Michigan Weekly Recreational Fishing Report - 11/20/2008
November 20, 2008
Great Lakes temperature map
Angler numbers continue to drop around the state as many pursue the open hunting seasons or kick back and wait for the onset of ice fishing season. Walleye and pike continue to feed around the state and the whitefish action improves daily.
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Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Shore anglers continue to catch walleye and perch off Stony Point, Metro Park and Pt. Mouillee. Try jigs or perch rigs with minnows.
Huron River - Water levels are up and steelhead are being caught between Rockwood and Flat Rock. Most are using a jig and wax worm above the dam and spawn or crank baits below. The backwaters are still providing some decent crappie and bluegill action.
Detroit River - Shore anglers are catching perch in the cuts and canals and off the docks at Gibraltar and around the southern tip of Grosse Ile. Most are using shiners. Walleye can still be found off the Edison Power Plant and around the islands.
Clinton River - As more steelhead move into the river, one of the better spots to fish is up around Ryan Road. Try spawn, flies or even small spoons.
St. Clair River - Shore anglers fishing off the wall up at Port Huron were taking some steelhead. For whitefish, try a single egg on a small hook during the day or at night try jigging small spoons off the wall.
Lexington - Steelhead and perch are still being caught however the fish are running on the small side.
Saginaw Bay - Both the perch and walleye anglers are heading out when the weather permits. Perch anglers are fishing off Linwood, near the shipping channel and the first Spark Plug.
Saginaw River - Perch anglers using minnows in the lower river have caught some fish. Those willing to sort out the small ones should get enough for a meal.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Pier anglers are taking steelhead when using spawn or spoons. Orange and pink have been good colors. Whitefish are also being caught. The best bait is a single egg on a hook.
St. Joe River - Both shore and boat anglers have caught steelhead up near the Berrien Springs Dam. A few walleye are still being caught at night when fishing below the dams.
Kalamazoo River - Steelhead are being caught from the mouth up to the Allegan Dam however the better bite continues to be in the lower river. Those trolling are using plugs and shore anglers are floating spawn.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Boat and shore anglers are taking steelhead when bouncing spawn bags, floating small white jigs tipped with a few wax worms or when using an orange Mepps spinner. Boats trolling planer boards above the Fulton Street Bridge have caught steelhead and walleye on blue and chrome Hot-n-Tots with a red bill. Those handlining off the Fulton Street Bridge are using chartreuse Hot-n-Tots while others are back trolling with spawn. Crappie and other panfish have been caught in the lagoon at Riverside Park and off the East Wall.
Grand River at Lansing - No anglers means no report. No word on steelhead but there should be some walleye over at Moore’s Park. Pike anglers might want to try above or below the dams.
Muskegon - Pier anglers floating spawn are taking steelhead. Whitefish are in the channel and those fishing after dark have done well when jigging spoons off the wall.
Muskegon Lake - Perch are being caught in the deeper holes on both the north and the south ends of the lake. Good walleye action at night.
Muskegon River - Water levels are low so the better steelhead fishing has been in the lower river. Most are using spawn or crank baits.
Northern Lower Peninsula
Alpena - This is the peak for whitefish in Lake Huron. For those who have not put their boats away for the winter, large numbers of whitefish are on the reefs in Thunder Bay, particularly off the end of Partridge Point and on the Grass Island reefs. Most are being caught on wax worms, spawn, or small minnows however the whitefish have now added the round goby to their diets so small lures can also catch fish. Catch rates should only get better through the first week of December. Most fish are in the 3-4 pound range but the occasional 6-8 pound fish has been caught.
Thunder Bay River - Look for steelhead and whitefish below the Ninth Street Dam.
Au Sable River - Look for more steelhead between the mouth and the dams. Anglers report fair to good catch rates just below the Foote Dam when using spawn or wax worms. The mouth is usually one of the hot spots for whitefish. Try a single egg or wax worm.
Tawas - The best spot here for whitefish is off the pier. Try using wax worms, spawn, small minnows or small lures that resemble the goby as they have become part of the diet. Catch rates should be good through the next two weeks or so.
Au Gres River - Those fishing the East Branch have caught steelhead and the occasional brown trout near the Singing Bridge. The better fishing takes place on those windy overcast days.
Higgins Lake - A few boats are trolling for brown trout between the Conference Center and the boat launch on the north side of the lake and along the drop-off on the west side. Try using body baits, rapalas or spoons.
Houghton Lake - A couple anglers are still heading out for walleye in the evening but most have moved on to fishing Saginaw Bay. Shoreline ice has started to form.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Burt Lake - Not many, but a few anglers are still targeting and catching walleye in the early morning or late evening in waters about 8 feet deep. Perch are also there, but scattered.
Traverse City - Boats will target whitefish in waters 100 to 120 feet deep. Try Swedish Pimples or perch rigs with minnows just off the bottom. Perch anglers are fishing the bottom half of waters 45 to 65 feet deep.
Boardman River - Water levels are low so steelhead anglers are fishing right at the mouth. Most are floating spawn in the early morning or late evening.
Portage Lake - Although not too many people are doing it, trolling for walleye can be very good this time of year as the adult walleyes typically feed aggressively.
Manistee - Pier and surf anglers continue to do well on steelhead.
Manistee Lake - Is another good lake for late fall early winter walleye fishing. Try trolling along the drop-offs or the humps especially after dark.
Manistee River - Decent numbers of steelhead are being caught in the lower river. There are a few fish further upstream but the low clear waters have made it difficult to catch them.
Ludington - Pier and shore anglers are finding fish as they seem to be congregating in the deeper waters. They are floating fresh spawn or wax worms under a bobber.
Pere Marquette River - Steelhead are being caught in the lower stretches of the river where water levels are higher. Spawn has been the best bait.
UPPER PENINSULA
Menominee River - Water levels are low enough that rocks can easily be seen sticking out of the water. A few walleye have been caught up near the Hattie Street Bridge. Rumor has it some whitefish have been caught after dark when using yarn or a single egg. Green and chartreuse have been good colors however it is always a good idea to take along a variety of colors.
Little Bay De Noc - Walleye anglers are still taking fish in the shallows at night. Most are jigging with minnows. A few boats are still out trolling around the Second and Center Reefs. The better perch fishing continues to be off Kipling when trolling or drifting minnows in waters 10 to 15 feet deep.
Marquette - Those fishing off the breakwall in the Lower Harbor are still taking whitefish and the occasional lake trout. The ore docks in the Upper Harbor also provide good open water fishing before the ice starts to move in.
Related posts
Michigan Weekly Recreational Fishing Report - 11/13/2008
November 13, 2008
Many anglers have now turned their attention to hunting so the reports will start to drop off until ice starts to form. Late fall and early winter is prime time for hungry walleye and spawning whitefish. Cold rain will bring on the better steelhead and brown trout fishing.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Shore anglers are taking walleye and perch off the seawall at the field office at Pt. Mouillee. Perch are also being caught off the Metro Park boat launch.
Huron River - Some steelhead are showing up and those fishing up near Flat Rock have caught fish. Look for the steelhead action to pick up if we get some much needed rain and as we move further into the month of November. Anglers are using spawn, Hot-n-Tots, Mepps spinners, Cleo’s or a jig and wax worm.
Detroit River - Perch fishing has been good off Gibraltar when fishing the canals. Anglers are using shiners with perch rigs in 4 to 8 feet of water. Work the weed beds. Walleye action was good for those handlining at night from the Edison Power Plant down the Horse Island. Chartreuse has been a hot color. Walleye were also caught during the day when using a jig and a minnow down around Celeron Island.
Clinton River - Steelhead are in the river but not in big numbers yet.
St. Clair River - Shore anglers up near Port Huron are catching some steelhead and the occasional whitefish. Walleye fishing in the same area has dropped.
Lexington - Has lots of small perch being caught in the harbor. Those willing to sort will find some decent sizes. A few small steelhead are being caught on crawlers and the occasional chinook salmon was also been caught. These must be younger fish as this year’s salmon run has been done for sometime.
Port Sanilac - Has the same mix of fish as Lexington, but not much fishing pressure. Anglers here have also caught a few brown trout.
Kawkawlin River - Had lots of angler activity, more than likely for perch.
Saginaw River - Perch anglers may want to start trying the lower river and the marina basins from now until freeze-up, as this can be the best time to fish for perch.
Quanicassee River - For perch, hit the lower river here and the around the marinas while fishing with minnows.
Sebewaing River - Look for fair to good perch fishing in the lower river.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Pier anglers have caught steelhead. A few whitefish have also been caught just off the bottom when using a single egg on a hook.
St. Joe River - A few more steelhead have started to show up in the lower river. Fair to good walleye action continues below the dam at Niles and Buchanan.
South Haven - Steelhead are there for the taking. Most are now pier fishing or surfcasting.
Saugatuck - Pier anglers have managed to catch the occasional steelhead.
Kalamazoo River - Steelhead are being caught from the mouth up to the Allegan Dam however the better bite seems to be down near the mouth.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Limits of steelhead have been caught in the center run and at the dam. Those throwing plugs off the bridges have also caught fish. The walleye action has slowed however those using bucktail jigs or drifting crawler harnesses with small blades have managed to catch a couple fish. Crappie can be found in the lagoon at Riverside Park when fishing around the brush piles.
Grand River at Lansing - Still no word on steelhead making it up this far. Try the waters over at Moore’s Park for walleye.
Looking Glass River - Is a good bet for pike action this time of year.
Reeds Lake - Perch and crappie were still hitting but the pike action has slowed.
Muskegon - Pier anglers and those surfcasting are taking some steelhead.
Muskegon River - Steelhead are in the river with the better action in the lower river.
Northern Lower Peninsula
Alpena - Anglers are reminded that the middle of November is the best time to catch whitefish in Lake Huron as the fish start to move in close to shore for spawning. Best places to fish are over the rocky areas, in and around the marinas and off the walls. Use small baits with light line as the fish have a small delicate mouth.
Thunder Bay River - Steelhead are being caught from the mouth up to the Ninth Street Dam. Anglers are drifting spawn, crawlers or small spoons. Walleye are hitting after dark.
Van Etten Lake - A couple anglers are still taking a few perch. Target the waters straight out from the YMCA Camp.
Oscoda - Anglers fishing off the end of the pier have caught steelhead, whitefish and walleye. Catch rates were sporadic.
Au Sable River - Look for more steelhead below the dams especially after the rain.
Tawas - The pike action has slowed however walleye are still hitting after dark. Whitefish action should only pick up as we move further into November. Try a small jig or a plain gold hook with a single egg or wax worm.
Higgins Lake - Only a couple boats are still going out for perch and there has been no brown trout action to speak of.
Houghton Lake - As the walleye target minnows and move in closer to shore, anglers will want to target shallow waters with a jig and a minnow, floating rapalas or small crank baits.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Traverse City - The gales of November have kept the boat anglers on shore. When the winds let up, look for improved whitefish action in waters up to 120 feet deep. Keep with the Swedish Pimples or perch rigs with minnows just off the bottom. Anglers are reminded that lake trout season in the Bay is closed and will not reopen until January 1st, 2009.
Boardman River - Rain is still needed to push more steelhead into the river. A few fish were caught in the early morning or late evening when drifting spawn. Lake trout are also being caught in the river.
Frankfort - Steelhead are being caught off the piers when using fresh spawn. Those surfcasting with spawn or small spoons are also taking fish.
Betsie River - Anglers here are focusing on steelhead but catch rates were still on the slow side. With water levels low and clear, the fish are spooked easily. Try drifting spawn through the deeper holes.
Manistee - Both the pier anglers and those surfcasting have caught fair to good numbers of steelhead. It is just a matter of being there on the right day.
Manistee River - Steelhead fishing is the main game right now. Some fish are being caught however the water is low and clear so most anglers are concentrating on the lower and middle stretches.
Ludington - Pier and shore anglers here are taking some steelhead. They are floating fresh spawn or casting small spoons.
Pere Marquette River - Has low water levels so try fishing the lower stretches.
UPPER PENINSULA
Lac Vieux Desert - Boat anglers slow trolling or drifting with sucker rigs have caught some nice muskie. Some are also using jerk baits however the sucker rigs seem to catch more fish.
Smokey Lake - In western Iron County is still producing some good muskie action and live sucker rigs have caught the most fish.
Lake Michigamme - Hearty anglers are still taking muskie on sucker rigs.
Paint Pond - Good numbers of nice muskie are being caught here as well.
Menominee River - Cooler wet weather will help to bring more steelhead into the river and increase the brown trout bite.
Little Bay De Noc - Walleye action has picked up at night because of the good water clarity. Fish were caught in 7 feet of water east of the Black Bottom when jigging with minnows. Those trolling stick baits or jigging minnows in 6 to 17 feet of water out near the Second and the Center Reefs caught fish. Those trolling crank baits during the day only caught a few along the reefs near Kipling. Several nice perch including jumbos were also caught when drifting or trolling natural baits in 10 to 15 feet of water near Kipling. Walleye catch rates should only get better in the next few weeks.
Marquette - A few small whitefish and some lake trout are still being caught off the lower harbor breakwall.
Related posts
Michigan Weekly Fishing Report - 11/6/2008
November 6, 2008
This is one of the best times of the year to fish for those that do not like crowds. Fishing starts to take a back seat to hunting, so the lakes, rivers, piers, docks, shoreline and more start to open up and still offer good fishing opportunities.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Even though the waters have been a bit cloudy, boat anglers have managed to catch a few perch on minnows when fishing out near the turn-around buoy. Bass are still hitting and a few walleye were caught here and there.
Huron River - Steelhead have been caught from the mouth up to the Flat Rock Dam even though water levels are a bit low. Additional rain should push more steelhead into the river. Warmer weather turned up the panfish bite. Bluegills were hitting on wax worms and crappie on minnows.
Detroit River - Perch are still being caught between the mouth and Sugar Island.
Lake St. Clair - Perch are being caught in shallow waters when jigging minnows or trolling perch rigs. Muskie fishing continues to be very good with some very big fish caught. Try trolling near the mouth of the channels as the fish hang out here just waiting for a meal.
Lexington - A few trout and salmon have been caught. Steelhead are hitting on small spoons, crawlers and spawn. The better perch fishing was here but anglers will need to sort out the small ones. Most are using minnows taken right at the harbor.
Port Sanilac - Salmon and trout are being caught here as well. The smaller steelhead are hitting on small spoons such as Cleo’s. Perch are being caught but not in the same numbers as Lexington.
Port Austin - Windy conditions slowed fishing activity. A few perch were caught off the north wall.
Saginaw Bay - There has been perch activity around the shipping channel. Boats were also seen between Spoils Island and the first Spark Plug.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Steelhead have been caught off the piers when floating spawn just off the bottom or when casting small spoons such as Cleo’s.
St. Joe River - Water flows are well above normal for this time of year and the river should provide decent steelhead fishing. Moderate numbers of fish were moving through the fish ladder at Berrien Springs. Fisheries staff conducted an electro-fishing survey near the Jasper Dairy Boat launch which is downstream of Berrien Springs and that turned up about 30 steelhead and a couple salmon. Walleye fishing has been very good at night below the Buchanan Dam and the Niles Dam.
South Haven - Pier anglers are catching steelhead in the early morning or late evening.
Kalamazoo River - Steelhead are being caught from the mouth up to the Allegan Dam. With the warmer temperatures, fish the deeper holes.
Grand Haven - Pier anglers are taking steelhead especially off the north pier. The better fishing has been early or late when using spawn or small spoons.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Good numbers of steelhead are still being caught at the Sixth Street Dam. Try using small spawn bags or a white jig with a wax worm and fish the deeper holes. Walleye fishing has been good in the early morning or late evening when drifting crawlers or small crank baits. Bucktail jigs are still taking fish off the bridges. Bluegill and crappie action continues to be good throughout the river.
Grand River at Lansing - Steelhead are being caught downriver with some of the best fishing in this area taking place on Prairie Creek in Ionia. Anglers here will want to tap into the excellent walleye and pike fishing. It seems the warm weather has these fish on a fall feeding frenzy.
Reeds Lake - Warm temperatures have the bluegills and the crappie hitting on wax worms and minnows.
Muskegon - Some boats are still out trolling for steelhead. Those surfcasting and the pier anglers are taking fish in the early morning and evening.
Muskegon River - Both shore and boat anglers reported a fair number of salmon still in the river however it is safe to say these fish are beyond ripe. Steelhead are in the river however warm temperatures have slowed the bite.
Norhtern Lower Peninsula
Rogers City - Anglers are still seeing brown trout however the bite has been slow. Try trolling or casting spoons and body baits. The fish should start to become more aggressive in the next week or two.
Thunder Bay River - Steelhead are in the river but the bite was slow. Target the deeper holes until we get some rain. Walleye have been caught at night.
Harrisville - Walleye have been caught in and around the harbor when trolling a crawler harness or body baits at night.
Van Etten Lake - Was producing some good perch action until it warmed up.
Au Sable River - Water levels are holding steady and rain in the forecast should push more fish into the river. Steelhead are being caught below the dams on a single hook and fresh spawn. Some are also using a jig and wax worm. Those trolling rapalas caught some nice walleye.
Tawas - Whitefish have been caught off the East Tawas Dock. Pier anglers are still catching some perch but not like a week ago. Pike and walleye have been caught in the early morning or evening.
Au Gres - Shore anglers are still catching steelhead in the surf off Whitney Drain. The better fishing has been early morning or late evening because of the weather.
Au Gres River - A few perch were caught on minnows down near the mouth. Anglers will have to sort out the small ones.
Higgins Lake - Windy conditions have kept boats off the lake.
Houghton Lake - Very few pike and walleye have been caught when casting stick baits along the shallows at night. It is still a bit early for this fishery.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Traverse City - When boats can get out, anglers have found limited success for whitefish in the East Bay. Try Swedish Pimples or perch rigs with perch minnows just off the bottom in 70 to 120 feet of water.
Boardman River - Rain is needed to push more steelhead into the river. A few fish were caught up near the Union Street Dam in the early morning or late evening.
Lake Leelanau - Light numbers of perch have been caught on minnows.
Big Glen Lake - Perch are being caught however anglers will need to sort out the small ones.
Crystal Lake - Is producing some small perch.
Betsie River - Steelhead are in the river but not in big numbers. The fall runs are triggered by rain and this area of state has not seen much of that. Anglers are hoping to see more fish on the move by this weekend.
Manistee - Those surfcasting off the beach have caught steelhead when using fresh spawn. Pier anglers are also taking fish when using fresh spawn or when casting spoons. Orange has been a hot color.
Manistee River - Has fair steelhead action. Rain by the weekend should help push more fish into the lower stretches. Look for the occasional brown trout in the deeper holes below Tippy Dam.
Ludington - Pier and shore anglers are catching some steelhead on fresh spawn.
Pere Marquette River - Warm weather slowed the steelhead movement. After we get some rain, try spawn under a bobber, a jig and wax worm or small spoons.
UPPER PENINSULA
Keweenaw Bay - Coho and the occasional steelhead have been caught off the pier in L’Anse. Anglers are taking some coho at the head of the Bay between Baraga and L’Anse. In Traverse Bay, nice lake trout were caught around Buffalo Reef.
Fall’s River - Coho and the occasional steelhead have been caught.
Big Traverse River - Coho and steelhead have been caught on an orange bladed #5 Mepps spinner.
Smokey Lake - In western Iron County is producing some good muskie action. Live sucker rigs seem to work best.
Lake Michigamme - Continues to produce very good muskie action. Boat anglers say live sucker rigs caught the most fish however some are also using jerk baits.
Paint Pond - Good numbers of nice muskie are being caught here as well.
Menominee River - A good number of anglers are trying for steelhead and brown trout. Try bright yarn and a hook, spawn or small spoons. Salmon are still in the river but they are dark and close to the end of their life cycle. Bass fishing has been good.
Cedar River - A few boats are still going out off the mouth after dark. Upstream, anglers have only caught a few smallmouth bass.
Little Bay De Noc - Water temperatures have dropped to the mid 40’s. Most anglers have stayed in the upper parts of the Bay from the “Narrows” north to Garth Point. Catch rates were spotty in 10 to 25 feet of water along the reefs when trolling crank baits or crawlers. A few fish were caught from Hunters Point north the Vagabond Resort. Those trolling stick baits at night took fish in about 12 feet of water just off the Second Reef. It appears the fall migration into the Bay has been delayed possibly because of warmer than normal water temperatures. Several nice perch were caught over the last week when jigging minnows in 8 to 25 feet of water near the First Reef. Those jigging minnows and crawlers in 25 feet of water near the Gladstone Beach also caught fish. The next couple of weeks should prove to be good ones as water temperatures drop.
Marquette - Pretty much the only fishing over the last week has been off the lower harbor breakwall. Anglers are fishing the very end of it for lake trout and the middle for whitefish. Catch rates for whitefish were good however the fish were small.
Manistique River - The salmon run is over however a few walleye were caught.
St. Mary’s River - Perch were still being caught on minnows and the smallmouth bass fishing was good around the islands. Steelhead and coho have been caught with the better action in the early morning or evening. Those slow trolling with body baits have caught atlantic salmon.
De Tour - Pike are still hitting in the bays and around the points.
Related posts
Michigan Weekly Fishing Report - 10/30/2008
October 30, 2008
Windy and wet weather over the last week did keep most anglers on shore. The salmon runs are pretty much done with the remaining fish very dark in color. The rivers have started to fill up with steelhead and whitefish are being caught in Lake Huron and the northern waters of Lake Michigan. The inland lakes are producing some good catches of pike, walleye, perch and big bluegills.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Strong winds have limited fishing over the past week. Bass anglers continue to bring in good numbers of largemouth near the Power Plant, the Hot Ponds and just off the mouth of the River Raisin. Perch fishing was fair and the walleye should begin to move into shallow waters soon.
Huron River - With work being done at the Flat Rock Dam, fair to good numbers of salmon are holding in the area. Anglers are catching them when casting spawn or spinners. Steelhead are also being caught on spawn, spinners, or a jig and wax worm. Rain would certainly bring more fish in. Bluegills are still being caught in the backwaters but not in big numbers.
Detroit River - Perch are still being caught in and around the cuts and canals, the southern part of Grosse Ile and around Sugar Island.
Lexington - Fishing reports outside the thumb were slow except for a few perch and pike caught here in the harbor.
Port Austin - A few perch were caught in the harbor.
Saginaw Bay - Most perch fishing was limited to shore fishing in the marinas and river mouths. Shore anglers might want to check out Linwood Marina, the cut at Finn Road, the mouth of the Quanicassee River, the lower Sebewaing River and the public marina, and the harbor at Caseville. At all of these sites, fish from dawn until about 11 AM, and expect to do a lot of sorting to weed out the small ones.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Windy conditions have stopped the boats from heading out however pier anglers have caught the occasional steelhead. Try fishing spawn just off the bottom or casting small spoons.
St. Joe River - Steelhead are being caught but not in big numbers yet. A few walleye and smallmouth bass were also caught.
Kalamazoo River - The salmon run is done and more steelhead have moved into the river. Those fishing up near the Allegan Dam have started to catch fish.
Grand Haven - Anglers have caught whitefish off both the north and the south piers however catch rates were sporadic. Steelhead were caught off the north pier when using spawn.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead fishing has been very good mainly at the Sixth Street Dam. Use small spawn bags or a white jig with a wax worm. Boat anglers are back trolling over the deep holes. Walleye action has been good for those drifting crawlers or small crank baits. Bucktail jigs are taking walleye off the Pearl Street, Fulton Street and Wealthy Street Bridges. Good crappie action throughout the river including Riverside Park. Pike are hitting on big shiners fished about two feet below the bobber.
Grand River at Lansing - Steelhead are being caught downriver. Anglers continue to wait to see if the fish will make it up this far. Those getting out have caught lots of pike along with some nice crappie, walleye and a few catfish.
Reeds Lake - The jumbo perch are hitting on fathead minnows in 5 to 25 feet of water. Some nice bluegills and crappie have also been caught. Try minnows and wax worms.
Muskegon - A few boats are still trolling when they can get out. Those surfcasting or fishing off the piers have caught steelhead.
Muskegon River - Some salmon can still be found however most anglers consider the run to be over. Steelhead fishing continues to improve with fishable numbers now in the river.
Norhtern Lower Peninsula
Rogers City - A few browns have been swimming around the harbor so anglers are targeting them with some success. Try casting spoons or body baits. Look for more brown trout action in November.
Rockport - No action to report and the docks have been removed.
Thuder Bay River - Anglers are targeting steelhead up at the Ninth Street Dam. Most are using a single artificial egg on a hook. Those still-fishing with minnows have caught perch and a few walleye.
Harrisville - Salmon are still being caught inside the harbor when using spawn and body baits. High winds have kept boats closer to shore. Walleye have been caught in and around the harbor when trolling a crawler harness or body baits.
Au Sable River - Salmon numbers are decreasing; however, steelhead numbers are increasing. Most fish have been caught on spawn. Walleye numbers are up and those drifting crawlers or leeches under a slip bobber have caught fish.
Lake Margrethe - Some nice perch have been caught on minnows. Walleye were hitting in the early morning or late evening when trolling a minnow or crawler.
Tawas - Lots of little perch along with some bigger ones are being caught off the pier. Some big pike and a couple walleye were also caught. Whitefish have started to show up and several were caught off the pier when using wax worms.
Au Gres - Surprisingly good numbers of steelhead were caught in the surf off Whitney Drain. Fish ranged from 15 to 25 inches long and were caught when floating spawn sacks. Perch fishing has slowed.
Higgins Lake - Most of the small boat anglers have not been able to get out due to windy conditions. Look for perch when the weather improves.
Houghton Lake - Catch rates have slowed with only the occasional pike or walleye caught in the shallows at night.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Petoskey - Salmon season has ended for the most part with a few late fish still spawning in the river. Shore anglers are now concentrating their efforts off the piers and the mouth of the river for steelhead and whitefish.
Lake Charlevoix - Perch, walleye and smallmouth bass anglers have been out however strong winds have hampered fishing efforts.
Elk River - Fishing has started to slow with anglers catching a few decent chinook, coho, and steelhead.
Elk Lake - Fishing pressure has dropped over the last week with only a few anglers still targeting bass between the Narrows and Rex Terrace. Try crank baits or the drop-shot fishing method in 6 to 30 feet of water. Muskie anglers are still out but no fish were caught. Perch have been caught on minnows or shrimp in 12 feet of water near the town of Kewadin. The fish ranged from 6 to 11 inches.
Skegemog Lake - Water temperatures have dropped to the 45 degree mark. Fewer anglers are targeting bass but those out there are casting in shallow waters along the weedbeds and near the mouth of the Torch River. Anglers are still trolling for muskie but no fish were reported. Some 6 to 10 inch perch have been caught off the access site at Baggs Road. Minnows worked best in 10 to 15 feet of water.
Traverse City - When boats can get out, anglers have found limited success for whitefish in the East Bay.
Boardman River - Anglers can still find a few decent salmon and lake trout up near the Union Street Dam. More steelhead have started to move into the river however some of the fish caught have been undersize.
Frankfort - Boat anglers are catching small chinook, coho, and steelhead between the piers and Point Betsie. Hit the top 40 feet in waters 150 to 200 feet deep while trolling light colored spoons and flashers with flies. A few fresh chinook and some steelhead were caught off the piers when using spawn or small spoons. Those surfcasting have caught steelhead when using spawn bags.
Betsie River - Catch rates have slowed however there have been reports of steelhead being caught in the lower stretches.
Portage Lake - A good mix of bluegill, sunfish, and perch have been caught in 25 to 30 feet of water from the city launch all the way down to the green buoy. Anglers trolling along the weeds and drop-offs are still catching good numbers of pike and the occasional walleye. Try trolling small spoons or crawler harnesses. Orange and red have been good colors.
Manistee - Boats continue to catch fish when trolling orange spoons over the Shelf. Pier and shore anglers have started to catch more steelhead on fresh spawn.
Manistee River - Salmon are still in the river however the run is over. Some leftover fish can be found on the gravel but they are dark. Cooler weather pushed more steelhead into the river and there were reports of brown trout below Tippy Dam.
Ludington - Pier anglers and those surfcasting have started to catch more steelhead. Fresh spawn was the ticket however small spoons were also taking fish.
Pere Marquette River - Salmon can still be found but the fish are in rough shape. Steelhead fishing has picked up with fishable numbers being reported.
UPPER PENINSULA
Keweenaw Bay - A few lake trout were taken by those trolling between Sand Point and the head of the Bay. Shore anglers fishing off the pier in L’Anse and the head of the Bay have picked up a couple coho and steelhead. In Traverse Bay, some nice lake trout were caught near the Buffalo Reef off Gay Point.
Big Traverse River - Anglers have caught coho and steelhead.
Lake Michigamme - Near Champion has good muskie fishing. The fish are hitting on live sucker rigs and Jerk Baits.
Lake Vieux Desert - Muskie here are also hitting on live sucker rigs and Jerk Baits.
Paint Pond - Near Crystal Falls has good muskie action.
Menominee River - Small perch have been caught off the marina pier when using minnows. Steelhead and brown trout are still being caught between Stephenson Island and the Hattie Street Dam. Try bright colored spoons such as Cleo’s, yarn or spawn. There are still lots of chinook in the river but the fish are very dark.
Cedar River - Not much to report except for a few walleye at the mouth. Smallmouth bass were caught in the river however they were small.
Little Bay De Noc - Water temperatures remain in the low to mid 50’s. A few walleye have been caught north of the Narrows and up to the head of the Bay when trolling crawlers during the day and switching to stick baits at night. The better fishing remains off the Second and Third Reefs in 10 to 35 feet of water when jigging crawlers. Night anglers are trolling stick baits in 6 to 20 feet of water along the reefs. Fair to good perch action when jigging minnows in 8 to 20 feet of water between Strawberry Island and Butler Island. Northern pike are hitting on spoons and crank baits when trolling north of Saunders Point and near the Escanaba River. Several fish in the 40+ inch range were taken.
Big Bay De Noc - No walleye to report but the smallmouth bass fishing has been good when trolling or drifting minnows between Snake Island and Garden Bluff. Try fishing 16 to 30 feet down along the break.
Marquette - Some nice steelhead and lake trout have been caught by those heading out of the lower launch and staying within five miles of shore while fishing near the lower harbor breakwall, the Carp River and the Chocolay River. No salmon to report. Some have started fishing the lower harbor breakwall for lake trout, steelhead and whitefish. Salmon runs on the Carp River and Dead River are done.
Munising - This is the last report of this season and there is not much to say. All fishing has slowed and the salmon action is pretty much done.
Grand Marais - Boat and shore anglers caught fair numbers of steelhead and some coho when trolling spoons or surfcasting spawn in front of the Sucker River and Carpenter Creek.
St. Mary’s River - Yellow perch fishing is good in 6 to 8 feet of water using minnows in Bay Dewausi of Lake Nicolet in the morning. Smallmouth bass are hitting large shiners in 8 to 12 feet of water around the south end of Sugar Island. Chinook salmon can still be found on the gravel but the numbers are decreasing each week. Steelhead and coho have started to show up but not in big numbers. Atlantic salmon were hitting on body baits. Walleye fishing is still slow.
De Tour - Anglers are trolling and casting firetiger body baits in Maud Bay and around Sweets Point for northern pike.
Drummond Island - Perch are hitting good in and around Peck Island, Ashman Island, Scott Bay and the south end of James Island when using minnows.
Cedarville & Hessel - Northern pike fishing is good all through the Les Cheneaux Islands with only a handful of anglers trolling or casting for them. Look for smallmouth bass along the rocks. Perch are not congregating yet, but anglers are catching good numbers in 4 to 12 feet of water in Government Bay, Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance. Use minnows or crawlers.
Carp River - Those fishing for steelhead reported good results when using spawn or small spoons. Chrome was a good color.
Related posts
Michigan Weekly Fishing Report - 10/23/2008
October 23, 2008
Steelhead action has picked up as the salmon runs are pretty much done. Walleye fishing has slowed however those seeking panfish will find this time of year produces some monster bluegills. Try wax worms just off the bottom.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Perch fishing has been good in 26 feet of water near the Fermi Power Plant and Stony Point. The bigger perch can be found in 15 feet of water but catch rates were slower. Bass fishing has continues to be good in the weeds along the shoreline. Walleye anglers are still waiting for catch rates to pick up.
Huron River - Cooler weather has turned up the steelhead fishing. Anglers caught fish when casting spawn and drifting flies or a jig and wax worm. A few chinook were caught. Check out the backwaters for big bluegills hitting on wax worms.
Detroit River - Perch are still being caught with limit catches reported.
Saginaw Bay - Fair to good perch action near Buoys 4, 5, and 22. Good catches of 8 to 12 inch perch off Quanicassee when fishing anywhere from the last buoys at the end of the navigation channel to about 8 feet of water two miles out. North of Caseville, perch fishing was good off Oak Point in the 50 foot hole.
Saginaw River - Some perch are being taken in the lower river at Smith Park in Essexville and also an occasional walleye on a perch rig.
Sebewaing River - Small perch, some crappies and sunfish are being taken in the river and marina.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Boat anglers are catching salmon and trout while trolling in 120 to 160 feet of water. Perch have been caught when still-fishing just off the bottom in 60 feet of water.
St. Joe River - Salmon action has slowed around Benton Harbor and Berrien Springs however anglers may still find some fish between Niles and South Bend. Steelhead are slowly moving up into the river as a few fish were taken on spawn up near Pipestone Creek. Catch rates should only improve.
Paw Paw River - Anglers are still taking a few coho.
Kalamazoo River - The salmon run is pretty much over except for a few leftover fish. Steelhead are moving in and the action should only get better in the next week or so.
Grand Haven - Chinook and steelhead are being taken in waters 190 to 240 feet deep. The steelhead can be found in the top half of the water column so spring fishing techniques are best. Good colors are red and orange. Pier fishing is slow. Perch are biting out from the State Park and to the south.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Good numbers of steelhead are being caught on spawn up near the dam. Those using jigs and wax worms or Wobble Glo’s are taking fish in the deep holes and in the center run. Walleye have been caught by those casting small body baits, drifting crawler harnesses or hair jigs tipped with half a crawler. Pike are still hitting on sucker minnows, body baits or white spinner baits. Some nice 10 to 13 inch perch have been caught at Riverside Park.
Grand River at Lansing - About the only action right now is for resident fish. Those lucky enough have caught a few big catfish or carp. Anglers are now waiting to see if the steelhead will make it up this far.
Reeds Lake - Crappie action is good and jumbo perch are hitting on minnows.
Muskegon - Those trolling are catching steelhead and chinook in 190 to 270 feet of water. Most fish were taken in 240 feet of water. Perch fishing is good north of the piers and in front of the State Park.
Muskegon River - Steelhead continue to move into the river as the salmon runs are pretty much done.
Norhtern Lower Peninsula
Rogers City - Not much success to report other than a few browns and salmon can be seen swimming around the harbor. No luck in catching them. The launch ramps are still in but few boats have been out. The salmon run is about over with just a few adult stragglers left.
Presque Isle - Catch rates have slowed with few salmon in and around the harbor.
Alpena - Perch have been taken from the docks in the marina.
Thunder Bay River - Anglers are catching salmon at the Ninth Street Dam on natural and artificial spawn as well as rapalas. The salmon are dark and in bad shape. Steelhead are moving up into the river so try spawn up near the dam. Perch can be found near the marina and behind Jepetto’s.
Harrisville - Fishing has picked up in the harbor and just outside the wall. Most fish are being caught on J-plugs and jointed rapalas. A few walleye have been caught outside the harbor in and around 25 feet of mainly on body baits.
Au Sable River - Most of the fish up in the river have turned dark. A number of steelhead are up in the river but few anglers are targeting them. Walleye seem to be back in the river with reports of 3.5 to 4.5 pound fish taken near the mouth.
Tawas - Many small perch are being caught off the pier. Anglers will need to sort through their catch to pick out the big ones. A couple walleye and steelhead were also caught off the pier.
Tawas River - Is still producing a few salmon and the steelhead have moved in.
Au Gres - Some nice catches of perch along the shipping channel in 36 to 40 feet of water. Those fishing near the Singing Bridge have caught steelhead in the surf when casting spoons or drifting spawn.
Higgins Lake - Boats continue to troll for lake trout in 80 top 100 feet of water. Perch are still out there for those willing to put in the time to find them.
Houghton Lake - Catch rates have been slow with only a few crappie taken and some pike hitting on sucker minnows.
Northwest Lower Peninsula
Petoskey - The salmon runs are over and fishing has slowed. No reports of steelhead yet.
Charlevoix - Fishing has slowed. The salmon runs have fizzled and most of the fish are rapidly deteriorating. No perch or steelhead to report.
Elk Lake - Fishing pressure for smallmouth bass has dropped over the last week. Those that are out have been fishing from the Narrows to Rex Terrace in depths ranging from 2 to 15 feet using tubes, spinners, sinkos, and crank baits. More are trolling for muskie with large stick baits in 15 to 30 feet of water from the DNR access site to Kewadin and up to Spencer Bay. Only small perch have been caught.
Skegemog Lake - Bass anglers are casting in shallow waters near the mouth of the Torch River and along the weed beds in the southeast margins of the lake. Try 3 to 7 feet of water with jigs, spinners and crank baits. Muskie anglers are trolling in 4 to 20 feet of water with large stick baits. Some are drifting the flats for pike when using spinners or Hot-n-Tots. Bass have been caught in the shallows and perch are hitting on minnows and crawlers in 8 to 18 feet of water.
Boardman River - Fishing has slowed with only a few decent salmon still in the river. Light numbers of steelhead have started to show up.
Frankfort - Steelhead are being caught off the piers and the beach but weeds inside the harbor have made fishing difficult. Boats are trolling in 130 to 150 feet of water from the piers up to Point Betsie for chinook, coho, and steelhead. The Herring Hole has been slow, but a few larger chinook were caught trolling in front of the creek. Try spoons and flies 40 to 65 feet down.
Portage Lake - Anglers trolling for pike during the day are catching fish along the drop offs and weed edges on red and orange spoons. Walleye were caught when trolling near the channel at night. Decent catches of panfish with some ju