in Brimley Bay when trolling crank baits in 6 to 9 feet of water. Whitefish were caught near Sault Ste. Marie at the Cloverland Electric Plant. Try wax worms just off the bottom.
De Tour - Boats were still trolling both sides of the shipping channel to the #3 can and three miles south of the lighthouse to the area known as ?The Humps’ for lake trout and salmon. Fish were hitting high on orange or green and silver spoons. At Drummond Island, anglers were fishing near the Yacht Club for herring. Try red, pink, or green teardrops with a wax worm.
Cedarville and Hessel - Northern pike are fair off the Hessel Marina pier and in the bay. Anglers are trolling, casting or still-fishing with minnows. With the early mayfly hatches this year, lake herring are present. Those trolling in 6 to 8 feet of water in Cedarville Bay and Musky Bay have caught some nice perch.
St. Ignace - Boats trolling 50 feet down in waters 80 to 100 feet deep have caught chinook and Atlantic salmon on spoons.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Fishing remains hit-or-miss. Walleye were found in 25 feet of water near the Fermi Power Plant. Try crawlers or spoons. Those trolling have also caught white bass, freshwater drum, and catfish. Fishing near Bolles Harbor has slowed in recent days however good reports were coming further south near Turtle Island.
River Raisin - Those shore fishing caught catfish and white bass.
Huron River - Still has fair to good numbers of smallmouth bass being caught.
Lake St. Clair - Is producing some large muskie. Boat anglers were trolling plugs just behind the boat in the prop wash. The bass opener looks to be a good one.
St. Clair River - Walleye were moving up towards Port Huron.
Lexington - Lake trout and salmon are coming from 60 to 70 feet of water. Nice perch were caught in the weed beds about six miles south of town. There will be some sorting to do however the average catch was 20 to 25 nice fish per boat.
Port Sanilac - Few anglers were out however some lake trout were caught.
Harbor Beach - Lake trout fishing is good straight out, north or south of the harbor for those using dodgers or spin glows right on the bottom. Try medium or large spoons off downriggers in 80 to 130 feet of water. Steelhead were caught on offshore boards with 5 and 10 color lead lines and bright colored spoons. Lake trout and pink salmon are making up most of the catch in 70 to 100 feet of water. For walleye, try the north wall in the early morning or late evening. Boats are trolling crawler harnesses. Perch fishing was still slow. Bass and pike were caught inside the harbor and close to shore when casting small body baits or spoons.
Grindstone City - Those trolling are getting walleye in 40 feet of water and lake trout out deeper. Shore anglers are catching smallmouth bass in the harbor.
Port Austin - The boat launch is closed for renovations.
Saginaw Bay - Fishing has been up and down with the weather. Popular sites with boat anglers were 20 to 25 feet of water near the Spark Plug, 12 feet of water near the Callahan Reef, 14 to 18 feet of water near the Slot off Quanicassee and northeast to the outside of the islands. Crawler harnesses worked best in shallow waters while both harnesses and Hot-n-Tots were used in deep water. Good colors were pink, purple, blue, silver, red and copper. Walleye anglers have also caught freshwater drum, catfish, white perch, white bass and yellow perch. Catfish were caught near the cuts and the mouth of the Quanicassee River and the Sebewaing River.
Saginaw River - Good numbers of walleye are still being caught on jigs with crawlers from the mouth upstream to the Independence Bridge. This is a good fall-back option if the bay is too rough for comfort.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Boat anglers trolling in 150 to 200 feet of water have caught trout and salmon. Pier fishing was slow and not much happening in regards to perch.
St. Joe River - With high water levels and low visibility, fishing was slow. Shore anglers caught smallmouth on crank baits. Panfish were caught on live baits.
Big Paw Paw Lake - Was producing some pike.
South Haven - Trout and salmon have been caught in 80 to 120 feet of water when trolling. Perch and pier fishing were slow.
Kalamazoo River - Is producing some walleye and bass.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Water levels are high and muddy. Not many were fishing however those chasing catfish have done well with cut bait, crawlers and large minnows. Some large flatheads have been caught. Those fishing Millennium Park were still taking a fair to good number of bluegills, bass and crappie.
Grand River at Lansing - Moore’s Park Dam was to high and muddy to fish as of this report. The North Lansing Dam was good for smallmouth bass and big carp. Riverfront Park was good for catfish and carp. The Smithville Dam in Eaton Rapids was good for smallmouth bass. Pike and catfish were caught near Lyons.
Lake Lansing - Is producing some bluegill. Those trolling along the weedbeds have caught a few pike on large minnows or body baits.
Lake Ovid - Those trolling have caught some nice muskie on large crank baits or large minnows. The lake also holds some big catfish. Try crawlers or large minnows.
Morrison Lake - Bluegill and crappie have been caught in deeper waters. Try 6 to 10 feet with red worms, wax worms or small twister tail grubs on a jig.
Whitehall - Boats reported slow fishing. A couple steelhead were caught off the pier. Water around the pier was a bit cooler and there were a lot of alewife in close. Fish were caught on Cleo’s or alewife.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
The DNR’s Free Fishing Weekend was hardly noticed this year. A few new to the sport but mostly regular fishermen took advantage of Cadillac’s resources.
Bluegill fishing is still good but it appears we’re on the downside of the spawn. Many are still finding beds with fish while some of the regular spots have faded. Lots of small gills are living in the shallows. Try fishing deeper and weedy areas near where the gills have spawned. Stories of good catches of large ones are coming from 8 to 10 foot depths. The baits are still the same - Leafworms, waxworms, crickets or pieces of crawler. Gills are a favorite because they are easy to catch and taste good.
Many are complaining about catching so many small pike. It’s summer and hammer handles are all over the shallows. Bigger pike, the 30 inch range and above are coming from deeper areas. Deep meaning 10 foot or more. They hit about anything but the local favorite for large pike is spinner baits. Most colors work but white should be the first choice.
This is that wonderful time of the year when limits are expected. Fish dinners become a regular part of the diet.
Occasionally during the day, but for sure at night, bullheads are on the prowl, good numbers can be caught in the canal separating the two lakes. Blacks, browns and yellow belly bullheads, many Master Angler size are caught. Some relax in their lawn chairs and fish the bottom with crawlers or leeches.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan
This coming weekend, Saturday June 12th and Sunday June 13th will be Michigan’s annual Free Fishing Weekend. Both resident and non-residents can fish without a license on these two days however all regulations still apply. For a list of statewide fishing events on this special weekend, click on free fishing events Fish have been biting but rain and wind have kept most off the lakes.
Please mentor a kid this weekend fishing
Saginaw Bay -Anglers have done well when they can get out. Area rivers are swollen and muddy from all the rain so anglers on the bay should move around and find clear water for the best results. Walleye anglers were concentrated around the Spark Plug, Callahan Reef and the Slot. Crawler harnesses continue to catch most of the fish which also included a mix of freshwater drum, channel cats or yellow and white perch. Purple, blue, gold and silver were good colors for crank baits and harness spinners. Pier anglers at Caseville caught a few walleye at night and bass during the day.
Tittabawasse River -Was providing good catch and release smallmouth bass fishing up near the Dow Dam. White bass have also started to show up. Good flow in the river has a few fish biting this week
Saginaw River- Good catfish bite
Wixom Lake has a great crappie and gill bite. A few pike and walleye also.
Portage Lake -This is a good time to catch bass near the docks and around the weed beds. Bluegills were not so active but pike are starting to feed on the surface.
Houghton Lake -The fly hatches are done so the bite has improved. Those trolling crank baits along the weed beds caught walleye. Pike and bass were also along the weed beds in 6 to 8 feet of water. Good live baits were leeches, crawlers and minnows. The crappie are done spawning and have moved to deeper water.
Lake Cadillac Anglers are catching a good mix of panfish including bluegill, rock bass, crappie and perch. Bass anglers are also doing very well. Night anglers have caught some bullhead when fishing crawlers or leeches on the bottom.
Lake Mitchell - Had good fishing for bass and panfish. Pike were hitting from the weed beds.
Big Bay De Noc Anglers fishing in the evening caught walleye off Ansell’s Point in 15 to 20 feet of water and the “Boot” in 12 to 15 feet of water. Most were trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses. Bass anglers found fish in 6 to 14 feet of water as the fish were leaving the beds. Off Fairport, anglers reported several good catches of salmon 45 to 80 feet down in 80 to 120 feet of water.
Little Bay De Noc -The best walleye fishing was in 15 to 20 feet of water north of the Second Reef during the day and in waters less than 15 feet at night. Most fish were sub-legal however 15 to 18 inch fish were caught. Those fishing the southern water reported bigger fish but fewer fish were caught. Most are trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses in 10 to 25 feet of water. Perch fishing was fair in the north end of the bay when drifting or still-fishing crawlers in 15 to 25 feet of water. Good smallmouth action throughout the bay when jigging or casting tube baits or crawlers in 6 to 12 feet of water.
Indian Lake - Had good walleye fishing when drifting along the west shoreline with crawlers or leeches on a harness. Many were small but some nice fish were taken as well. Northern pike were caught on the north end of the lake and yellow perch were caught in front of the State Park when using crawlers. Those trolling for walleye also picked up the occasional lake herring.
Traverse City - Bass anglers did well in the East Bay when using artificial soft plastics along the south end, the drop offs and the sand flats. Lake whitefish are still being caught on the east side and north of Dock Road. Boat anglers were taking a good number of cicso just north of Elk Rapids. Those fishing the bypass caught perch and smallmouth bass when using crawlers and leeches. Good lake trout action in the West Bay when trolling spoons in water less than 50 feet deep along the east side. A few chinook salmon were also caught.
Northwest:
Bear River - Anglers have caught rock bass and smallmouth bass when using crawlers or wax worms.
Petoskey - Anglers fishing Little Traverse Bay have caught lake trout measuring up to 24 inches. A few small chinook salmon were also caught on spoons.
Charlevoix - Small chinook were caught off the Red Can near Medusa when using spoons. Bass were caught in the shallows near Medusa and the Pine River Channel when using live or artificial crawlers.
Traverse City - Bass anglers did well in the East Bay when using artificial soft plastics along the south end, the drop offs and the sand flats. Lake whitefish are still being caught on the east side and north of Dock Road. Boat anglers were taking a good number of cicso just north of Elk Rapids. Those fishing the bypass caught perch and smallmouth bass when using crawlers and leeches. Good lake trout action in the West Bay when trolling spoons in water less than 50 feet deep along the east side. A few chinook salmon were also caught.
Boardman River - Lots of smallmouth bass are being caught near the dam on Union Street when using live crayfish or leeches. Northern pike are hitting on minnows.
Frankfort - Anglers had good luck trolling the Herring Hole and straight out from the lighthouse. Try spoons or meat rigs 60 to 100 feet down in waters 120 to 180 feet deep. May flies are hatching so feeding may be good this weekend. For steelhead, the sum line is out a little ways but those catching fish said the bellies were full of black flies. Baitfish moved into the area and pier anglers were catching brown trout.
Onekama - Dredging has begun at the outlet just west of the lighthouse. Anglers need to use caution and beware of additional markers and workers in the area.
Portage Lake - This is a good time to catch bass near the docks and around the weed beds. Bluegills were not so active but pike are starting to feed on the surface.
Lake Cadillac - Anglers are catching a good mix of panfish including bluegill, rock bass, crappie and perch. Bass anglers are also doing very well. Night anglers have caught some bullhead when fishing crawlers or leeches on the bottom.
Lake Mitchell - Had good fishing for bass and panfish. Pike were hitting from the weed beds.
Manistee - Salmon and trout were caught in the top 60 feet of waters 100 to 200 feet deep. Pier anglers caught brown trout and freshwater drum when using alewife.
Ludington - Salmon and trout have been caught in 50 to 150 feet of water when trolling orange and green spoons. Small salmon and brown trout were caught in front of the harbor.
Pentwater - Salmon fishing slowed this week but a good number of freshwater drum have been caught. Pier anglers caught a few perch.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - Smallmouth bass have been caught in 3 to 8 feet of water. Anglers were trolling for pike in the Pigeon Bay area. A few yellow perch were caught by those drifting with a crawler.
Rogers City - Lake trout fishing is starting to wind down as the fish begin to spread out in the water column and move out deeper. Try spoons in green and blue with silver, chartreuse, and orange from the State Park to Forty Mile Point. A few salmon have also been caught. Those fishing Adams Point caught a few lake trout near the bottom in 50 to 60 feet of water. Try cowbells or dodgers with spin glows.
Presque Isle - Lake trout are scattered. Fish the bottom 15 to 20 feet in waters 30 to 70 feet deep. A lot of small lake trout were caught. Atlantic salmon were still being caught in the top 8 feet when trolling small body baits that look like rainbow trout.
Rockport - Anglers are still catching Atlantic salmon from the pier, about four feet below the surface. Lake trout were caught in the bottom 25 feet of waters 60 feet deep or more. Try chartreuse, fluorescent green and yellow spoons. Those trolling around Middle Island caught fish on dodgers with spin glows.
Alpena - Walleye fishing picked up with many anglers getting their limit. Perch style lures, crawler harnesses, stick baits and bombers all caught fish in 10 to 15 feet of water however the fish were scattered. Try the reef near the cement plant and down to the launch as well as between Grass Island and the pier at Blair Street. Grass Island is three to four miles south of the launch and Blair Street is along US-23 north of the island. Lake trout were caught off the north shore near the “Humps” in 70 feet of water. Chartreuse was the hot color.
Thunder Bay River - Shore anglers are beginning to catch panfish and bass. Hot spots are the bridge on Ninth Street, the shoreline off Rotary Island Park and near the foot bridge. The panfish are small but will keep the young ones busy. The bass are good size this year. Catfish are stacked up at the mouth of the river and are being caught on worms.
Harrisville - Those able to get out have caught lake trout to the north in 50 to 80 feet of water. Most of the lake trout were full of smelt, so use anything that resembles them. A couple steelhead along with chinook and Atlantic salmon were caught in 30 to 40 feet of water with orange and silver spoons or body baits.
Oscoda - Lake trout and a few salmon have been caught in 50 to 65 feet of water. The fish look good and no one color combination was more successful than another.
Au Sable River - Walleye action has picked back up with anglers averaging a couple fish per outing. Crawler harnesses and leeches are working best. The fish look good and catch rates should only get better.
Higgins Lake - When boats can get out, they are trolling just off the bottom for lake trout and whitefish in 100 feet of water. Anglers are catching smallmouth bass in the shallows with crawlers or leeches. Perch anglers are getting fish in 20 to 40 feet of water. Some nice rock bass have also been caught.
Houghton Lake - The fly hatches are done so the bite has improved. Those trolling crank baits along the weed beds caught walleye. Pike and bass were also along the weed beds in 6 to 8 feet of water. Good live baits were leeches, crawlers and minnows. The crappie are done spawning and have moved to deeper water.
Tawas - Walleye anglers trolling in 30 to 40 feet of water off Tawas Point caught fish on crawler harnesses. Bass anglers did well when sight fishing for smallmouth. Pier fishing was slow with a few panfish taken during the day and walleye at night.
Au Gres - Those trolling for walleye have done well in 30 to 40 feet of water between Point Au Gres and Point Lookout. Some limit catches were reported. Bass anglers are doing well around the points and the Charity Islands.
Au Gres River - Was high and muddy.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Fishing is slow close to shore as most fish are being caught in 200 to 300 feet of water. The river might be good in the early morning as fish can be seen feeding on minnows.
Ontonagon - Lake trout fishing was still good with most fish caught on the bottom in 100 feet of water. Walleye fishing is good for those trolling up the river.
Lake Gogebic - Walleye fishing continues to get better. During the day, anglers are trolling the middle of the lake with stick baits. Morning and evening anglers are fishing near the weed beds with jigs and minnows or crawlers.
Keweenaw Bay - Those jigging for lake trout had fair action in 240 to 260 feet of water straight out from Big Louie’s Point. The bite was slower for those trolling. Coho and a few brown trout were also caught near Gay Point. Those fishing near the South Portage Entry did well when trolling in 30 to 70 feet of water.
Marquette - Had fair action for lake trout and a few coho taken by those trolling in the Lower Harbor. Stannard Rock had fair lake trout action.
Little Bay De Noc - The best walleye fishing was in 15 to 20 feet of water north of the Second Reef during the day and in waters less than 15 feet at night. Most fish were sub-legal however 15 to 18 inch fish were caught. Those fishing the southern water reported bigger fish but fewer fish were caught. Most are trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses in 10 to 25 feet of water. Perch fishing was fair in the north end of the bay when drifting or still-fishing crawlers in 15 to 25 feet of water. Good smallmouth action throughout the bay when jigging or casting tube baits or crawlers in 6 to 12 feet of water.
Big Bay De Noc - Anglers fishing in the evening caught walleye off Ansell’s Point in 15 to 20 feet of water and the “Boot” in 12 to 15 feet of water. Most were trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses. Bass anglers found fish in 6 to 14 feet of water as the fish were leaving the beds. Off Fairport, anglers reported several good catches of salmon 45 to 80 feet down in 80 to 120 feet of water.
Indian Lake - Had good walleye fishing when drifting along the west shoreline with crawlers or leeches on a harness. Many were small but some nice fish were taken as well. Northern pike were caught on the north end of the lake and yellow perch were caught in front of the State Park when using crawlers. Those trolling for walleye also picked up the occasional lake herring.
Au Train - Lake trout were caught north of the island and near the shipping channel.
Munising - Not many anglers but those going out have caught the occasional chinook and lake trout when trolling around Grand Island and Wood Island. Pier and dock fishing was slow with only a couple splake caught when still-fishing with natural baits or casting spoons and spinners.
Little Beaver Lake - In Alger County was producing walleye and northern pike.
Grand Marais - Had fair catches of small lake trout in the area near the shipping channel. Some whitefish were caught in the early morning hours however the bigger fish were caught at night on a single egg.
St. Mary’s River - Some nice walleye were caught in Little Lake George when trolling bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses. Those fishing the weed beds in Raber Bay also caught walleye. The fly hatches are coming early to the Eastern Upper Peninsula, so the herring may be showing up soon.
De Tour - Boats are trolling both side of the shipping channel, out to the #3 can and three miles out to the “Humps”. Fish were hitting 45 to 55 feet down on green and silver or green and gold spoons.
Cedarville and Hessel - Those fishing Cedarville Bay and Musky Bay are trolling for yellow perch in 10 to 12 feet of water with minnows and worms. Fly hatches are taking place in the Moscoe Channel, so the herring will be there soon. Pike were caught off the pier at Hessel in the early morning when using large minnows. A few perch were also caught. Good smallmouth bass action for those casting.
St. Ignace - The two fish cleaning stations are now open. Chinook have been caught about a mile out from the new lighthouse. Try 50 feet down in 90 feet of water with green spoons. Those wading at the primitive launch west of the bridge have caught northern pike on orange and silver spinners or green and orange stick baits.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Boat anglers need to be careful near the shoreline due to floating and submerged debris from the recent storms. Anglers found walleye in 20 to 25 feet of water near the Fermi Power Plant, 22 feet of water near Bolles Harbor, and out deeper near the Ohio line. Spoons and crawler harnesses were producing fish. The May flies are hatching and a good number of fish were feeding off them near the surface. Largemouth bass were caught in the channels near Bolles Harbor.
Huron River - Water levels were high however anglers were still fishing. Fair to good numbers of smallmouth have been caught but the run of white bass is just about done. Bluegills were caught up near the dam at Flat Rock. Those fishing the backwaters caught crappie and muskie.
Port Sanilac - Those out trolling caught lake trout, pink salmon, and occasional steelheads in 80 to 110 feet of water when using spoons, dodgers and squid.
Harbor Beach - Lake trout anglers have also caught a mix of chinook, coho and pink salmon when using medium and large spoons off the boards and downriggers 30 to 70 feet down in waters 70 to 130 feet deep. Limits of lake trout were caught right on the bottom when using dodgers and spin glows. Hot colors were yellow, green, black, pink with white dots, or anything that glows. Steelhead were taken with offshore boards, 5 and 10 color lines with bright colored spoons in 90 to 120 feet of water. Perch fishing was slow but should pick up soon. Try near the lighthouse and along the channel with minnows or crawlers. Near the Cemetery, try 20 to 40 feet of water. Walleye fishing was slow, try off the north wall in the early morning or late evening when casting small body baits and spoons or trolling in 18 to 40 feet of water with crawler harnesses, small spoons or body baits. Bass and pike were caught inside the harbor and close to shore when casting small body baits or spoons.
Saginaw Bay - Anglers have done well when they can get out. Area rivers are swollen and muddy from all the rain so anglers on the bay should move around and find clear water for the best results. Walleye anglers were concentrated around the Spark Plug, Callahan Reef and the Slot. Crawler harnesses continue to catch most of the fish which also included a mix of freshwater drum, channel cats or yellow and white perch. Purple, blue, gold and silver were good colors for crank baits and harness spinners. Pier anglers at Caseville caught a few walleye at night and bass during the day.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Salmon and trout have been caught in 70 to 160 feet of water when trolling.Perch fishing is just getting started with a few fish caught in 35 to 40 feet of water. Pier fishing was slow.
St. Joe River - Fishing pressure was low because water levels are high and muddy.
South Haven - Salmon and trout have been caught in 90 to 120 feet of water when trolling. Perch were caught in 60 to 70 feet of water.
Grand Haven - Pier anglers are catching very few perch and steelhead. Alewives are being used for bait. Boat anglers are catching only light numbers of salmon and trout in the bottom 40 feet of waters 120 to 170 feet deep. Lake trout were on the bottom. Spoons are being used in the higher depths or flasher/fly combos in the lower depths. Good colors for spoons were green, blue and orange or green and white for flashers and flies. Most boats were fishing north of the port.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Water levels were up after all the rain but anglers are still catching fish. Walleye have been caught on crawler harnesses or twister tails. Catfish are active and hitting on soft shell crabs, crawlers or cut bait. Millennium Park is a good place to catch nice bluegills, crappie and bass.
Grand River at Lansing - Moore’s Park continues to produce some nice catfish and a few walleye. Cats are hitting on chicken liver and crawlers. Some nice catfish have been caught below the North Lansing Dam and over near Portland. Try large minnows, crawlers, crayfish or cut bait. Bluegills and rock bass were in the shallows and hitting on red worms or wax worms.
Lake Ovid - Bluegills were in the shallows. Anglers were catching crappie, catfish and the occasional muskie. Look for bass along the weed beds.
Morrison Lake - Bluegills were still hitting on red worms. Crappie should be done spawning and moving out to deeper waters.
Sessions Lake - Bluegills were in the shallows.
Muskegon - Boat anglers are catching a few salmon and trout in the bottom 40 feet of waters 120 to 170 feet deep. Lake trout were on the bottom. Try spoons high in the water column or flasher/fly combos in the lower. No pier or perch fishing.
Whitehall - Salmon fishing slowed this week with fewer and smaller fish caught. Some perch were caught off the piers but no limit catches reported. Lots of freshwater drum have been caught.
White Lake - Those fishing the west side of the lake and into the channel have caught a fair to good number of bass.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
A week ago sales in sun screen flourished. This weekend raincoats were the hot item. Regardless, the fish are cooperating.
Those fishing panfish are very happy. Bluegills, sunfish, crappie, rock bass and perch have all been hungry. Most live nets we’ve seen have been mixed with several species.
This is that wonderful time of the year when limits are expected. Fish dinners become a regular part of the diet.
Occasionally during the day, but for sure at night, bullheads are on the prowl, good numbers can be caught in the canal separating the two lakes. Blacks, browns and yellow belly bullheads, many Master Angler size are caught. Some relax in their lawn chairs and fish the bottom with crawlers or leeches.