Curly's Photo and Fishing Blog
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Warm Up is Welcomed
The coldest temp I heard in Lower Mich was 34 below in Grayling. This really screwed up fishing the last few days as it was too brutal to go fishing, then the snow put slush back on the ice. Fishing has been slow as many report you can go out for two days and not get a bite then bam fishing is awesome. Smelt fishing is ok and perch are being caught on Higgins and Crystal Lake.
Michigan’s largest winter festival takes place on January 28-30th. It’s the Diamond Anniversary +1 and promises to be bigger and better than ever before! Bookmark this site to keep up to date with all the activities planned for 2011. So starting making plans for the best fun that winter has to offer - Tip-Up-Town USA in wonderful Houghton Lake!
Avoid those areas near pressure cracks as well as inlets or outlets. Dead and distressed gizzard shad are still present in Saginaw Bay, Saginaw River, Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, Detroit River and their tributaries. The die-off is considered to be a natural kill and the Fisheries Division is aware of the situation.
Higgins Lake is still reporting a good perch bite with perch from 8 to 12 inches. Higgins Lake has not had perch this size in many years. Many are fishing off of Sam-O-Set Park using waxworms, wigglers and perch minnows. Fisherman are reporting they are biting real lite so spring bobbers a must. Many are fishing in 12 to 20 feet of water and look for weeds. Also the south-end of Higgins has a good perch bite so look for the crowds and weeds. Also the lakers and whitefish are biting with many happy anglers catching fish.
Many lakes have slowed down this week with the cold front, and the snow on the ice. Dave on Houghton Lake reports things have slowed for two days then they bite so there is no pattern right now and hopes the warm-up gets the fish biting. He has shanties to rent this weekend call 989-422-5230
Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Green Lake by Interlochen is producing smelt off the music camp, glow hali’s tipped with spikes and waxworms working best. Also the last few days lights are a must. Fisherman are getting out on the south access by the out let of the Little Betsie and doing good
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee -Was good for panfish and pike were hitting on tip-ups with a variety of minnows.
Cadillac Area: Lake Cadillac - Catch rates were slow but should pick up with the warmer temperatures. For pike, some are using tip-ups while others are spearing. A few walleye and black crappie were caught mainly in the early morning or evening. Lake Mitchell - Has pike, walleye, crappie and bluegill. Catch rates are usually better through the week when there is less traffic on the ice.
Fife Lake they are catching perch,pike and some gills on waxworms.
Elk Lake has some brave soulds venturing out for Lake trout.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Big Glen has many trying but nobody id reporting any good bite as just a few perch being caught..
Lake Leelanau hasslowed on perch and walleye bite on the south end with some trout and walleye coming off the north-end. For bigger bluegills, try the south lake. Call the Fishook for the latest bite @ 231-256-9496
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch but the catch the catch rate has slowed this week.
Portage lake is safe with some pike being caught with some perch and walleye. Hoping the perch start biting soon
Skegemog is producing perch with many small ones nowand big pike with wigglers and perch minnows working best for the perch.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few big walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Lake Charlevoix - Walleye have been caught in the South Arm. Pike numbers appear to be on the increase as well as the overall size. Tip-ups with live bait seem to be working the best.
Intermediate Lake - In Antrim County also has walleye anglers targeting the south end of the lake.
Manistee River -Not a lot of reports have come in since the return of arctic weather. Those brave enough to head out should still find some steelhead to catch.
Some are starting to get back out on Mullet, Black and Burt but be very careful.
Spider and Arbutus Lake by TC have been good for panfish
Haymarsh Lakes - In Mecosta County, were producing limit catches of bluegill.
Crystal Lake is froze many verturing out to the perch grounds and catching some nice perch.
Hamlin Lake - Should also be giving up bluegill, crappie and perch. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows. For walleye, try just south of the Narrows and fish early morning or late evening.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Higgins Lake -Smelt have been caught in the evening along the west side of the lake between Big Creek and the North State Park. The fish are suspended in 30 to 40 feet of water. Lake trout and whitefish are still in the North Bay in 80 to 100 feet of water. Try gray shiners for lake trout or wax worms and wigglers for whitefish. Those pike spearing off Sam-O-Set Park have taken fish in 15 to 18 feet of water. Perch were also caught in the same area in 20 to 40 feet of water however anglers will need to sort out the small ones. Perch can still be found off Point Detroit and Flag Point.
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught. Still has good walleye action along the north shore and in the East Bay in 8 to 11 feet of water along the drop. Pike action is also good on the south end when using tip-ups. Panfish are hard to find and the bite is slow. Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230. Also he has started to rent shanties this week so give him a call. Also Dave got a shipment of Otter shanties in for sale.
Tawas - Fishing was slow but perch anglers were still targeting waters 15 to 20 feet deep and 20 feet for walleye. Pike spearing was slow because of muddy water.
Lake Margrethe has ice and the fishing has slowed for perch, and afew walleye and pike are being caught..
Otsego Lake off the state park has been good for pike, perch, and some are trying there luck for strugeon Bradford Lake a few are getting out perch fishing. Chub lake trout have been biting on blues
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught
Black Lake - Was producing some nice perch but catch rates were slow. A few muskie were also caught..
Wixom Lake has slowed with many fishing off the access site reporting catches of gills and pike. Crappie have started to bite.
Grand Lake - Is producing some perch and panfish. For pike and walleye, try tip-ups in Whiskey Bay or Black Bass Bay.
Long Lake - Try tip-ups with a minnow on the bottom for northern pike. Those looking for perch will want to fish along the north and south shores.
Mullett Lake - Ice conditions are generally good; however, there are a few pressure cracks starting to form. Anglers should avoid those areas near the pressure cracks. A few perch were caught on minnows and wigglers in 25 to 40 feet of water. Spearing for pike and musky was slow and no reports on walleye.
Hubbard Lake - Is producing a few walleye.
McCollum Lake - In Oscoda County, is producing good numbers of panfish.
Sugar Springs, Wiggins and Pratt Lake have been good for pike and a few gills being caught.
Secord Lake has had a good bite this winter for big crappie and pike.
Upper Peninsula
Lake Gogebic - Is producing some walleye. Most anglers were taking one or two legal size fish.
Keweenaw Bay - Steelhead and menominee are being caught on the east side near L’Anse. A few smelt were taken at the head of the bay.
Menominee River - The bite has been slow with few fish caught.
Little Bay De Noc - Has ice north of the Narrows and south towards the Escanaba River, however; ships are still moving in and out of the southern bay. This area is very dangerous and should be avoided. Walleye fishing was slow but has picked up in recent days. Many are fishing late evening along the First, Second and Center Reefs. Try tip-ups with sucker minnows in 18 to 25 feet of water. Good catches off the east bank near Kipling for day anglers jigging rapalas with minnows or tip-ups in 16 to 35 feet of water. Same area had fair to good perch catches using minnows. Bigger walleye were caught off the Terrace Bay Inn and south to the Escanaba River when using tip-ups with sucker minnows in 25 to 32 feet of water. Good perch action off the Center Reef when jigging minnows in 16 to 30 feet of water. Most of the fish were running 10 inches or bigger.
Munising - Ice is forming in the bay. Whitefish and splake have been caught.
Indian Lake - Ice conditions are poor near the mouth of the Indian River, just north of the beach on the west shore, and both north and south of the Lange’s Boat Launch. Anglers are advised to stay in the area where other anglers are and not venture towards any of the areas mentioned above. Also be careful near the large pressure crack running north and south right down the middle of the lake. The gates at the dam have been closed so water levels are down. Those drilling holes near the rock pile need to be careful. More walleye and pike were caught on the north end in waters up to 10 feet deep. Try tip-ups with 2 inch minnows, or for walleye, try a Swedish Pimple with or without a minnow. A fair to good number of perch were still being caught off the northeast corner. Most were 6 to 7 inches however a few bigger ones were also caught.
Munuscong Bay - Walleye catches have slowed. The fish are scattered and can be found as deep as 30 feet. Perch fishing was also slow, try shallow waters 3 to 6 feet deep.
Cedarville and Hessel - Cold weather had a negative impact on catch rates. Persistent anglers are catching perch along the far eastern side or the west side of Hessel Bay in 6 to 14 feet of water. Wigglers and minnows worked best. Fishing in Musky Bay has slowed but more ice shanties are popping up. Fair catches of perch were reported by some when using wigglers, wax worms or minnows.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Anglers are heading out to deep water to fish for walleye in Brest Bay; however few reports have come in. Some are still fishing for bluegills in the Metro Park Marina and around the Banana Dike.
Huron River - Still has shelf ice with only a thin stream of open water down the middle.
Detroit River - Perch anglers are still ice fishing in Airport Bay and the open waters in the marina at Gibraltar.
Lake St. Clair - Watch for thin ice way out and near the Clinton River where the current affects the freezing process. Perch fishing was hit-or-miss.
Lexington - Anglers are out but catch rates were spotty. Most of the perch were small but a few bigger ones were also caught. More rainbow trout were caught by those using jigs and teardrops with minnows or wax worms.
Saginaw Bay - Those heading out five miles off Palmer Road caught some walleye in 12 to 18 feet of water. Small perch were caught closer to shore. Off Linwood, perch anglers caught fish a mile out and walleye were caught in the Black Hole in 20 feet of water. Near Quanicassee, perch were caught off Vanderbilt Park. A few walleye were caught 12 miles off Thomas Road and perch near Tietz Drain. A lot of anglers at Bay Port and Mud Creek, but catch rates for perch were spotty. At Caseville, a couple lake trout were taken near the breakwall.
Tittabawassee River - Is ice covered however ice conditions are poor. No fishing activity at this time.
Saginaw River - Ice conditions were improving some. Most of the walleye caught were sublegal but a few keepers were reported. Small walleye were the common catch between the mouth and Saginaw. A few perch were caught from the mouth to the Independence Bridge.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - Steelhead fishing has been good below the Berrien Springs Dam. Warmer weather this week should help reduce shelf ice.
Coldwater Lakes - Are producing some bluegills in the early morning or evening.
Gull Lake - Smelt, yellow perch, and lake trout are being caught.
Gun Lake - Had fair to good bluegill fishing.
Duck Lake - In Calhoun County, is producing bluegills in the early morning in 10 to 15 feet of water.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead have been caught below the Sixth Street Dam. Watch for shelf ice.
Grand River at Lansing - A lot of pike have been caught on minnows below the dams at Moore’s Park and North Lansing. Walleye were caught at both locations.
Jordan Lake - Perch and bluegills were caught just off the bottom.
Lake Lansing - Is producing a lot of pike on tip-ups with sucker minnows. Most of the fish are running small but anglers are having fun.
Muskrat Lake - Had decent bluegill and crappie action. Look for bluegill straight out from the boat launch and crappie along the drop-off on the west side of the lake in 10 to 16 feet of water.
Muskegon River - Some walleye were caught in the Hardy Dam Pond. Those spearing pike reported good success with some nice fish taken.
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
It’s not first ice any more! We’re experiencing the coldest temperatures of the year. It’s windy , snowy and we’re having trouble keeping our holes open. The fish are there but it’s been difficult catchng them.
The 80/20 rule is in effect. Twenty percent of the fishermen catch 80% of the fish regardless of conditions.
Those with electronics all mark fish but getting them to bite is another story. Anglers with underwater cameras are just as flustrated. We see them, mark them, but are catching few.
Even out favorite, the northern pike are tripping tip-ups, running a short distance then dropping the baits. Those using quick strike rigs have curred the problem by setting the hooks right away. Those waiting for the pike to swallow the bait, then set the hook are coming up empty.
Often when we mark them, the crappie and gills seem to cluster around our baits - almost motionless, but not biting. They don’t want to chase a bait or even seem interested. Sometimes using tiny micro jigs tipped with a single maggot will entice them to bite. Try a very smooth, suttle jig. At times they’ll even inhale a bait but not move, just suspend there. There’s no movement at all on your rod or spring bobber. Without electronics or a camera you’ll never know they’re there. A different color jig will often make a difference. It’s time to experiment.
These conditions are not unique to Cadillac and Mitchell. Other area lakes are experiencing the same conditions. Soon the storms will pass. The baromiter will change and we’ll be back to normal.
Lyman’s Ice Shanty Rental
Our shanties are located on the South Shore
weedbed of Houghton Lake.
Northern Pike are very good and the occasional Walleye will be caught in this location.
Shanty rental includes transportation to and from the shanty and a propane heater.
Reservations are recommended.
Rates
From 7:00 am till 7:00 pm. With heat and transportation out there.
2 Man $35.00
4 Man $40.00
6 Man $50.00
Sleeper Shanty Sunday-Friday $80.00 Friday And Saturday $100.00
From 8am/8am
NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEATHER
Jan 27 Tonight
Snow flurries early. Cloudy with a few snow showers possible late at night. Low 22F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Jan 28 Tomorrow
Intermittent flurries and snow showers, especially early. High near 25F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Jan 28 Tomorrow night
Snow likely. Low 21F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. 1 to 2 inches of snow expected.
Jan 29 Saturday
A few snow showers. Highs in the low 20s and lows in the mid teens.
Jan 30 Sunday
Cloudy with flurries. Highs in the low 20s and lows in the mid teens.
Jan 31 Monday
Snow showers at times. Highs in the upper teens and lows in the upper single digits.
Feb 1 Tuesday
A few snow showers. Highs in the upper teens and lows in the upper single digits
.
Feb 2 Wednesday
A few snow showers. Highs in the low teens with temperatures nearly steady overnite.
Feb 3 Thursday
Mostly Cloudy. Highs in the low 20s and lows in the mid teens.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Tip Up Town Weekend
Michigan’s largest winter festival takes place on January 21st-23rd, and 28-30th. It’s the Diamond Anniversary +1 and promises to be bigger and better than ever before! Bookmark this site to keep up to date with all the activities planned for 2011. So starting making plans for the best fun that winter has to offer - Tip-Up-Town USA in wonderful Houghton Lake!
Safety issues are still a concern for ice anglers and those heading out need to use extreme caution. Avoid those areas near pressure cracks as well as inlets or outlets. Dead and distressed gizzard shad are still present in Saginaw Bay, Saginaw River, Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, Detroit River and their tributaries. The die-off is considered to be a natural kill and the Fisheries Division is aware of the situation.
Higgins Lake is reporting a good perch bite with perch from 8 to 12 inches. Higgins Lake has not had perch this size in many years. Many are fishing off of Sam-O-Set Park using waxworms, wigglers and perch minnows. Fisherman are reporting the are biting real lite so spring bobbers a must. Many are fishing in 12 to 20 feet of water and look for weeds. Also the south-end of Higgins has a good perch bite so look for the crowds and weeds. Also the lakers and whitefish are biting with many happy anglers catching fish.
Many lakes have slowed down this week with the cold front, and the snow on the ice. Dave on Houghton Lake reports things have slowed the last two days, but the pike are biting on golden shiners, also he has shanties to rent this weekend call 989-422-5230
Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Green Lake by Interlochen is producing smelt off the music camp, glow hali’s tipped with spikes and waxworms working best. Also the last few days lights are a must.
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee - Has ice and anglers are doing well on panfish. Some limit catches were reported. Pike have been taken on tip-ups and by spear.
Cadillac Area: he Coves on Lake Mitchell are one of the best places to start if you’re looking for panfish, by pass the shallow water. Best catches of crappie, gills and keeper size perch are coming from depths of 10 foot and deeper. Find the holes surrounded by weeds and you’ll cash in. There are scattered cabbage beds through out both coves.
Crappie have been hitting on small minnows, their favorite- but red spikes are also working. Often they’re suspended severasl feet off the bottom.
Some where in time the perch have grown. Reports of 8 to 10 inchers from Mitchell. No limits, but a hand full in a pail. Mostly caught by the crappie anglers fishng on the bottom.
Bluegills are running hand sized and are biting waxworms or spikes. You may have to tease them into biting by using tiny dark colored jigs. They’ve been fussy. We catch our share of gills on Cadillac and Mitchell, but Lake Missaukee has the reputation for the best bluegill lake in our area.
Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Big Glen a few getting out but no reports yet.
Lake Leelanau has a good perch and walleye bite on the south end with some trout and walleye coming off the north-end. For bigger bluegills, try the south lake.
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch but the catch the catch rate has slowed this week.
Portage lake is safe with some pike being caught with some perch and walleye. They have a fishing contest there this week
Skegemog is producing some nice catches of perch and big pike with wigglers and perch minnows working best for the perch.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Lake Charlevoix - Anglers are fishing the South Arm for walleye.
Intermediate Lake - In Antrim County also has walleye anglers targeting the south end of the lake.
Manistee River -Not a lot of reports have come in since the return of arctic weather. Those brave enough to head out should still find some steelhead to catch.
Some are starting to get back out on Mullet, Black and Burt but be very careful.
Spider and Arbutus Lake by TC have been good for panfish
Haymarsh Lakes - In Mecosta County, were producing limit catches of bluegill.
Crystal Lake is froze but be very careful as the ice is not safe yet.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Higgins Lake -Anglers still need to use extreme caution near the boat launch on the west side of the lake. Since vehicles went through the ice, it is no longer consistent and needs more time to refreeze. Smelt have been caught in the evenings in 30 to 40 feet of water off the North State Park and Elm Avenue. Lake trout and whitefish are just off the bottom in 100 feet of water in the North Bay. For lake trout try tip-ups with sand kickers or jigging. For whitefish, anglers are jigging or tight line fishing. For yellow perch, try 20 to 60 feet of water off Sam-O-Set Park, south of Detroit Point, the beach south of Flag Point, or near B & B Marina.
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught. Still has good walleye action along the north shore and in the East Bay in 8 to 11 feet of water along the drop. Pike action is also good on the south end when using tip-ups. Panfish are hard to find and the bite is slow. Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230. Also he has started to rent shanties this week so give him a call. Also Dave got a shipment of Otter shanties in for sale.
Tawas - Perch fishing is spotty in Tawas Bay but a few nice fish were taken in 20 feet of water when using Swedish Pimples and wigglers. Catch rates for walleye were slow. Pike spearing was also slow as anglers report the fish are not moving much.
Lake Margrethe has ice and the fishing has been very good for perch, a few walleye and pike.
Otsego Lake off the state park has been good for pike, perch, and some are trying there luck for strugeon Bradford Lake a few are getting out perch fishing. Chub lake trout have been biting on blues
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught.
Wixom Lake has slowed with many fishing off the access site reporting catches of gills and pike. Crappie have started to bite.
Grand Lake - Had good ice fishing with anglers catching some nice perch along with a few walleye.
Long Lake - Try tip-ups with a minnow on the bottom for northern pike. Those looking for perch will want to fish along the north and south shores.
Mullett Lake - Is producing some yellow perch and though many were small, a few bigger fish were also showing up. The south and east side were more productive than the north end. There was also a report of the occasional rainbow trout caught. Those spearing have not had much luck.
Hubbard Lake - Is producing a few walleye.
McCollum Lake - In Oscoda County, is producing good numbers of panfish.
Sugar Springs, Wiggins and Pratt Lake have been good for pike and a few gills being caught.
Secord Lake has had a good bite this winter for big crappie and pike.
Upper Peninsula
Lake Gogebic - Is yielding fair catches of walleye and perch at dusk.
Little Bay De Noc - Ice conditions were favorable north of the Narrows. WARNING…. In Escanaba, from the lighthouse south is open water. There has been ship traffic through the bay recently, and with the high winds the ice has blown out leaving this area with open water, so anglers are advised to stay north of the Escanaba River. Overall fishing did slow however the better walleye bite was off the Center Reef at night when using glow jigs or tip-ups with minnows in 18 to 24 feet of water and out from the Terrace Bay Inn in 25 to 30 feet of water at dusk. Several large northern pike were also caught. Perch anglers have been moving around to find fish but catch rates were spotty. A few fish were taken off the east side of Butler Island in 10 to 14 feet of water.
Indian Lake - Ice conditions are still poor near the mouth of the Indian River, just north of the West Shore beach (Silver Creek), and both north and south of the boat Launch in Lange’s Bay. Ice anglers are advised to stay in the area where all the anglers are and not venture to other areas. There is still a large pressure crack running north and south down the middle of the lake. Perch are running 6 to 10 inches but most are on the smaller end of the measuring stick. Try jigging or tip-ups with minnows. Walleye catches were slow but a few fish were caught on Swedish Pimples with a minnow or perch rigs. Most of the shanties are set up in the northeast section of the lake near the golf course or further north.
Munuscong Bay - Perch and pike are scattered throughout the bay. Try 3 to 8 feet of water with minnows.
Drummond Island - Is producing good numbers of perch off Grape Island, James Island and Rutland Island.
Cedarville and Hessel - Conditions have improved here however anglers should stay away from the points. Hessel Bay had some good perch and pike fishing for those using minnows and wigglers. Perch were averaging 9 inches in Musky Bay. Try 8 to 12 feet of water with wigglers and wax worms.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Bluegills were caught in the Metro Park Marina. Try small teardrops with spikes or wax worms. Perch are there but the bite is slow. Those heading out to the Banana Dike have caught perch however this trip is 3 miles out. Anglers have moved out to 19 feet of water in Brest Bay for walleye however no reports yet.
Huron River - Has shelf ice which is not safe for boat anglers.
Detroit River - Perch have been caught around Gibraltar, Horse Island and Airport Bay. Some panfish were caught in the marina at Wyandotte.
Lake St. Clair - Has lots of ice fishing for perch however the action was spotty. Some are catching keepers, others are catching small fish only, and some are not catching much of anything.
Lexington - Reported slow fishing.
Saginaw Bay - Lots of fishing activity but success was spotty. Ice conditions are variable out on the bay, so anglers are advised to be cautious. There are a lot of active pressure cracks, especially on the west side of the inner bay. Snow could make it harder to see areas of poor ice, so anglers need to be extra careful out there. Gizzard shad continue their winter die-off. In general, perch fishing is spotty with lots of sorting to do. It is still worth giving it a try as anglers manage good catches here and there. Try moving around frequently until you find an active school of bigger fish. Lots of anglers off Pine River and Palmer Roads but catch rates were spotty. Keeper perch were 6 to 9 inches. No walleye to report. Some are taking the occasional perch in 3 to 5 feet of water off White’s Beach, and some walleye about 3 miles out. Anglers are just starting to venture out off Erickson Road, but use extreme caution due to the active pressure crack. Perch and walleye were caught off the mouth of the Saginaw River however many of the fish were small. Near Quanicassee, a few perch were taken in shallow waters off Vanderbilt Park, but the walleye anglers were heading out about 5 miles where the action was hit-or-miss. Those fishing off Tietz Drain and Thomas Road were going out 5 to 11 miles however extreme caution needs to be used. Perch fishing was spotty from the Sebewaing VFW north to Mud Creek. Perch and bluegills were caught in the Sebewaing Marina. Walleye fishing in the Slot was just getting underway. Slow fishing at Port Austin and the Pigeon River.
Saginaw River - Lots of sorting out the small ones for both perch and walleye from the mouth upstream to the Independence Bridge in Bay City. Catch rates were dominated by sublegal walleye 11 to 14 inches which are present in large numbers. The same is true upstream from Bay City to Saginaw. These small walleye indicate the strength of the natural reproduction now taking place in Saginaw Bay.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
Fishing for bluegills has slowed in this area of the state however morning and evening were still the best time to fish. Ice conditions continue to be variable. Some areas have received a lot of snow which insulates the ice and stops the freezing process. Extreme caution needs to be used.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead action was very slow. Anglers will want to go with light line and a jig with wax worms or a small spawn bag. Some walleye are still being caught.
Grand River at Lansing - Look for a few walleye over at Moore’s park. Pike were caught below the North Lansing Dam.
Lake Lansing - Is still good for pike fishing. Most are using tip-ups with sucker minnows or golden shiners. Bluegill and crappie were caught on wax worms, spikes and minnows. Largemouth bass have also been caught but that season is closed.
Park Lake - Had fair to good bluegill fishing. Try neon wax worms. Some nice crappies were caught on minnows and wigglers. Try about halfway down in deeper water.
Lake Ovid - Anglers are ice fishing however few reports have come in. For bluegill and crappie, try near the islands or the beach.
Sessions Lake - Is still producing bluegills, crappie and the occasional walleye. Better crappie and walleye fishing at dusk and dawn.
Crystal Lake - In Montcalm County is usually good for winter bluegill, perch and crappie. For perch, try minnows, wigglers or butter worms.
Reeds Lake - Anglers will want to avoid the area on the northwest end of the lake near the channel. The ice was not safe. Small perch were hitting on minnows, spikes and wax worms, but the fish were small. Good crappie action after dark about halfway down in 40 feet of water with minnows or wax worms.
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 Coves on Lake Mitchell are one of the best places to start if you’re looking for panfish, by pass the shallow water. Best catches of crappie, gills and keeper size perch are coming from depths of 10 foot and deeper. Find the holes surrounded by weeds and you’ll cash in. There are scattered cabbage beds through out both coves.
Crappie have been hitting on small minnows, their favorite- but red spikes are also working. Often they’re suspended severasl feet off the bottom.
Some where in time the perch have grown. Reports of 8 to 10 inchers from Mitchell. No limits, but a hand full in a pail. Mostly caught by the crappie anglers fishng on the bottom.
Bluegills are running hand sized and are biting waxworms or spikes. You may have to tease them into biting by using tiny dark colored jigs. They’ve been fussy. We catch our share of gills on Cadillac and Mitchell, but Lake Missaukee has the reputation for the best bluegill lake in our area.
Thinking walleye.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Fishing Report for 1-13-11
We have safe ice most places with a few deep lakes still not safe. Most are reporting a good bite most places with. Anglers have reported seeing large numbers of small dead or distressed fish at various locations around the state, but most notably in Saginaw Bay, the Saginaw River, Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair River, the lower Rouge River, and Lake Erie. These fish are gizzard shad, a forage fish that is seasonally important in the diet of walleye and many other sport fish. They hatch out in astronomical numbers, especially during hot summers and a large number of the young fish that hatch are not hardy enough to survive their first winter. The die-off is the result of natural conditions and has been well documented over many years.
Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Green Lake by Interlochen is producing smelt off the music camp, glow hali’s tipped with spikes and waxworms working best.
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee - Has ice and anglers are doing well on panfish. Some limit catches were reported. Pike have been taken on tip-ups and by spear.
Cadillac Area: Lake Cadillac -Fishing has been running hot and cold. One day everyone does well with limits or near limits of their targeted species. The next day you may not believe there’s a fish in the lakes. The pattern for success has been early mornings - starting in the dark, slower bite through the day and picking up again late afternoons. Panfish are coming from both lakes with anglers focusing on the Coves on Mitchell or The Causeway on the west side of Cadillac. Limits are not uncommon.
Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Lake Leelanau has a good perch and walleye bite on the south end with some trout and walleye coming off the north-end. For bigger bluegills, try the south lake.
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch but the catch the catch rate has slowed this week.
Portage lake is safe with some pike being caught with some perch and walleye. They have a fishing contest there this week
Skegemog is producing some nice catches of perch and big pike with wigglers working best.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Lake Charlevoix - Anglers are fishing the South Arm for walleye.
Intermediate Lake - In Antrim County also has walleye anglers targeting the south end of the lake.
Manistee River -Not a lot of reports have come in since the return of arctic weather. Those brave enough to head out should still find some steelhead to catch.
Some are starting to get back out on Mullet, Black and Burt but be very careful.
Spider and Arbutus Lake by TC have been good for panfish
Haymarsh Lakes - In Mecosta County, were producing limit catches of bluegill.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Higgins Lake -Is froze over and many are going out off the south-end and table top eight inches of ice on the south-end, only a few venturing off the west access site and only going out a few feet to fish for rainbows. I was there today and nobody was at the west site as the ice is still thin but it should be safe soon. Two snowmobiles went through the ice near the access site on the west shore. Anglers walking out to the drop off have caught lake trout, yellow perch and smelt.
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught. The reports have been very good. Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230. Also he has started to rent shanties this week so give him a call. Also Dave got a shipment of Otter shanties in for sale.
Tawas - Perch fishing was slow and required lots of sorting. A few bigger fish were caught on wigglers in 15 feet of water. Walleye anglers can not get out to deep water yet due to unsafe ice conditions. A few pike have been speared or taken on tip-ups however spearing has been hampered by murky water.
Lake Margrethe has ice and the fishing has been very good for perch, a few walleye and pike.
Otesego Lake they are catching pike, walleye also some perch, Bradford Lake a few are getting out perch fishing. Chub lake trout have been biting on blues
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught.
Wixom Lake has been hot with many fishing off the access site reporting limit catches of gills and many pike. Crappie have started to bite.
Grand Lake - Some anglers were out ice fishing for perch however catch rates were slow and the fish were running small.
Long Lake - Try tip-ups with a minnow on the bottom for northern pike. Those looking for perch will want to fish along the north and south shores.
Mullett Lake - Anglers are just starting to get out near Topinabee, Round Point, and Dodge Point. A few perch were caught on minnows. Pike and musky spearing were slow. The ice was not as thick on the west side of the lake.
Hubbard Lake - Is producing a few walleye.
McCollum Lake - In Oscoda County, is producing good numbers of panfish.
Sugar Springs, Wiggins and
Upper Peninsula
Lake Gogebic - Is yielding fair catches of walleye and perch at dusk.
Little Bay De Noc - Has thicker ice throughout the northern bay and a little less in the southern sections and down to the shipping docks. Extreme caution needs to be used. Some are driving vehicles out in the northern bay however this can be extremely dangerous and is not recommended. Best travel is by foot. The area from the Terrace Bay Inn and south to the shipping docks is DANGEROUS, as ships were still traveling in and out of the bay. As for fishing, the early season perch fishing was good but has slowed over the last week. Best areas were near Kipling off the west bank when jigging minnows or wigglers in 11 to 21 feet of water, off the Day’s River in 8 to 19 feet of water and just south of the Narrows in 24 to 30 feet of water. Walleye fishing was also very good but tapered off this week. Best area to fish was off Gladstone in the channel in 28 to 33 feet of water when jigging or using tip-ups with minnows. Night anglers reported good catches off the First and Second Reefs. Northern pike spearing was good at the head of the bay in 10 to 16 feet of water south and east of the Day’s River. Several whitefish were taken in 35 feet of water out from the Terrace Bay Inn however extreme caution needs to be used in this area.
Indian Lake - Ice conditions are poor near the mouth of the Indian River, just north of the West Shore beach and just north or south of the Lange’s Bay launch. There is a large pressure crack running north and south down the middle of the lake. Perch between 6 and 10 inches have been caught on jigs or tip-ups with minnows. The walleye bite was slow but a few were caught on Swedish Pimples with a minnow or perch rigs. Try near the golf course or further north near the center of the lake.
Manistique Lake - Is producing some small pike.
Munuscong Bay - Has very good perch fishing in shallow waters up to 5 feet deep. Minnows work best. Walleye fishing was slow.
Drummond Island - Also had excellent perch fishing in Scotts Bay and north of Monahan’s old dock.
Cedarville and Hessel - Perch fishing was fair to good for those using wigglers in 10 to 14 feet of water in Musky Bay or minnows in 8 to 12 feet in Hessel Bay. Anglers reported seeing big schools of perch swimming under the ice. Be sure to use caution and stay away from the points. There is ice however ice picks and life jackets are still recommended.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Those fishing in Brest Bay were able to make it out to 15 feet of water but could not get out to 19 feet of water which is where the walleye should be. The Metro Park Marina was still producing bluegills around the docks and perch in the main channel. Spikes and wax worms for bluegills, wigglers and shiners for perch
Huron River - Is still producing some steelhead. The river is starting to freeze so fish near the dams where there is open water.
Detroit River - Has perch fishing in and around the canals near Gibraltar. Airport Bay also a good spot for perch however anglers had to work a little harder.
Lake St. Clair - Ice anglers are catching lots of perch but many are small. Try the access sites near the Clinton River Cut-off, Selfridge and Fairhaven.
Lexington - Anglers were still pulling in some rainbow trout and perch. The rainbow trout are averaging 18 to 20 inches long.
Port Sanilac - A few are venturing out on the south side of the harbor where a couple nice brown trout and a small rainbow trout were caught.
Saginaw Bay - Ice conditions are questionable all over Saginaw and Tawas bays, with active pressure cracks at many locations. Anglers are advised to use great caution and confine their fishing to daylight hours. Cracks open and close with changes in wind conditions, and you can not see what is happening if it is dark. Gizzard shad are popping up in the holes at many locations, and they are doing what they always do at this time of year, dying! Walleye fishing will be more difficult as long as there is an abundance of these forage fish out there. Perch were caught in waters up to 8 feet deep off Pine River and Palmer Roads, but the bite was slow. Underwater cameras can see the perch down there, but most are not biting. Those fishing off Linwood need to be very careful due to cracks in the ice. Walleye anglers are getting a lot of small fish off Linwood and the Bay City State Park. The bigger fish are out deep however the ice is not safe that far out. Perch were caught near Spoils Island but anglers need to be extremely careful of the ice near the mouth of the Saginaw River. A couple perch were caught off Vanderbilt Park near Quanicassee. A few walleye were taken off Vanderbilt and also from the Slot off Thomas Road in 14 feet of water. Slow fishing at Sebewaing except for a few perch and bluegills taken out of the marina basin. Perch fishing was spotty off Geiger Road with most anglers staying inside the islands.
Saginaw River - Anglers are just now creeping out on the ice however you need to be very careful. Near Ojibway Island, walleye anglers are getting more sub-legals than keepers. Anglers are also fishing both upstream and downstream of the Zilwaukee Bridge. It is important to note that M-13 between Bay City and Saginaw is closed this winter, and will hamper angler access throughout that part of the river. Some are starting to fish off the Cass Avenue launch site at the south end of Bay City, but be careful of ice conditions. From Cass Avenue north there is no ice fishing activity until the area north and east of the Independence Bridge, where anglers there are just getting started.
Tittabawassee River - There is no fishing activity at this time as there is too much ice for a boat, but not enough to stand on.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - Fishing was slow except for a few small walleye being caught.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead fishing has slowed considerably but walleye were still being caught. Off Fulton Street, try bucktail jigs. Shore anglers and those trolling are using rapalas. Anglers need to use caution and watch for ice coming over the dam.
Grand River at Lansing - A few pike were caught below the North Lansing Dam and walleye at Moore’s Park.
Lake Lansing - Is producing good numbers of pike on tip-ups with sucker minnows. Crappies were hitting on pink spikes or minnows.
Sessions Lake - Has good crappie fishing for those using emerald shiners. Walleye fishing was fair.
Reeds Lake - Is producing good numbers of panfish and pike.
Duck Lake - In Calhoun County, is producing good numbers of panfish.
Randall Lake - In Branch County has perch and panfish.
Marble Lake - Also has perch and panfish being caught.
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 ice is good and the fish are cooperating. Snowmobiles and quads travel on both lakes. Fishermen are exploring areas that earlier were not safe. Ice depths average 8 inches and more in many areas. It’s time for gas augers! Four strokes by Strike Master and the new four stroke propane auger by Jiffy are popular. You’ll hear them purr.
Fishing has been running hot and cold. One day everyone does well with limits or near limits of their targeted species. The next day you may not believe there’s a fish in the lakes. The pattern for success has been early mornings - starting in the dark, slower bite through the day and picking up again late afternoons.
The beautiful sunny days we’ve experienced lately have been slower then the dark, gray ones. Back to basics.
Usually nothing effects pike fishing. Time of day, weather, it seems they’re always hungry. Mitchell and Cadillac both live up to their reputation for great northern lakes, spearing or tip-ups.
Thinking walleye.
Monday, January 10, 2011
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
The ice is good and the fish are cooperating. Snowmobiles and quads travel on both lakes. Fishermen are exploring areas that earlier were not safe. Ice depths average 8 inches and more in many areas. It’s time for gas augers! Four strokes by Strike Master and the new four stroke propane auger by Jiffy are popular. You’ll hear them purr.
Fishing has been running hot and cold. One day everyone does well with limits or near limits of their targeted species. The next day you may not believe there’s a fish in the lakes. The pattern for success has been early mornings - starting in the dark, slower bite through the day and picking up again late afternoons.
The beautiful sunny days we’ve experienced lately have been slower then the dark, gray ones. Back to basics.
Usually nothing effects pike fishing. Time of day, weather, it seems they’re always hungry. Mitchell and Cadillac both live up to their reputation for great northern lakes, spearing or tip-ups.
Jon DeYoung currently in 2nd Place in the Pilgrim Village Ralph Henry speared a 34”, 8.10 pounder on nearby Crooked Lake.
Spearing Contest shows off his 35 1/2”, 11.1 pound pike
from Lake Mitchell.
Alex Holmes holds his limit of pike, tip-up Not to be out done, Justin Davis shows off 2 pike he caught on Mitchell. fishing on Cadillac.
The walleye bite has definitely been in the evening. More (large) walleye have been brought in for photographs lately then in the fall. Usually they’re caught on tip-ups, even on pike rigs with steel leaders and heavy line. You have to be there.
Fishing in the evening Gary Hamilton Jr. caught a 27 1/2”, How about the 26”, 5.10 lb. one Kyle Geitman caught on
7.14 oz. walleye on Lake Cadillac. Lake Mitchell.
That different fish - a bow fin, was speared by Nick Richards on
Lake Mitchell. At 24 1/2”, over 5 pounds, they’re strong and fun
to catch.
Panfish are coming from both lakes with anglers focusing on the Coves on Mitchell or The Causeway on the west side of Cadillac. Limits are not uncommon.
If bluegills are your passion try Lake Missaukee. It’s nearby and hearing reports of limits of gills caught on wax worms and red spikes.
The North AmericanSnow Festival Fishing Contest is February 5, 2011.
Get ready. Fun and prizes - you must have a Snowfest Button and be registered at either
Pilgrim Village Fishing Shop, M C Sports or Schafer’s Bait and Sporting Goods.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
27th NORTH AMERICAN SNOW FESTIVAL
ICE FISHING CONTEST
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2011
You must have a $5.00 NASF Button to be eligible and your badge number registered at any of these 3 Sponsors, MC Sports, Pilgrim Village Fishing Shop or Schafer’s Bait and Sporting Goods.
The NASF Button is good for all Snow Fest events, and Raffle Prizes.
Win a prize for the largest Perch, Crappie, Bluegill, Pike,
Rock Bass or Walleye.
All participants will be entered for prize drawings whether you catch a fish or not.
Winners must be present for drawings at the Cadillac Junior High School located at 500 S. Chestnut St.
Receive contest rules when you register at any one of these Sponsors,
MC Sports, Pilgrim Village Fishing Shop or Schafer’s Bait and Sporting Goods.
You must be registered by 10:00 AM of February 5 and have a $5.00 NASF Button.
Bring in your catch to the Cadillac Junior High School.
Contest begins at 8 AM and ends at 3 PM, February 5.
All prizes will be awarded at 3:30 PM at the
Cadillac Junior High School.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
See you on the ice!
Dark House guys sign up now. Once registered, pike may be speared in Wexford, Osceola or Missaukee Counties.
We have your spearing supplies:
Live and Artificial Decoys
Decoy Pins
Custom Made Spears
See you on the ice!
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Fishing is Good in Northern Michigan
How quickly Michigan’s weather changes. New Years Weekend we saw 50 degree temperatures, rain and wind gusts up to 40 MPH. The combination ate up the snow and left standing water on the lakes. The same weekend the temps fell over night to the teens with flurries making things white again.
The snow melted from the lakes and is making new ice as I write. We didn’t lose much and even have better ice in some areas. There’s a light snow cover but the lakes are slick. Wear creepers and avoid a fall. As before, use your spud to check the ice where ever you go, even places you may have fished before.
The northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula have ice fishing however the southern half of the Lower Peninsula has mixed reports. The rain and thaw did a number on some of the ice, and though it is refreezing, there is honeycomb ice in some areas, and honeycomb ice is not safe ice. Anglers need to use extreme caution due to the fact that ice formation is not consistent. Those heading out especially in the southern reaches of the state are reminded to use the buddy system, take a cell phone, check the ice ahead of you and wear a personal flotation device. Also, it is a good idea to only fish waters that you are familiar with.
For those of us who ice fish the weekend the weather turned out to be an advantage! Without the heavy snow cover it’s making thicker strong clear ice.
Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Green Lake by Interlochen is producing smelt off the music camp with spies and waxworms.
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee - Has ice and anglers are doing well on panfish. Some limit catches were reported. Pike have been taken on tip-ups and by spear.
Cadillac Area: Lake Cadillac - Lots of folks are ice fishing and we have reports of good panfish action where some limits of bluegill and crappie have been taken. Those using tip-ups have caught walleye and pike. Spearing action for pike has also been good. Lake Mitchell - Also has plenty of ice fishing activity for bluegill, crappie and pike.
Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Lake Leelanau has a good perch and walleye bite on the south end
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch with limit catches of walleye.
Portage lake is safe with lots of pike being caught with some perch and walleye
Skegemog is producing some nice catches of perch and big pike with wigglers working best.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Lake Charlevoix - Anglers are fishing the South Arm for walleye.
Intermediate Lake - In Antrim County also has walleye anglers targeting the south end of the lake.
Manistee River - Look for steelhead movement with warm temperatures and possible rain by the end of the week. Those fly fishing below Tippy Dam were still catching some nice fish.
Some are startinfg to get back out on Mullet, Black and Burt but be very careful.
Spider and Arbutus Lake by TC have been good for panfish
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Higgins Lake -Is froze over and many are going out off the south=end and table top, only a few venturingoff the west access site and only going out a few feet to fish for rainbows.
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught. The reports have been very good. Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230. Also he has started to rent shanties this week so give him a call.
Tawas - Skim ice was reported on most of the inland lakes in the area. Some brave anglers were catching a few panfish on Tawas Lake and some of the smaller lakes in the region. Anglers need to use extreme caution.
Lake Margrethe has ice and the fishing has been very good for perch, walleye and pike.
Otesego Lake they are catching pike, walleye also some perch, Bradford Lake afew are getting out perch fishing. Chub lake trout have been biting
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught.
Wixom Lake has been hot with many fishing off the access site reporting limit catches of gills and many pike.
Grand Lake - Some anglers were out ice fishing for perch however catch rates were slow and the fish were running small.
Long Lake - Try tip-ups with a minnow on the bottom for northern pike. Those looking for perch will want to fish along the north and south shores.
Higgins Lake - Is ice covered witha few guys are fishing shallow water on the west side with the south end many are getting in deep water and nice pike are being caught.
Upper Peninsula
Most inland lakes in this region have ice. Anglers are heading out and fishing but not many reports have come in yet. Anglers are reminded to use caution when traveling on the ice. The fishing is good but most Yoopers like to drive to there favorite spot and the ice is not think enough yet
Newberry - Inland lakes in the area are frozen however ice thickness may not be consistent, so be sure to use extreme caution and the check the ice as you go.
Manistique Lake - Walleye action was fair to slow on both South and Big Manistique Lakes. Most are using tip-ups with minnows.
Munuscong - Perch fishing is good off Grassy Island, the middle of the Bay and in Fowlers bay. There are shacks out on Musky Bay and Hessel Bay, but extreme caution needs to be used. The ice is still not consistent and can change from 8 to 12 inches down to 2 or 4 inches instantly, which has happened in unusual places. Anglers have gone through the ice and some have lost their life. Be careful!Munuscong - Perch fishing is good off Grassy Island, the middle of the Bay and in Fowlers bay. There are shacks out on Musky Bay and Hessel Bay, but extreme caution needs to be used. The ice is still not consistent and can change from 8 to 12 inches down to 2 or 4 inches instantly, which has happened in unusual places. Anglers have gone through the ice and some have lost their life. Be careful!
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Those fishing in 4 or 5 feet of water off the Metro Park Marina have caught bluegills around the docks when using spikes and wax worms. Perch were hitting on wigglers and shiners in the main channel.
Huron River - Water levels have gone back down and some big steelhead were caught by those floating a jig and wax worm under a bobber.
Detroit River - Had good perch fishing in and around the canals near Gibraltar. Some are fishing off private docks while others are in small boats. Airport Bay also had good perch fishing in 3 feet of water. Most are using Frenchmen’s Creek for access to the bay.
Lexington - Ice anglers in the harbor are getting some perch and rainbow trout when using wax worms and minnows.
Saginaw Bay - Some perch have been caught in shallow waters 2 to 5 feet deep. The ice does not go out far enough for effective walleye fishing, but a few were caught in shallow waters.
Saginaw River - The ice is not safe yet so anglers are advised to stay off the river and wait for a longer stretch of much colder weather.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
Anglers are fishing on some lakes however extreme caution needs to be used. Ice thickness is not consistent. Shoreline ice and areas near inlets and outlets are not safe because of the current. Cold weather this week should help with the freezing process. Bluegills are now in their mid-winter pattern so fish in the morning or evening with spikes and wax worms.
St. Joseph River - The cold nights have caused slush and light ice flow in the mornings but they usually dissipate around the middle of the day. For those wanting to fish early, be sure to check the river before launching. Look for fishable waters by heading upstream near the dams where the current keeps those areas open. Fishing should be steady, but will improve with any warm-ups bringing more fish from the big lake.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead are still being caught on spawn bags. Higher water levels brought in more fish. Walleye were also caught.
Grand River at Lansing - A few were fishing Moore’s Park for walleye and steelhead however catch rates were slow.
Lake Lansing - Ice thickness is not consistent so anglers need to use caution. Until the lake freezes up good, it would be wise to fish in shallow waters only.
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
After a slow start, the panfish bite finally started. Getting reports of limits from Cadillac and Mitchell. Usually the beter catches have some crappie up to 12 inches and hand-sized gills.
Jerry Lawhead, on the areas better fishermen, shows a
limit of panfish. Largest crasppie measured 12 1/2 inches.
If you’d rather catch pike or try for walleye, you’ve come to the right lakes. Tip-up and spearing catches have been good. We see many northerns over 30 inches. Walleye have been hit or miss but using the basic equipment as pike. Your chances are there.
The ink never dries on the Pilgrim Village Pike Spearng Board. Count on daily changes.
First Place William Beaver 38” 12.4 lbs. Cadillac
Second Place Ron Paddock 35 1/4” 8.2 lbs. Missaukee
Third Place John Collins 33 1/2” 6.8 lbs. Cadillac
Fourth Place Jared Newille 32 1/2” 6.11 lbs. Cadillac
Fifth Place Ryan Quist 32 1/4” 7.6 lbs. Mitchell
Sixth Place Gary Swiger 32 1/2” 6.0 lbs. Mitchell
Seventh Place Harrison Krantz 32” 7.2 lbs. Missaukee
Eighth Place James Cornelius 32” 7.1 lbs. Mitchell
William Beaver with 38”, 12.4 lb. pike speared on Lake Cadillac. Ron Paddock with 35 1/4” pike speared on Lake Missaukee.
The Youth Division
First Place 13 year old, Tyler McConnel 28 1/2” 7.10 lbs. Mitchell
Second Place 9 year old, Andrew Lobbezoo 26” 3.8 lbs. Mitchell
Tyler McConnell with 28 1/2” bowfin speared on Lake Mitchell. Andy Lobbezoo speared a 26” pike on Lake Mitchell.
Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell are perfect for spearing. Relatively shallow lakes with good numbers of large pike and rough fish (bowfin, bullheads or suckers).
Thinking walleye.
Lyman’s Ice Shanty Rental
Our shanties are located on the South Shore
weedbed of Houghton Lake.
Northern Pike are very good and the occasional Walleye will be caught in this location.
Shanty rental includes transportation to and from the shanty and a propane heater.
Reservations are recommended.
Rates
From 7:00 am till 7:00 pm. With heat and transportation out there.
2 Man $35.00
4 Man $40.00
6 Man $50.00
Sleeper Shanty Sunday-Friday $80.00 Friday And Saturday $100.00
From 8am/8am
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Cadillac Report
How quickly Michigan’s weather changes. New Years Weekend we saw 50 degree temperatures, rain and wind gusts up to 40 MPH. The combination ate up the snow and left standing water on the lakes. The same weekend the temps fell over night to the teens with flurries making things white again.
The snow melted from the lakes and is making new ice as I write. We didn’t lose much and even have better ice in some areas. There’s a light snow cover but the lakes are slick. Wear creepers and avoid a fall. As before, use your spud to check the ice where ever you go, even places you may have fished before.
For those of us who ice fish the weekend the weather turned out to be an advantage! Without the heavy snow cover it’s making thicker strong clear ice.
Snowmobilers, more snow is predicted. We’ll get you back on the trails soon.
After a slow start, the panfish bite finally started. Getting reports of limits from Cadillac and Mitchell. Usually the beter catches have some crappie up to 12 inches and hand-sized gills.
Jerry Lawhead, on the areas better fishermen, shows a
limit of panfish. Largest crasppie measured 12 1/2 inches.
If you’d rather catch pike or try for walleye, you’ve come to the right lakes. Tip-up and spearing catches have been good. We see many northerns over 30 inches. Walleye have been hit or miss but using the basic equipment as pike. Your chances are there.
The ink never dries on the Pilgrim Village Pike Spearng Board. Count on daily changes.
First Place William Beaver 38” 12.4 lbs. Cadillac
Second Place Ron Paddock 35 1/4” 8.2 lbs. Missaukee
Third Place John Collins 33 1/2” 6.8 lbs. Cadillac
Fourth Place Jared Newille 32 1/2” 6.11 lbs. Cadillac
Fifth Place Ryan Quist 32 1/4” 7.6 lbs. Mitchell
Sixth Place Gary Swiger 32 1/2” 6.0 lbs. Mitchell
Seventh Place Harrison Krantz 32” 7.2 lbs. Missaukee
Eighth Place James Cornelius 32” 7.1 lbs. Mitchell
William Beaver with 38”, 12.4 lb. pike speared on Lake Cadillac. Ron Paddock with 35 1/4” pike speared on Lake Missaukee.
The Youth Division
First Place 13 year old, Tyler McConnel 28 1/2” 7.10 lbs. Mitchell
Second Place 9 year old, Andrew Lobbezoo 26” 3.8 lbs. Mitchell
Tyler McConnell with 28 1/2” bowfin speared on Lake Mitchell. Andy Lobbezoo speared a 26” pike on Lake Mitchell.
Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell are perfect for spearing. Relatively shallow lakes with good numbers of large pike and rough fish (bowfin, bullheads or suckers).
Thinking walleye. Look at these pictures!
Here’s one Andy Pluger caught on Lake Cadillac before New Tim richardson also caught a big holiday walleye on Lake
Years - 23” - 4.6 lbs. Mitchell - 24” - 5.2 lbs.
Bluegill Anglers - Many of the Green Road Anglers are talking limits on Lake Missaukee.
See you on the ice!