Caught Saturday while perch fishing in 15Ft.
35 in 14 lbs.

2nd Annual

Out The Door Rent To Own

Ice Fishing Tournament

Saturday  February

 23rd.

Shotgun Start 8:00 AM

Lake Cadillac Only

We Will meet at Kenwood Park in front of Pavilion Area By Lake Cadillac

4. Fish must be brought in alive. This is a catch and release tournament

Don L. 02-15-2013
From Houghton Lake
Pike
36inch 10lb
Caught on the western edge of the middle grounds jigging with a rapala

Lyman’s on the Lake in Houghton Lake reports they had good success around the lake this weekend with the middle grounds being the hot spot. a pike caught on the lake this week

FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL

FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2013

Michigan weather – the fish are confused.  This week we’ve had rain, snow, sleet, warm temperatures then dropping to 14º/16º below.

One day a limit of panfish is easy.  Usually a mix of crappie, gills and a few keeper perch.  The next day, fishing the same holes nothing happens, a kind of roller coaster effect.  Often those using electronics mark plenty of fish but can’t get them to bite.  More then half the Winter’s over and catches aren’t as easy as first ice.  The fish are there!  Late afternoons into the dark has been the best bite.  Cut more holes than what you need and hole hop when the fish are lethargic, there’s always one or two that want to play.

Osborn’s Sport Shop report a huge turnout for his fishing contest with lots of fish entered along with a 9lb walleye and 14lb pike. Lots of whitefish were caught along with pike and perch,

Crystal and big glen both report a good bite this weekend with Crystal Lake had a awesome lake trout bite, and fair smelt, perch, and whitefish

42 3/4 in Northern & 36″ NorthernReports from Higgins Lake  this weekend the pike and lake trout were on the bite with white fish and smelt fair. Here are a few photos from the lake this week. Thanks to Bob Stockton and Kirstie Kelly Wakeley for photos

Huge Lake Trout out of Higgins Lake along with lots of smelt off the west access site

 

Northwestern Michigan

 

Leroy- Reports are guys are getting out and gills are biting with good pike action Call Eye’s Have It for latest info 231-768-5653

 

Baldwin- The little lakes around  Baldwin are safe and pan fish has been fair.  Call Baldwin Bait @ 231-745-3529 or  Ed’s Sport @ 231-745-4974

 

Big Glen- The lake is froze with 5 to 8 inches of ice, they are catching perch, trout and ciscoe’s. Had many reports of guys catching 12 to 14 inchers but there is no pattern on the bite as it has been later in the day and when they bite it last for about an hour.  Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496

 

Little Glen- Has ice the perch are biting fair Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496.

 

Lake Leelanau: North Lake Leelanau has ice and a good perch and walleye bite, South Lake Leelanau is froze with 5 to 8 inches of ice and fair walleye, perch and pike. Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496 for latest info

 

Manistee Lake by Kalkaska-  Good fishing this week with perch, pike, walleye and a few gills in the canals ice is 10 to 15 inches Call Jacks Sport Shop 231-258-8892

 

Spider Lake and Arbutus- 10 to 12 inches of ice with pike and pan fish biting, a huge pike was caught out of there last week Call Roy’s General Store @ 231-946-5633

 

Duck Lake: Lots of fisherman off of Strawberry Point and the penisula

 

Green Lake: The smelt fishing has been great with reports of 100 or more at night quite a few guys out today. Spikes and waxworms on Hali Jigs.

 

Long Lake:  They are fishing the whole lake with the better bite off of Cresant shores and a great perch bite.  They are catching nice perch but lots of short walleye. Call MC Sports @ 231-933-6158

 

Skegemog- Has completely froze over and lots of people are walking out also quads a driving with many shanties on the lake. The perch have been biting they last few days.They have been seeing some nice muskie’s Call Jack’s Sport Shop@231-258-8892

 

Fife Lake- Has ice and a few big pike have been caught, along with perch  There was a bunch of guys off the access site today. Call Lakeside Party @ 231-879-4346

 

Portage Lake-  They were out in force today on Portage with a awesome perch bite as a big school has moved in from Lake Michigan. Many limit catches with perch running up to 14 inches. Also they have been catching whitefish this week along with pike and walleye. Osborn’s Big Fish Contest.  The dates of the 2013 Contest are February 15th, 16th and 17th. The same as free fishing weekend Onekama will have a poker run I think Saturday night, and the Lions will have pancake Breakfast Sunday morning at the fair grounds. The entry fee will be $10.00 for Adults this year and $5.00 for Children – 14 years and younger. The contest will again include all of Manistee and Benzie county lakes. You can enter at the Sports Shop or call 231-889-3775

 

 

Call Osborne’s@ 231-889-3775

 

Hamlin Lake- Has safe ice and many out and about catching crappie and gills with a good pike bite. Call PM Expeditions@ 231-425-8913 or Hamlin Grocery@(231) 843-2058

 

Bear Lake- Has 12 to 15 inches of ice today with a few getting out catching pike. Osborne’s@ 231-889-3775

 

Lake Missaukee- Has safe ice with a good crappie, gill and pike bite. report 10 to 15 inches of good ice with pike and gills are biting good Call Miller Corner@ 231-839-0440 or Hopkins Outfitters@ 231-839-FISH (3474)

 

Cadillac and Mitchell- Lake Cadillac they are fishing off the causeway and it has looked like a city on the ice this week Call Pilgrim Village for latest info@ 231-775-5412

 

Pentwater: Pentwater Lake is froze and the perch fishing has been great also a few pike. There was 50 shanties in front of Pentwater Angler and said the perch bite was on today. Call Pentwater Angler for the latest info@ 231-869-5357

 

Whitehall: White lake has ice with good pike and perch bite today. Call armstrongs@231–894-6753 or Johnson’s Outdoors @ 231-893-6688

 

Betsie River: Continues to produce some steelhead.

 

Big Manistee River: Is fishable and should have a fair to good number of steelhead including some fresh fish. Many are fly fishing below Tippy Dam.

 

Little Manistee River: Is producing steelhead and the occasional brown trout however the river will close to fishing on January 1st and will reopen on April 1st.

 

Pere Marquette Lake: Had decent northern pike action for those using tip-ups.Pere Marquette River: No word on steelhead activity however water levels were still quite high.

 

Crystal Lake a few guys went in the drink Tuesday so be careful and there is open water in the middle.

 

 

 

Northeast Michigan

 

Lewiston-  Both East and West Twin are froze and perch, pike and walleye are biting Call Mid Lakes Market @ (989) 786-3227

 

Mio- Mio Pong has froze and a few are getting out on the lake. Call Jig’s Bait Shop@ (989) 826-3467

 

Lake St. Helen- Fishing has been good with 10 to 15 inches of ice lots of pike, with pan fish on the bite with a few walleye being caught. Call Macomb’s Tackle Box @ 989-389-2100

 

Pratt Lake and Wiggins Lake– has safe ice and many have been doing good on pan fish and pike. Call Chappel Dam@ 989-426-7503

 

Wixom and Sanford Lake- Reports are the lake is safe and fisherman have been getting out on the shallow bays catching crappie, gills and pike. Call Sanford Sport Shop@989-687-5161 or Sandy’s Market@ (989) 435-9688

 

Secord Lake has had a great bite this week Sandy’s Market@ (989) 435-9688

 

Fletcher’s Floodwaters- Those using tip-ups caught some nice pike. Crappies were taken on minnows, wax worms or spikes. Call Bill’s @989-742-4874

 

Black Lake- Has 9 to 15 inches of ice and a good walleye bite Call Parrots Outpost for the latest ice conditions (989) 733-2472

 

Mullet Lake- Has been good for perch the last few days call Mullet Lake Party store@ (231) 627-4644 or  Topinabee Market@ 231-238-9578

 

Burt Lake: Perch and walleye fishing has been good. Call Pat & Gary’s Party Store 231-238-6776

 

Grand lake and Long Lake- Both lakes are safe and fisherman are venturing out catching perch and pike, Call Bucks@ 989-595-2121

 

Otsego Lake- The ice is safe and many shanties are on the lake. A few sturgeon have been caught off the State Park and good perch, pike and  a few walleyes on Otsego Lake. Perch fishing has been fair  on Bradford, chub Lake trout fishing has been good. Call Northern Sports@ 987-448-2014

 

Lake Margrethe-  The lake is completely froze with 10 to 15 inches of ice and good fish being caught. There are quite a few shanties on the lake.  Call Skip’s Sport @ 989-348-7111

 

Higgins Lake- Has from 8 to 12 inches of ice and the ice looks great today as they missed the snow storm South-end of the lake there are lots of shanties on the lake with great pike and perch right now. Good Lake Trout, pike and perch. The south end  report of limit catches of perch. Smelt fishing has picked up the two days with reports of some catching 600 a night off the west access site  . Call Phoenix Park 989-821-7220 or Sports Barn 989-821-9511 for latest ice conditions

 

Houghton Lake- Ice fishing is on Good pike, perch and walleye. Dave @ 4 season says off of long point good perch and walleye are being caught. he hurt his back so he had to take his shanties off the lake but fishing is good

 

Lyman’s has started putting their shanties out call them for your reservations@ 989-422-3231 Also Dave @ Four Season Party Store has his Shanties out and said last night they did good on the walleyes and pike. Call him @ 989-422-5230.

 

Angelos Party Store also has shanty retail call him @ 989-202-4422 ask for Lou.

 

Korbinski’s also rents shanties and has a full line of bait and Tackle call Rod@ 989-366-9500

 

Lake Avalon: In Montmorency County is producing a few bigger splake.

 

Alpena: The boat ramps are frozen in. A few perch were caught in the harbor.

 

Au Sable River: The ramps are usable. Steelhead were caught from Foote Dam all the way down to Oscoda and the mouth. Boat anglers are back drifting plugs or casting spawn.

 

Tawas: Was producing good numbers of decent size perch in 12 to 15 feet of water in the bay. Perch were also caught inside the State Harbor. Walleye were a little deeper in 15 to 20 feet of water and hitting at dawn or dusk. Those spearing have taken a few pike.

Au Gres River: Anglers were catching sublegal walleye and a few perch.

Rifle River: Is under a flood warning. Anglers may want to avoid the river until water levels have a chance to recede.

Huge Lake Trout out of Higgins Lake along with lots of smelt off the west access site

 

Northwestern Michigan

 

Leroy- Reports are guys are getting out and gills are biting with good pike action Call Eye’s Have It for latest info 231-768-5653

 

Baldwin- The little lakes around  Baldwin are safe and pan fish has been fair.  Call Baldwin Bait @ 231-745-3529 or  Ed’s Sport @ 231-745-4974

 

Big Glen- The lake is froze with 5 to 8 inches of ice, they are catching perch, trout and ciscoe’s. Had many reports of guys catching 12 to 14 inchers but there is no pattern on the bite as it has been later in the day and when they bite it last for about an hour.  Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496

 

Little Glen- Has ice the perch are biting fair Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496.

 

Lake Leelanau: North Lake Leelanau has ice and a good perch and walleye bite, South Lake Leelanau is froze with 5 to 8 inches of ice and fair walleye, perch and pike. Call Fishhook@ (231) 256-9496 for latest info

 

Manistee Lake by Kalkaska-  Good fishing this week with perch, pike, walleye and a few gills in the canals ice is 10 to 15 inches Call Jacks Sport Shop 231-258-8892

 

Spider Lake and Arbutus- 10 to 12 inches of ice with pike and pan fish biting, a huge pike was caught out of there last week Call Roy’s General Store @ 231-946-5633

 

Duck Lake: Lots of fisherman off of Strawberry Point and the penisula

 

Green Lake: The smelt fishing has been great with reports of 100 or more at night quite a few guys out today. Spikes and waxworms on Hali Jigs.

 

Long Lake:  They are fishing the whole lake with the better bite off of Cresant shores and a great perch bite.  They are catching nice perch but lots of short walleye. Call MC Sports @ 231-933-6158

 

Skegemog- Has completely froze over and lots of people are walking out also quads a driving with many shanties on the lake. The perch have been biting they last few days.They have been seeing some nice muskie’s Call Jack’s Sport Shop@231-258-8892

 

Fife Lake- Has ice and a few big pike have been caught, along with perch  There was a bunch of guys off the access site today. Call Lakeside Party @ 231-879-4346

 

Portage Lake-  They were out in force today on Portage with a awesome perch bite as a big school has moved in from Lake Michigan. Many limit catches with perch running up to 14 inches. Also they have been catching whitefish this week along with pike and walleye. Osborn’s Big Fish Contest.  The dates of the 2013 Contest are February 15th, 16th and 17th. The same as free fishing weekend Onekama will have a poker run I think Saturday night, and the Lions will have pancake Breakfast Sunday morning at the fair grounds. The entry fee will be $10.00 for Adults this year and $5.00 for Children – 14 years and younger. The contest will again include all of Manistee and Benzie county lakes. You can enter at the Sports Shop or call 231-889-3775

 

 

Call Osborne’s@ 231-889-3775

 

Hamlin Lake- Has safe ice and many out and about catching crappie and gills with a good pike bite. Call PM Expeditions@ 231-425-8913 or Hamlin Grocery@(231) 843-2058

 

Bear Lake- Has 12 to 15 inches of ice today with a few getting out catching pike. Osborne’s@ 231-889-3775

 

Lake Missaukee- Has safe ice with a good crappie, gill and pike bite. report 10 to 15 inches of good ice with pike and gills are biting good Call Miller Corner@ 231-839-0440 or Hopkins Outfitters@ 231-839-FISH (3474)

 

Cadillac and Mitchell- Lake Cadillac they are fishing off the causeway and it has looked like a city on the ice this week Call Pilgrim Village for latest info@ 231-775-5412

 

Pentwater: Pentwater Lake is froze and the perch fishing has been great also a few pike. There was 50 shanties in front of Pentwater Angler and said the perch bite was on today. Call Pentwater Angler for the latest info@ 231-869-5357

 

Whitehall: White lake has ice with good pike and perch bite today. Call armstrongs@231–894-6753 or Johnson’s Outdoors @ 231-893-6688

 

Betsie River: Continues to produce some steelhead.

 

Big Manistee River: Is fishable and should have a fair to good number of steelhead including some fresh fish. Many are fly fishing below Tippy Dam.

 

Little Manistee River: Is producing steelhead and the occasional brown trout however the river will close to fishing on January 1st and will reopen on April 1st.

 

Pere Marquette Lake: Had decent northern pike action for those using tip-ups.Pere Marquette River: No word on steelhead activity however water levels were still quite high.

 

Crystal Lake a few guys went in the drink Tuesday so be careful and there is open water in the middle.

 

 

 

Northeast Michigan

 

Lewiston-  Both East and West Twin are froze and perch, pike and walleye are biting Call Mid Lakes Market @ (989) 786-3227

 

Mio- Mio Pong has froze and a few are getting out on the lake. Call Jig’s Bait Shop@ (989) 826-3467

 

Lake St. Helen- Fishing has been good with 10 to 15 inches of ice lots of pike, with pan fish on the bite with a few walleye being caught. Call Macomb’s Tackle Box @ 989-389-2100

 

Pratt Lake and Wiggins Lake– has safe ice and many have been doing good on pan fish and pike. Call Chappel Dam@ 989-426-7503

 

Wixom and Sanford Lake- Reports are the lake is safe and fisherman have been getting out on the shallow bays catching crappie, gills and pike. Call Sanford Sport Shop@989-687-5161 or Sandy’s Market@ (989) 435-9688

 

Secord Lake has had a great bite this week Sandy’s Market@ (989) 435-9688

 

Fletcher’s Floodwaters- Those using tip-ups caught some nice pike. Crappies were taken on minnows, wax worms or spikes. Call Bill’s @989-742-4874

 

Black Lake- Has 9 to 15 inches of ice and a good walleye bite Call Parrots Outpost for the latest ice conditions (989) 733-2472

 

Mullet Lake- Has been good for perch the last few days call Mullet Lake Party store@ (231) 627-4644 or  Topinabee Market@ 231-238-9578

 

Burt Lake: Perch and walleye fishing has been good. Call Pat & Gary’s Party Store 231-238-6776

 

Grand lake and Long Lake- Both lakes are safe and fisherman are venturing out catching perch and pike, Call Bucks@ 989-595-2121

 

Otsego Lake- The ice is safe and many shanties are on the lake. A few sturgeon have been caught off the State Park and good perch, pike and  a few walleyes on Otsego Lake. Perch fishing has been fair  on Bradford, chub Lake trout fishing has been good. Call Northern Sports@ 987-448-2014

 

Lake Margrethe-  The lake is completely froze with 10 to 15 inches of ice and good fish being caught. There are quite a few shanties on the lake.  Call Skip’s Sport @ 989-348-7111

 

Higgins Lake- Has from 8 to 12 inches of ice and the ice looks great today as they missed the snow storm South-end of the lake there are lots of shanties on the lake with great pike and perch right now. Good Lake Trout, pike and perch. The south end  report of limit catches of perch. Smelt fishing has picked up the two days with reports of some catching 600 a night off the west access site  . Call Phoenix Park 989-821-7220 or Sports Barn 989-821-9511 for latest ice conditions

 

Houghton Lake- Ice fishing is on Good pike, perch and walleye. Dave @ 4 season says off of long point good perch and walleye are being caught. he hurt his back so he had to take his shanties off the lake but fishing is good

 

Lyman’s has started putting their shanties out call them for your reservations@ 989-422-3231 Also Dave @ Four Season Party Store has his Shanties out and said last night they did good on the walleyes and pike. Call him @ 989-422-5230.

 

Angelos Party Store also has shanty retail call him @ 989-202-4422 ask for Lou.

 

Korbinski’s also rents shanties and has a full line of bait and Tackle call Rod@ 989-366-9500

 

Lake Avalon: In Montmorency County is producing a few bigger splake.

 

Alpena: The boat ramps are frozen in. A few perch were caught in the harbor.

 

Au Sable River: The ramps are usable. Steelhead were caught from Foote Dam all the way down to Oscoda and the mouth. Boat anglers are back drifting plugs or casting spawn.

 

Tawas: Was producing good numbers of decent size perch in 12 to 15 feet of water in the bay. Perch were also caught inside the State Harbor. Walleye were a little deeper in 15 to 20 feet of water and hitting at dawn or dusk. Those spearing have taken a few pike.

Au Gres River: Anglers were catching sublegal walleye and a few perch.

Rifle River: Is under a flood warning. Anglers may want to avoid the river until water levels have a chance to recede.

 

Upper Peninsula Report

 

Newberry- Has good ice on most the small lakes with pike biting fair.

 

Munuscong Bay –Dan’s Resort in Pickford reports : Is slower than usual with deep snow and scattered areas of slush. Ice formation east of Roach Point remains variable so extreme caution needs to be used. Walleye fishing has slowed for those fishing in 3 to 5 feet of water. For perch, most are jigging or still-fishing with minnows.. Call Dan’s Resort @ (906) 647-8753

 

Manistique– Ice is good on Indian Lake and Big Manistique and the  Call Top O Lakes Sport@ 906-341-5241

 

Lake Gogebic: Walleye are still being caught in waters 7 to 12 feet deep. Try tip-ups with light line or try jigging rapalas near the weed beds. Catch rates for perch picked up for those using wigglers in 12 to 17 feet of water.

Keweenaw Bay: Catch rates were up and down. Those fishing off Sand Point and Lighthouse Point caught coho and lake herring 8 to 20 feet down in 30 to 90 feet of water. Those fishing on the Center Reef did well for lake trout in 80 to 110 feet of water. For whitefish, anglers did well east of the Baraga Marina in 70 to 95 feet of water. Lake trout were taken in 145 to 180 feet of water out from Jentoff’s Dock but ice conditions were not consistent. Don’t assume the ice is good just because you see someone else out there because some are still going out even though their spud broke through the ice. Those fishing at night caught smelt near the Baraga Marina or Bucks Marina.

Chicagon Lake: A few walleye were caught just before and right after dark by those using tip-ups with sucker minnows along the edge of the weeds in 10 to 15 feet of water. Bluegills were caught on wigglers and wax worms in 10 to 17 feet of water. A couple whitefish were caught in the early morning however the bite was slow.

Iron Lake: Is producing bluegill but many were small. Try small jigs or teardrops with wax worms, wigglers or spikes. Pike action was good but many were sub-legal. A few crappie were taken on minnows just before dark.

Groveland Mine Ponds: Ice fishing continues. On Island Lake, the bite was best in the early morning or late afternoon for bluegill, crappie and perch. West Lake was slow however a couple 11 to 13 inch perch were caught by those jigging in the middle or along the south end. Few anglers were out on the East Lake but the South Lake was producing some nice perch and some bluegills in 25 to 30 feet of water right off the boat launch.

Lake Antoine: Was producing bluegill, crappie and small yellow perch. A few smallmouth bass were also caught however bass season is closed. Anglers are using tip-ups with minnows and wax worms in 8 to 15 feet of water. Those spearing northern pike have seen fish but few were taken.

Little Bay De Noc: Ice conditions remain favorable north of the Escanaba River however ice thickness in the southern bay is not consistent as it ranges from 4 to 14 inches. Whitefish action was fair off Sand Point when using spawn or minnows in 75 to 85 feet of water or south of the “Narrows” in 33 to 40 feet. Catch rates for walleye were fair. Those fishing at night did better. Try the Third or Center Reefs using tip-ups with sucker minnows in 14 to 30 feet of water. Near the Escanaba River, anglers caught bigger fish on tip-ups or when jigging rapalas in 20 to 30 feet. Off the beach, anglers were jigging rapalas with minnows along the break in 23 to 30 feet of water. Perch fishing was hit-or-miss as some did well while others caught very few. The hot spots were out from Brach’s Cabins in 17 to 22 feet of water, Garth Point in 14 feet, and south to the Escanaba ship docks in 25 to 30 feet. Wigglers and minnows worked best. Northern pike spearing was good just off Butler Island in 10 to 12 feet of water. Those using tip-ups in 18 to 30 feet of water just off the Center Reef have also caught quite a few pike.

Munising: Anglers can be found from the West Channel near Christmas to Sand Point. Ice conditions have changed some after the mild weather. The snow has compacted which makes walking a little easier. Catch rates were still slow. Some are jigging a single egg for whitefish. A couple splake were caught. They range from sub-legal to 20 inches. A few perch were taken near Grand Island. Quite a few were targeting lake trout in the West Channel but no fish were reported. No reports from Trout Bay.

Cedarville and Hessel: Has ice however catch rates were extremely slow.

Southeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Most of the inland lakes still had ice however thin spots were present on many, especially the bigger ones. Anglers need to use caution.

Lake Erie: Those fishing the Metro Park Marina caught bluegills on wax worms or red spikes. Perch were caught on minnows. About a mile south of the Metro Park, anglers caught bluegill, perch and a few pike in Lake Pointe Marina.

Huron River: Is producing some steelhead. Try spawn, wax worms, small spoons or body baits in bright colors.

Detroit River: Still has some flow ice coming down. Boat anglers are heading towards Sugar Island and ice fishing for bluegill and perch at the Cross Dike. Others were open water fishing in the canals near Gibraltar.

Lake St. Clair: The snow has melted so getting around on the ice is easier now but anglers still need to use caution as ice conditions are not consistent. Caution needs to be used in areas where there is a current, around any structure such as pilings and docks as well as the ice near shore. Perch were caught by those using minnows.

Saginaw Bay: Four words say it all this week,STAY OFF SAGINAW BAY! There are numerous active pressure cracks which make ice fishing dangerous. Deep snow has covered up some of the pressure cracks and the weak spots so anglers don’t know they are there until it is too late. Warmer temperatures along with a strong southwest wind will push offshore ice out into the open waters of Lake Huron. Ice conditions will be treacherous for the next several days. Machines have gone through the ice and people have found themselves in need of rescue.

Saginaw River: Is running high and muddy. Pretty much all the rivers around the bay are in the same shape. Rain, warm temperatures and offshore winds have increased the current. This will further erode any ice on the river. Ice conditions will be dangerous.

Southwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Heavy snow and rain have made ice conditions extremely variable. Small lakes and isolated coves that had ice most of the season continue to support some ice fishing. On others, ice formation was not consistent.

St. Joseph: The piers are ice covered and dangerous.

St. Joseph River: Higher water levels are requiring most anglers to use a boat. The bite was slow however anglers should still find some steelhead up near the dams.

Kalamazoo River: Has higher water levels. Boat anglers were fishing for steelhead or walleye up near the Allegan Dam.

Holland: The piers are ice covered and dangerous. Anglers should avoid the area.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Has an ice jam at the US-31 Bridge so anglers should avoid this area. Those steelhead fishing will do best near the dam. Try jigs, spawn, small spoons or body baits. High water levels call for bright colors. Those fly fishing have caught fish. For walleye, try up near the dam or near the bridges.

Rogue River: Is producing some steelhead. Some are fly fishing while others are drifting spawn and wax worms.

Grand River at Lansing: Is producing walleye at Moore’s Park and the North Lansing Dam. Minnows work best.

Reeds Lake: Is still producing bluegill, pike and crappie.

FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL

 

 

This weekend all snow lovers were happy.  Snowmobilers got to run on the 6 to 12 inches of new snow on the Cadillac Area groomed trails.  Skiers enjoyed the fresh snow at Caberfae’s 75th  Anniversary Season.  AMR Motorcycle races were held on Lake Cadillac.  Anglers have plenty of safe ice here on all the area lakes.

Ice fishermen sharpen your augers.  Expect a foot and more of ice on Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell.  Listen to the sound of power augers.  Those with hand augers don’t cut many holes.

Mitchell and Cadillac have a reputation for good populations of crappie.  Limits or near limits of 7 to 9 inchers are common. Good eaters.  Currently a few lucky anglers are catching Master Angler size, the 14 inch range and over.  Small minnows are the preferred bait used on light rods.  Lately many of them have been caught on tip-ups.  By accident or intent, those setting light line tip-ups with walleye size minnows are catching them.  The bright sunny days have not been great.  Best numbers come on the dark, gray ones.  Late afternoons into dark have definitely been the best bite.  Black crappie Master Angler size;  catch and release 14″, catch and keep 14″ and minimum weight of 1.12 lbs.

 

Jessica from MC Sports fishing Dept. in Traverse City was fishing smelt last week on Green Lake and Dropped her iPhone in the fishing hole in 25 feet of water. She can tell you when the smelt are biting as they text her when they are hungry. Also Siri can communicate with the smelt also to know when the bite is on.

Winter 2013 Free Fishing Weekend Events

Osborn’s Big Fish Contest. The dates of the 2013 Contest are February 15th, 16th and 17th. The same as free fishing weekend Onekama will have a poker run I think Saturday night, and the Lions will have pancake Breakfast Sunday morning at the fair grounds. The entry fee will be $10.00 for Adults this year and $5.00 for Children – 14 years and younger. The contest will again include all of Manistee and Benzie county lakes. You can enter at the Sports Shop or call 231-889-3775     Hopkins Creek Outfitters Ice Fishing Competition This event will be held on February 16th and 17th, on  Lake Missaukee, in Lake City Michigan.  1st Place Shappell Shanty – Biggest Walleye 2nd Place 8″ Mora Hand Auger – Biggest Pike 3rd Place Jigging Rod – Biggest Panfish Lots of Doors Prices $10 Entry Fee All Fish must be caught on Lake Missaukee All fish must be registered with Hopkins Creek Outfitter. Registration times are 7:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. Friday and Saturday, 7:00 A.M. till Noon on Sunday Hopkins Creek Outfitters will come to your fishing spot to register your fish. All you have to do is call the store (231) 839-3474 (fish).   Check out the current list of officially registered 2013 Winter Free Fishing Weekend events. Perhaps you’ll attend one, or perhaps one will spark your interest in planning your own event! All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations still apply. For Free Fishing events in your area, click on any county listed below. Please note that some events do require pre-registration and/or the DNR’s Recreation Passport.

Antrim County
Event Name: Ellsworth Shiverfest
Location: Ellsworth Community Park, Ellsworth
Date: Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. each day
Details: Shiverfest includes winter events for all ages such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, fishing, sledding, as well as several indoor events.
Contact: alanajhaley@yahoo.com, 231-360-0676

 

Bay County
Event Name: Winter Festival
Location: Bay City State Recreation Area, 3582 State Park Drive, Bay City
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Details: A full day of activities that focus on getting children outdoors, fishing and exploring Michigan’s Winter Wonderland. Events include a Family Ice Fishing Derby complete with free loaner rods, free bait, pre-drilled holes, hot refreshments and free raffle for kids as well as trophies for the best catch; Youth Ice Fishing Clinic where children can make their own ice fishing jig and lure while they learn about ice fishing; Snow Snake Clinic & Contest where participants can make their own Chippewa snow snake and see how far they can make it slide across the ice; Snow Shoe Hike; Winter Wildlfe programs; Owl Calling Hike & much more! Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: blaschkav@michigan.gov, 989-667-0717

 

Clinton County
Event Name: Annual Ice Fishing Derby
Location: Bath Community Center (5959 Park Lake Road), Bath
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: To be determined
Details: Registration for this event will begin at 8:30a.m. Participants will be able to fish from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Park Lake. Following the event, participants can stay for the presentation of prizes. Trophies will be awarded for longest fish in three categories and 50/50 and grand prize drawings will also take place. Refreshments will be available throughout the day. The fee to participate is $10 per person.
Contact: bgoodwin@bathtownship.us, 517-641-6728 (extension 131)

 

Gogebic County
Event Name: 4th Annual Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department Ice Fishing Contest
Location: Sunday Lake, Wakefield
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (CST)
Details: The Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) is planning its Fourth Annual Ice Fishing Contest, which is its main fundraising event. Sunday Lake has a variety of fish species, such as perch, panfish, walleye and northern pike, which makes it an ideal spot for the Ice Fishing Contest. Although the contest will be geared towards children, prizes will be available for all ages. The contest fee is $3 for children aged four to 12 and $5 for people 13 and up. Children three and under are free. The funds raised are used to purchase lifesaving Fire Suppression Equipment.
Contact: clerk@cityofwakefield.org, 906-229-5131

 

Event Name: Family Friendly Free Fishing Weekend
Location: Bass Lake, north of Watersmeet
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (CST)
Details: This event is a free fishing class for all interested individuals. Youth and adults can attend with all youth participants accompanied by an adult. Bait will be supplied by the DNR and equipment will be available on a limited basis. Participants can bring their favorite fishing rod and/or tip-up if they wish. Staff from the DNR’s Porcupine Mountains State Park and Crystal Falls Field Station will be on hand to assist and instruct individuals on techniques and methods to take fish on our area water.
Contact: mylchreestm@michigan.gov, 906-875-6622

 

Ingham County
Event Name: Meridian Fishing Derby
Location: 1990 Central Park Drive, Okemos
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Details: This fishing derby will include prizes awarded for first fish caught, biggest fish caught, second biggest fish caught and the most fish caught.
Contact: grothous@meridian.mi.us, 517-853-4616

 

Iron County
Event Name: Family Friendly Free Fishing Weekend
Location: Runkle Lake, east of Crystal Falls
Date: Sunday, February 17, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (CST)
Details: This event is a free fishing class for all interested individuals. Youth and adults can attend with all youth participants accompanied by an adult. Bait will be supplied by the DNR and equipment will be available on a limited basis. Participants can bring their favorite fishing rod and/or tip-up if they wish. Staff from the DNR’s Porcupine Mountains State Park and Crystal Falls Field Station will be on hand to assist and instruct individuals on techniques and methods to take fish on our area water.
Contact: mylchreestm@michigan.gov, 906-875-6622

 

Monroe County
Event Name: Women Fish Too, ice fishing weekend (same as event listed for Wayne County)
Location: Point Mouillee State Game Area, Rockwood
Date: Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 2013
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Details: For this event women of all ages are invited to come and participate in ice fishing. See the contact below for additional information.
Contact: surgtech369@gmail.com, 734-674-6639

 

Montcalm County
Winter Family Weekend
Location: 3789 E. Vestaburg Road, Vestaburg
Date: Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 2013
Time: The event actually starts at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 15 and runs until 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 17.
Details: A family weekend full of indoor and outdoor activities including ice fishing, archery, worship and more. All equipment will be provided. Please note there is a cost to attend, $30 for adults and $10 for children. See the contact below for additional information.
Contact: dan@rlca.org, 989-268-5377

 

Oakland County
Event Name: Ice Fishing Derby
Location: Seven Lakes State Park, 14390 Fish Lake Road, Holly
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: This event is sponsored by Izaak Walton League of America, Fenton Chapter and Seven Lakes State Park. A fishing derby will be available and participation is FREE. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for park entry. Some equipment will be available to use for those that don’t have any. Lots of prizes will be given out! Bring the whole family for a day of fun. Refreshments will be available.
Contact: 248-634-7271

Ogemaw County
Event Name: Winterfest
Location: Rifle River Recreation Area, 2550 East Rose City Road, Lupton
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: To be determined
Details: At this event a hay ride, warming fire, coffee, hot cocoa and hot dogs will be provided. Visitors are encouraged to take part in outdoor winter recreation activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, etc. There will also be a nice sledding hill for the young ones available. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: 989-473-2258

Presque Isle County
Event Name: Reel Fun Ice Fishing Tournament
Location: Metzelaar Bay, Grand Lake
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: This family-friendly event held on Grand Lake will have more than 30 prizes given away. Purchase of each ticket enters you into a drawing to win a 42″ TV. Tickets are $25 and only 1,000 are available. Tickets may be found at Clem’s Bait and Tackle, Buck’s Bait and Tackle, Alpena Chamber of Commerce, or Top O’ Michigan Insurance Agency locations. All proceeds benefit The Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary River Center. For more information visitwww.icefishingalpena.com.
Contact: esbushey@hotmail.com, 989-464-3697

 

Roscommon County
Event Name: Catch Us If You Can
Location: Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Lake St. Helen
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: All day
Details: Catch one of the nearly 100 tagged fish in Lake St. Helen, Higgins Lake or Houghton Lake and you will receive a $50 gas card and be entered for a chance to win $100,000 and a new boat. The first five tagged fish caught over Free Fishing Weekend will receive an extra free gift.
Contact: info@visithoughtonlake.com, 989-366-8474

 

Event Name: WinterFest
Location: North Higgins Lake State Park (1747 N. Higgins Lake Drive), Roscommon
Date: Saturday, February 16
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Details: This Annual Winter Festival includes a pancake breakfast, cardboard sled race, chili cook-off, ice fishing contest, Kids Karnival, games and various others activities. A truly fun family event.
Contact: info@hlrcc.com, 989-275-8760

 

Tuscola County
Event Name: 18th Annual Ice Fishing Contest
Location: The Fowler Center for Outdoor Learning, 2315 Harmon Lake Road, Mayville
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Details: The Fowler Center will be hosting its 18th Annual Ice Fishing Tournament with two fishing sessions available (7:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:30-5:30 p.m.). The cost to participate is $20 each for fishermen 17 and over and $5 each for those under 17. In addition to the $7,000 grand prize pike contest, there will be cash prizes for first pike, largest fish, smallest fish, youngest fishermen with a fish, and more! Also available throughout the day will be concessions, raffle, 50/50, door prizes, and a delicious $8 chicken dinner! On-site accommodations are available for $15/person/night, call now to reserve your spot! Come enjoy a day of free fishing, hosted by Rob and Susie Trott of Great Lakes Outdoors, while supporting their camp for individuals with special needs.
Contact: info@thefowlercenter.org, 989-673-2050

 

Van Buren County
Event Name: Ice Fishing 101
Location: Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center, 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Details: Youth ages five to 16 will learn the basics of ice fishing and get a chance to try their new skills out on the ice! This program will include both an inside and outside portion. The ice fishing portion of the program is dependent on ice conditions and subject to cancellation. Participants and chaperones should dress appropriately for weather conditions. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. On-site hatchery tours will also be available at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Contact: ramseys2@michigan.gov, 269-668-2876

 

Washtenaw County
Event Name: Family Ice Fishing & Bonfire
Location: Mill Lake Boat Launch at Waterloo Recreation Area, 16345 McClure Road, Chelsea
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: This event will allow participants to make their own fishing rods, learn to play snow snake, ice skate, drink hot cocoa, and roast marshmallows. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: mcglashenk@michigan.gov, 734-475-3170

 

Wayne County
Event Name: Women Fish Too, ice fishing weekend (same as event listed for Monroe County)
Location: Point Mouillee State Game Area, Rockwood
Date: Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 2013
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Details: For this event women of all ages are invited to come and participate in ice fishing. See the contact below for additional information.
Contact: surgtech369@gmail.com, 734-674-6639

 

Wexford County
Event Name: DNR Youth Fishing Tournament
Location: Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center, 6087 E M-115, Cadillac
Date: Saturday, February 16, 2013
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Details: Come visit the Carl T. Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center for its first-ever Free Fishing Weekend ice fishing tournament. Participants can be youth age 16 and under. All kids must be accompanied by an adult. All state and local fishing regulations apply. Participants must register prior to the event, call or email the contact below. Please note a Recreation Passport is required for entry.
Contact: shawe@michigan.gov, 231-779-1321

Casey Miller owner of Miller’s Corner in Lake City caught this  39 1/2 inch Pike on Lake Missaukee. Call Casey @ 231-839-0440 and he will give you tips on where and what to use on Lake Missaukee.

Huge Lake Trout out of Higgins Lake caught by Bob Stockton and friends this winter