FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
MONDAY, JUNE 3, 2013

Are the bass biting on Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell? Ask the anglers from BBT Bass R Us. Their Annual Tournament, the first Satuday in June was a success……as usual. Forty-six boats covered the lakes and 44 weighed in their team limits of 5. Many were able to cull their catches. The total was 180 large mouths with a few smallies mixed in. Combined weight was 465.51 pounds. The average bass weighed 2.59 pounds. Not bad for a day of wind, falling temperatures and threatening rain.

The bass were released to be caught another time.

The team of Don Watts and Ben Nielson caught 1st Place with a limit weighing 16.08 pounds. A close Second Place went to Jim Sharphorn and Brian Tagg with 16.02. Many others were in the 14/15 pound range. Hundreths of an ounce make or break the standings.
Big Bass for the day was 3.83 pounds caught by the team of Paul Vandentoorn/Nate Westrate. The second largest was 3.78 pounds. It was close. The bass were happy to be returned to their homes and families in Lake Mitchell.

Walleye Anglers will find their favorite fish have moved into deeper water. Trolling crawler harnesses in the 12/15 foot range has become effective. Trolling is easy now before the weeds grow. Some are still being caught at the canal between the lakes, but not the numbers from earlier.

Bluegills and sunfish are on their beds in the shallow areas of both lakes. Leafworms under a bobber have been deadly. Limits are common.

Both lakes are full of crappie but they’ve been elusive lately. A few here or there but no pattern or consistensy. Once the weather stabilizes, they’ll be easier to find. Better times are coming!
Northern Pike are still running small, however they’re everywhere.

Bowfins better known as dogfish are common in both lakes. They’re highly aggressive and not afraid to bite anything you cast in the water.

Fishing has been good for bass over the weekend even with cold water as lots of leeches were used. Walleye fish has been fair with some reports good but the cold water has the fish still shallow and many are using body baits at night.
Fishing continues to get better as the weather improves. Bluegill and bass are on the beds in some areas while other areas are still a bit behind because of the cooler temperatures. Pike and walleye are biting.Pewrch fishing has slowed this week as winds have kept most off the lakes. Long Lake by Traverse has been fair for walleye this week with leeches and golden working best.

Northwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Harbor Springs: Boats anglers caught smallmouth bass around the docks.

Petoskey: Pier anglers did well for smallmouth bass. They were using crawlers, spoons or crank baits. A walleye was caught off the pier. Lake trout action was slow and most of the fish were sub-legal. Try south of the pier with blue and white spoons.

Bear River: Was producing steelhead before the high water levels. Try spawn bags. Smallmouth bass and rock bass were caught on crawlers. Brown trout were hitting on small spoons.

Charlevoix: A few boats were searching for lake trout but none were located. Water temperatures were 39 degrees at 100 feet down. Anglers continue to do well in the channel when walleye fishing after dark. The bite usually starts around 9:30pm. Fish on the Lake Michigan end of the channel when the current is going out and try near Round Lake when the current is moving in. Anglers are using ¾ to 1 ounce jigs with rubber minnows and rubber worms as well as deep diving crank baits. Smallmouth bass were hitting on crawlers and leeches in the channel.

Traverse City: The East Bay had good smallmouth bass fishing in waters 6 to 25 feet deep. Cisco, lake trout and whitefish were caught on Swedish Pimples in 20 to 70 feet. A couple lake trout were taken in 10 to 50 feet. In the West Bay, lake trout were caught by those trolling plugs in 10 to 30 feet. Whitefish and lake trout were taken by those jigging in 130 feet. Pier anglers caught smallmouth bass on minnows or crawlers.

Elk River: A couple steelhead remain in the river but the bite was slow. Try drifting fresh spawn bags or a jig and wax worm. Smallmouth fishing should improve as the water warms up.

Boardman River: Anglers are pulling in a mixed bag of fish. Smallmouth bass were caught on leeches or crawlers. Northern pike were hitting on live minnows. Anglers will find carp and plenty of suckers as well.

Frankfort: Brown trout are still hitting around the piers and limit catches were reported by those using alewife. Body baits in black and silver or black and gold were also working. Those fishing alewife off the north pier did well from the elbow to the end. Cold water has kept the chinook out in deeper water.

Onekama: Anglers heading south and fishing in 250 feet of water landed some nice chinook salmon. The fish are scattered so try all depths. They are hitting mostly on flies with meat rigs. Lake trout, brown trout and steelhead were not as deep.

Portage Lake: Panfish were very active with nice catches of bluegill, crappie and rock bass hitting on worms. Bass anglers were working the drop-offs. Few fish were actually on the beds. Northern pike were more active and hitting on spinner baits.

Manistee: Salmon fishing was starting to pick up. Try 70 to 180 feet down in 200 to 300 feet of water. Meat rigs with green or blue flies worked best. Pier anglers caught a few brown trout on spoons or alewife.

Lake Missaukee: Was producing some panfish.

Lake Cadillac: Walleye fishing slowed but a few fish were still being caught during the day and at night when drifting crawler harnesses. Anglers did well on bluegills. as the fish were starting to show up on the beds. The bass opener was very good with lots of large and smallmouth caught. Pike are hitting on live bait.

Lake Mitchell: Is producing a few walleye, some nice bluegills and the occasional small pike.

Ludington: Boat anglers are picking up a few salmon 75 to 150 feet down in 150 to 250 feet of water. Meat rigs have worked well along with orange or blue spoons.

Pentwater: Salmon fishing was best in the early morning and the fish were large for spring fishing. Anglers did best 45 to 70 feet down in 60 to 120 feet of water. Steelhead and coho were also caught. They are fishing across from the sand dunes at Silver Lake. Blue and green were the hot colors.

Northeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Mullett Lake: Walleye fishing was slow.

Rogers City: Lake trout are just starting to show up. Those fishing south towards Swan Bay and Adams Point caught salmon and trout. The fish appear to be scattered up and down the water column or 10 feet off the bottom. Try cowbells or dodgers with spin glo’s. The Atlantic salmon and steelhead are coming up high on bright colored spoons. There is still a large hatch of midges in the area and the fish are moving in to feed on them. Trout and salmon have been caught from the breakwall by those casting orange or gold spoons with a touch of silver.

Ocqueoc River: Has another fresh run of steelhead. Try drifting spawn under a bobber or small jigs and flies. They will be spawning soon.

Presque Isle: Was producing some lake trout along with a few chinook and Atlantic salmon in 30 to 80 feet of water. The lake trout were about 10 feet off the bottom. Try cowbells or dodgers with spin glo’s or green spoons. The fish caught had bellies full of goby and smelt.

Rockport: Those getting out have caught some lake trout. Atlantic, chinook and steelhead have also been caught but water temperatures were still in the low 40’s.

Grand Lake: Walleye fishing was slow.

Alpena: Anglers have done well for lake trout and the occasional steelhead or salmon. Lake trout ranged 4 to 12 pounds. Walleye fishing in the bay has slowed.

Thunder Bay River: Those fishing up near the 9th Street Dam have caught a few walleye, pike and smallmouth bass.

Harrisville: Boat anglers were coming in with steelhead, lake trout and walleye. Lake trout and steelhead were still in 50 to 70 feet of water. Try spoons, flies and body baits. Walleye were caught in 12 to 40 feet early morning or late night.

Lake Margrethe: Was producing walleye and panfish.

Oscoda: Walleye are making their way in. Pier anglers have done well late in the evening and just before sun up.

Au Sable River: Steelhead are still making their way up the river. Most of the fish caught are silver and fresh from the lake. Foote Dam is closed for construction. The Rea Road launch is accessible and the trail was open. Fish were still on the beds at Whirlpool, the Boy Scout Camp and near High Banks.

Houghton Lake: Is producing the occasional walleye and some panfish.

Tawas: Was slow, cold and windy. Those trolling between Jerry’s Marina and Buoy #2 caught very few fish. Boat anglers in Tawas Bay caught smallmouth bass.

Tawas River: Is producing smallmouth bass, catfish, freshwater drum and bowfin.

Au Gres: Was producing limit catches of walleye with crawler harnesses in 30 feet of water between Point Au Gres and Pointe Lookout. A few boats were going northeast of Point Lookout and fishing along and beyond the gravelly shoal.

Au Gres River: Is producing freshwater drum, catfish and bowfin.

Upper Peninsula Fishing Report

Walleye anglers had good success across Iron, Dickinson and Gogebic County. Many limit catches were checked.

Copper Harbor: Splake fishing was spotty. Jigs with cut bait like sucker or smelt worked best but crawlers took a few fish. Those fishing near the mouth of Fanny Hoe Creek caught a few fish when drifting worms in the current. In Eagle Harbor, those trolling around the mouth and in shallow waters caught a few splake and brown trout.

Keweenaw Bay: The water is still dirty from run-off but not as bad as it was. Catch rates picked up a little as those trolling caught chinook, coho and lake trout. They were fishing 30 to 50 feet down in 40 to 60 feet of water from the head of the Bay north to Old Mission with spoons. Green was a good color. Those jigging off the water tower at Pequaming picked up lake trout in 200 to 230 feet of water with cut bait. In Traverse Bay, those trolling or jigging in 130 to 150 feet caught lake trout out from Big Louie’s Point and Gay Point.

Marquette: Catch rates improved with chinook averaging 4 to 5 pounds caught towards Shot Point, the drop-off along M-28 and outside the Lower Harbor breakwall. Try spoons or stick baits in orange and silver. Lake trout action was fair. The fish were suspended 50 to 60 feet down in 160 to 200 feet of water. The lake trout are eating a large quantity of sticklebacks. Water temperatures were at 40 degrees.

Menominee: A few walleye were caught in 12 to 15 feet in Wisconsin waters. A few bass were caught and pike were abundant in the shallow waters. Those trolling north and south of the Cedar River caught pike and bass.

Menominee River: Had a good number of musky anglers. There was a report of one 58 inch fish caught and released. Anglers are drifting or casting large musky baits between the mouth and the dam. A good number of suckers have been caught up near the dam. Those shore fishing for trout reported slow catch rates.

Cedar River: Bass season opened with lots of fish caught. Many were small but some nice ones were caught on crawlers or crank baits under the M-35 Bridge.

Little Bay De Noc: Water temperatures were in the low 50’s. The better walleye and perch fishing were along the “Narrows.” Fish were also caught from the Kipling Flats south to the Gladstone Beach. Perch were hitting on minnows or crawlers in 20 to 30 feet of water. Walleye anglers were trolling crawler harnesses or rapalas in 18 to 30 feet. Walleye were caught near the mouth of the Whitefish River.

Ford River: Was busy with anglers during the bass opener. This is a good place for shore anglers to target smallmouth. Fair catches were taken by those casting tube baits or crank baits along the edge in 4 to 8 feet of water. Boats usually drift and cast down near the mouth.

Escanaba River: Walleye fishing slowed although some good catches were reported down near the mouth. Anglers were trolling or drifting crawlers in 10 to 20 feet of water.

Big Bay De Noc: Is known for its terrific smallmouth bass fishing and the opener last weekend was no exception. Good numbers of fish were reported throughout the bay. The better areas were the Nahma “Sand Pit”, the head of the bay up near Tylene’s, Ogontz, Puffy Bay and South River Bay. The fish were a little deeper in 10 to 16 feet of water. Many fish were in the 5 pound range. Some perch were caught in Garden Bay. Try crawlers in 8 to 12 feet.

Au Train: Catch rates improved somewhat for those targeting chinook, coho and lake trout. For salmon, anglers were trolling or casting spoons and stick baits in less than 50 feet of water towards Shelter Bay and Au Train Point. Water temperatures were still cold. For lake trout, anglers are trolling between Au Train Island and Wood Island in 160 to 200 feet of water.

Munising: Boat anglers have caught chinook ranging 3 to 10 pounds. A few splake were caught when trolling on the east side of the bay between the hospital and Sand Point. Try spoons, flashers, dodgers and flies. Pier anglers casting spawn and shore anglers still-fishing with spawn had limit catches of splake.

Grand Marais: Pier anglers caught coho and whitefish. Try spawn near the end of the pier. Some nice fish were caught but many were running on the small side. Early morning was best. Boat anglers caught coho when trolling east and west of the bay in waters less than 20 feet deep. The fish were 16 to 18 inches and limit catches were reported.

Manistique Lake: Both lakes were slow but producing some bass, pike and walleye.

DeTour: Anglers caught Atlantic salmon in 10 to 25 feet of water. Lake trout and chinook were out deeper in 45 to 65 feet. Green was the hot color.

Drummond Island: Walleye were caught in 4 feet of water in Scott Bay. Pink and black were the hot colors.

Cedarville and Hessel: Pike fishing is good all throughout the islands. Anglers are still-fishing or casting with chubs. Harvest numbers will only increase with warmer weather. Large and smallmouth bass fishing were very good.

Southeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Lake Erie: Walleye fishing has been great for most with limit catches taken in 19 to 24 feet of water between the Raisin River buoys and Stony Point. Most were using crawlers but others did well with purple or chartreuse spoons. The bass opener was good with smallmouth caught near the rock piles off Sterling State Park.

Detroit River: Walleye fishing remains very good.

Lake St. Clair: Continues to have good walleye fishing off the Dumping Grounds, the Metro Beach and the 400 Club. Smallmouth bass fishing remains good along the Mile Roads and is picking up in Anchor Bay.

St. Clair River: Walleye fishing has been good for those trolling crawler harnesses but success when jigging has picked up in recent days.

Lexington: Had very good fishing for chinook, lake trout, steelhead and even a couple coho. The bigger fish were caught in 80 to 100 feet of water.

Harbor Beach: Is producing salmon straight out and north of the harbor in 40 to 85 feet of water. Try spoons off downriggers and dipseys, or 2, 5 or 10 colored lead lines. Orange, red, blue, grey, or green were the hot colors. Steelhead were caught for those trolling bright colored spoons with offshore boards closer to the surface. Lake trout were taken with dodgers and spin glows or spoons near the bottom. Brown trout were closer to shore. Try long lines with bright colored spoons or body baits. Bass were caught inside the harbor and close to shore by those casting or trolling spoons and body baits. Pier anglers caught walleye when casting rapalas in the early morning or at night. Water levels were good at the ramp and in the channel.

Saginaw Bay: Had good walleye catches off the Pinconning Bar in 10 to 12 feet of water, three to four miles out from Linwood, one mile north of Callahan Road, and in 6 feet of water off Finn Road. Most are using crawler harnesses. Between Quanicassee and Sebewaing, walleye fishing was good along the north end of the Slot. The fish here were bigger and some limit catches were reported by those using pink and green crawler harnesses. Walleye fishing off Bay Port was slow. Good smallmouth bass fishing in Wildfowl Bay. At Caseville, anglers were walleye fishing off the wall.

Saginaw River: Is producing walleye between the Coast Guard Station and the mouth. Most are using Hot-n-Tots. Freshwater drum and catfish were caught at Essexville Park.

Tittabawassee River: Water levels were high and muddy. No anglers were out.

Southwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

St. Joseph: Boat anglers had decent fishing for chinook, coho and lake trout in 40 to 140 feet of water. Pier anglers continue to catch catfish and freshwater drum. Perch fishing was slow.

St. Joseph River: Is producing channel catfish and freshwater drum for those using crawlers on the bottom.

Union Lake: In Branch County was producing good numbers of bluegill and crappie. Some say crappies are on the beds and the gills were closer.

Lake of the Woods: In Calhoun County was producing some nice bluegills.

Duck Lake: In Calhoun County was good for crappie and bluegills.

South Haven: Boat anglers reported some improvement but catch rates were still slow. Chinook and lake trout were caught in 90 to 140 feet of water. A few perch were starting to show up however they are very deep and the bite was slow. Pier fishing was slow except for freshwater drum hitting live bait on the bottom.

Holland: Boat anglers are catching a few chinook and coho in 100 to 200 feet of water. White paddles with blue and white or green white flies were still taking fish right along with spoons in green, blue, yellow or gold. Pier fishing was slow.

Grand Haven: Boats are fishing in 110 to 200 feet but the better fishing was out further in 150 to 180 when targeting the top 85 feet. Some salmon were still caught out deeper. White paddles with blue and white or green and white flies were still the ticket but some also caught fish on regular or magnum spoons in blue, green, gold and yellow. Most of the fish caught were chinook and coho. Pier fishing was hit-or-miss. The Harbor Island parking lot for boat trailers has limited parking because of all the dirt from dredging.

Grand River at Lansing: Fishing activity picked up with the warm weather. No limits to report but anglers are catching catfish, bass, crappie and sunfish. Walleye and carp were hitting near the dams.

Park Lake: In Clinton County had good bass fishing.

Lake Ovid: Had good catches of bluegill but the fish were small.

Morrison Lake: Was producing some nice bluegills.

Muskegon River: Had reports of good walleye fishing in Mecosta County.

Whitehall: Had few anglers but those able to get out caught chinook south of Duck Lake. Try 45 to 160 feet down in 200 feet of water.

White Lake: Anglers had considerable action while fishing within the 7 foot range along the shoreline. They caught perch, northern pike, and bass. Some caught all three species with jerk baits. Those fishing the channel have started to catch channel cats when casting crawlers or spoons and running them close to the bottom.

FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
MONDAY, MAY 27, 2013

The Memorial Day Holliday is the kickoff to Summer. After a week of rain the sun finally blessed us through out the weekend. The cool mornings and warm afternoons made it perfect. The fishermen and mushroom hunters were all happy.
Bluegills have finally started on their beds. Limits have been reported on both Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell along the shorelines. Leafworms account for the best catches. Sight fishing for panfish in the shallows is fun and effective. Don’t forget you polarized glasses.
The real Bass Season, catch and keep, started last Saturday. Both large and small mouths have been plentiful. Tournaments have started throughout the state. Fishing wacky style is one of the favorite methods.
Pike anglers are catching numbers on live bait, but mostly undersized hammer handles. Currently, any in the 30 inch range are monsters. The bigger ones will come. Spinner baits seem to account for the best ones.
Night walleye fishing has slowed some. Still catching some around the canal on both lakes. Daylight fishing has improved for them. New areas of reported catches; outside the Big and Small Coves on Mitchell, off the Four Winns Test Center on Cadillac. Crawler harnesses are becoming an issue.

 

The weather has been the terrible this week with very few fishing but the fisherman are waiting for a break so they can hit the bass opener hard this saturday. Leeches and small suckers have been selling great for the guys getting ready for the opener.

This coming Saturday, May 25th is the opening day of bass season on the Great Lakes and all inland waters except Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River and the Detroit River which do not open until the 3rd Saturday in June. The early catch and release season has been excellent so the opener should be as well.

Northwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Harbor Springs: Boat anglers are slowly heading out around the point for lake trout. Try just off the bottom in 85 feet of water.

Petoskey: Pier anglers were catching a mixed bag of steelhead, brown trout, pike and carp. Boats are trying for lake trout near Bay Harbor. They are trolling spoons and spin glo’s in 50 to 100 feet of water.

Bear River: Still has some steelhead around the dam as well as upstream. Most of the fish are spawned out. Some are using spawn bags while others are fly fishing with an artificial egg fly. Fish early morning.

Charlevoix: Walleye have started running through the channel but the bite does not start until after dark. Fish have been caught down by the bridge near the Beaver Island Ferry Dock, and at the end of the pier near the lighthouse. Anglers are using a ¾ to 1 ounce jig with a scented rubber minnow or deep diving crank baits. A couple pike were caught in the channel and smallmouth bass are starting to show up.

Traverse City: Anglers in the East Bay are targeting lake trout, cisco, whitefish, or smallmouth bass. Lake trout are scattered. Cisco and the occasional whitefish were caught in 40 to 60 feet of water on Swedish pimples or other jigging spoons. Smallmouth bass were caught in 10 to 35 feet of water. In the West Bay, lake trout were caught by those trolling or jigging. A few whitefish were also caught when jigging. Pier fishing for salmon was slow but the smallmouth action was good.

Elk River: Anglers will still find some steelhead even though the peak of the run is over. Smallmouth bass are showing up in decent numbers and should offer good fishing for the opener this Saturday. Try leeches, crawlers, plastic baits, or jigs.

Boardman River: Steelhead fishing is all but over. Anglers are now targeting smallmouth bass, northern pike, and carp. There are plenty of suckers in the river. Smallmouth bass fishing should be decent for the opener.

Frankfort: With the cooler waters, brown trout have been caught between the piers and along the shoreline. Anglers are out very early in the morning with black and gold or black and silver body baits and UV spoons. The first chinook salmon of the year were reported. Alewives are starting to move in towards the piers.

Onekama: Is producing brown trout in 18 to 22 feet of water. Body baits are best.

Portage Lake: Bass anglers are still having a great time catching largemouth on the beds or smallmouth along the drop-offs. Bluegills are moving into the weeds and becoming more active in the afternoon. Some nice perch are still being caught in the early morning however bring lots of bait because you will have to sort the small ones.

Manistee: Boat anglers are starting to catch salmon 100 to 200 feet down in waters 200 to 300 feet deep. Meat rigs worked best. Those trolling along the shoreline for brown trout only caught a few fish. Try black and silver or black and gold body baits.

Manistee River: Those casting or slow trolling spoons, crank baits or flies are still taking walleye and the occasional steelhead.

Lake Cadillac: The bass opener this weekend should be good as anglers have been catching and releasing good numbers of fish. Walleye are still being caught but the bite did slow. Anglers are using crawlers, leeches, and rapalas. Many are still waiting for the bluegills. No beds have been seen so it looks like they could be spawning well into June.

Lake Mitchell: Night anglers are still taking some walleye even though the bite has slowed. Crappie and bluegill can be found in the shallows but both are moving between deep and shallow water. Water temperatures are still a bit cold.

Ludington: The fish cleaning station is now open at the Loomis Street Launch. Boat anglers were catching salmon 80 to 200 feet down in 200 to 300 feet of water. Try blue or green meat rigs. Not much in the way of brown trout action.

Pentwater: Fishing is slowly picking up. Boat anglers caught a few salmon about 60 feet down in 140 feet of water. Those fishing the channel caught some nice pike.

Northeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Rogers City: Anglers able to get out had little success. The water is still too cold with surface temperatures barely reaching 44 degrees. As it continues to warm up, try up towards Forty Mile Point or south towards Swan Bay and Calcite Harbor in 10 to 100 feet of water. Try high-lining in the shallow waters or 10 feet off the bottom out deeper with cowbells, spin glo’s and dodgers. Try bright colored spoons and body baits up high for the occasional Atlantic salmon or brown trout. There is a very heavy hatch of midges around the marina right now.

Presque Isle: Boats did manage to catch a few lake trout in waters 70 to 100 feet deep. They are using dodgers with spin glo’s just off the bottom. Anglers saw Atlantic salmon swimming around the marina.

Rockport: Had few anglers. A couple lake trout were caught towards False Presque Isle. Atlantic salmon activity seems to be slower this year.

Thunder Bay River: Is producing a few walleye for those using crawlers, leeches or crank baits. Anglers are catching and releasing some nice smallmouth bass.

Harrisville: Those heading out in boats caught lake trout, steelhead and walleye. It is still early in the season so the fish are in closer to shore. Spoons have been the most effective but you can also try body baits, flies and J-plugs. Walleye have been caught by boat and pier anglers using crawler harnesses, body baits or small spoons.

Oscoda: Walleye catches have slowed but fish are still being caught. Late evening was best off the pier when drifting crawlers and body baits.

Au Sable River: Steelhead can still be found and they are in good shape. It seems fresh fish are coming in day by day. The water is a little high and dark from run-off but the reports were still good. Flies seem to work best in the warmer weather but crawlers, wax worms and spawn were also producing well.

Houghton Lake: Bluegill and crappie have moved from the channels and are now being caught on the weed beds in 6 to 8 feet of water. The walleye bite was slow but the bass opener this weekend should be good.

Lake St. Helen: Fishing was slow however bluegills are being caught on crawlers and wax worms in 3 to 5 feet of water. Anglers are not seeing any beds yet so spawning is a little behind this year.

Tawas: Pier anglers caught walleye in the evening when casting body baits and jigs. A few pike were taken and smallmouth bass were caught and released. Those trolling did well for walleye in 20 to 30 feet of water out near Tawas Point. Some were vertical jigging over the artificial reef and doing well.

Tawas River: Shore anglers caught walleye and smallmouth bass. Those wading at the mouth caught walleye at night.

Au Gres: Had a lot of walleye activity between Point Lookout and Pointe Au Gres. Limit catches were taken with crawler harnesses in 15 to 30 feet of water.

Au Gres River: Is producing some walleye. Those surfcasting at night caught walleye down near the Singing Bridge.

Upper Peninsula Fishing Report

Keweenaw Bay: Is producing a mix of coho, chinook and the occasional brown trout but anglers are putting in a lot of time to catch a few fish. The water is still dirty. Anglers reported debris getting caught in their lines. Those fishing off the rock dock near the L’Anse Marina are picking up the occasional coho or rainbow trout on spawn, spoons or crawlers.

Falls River: The smelt run is over however anglers are picking up some rainbow trout. Try spoons, spawn or crawlers.

Silver River: The smelt are done but anglers caught rainbow trout.

Huron River: Is producing rainbow trout.

Marquette: Catch rates for coho were very slow with most reporting no fish. Lake trout action was good for those trolling just off the bottom in 200 to 230 feet of water near the Sand Hole. Try assorted spoons with sucker bait. Large schools of sticklebacks were associated with the lake trout. Most fish were 3 to 4 pounds but some went as high as 15 pounds. A few chinook salmon were caught by those trolling near Shot Point.

Menominee: Had a few reports of brown trout being caught by those in 30 feet of water. Most are going very slow, about 2 mph. Boat anglers are trolling near the mouth of the Menominee River. Catch rates were fair to good however the better action was in the evening. Those trolling north and south of the Cedar River caught walleye in the evening when using rapalas in assorted colors.

Menominee River: Water levels dropped and fishing was much easier. Some walleye were caught by those casting rapalas off the Cat Walk and near the dam. Suckers and the occasional catfish were also caught.

Cedar River: Is producing some walleye, smallmouth bass and carp for those trolling, casting crank baits or drifting crawlers.

Little Bay De Noc: Had a pretty good start for the walleye season although water temperatures were a bit cold. The fish did not seem too aggressive and a small percentage had not yet spawned. The average size was up compared to previous years. Good numbers of fish were reported around the head of the bay. The better catches were taken in 20 to 23 feet of water using crawler harnesses during the day or trolling and casting crank baits at night. The “Narrows” were a hot spot for walleye but most anglers were targeting perch. Try 30 to 33 feet of water with crawlers or minnows. Fair to good perch fishing was reported near the green buoy off the Days River in 20 to 24 feet.

Escanaba River: Was producing some walleye. While some limit catches were taken others struggled to catch fish.

Big Bay De Noc: A few walleye were caught just north of Kate’s Bay by those trolling crawler harnesses in 23 feet of water. Catch rates for perch were down but some were still caught as they move out of Garden Bay. Try crawlers in 8 to 12 feet of water. Smallmouth bass were active between Ansell’s Point and the head of the bay as well as near Ogontz.

Au Train: Catch rates for coho slowed dramatically. Anglers trolled several hours but caught few fish. Lake trout action was better for those trolling spoons and sucker baits in 150 to 200 feet of water. The fish averaged 3 to 4 pounds.

Munising: Pier anglers reported slow catch rates with only the occasional steelhead or splake taken on spawn. When boats can get out, they caught a mix of chinook, coho and splake. The chinook ranged 3 to 10 pounds. Lake trout up to 25 pounds were caught by those trolling the Big Reef but not everyone out there caught fish.

Grand Marais: The upper parking lot is still blocked with construction debris. Few boats have been out but the number of pier anglers has increased. They are catching mostly whitefish and coho. The whitefish were 10 to 15 inches and the coho were averaging 16 inches. Try spawn, crawlers or casting small spoons and rapalas in the morning. The few boats that did go out managed to pick up a few coho and steelhead. Remember to use caution because of shallow water and rocks by the new breakwall.

Drummond Island: Walleye are slow as water temperatures were about 52 degrees. Anglers had excellent northern pike action at the mouth of Maxton Bay when trolling or casting double bladed spinner baits just off the DNR launch. Lots of bullhead are being caught in 4 to 6 feet of water in Maxton Bay. Try worms or minnows on the bottom.

Cedarville and Hessel: Anglers are targeting northern pike while trolling Hessel Bay and casting off the pier. Harvest rates were fair as the water is still a bit too cold. Anglers did better in Musky Bay and Cedarville Bay where the water was warmer but the best action was in the Moscoe Channel. Splake can still be found around Hessel. Lots of large and smallmouth bass were being caught and released.

Carp River: The number of fish caught is down as the water is running fast and muddy. Some suckers were harvested; a sure sign that steelhead are on their way out.

Southeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Lake Erie: Anglers are catching a fair number of walleye in 18 to 22 feet of water between Fermi and the Raisin River buoys 1 and 2. Though most are trolling or drifting crawler harnesses some did better with spoons or body baits. Walleye were caught when drifting crawler harnesses or jigging in 15 feet of water off the Metro Park. Boats launching out of Bolles Harbor are doing well on the north end of the Dumping Grounds in 18 feet of water. Hot colors for walleye were chartreuse, purple, green and white. Bass anglers continue to do well in the harbors and backwaters with crank baits or tube baits.

Huron River: Anglers are still getting the occasional steelhead when fishing between the dams. White bass are still being caught. Keeper size bluegills have been caught below the dam at Flat Rock. Try small minnows, leaf worms or wax worms. Those looking for crappie are fishing the backwaters.

Detroit River: Has lots of white bass in the lower Trenton Channel. Perch have been caught near the Cross Dike.

Lake St. Clair: Is still producing some walleye especially at night. Shore anglers are catching a few perch on minnows. The catfish action continues to be good. Crawlers and cut bait worked best.

Lexington: Those trolling caught a mix of trout and salmon in 40 to 50 feet of water. Many say the fish are starting to move north along the Thumb which is why more fish are being caught up near Harbor Beach.

Port Sanilac: Trout and salmon were scattered in waters 40 to 70 feet deep so fish at all depths for chinook, coho, steelhead and lake trout.

Harbor Beach: Salmon are being caught in 40 to 80 feet of water straight out and north of the harbor. Try spoons off downriggers and dipseys, or 2, 5, and 10 colored lines. Orange, red, blue, gray, or green were the hot colors. Steelhead were also caught but the fish were closer to the surface. Lake trout were in 60 to 100 feet. Try dodgers with spin glo’s or spoons just off the bottom. For brown trout, try long lines with bright colored spoons and body baits close to shore. Pier anglers caught walleye at night when casting crank baits.

Port Austin: Those trolling have caught coho and lake trout in 35 to 90 feet of water. A few walleye were caught off the North Wall. Shore anglers on Bird Creek caught some big bullhead on crawlers.

Saginaw Bay: Had good walleye fishing in 10 to 12 feet of water between Linwood and the mouth of the Saginaw River and in the old shipping channel. Anglers are trolling harnesses. Fish were caught out in the Slot from Quanicassee north to the Sunset Bay Marina. At Bay Port, catch and release bass fishing was more popular than walleye fishing with good numbers of smallmouth keeping anglers busy. Walleye fishing from Bay Port and Caseville was concentrated around the big buoy off Sand Point. Channel cat fishing in Wildfowl Bay is excellent right now. A couple flatheads were also caught.

Saginaw River: Had some of the best walleye fishing in the lower river between the Karn-Weadock Power Plant and the Coast Guard Station. Most are trolling fire-tiger hot-n-tots but some are vertical jigging. There’s a lot of bow-fishing activity for carp from Jones Road to the south end of the bay. Shore anglers at Smith Park in Essexville are taking catfish, freshwater drum and white bass.

Tittabawassee River: Walleye anglers are still doing very well on the lower river near the Center Road boat launch when trolling shad raps. Fire-tiger or silver and blue were good colors. Some were getting their limits. The white bass are in and catch rates were very good. The catch and release smallmouth fishing was excellent especially around the Dow Dam. The opener this Saturday looks to be very good.

Southwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

St. Joseph: Fishing improved as boat anglers caught chinook, coho or lake trout in 40 to 90 feet of water. Pier anglers continue to catch channel cats and freshwater drum with crawlers on the bottom.

South Haven: Catch rates did improve slightly for boat anglers. They caught chinook and lake trout in 60 to 90 feet of water. Pier fishing was slow.

Holland: Boat anglers are catching a few salmon in waters up to 150 feet deep. The coho were deeper than the chinook. Most are trolling blue or green spoons or white paddles with blue and white or green and white flies.

Grand Haven: Pier anglers are using cast nets for alewife so they can use them bait. Catch rates were hit-or-miss for chinook and coho. Boat anglers are fishing 80 to 110 feet down in 130 to 150 feet of water using white paddles with blue and white or green and white flies. Blue or green magnum spoons also worked. The coho were out deeper and hitting on bright orange and red spoons in the top 35 feet. No perch to report.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Has been good for walleye. Steelhead action is almost done but the occasional fish is still being caught. A good number of flathead and channel cats are being caught on live suckers, cut bait or crawlers. Riverside Park and Millennium Park were good for bluegill and crappie. Try minnows, wax worms or leaf worms. Pike are hitting on spinners, body baits or large sucker minnows.

Grand River at Lansing: Walleye, carp, catfish and rock bass were hitting on crawlers and curly tail grubs at the North Lansing Dam. At Moore’s Park, walleye and catfish were hitting on minnows and crawlers. Walleye, pike, smallmouth bass and catfish have been caught by the Smithville Dam near Eaton Rapids. Golden shiners were the ticket.

Lake Ovid: Is producing bluegills but they are very small. Bass and crappie were caught on spec minnows.

Looking Glass River: Is producing some pike and bowfin. Anglers should also find some bluegill and bass.

Sessions Lake: Anglers caught crappie on wax worms and spec minnows. Catfish were hitting on golden shiners.

Morrison Lake: Was producing some nice bluegills.

Muskegon River: Has high water levels once again. Some reported a Caddis hatch. Those looking for trout have taken some browns along with the occasional steelhead.

Whitehall: Salmon appear to be scattered. Boat anglers picked up coho in 20 feet of water when trolling green and yellow spoons. Others caught chinook and coho about 50 feet down in 150 feet of water. Pier anglers caught a few chinook and brown trout. Pink and silver were the hot colors.

White Lake: Boat anglers have done well for pike when casting spinner baits. Good bluegill action for those using live bait.

Captain Chuck’s In Ludington Has Live Bait and has invested in a refrigerated  minnow tank to give you the best minnows in Ludington supplied by Buc’s Bait. So please support them when you need bait. Thanks!!!!!!!

Captain Chucks has moved!!!

Stop in and see us at
5756 W US10
Same plaza, just two doors east!

(231) 843-4458

Capt. Chucks Web Site

Captain Chucks has what you need to catch that large salmon, steelhead or trout.
We now have the largest selection of spoons, flies, rods & reels, dipsy divers and Spin Doctors in the area.
See what’s new from Moonshine, Dreamweaver, Yeck, Warrior and Stinger.
Stop in and browse thru the new items or we can mail order your supplies to you.
We are continually trying to meet your great lakes fishing needs, with the newest and most productive products available.

Bows by:
PSE : Elite Archery : Parker : Mathews : Mission

Crossbows by:
Parker : Ten Point : Carbon Express : Horton : Native

Custom Arrows : Bow Tuning : Licenses :

Fishing has been slow after the horrific weekend, the last two days people are getting back out and the bite is picking up. Jesica Mack from MC Sport has been slamming the steelhead at Elk Rapids and she has photos to prove it.

 

Northwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Harbor Springs: The dock at the public boat launch was still not in because of dredging. There were no boat or pier anglers in sight.

Petoskey: Pier anglers targeting steelhead with spoons or spawn had no luck. Those fishing near the “bobber hole” were not getting any bites.

Bear River: Still has steelhead between the dam and the mouth. Fish were on the beds upstream of the dam. Steelhead were caught all the way up to Sheridan Road. Orange spawn bags or rubber eggs seemed to work best.

Charlevoix: Boat anglers looked for perch in 50 to 100 feet of water outside the channel but no fish were marked. Those trolling crawlers for walleye in the channel had no luck.

Lake Charlevoix: Anglers were not able to find the large perch they found the week before. Schools of small perch were hitting on wigglers near Two Mile Point. Walleye were spotted in 20 to 30 feet of water right off the Irish Boat Launch but they would not bite.

Traverse City: Lake trout and cisco are being caught in both bays. For lake trout, anglers are trolling in 10 to 15 feet of water or jigging in 150 feet. For Cisco, they are jigging in 50 to 75 feet. Catch and release smallmouth bass fishing should continue to improve as water temperatures slowly rise.

Elk River: Still has a good number of steelhead being caught. Drifting fresh spawn bags has been the most consistent.

Boardman River: The steelhead action continues to wind down even though a few fish are still being caught. Carp, northern pike, suckers, and a few smallmouth bass are also in the river.

Platte Bay: Fishing was slow with the cold front. One boat that was out trolling did manage to catch a nice lake trout.

Frankfort: Cooler temperatures and winds out of the north were keeping the water between 46 and 51 degrees. Anglers are still picking up brown trout around the piers and when trolling the shoreline with body baits or UV spoons. There have been reports of salmon in the area.

Portage Lake: Perch fishing slowed but anglers might still find some good catches if they can get out there early in the morning. Wigglers and minnows worked best but once the bluegills move in, the perch will be gone. Bass anglers are still doing very well during the catch and release season.

Manistee: Brown trout fishing continues to be slow for boat and pier anglers. A couple were caught by those trolling around the piers with gold and black or silver and black body baits. Perch fishing slowed.

Manistee River: Is still producing some steelhead and walleye. Try small spoons, crank baits and flies. Orange and chartreuse were good colors.

Lake Cadillac: Those seeking walleye did best at night when casting rapalas or Hot-n-Tots. Some nice crappie were caught off the State Park in 8 to 10 feet of water. Bluegills were starting to bite in shallow water.

Lake Mitchell: Is producing some walleye for those trolling at night. Shore anglers are casting rapalas. A fair number of crappie are also being caught.

Ludington: Reported slow brown trout action. Only a few fish were taken by those trolling around the piers with silver and black body baits or bright colored spoons.

 

Northeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Rogers City: The marina, the fish cleaning station and the restrooms are now open. Large boats have been able to launch with no problems so far. Catch rates were slow for boat and pier anglers however the brown trout, lake trout and Atlantic salmon should start showing up as the water gets warmer. For now, try trolling in shallow waters or areas where there is run-off. Use bright colored body baits in stained water as opposed to silver, black or blue in clean water. For lake trout, try high-lining in the shallows with cowbells and spin-glo’s. A few pike and bass were caught.

Presque Isle: Catch rates were slow because the water is just too cold. For Atlantic salmon, try close to the wall down by Stoneport with bright colored spoons and body baits. Lake trout should start showing up in the shallows between the two lighthouses so try dodgers or cowbells with spin-glo’s in water up to 40 feet deep. Those fishing the marina caught smallmouth bass.

Rockport: Had few anglers. Lake trout activity was slow as surface water temperatures were still very cold. No Atlantic salmon to report.

Alpena: The bite in Thunder Bay has been slow.

Thunder Bay River: Anglers are catching a few walleye, pike, smallmouth bass and the occasional steelhead on rapalas, spinners or leeches.

Harrisville: Water levels in the harbor were up so launching should not be a problem for most boats. Dredging will start soon, as crews have started moving equipment into the area. Steelhead can still be found in and around the harbor. Boat and pier anglers are using small spoons or body baits. For walleye, try crawler harnesses in 15 to 25 feet of water.

Oscoda: Pier anglers are catching walleye in the early morning or late evening. Try crawlers, leeches, small spoons or body baits.

Au Sable River: Steelhead are on the beds between the mouth and the dam. High Banks has had the most angler activity, and produced the most catches. Fish can be found throughout the river so move around if one location becomes too crowded. Flies seem to work best but spawn and wax worms have also taken fish. Walleye are moving in and out of the river.

Houghton Lake: Had fair to good panfish action.

Lake St. Helen: Those fishing the canals caught panfish.

Tawas: Pier fishing was slow with the occasional bass, pike, or walleye caught. Boat anglers were getting a few walleye over near the artificial reef when vertical jigging or trolling body baits.

Tawas River: Shore anglers caught the odd bass or walleye in the lower river.

Au Gres: Walleye were caught by those trolling crawler harnesses in 15 to 30 feet of water off the mouth of the river.

Au Gres River: Some walleye were caught by those surfcasting with body baits near the Singing Bridge. Most were fishing at night.

 

Upper Peninsula Fishing Report

Keweenaw Bay: Those trolling in shallow waters near the mouth of the Falls River did catch some salmon. Pier anglers caught coho and steelhead when casting lures or spawn bags.

Falls River: With water levels receding, anglers picked up a couple rainbow trout. The smelt run started. Some anglers said they put in a lot of time to get a couple gallons while others said they hit the run at the right time. Lake trout were caught in Little Traverse Bay by those trolling. Fish were also caught by those jigging in 140 to 170 feet of water out from Hermits Cove.

Silver River: Had reports of smelt.

Ravene River: Had reports of smelt but not sure how long the action will last.

Marquette: Fishing was slow for those trolling crank baits or stick baits. A few coho and smaller brown trout were taken between the Carp River and the Chocolay River. Anglers are reminded that the Upper Harbor is closed for dredging. The tentative completion date is early July. Boat anglers will have to use the Lower Harbor launch.

Carp River: Had few anglers once again because of the strong current.

Sporley Lake: Near Gwinn – the road is impassable due to washout and ruts. A construction crew will get there when the road restrictions are lifted.

Greenwood Reservoir: The spillway is like a water fall with no barrier. Boaters that are not paying attention could float off the edge.

Menominee: Those targeting walleye and brown trout had fair catches when trolling along the drop off in Michigan and Wisconsin. Some boats were anchoring in front of Seagull Bar Park and jigging. Those trolling north or south off Stoney Point caught some walleye and brown trout in 10 to 14 feet of water. Early morning was best with rapalas. Use caution when leaving the launch due to low water levels. Those trolling for trout in 8 to 14 feet of water near the Cedar River had slow catch rates.

Menominee River: Catch rates for walleye were slower but persistence paid off with at least one walleye per boat. Fishing from Stephenson Island upstream to the Hattie Street Dam was difficult because of the high water levels and the amount of water coming over the dam. White suckers were caught near the dam.

Cedar River: Some were steelhead fishing between the mouth and the Cedar River Campground but no fish were caught. They were casting spoons and spinners or floating yarn and flies. The walleye as well as the catch and release bass openers should be good.

Little Bay De Noc: Perch fishing picked up along the northern end of the bay for those using minnows and wigglers in 18 to 23 feet of water just off the green buoy. The “Narrows” also reported a few catches using crawlers and minnows in 30 feet. The walleye opener this week looks good especially near the mouth of the Whitefish River and near Kipling.

Big Bay De Noc: Had perch in Garden Bay but spawning is done so the number of fish caught has dropped. Anglers were still-fishing with minnows and crawlers in 6 to 12 feet of water in front of the Fishery. Many are anticipating a good walleye opener. Try fishing the head of the bay up by Tylene’s and out to the “Boot”, out by the Sand Pit near Nahma and over by the East Bank near Ogontz.

Au Train: Had good action over the last week for those trolling shallow running crank baits and stick baits in less than 20 feet of water. Catch rates were average between the Brownstone Launch and the Au Train River where they caught mainly coho, steelhead and brown trout. Those fishing near the mouth of the Rock River with spawn picked up couple steelhead.

Munising: Catch rates were just fair. Pier anglers caught a couple splake and steelhead when casting spawn. When boats can get out, they did manage to take a couple coho, steelhead and maybe a chinook. Shore anglers caught a couple steelhead or splake.

Grand Marais: The upper parking area is still blocked with construction debris. Strong winds produced enough wave action to remove the remaining snow and ice off the end of the pier. Those fishing off the pier caught a mix of whitefish, menominee, coho and steelhead. The whitefish were 12 to 15 inches but some bigger ones were caught. Coho were about 16 inches. Those surfcasting off the beach caught a couple coho. Boat anglers reported slow catch rates. Be sure to use caution when navigating around the newly completed breakwall. The water is very shallow between the shoreline and the south end of the breakwall. Watch for rocks in shallow waters on the bay side of the wall.

Two Hearted River: Has trout despite the high water levels.

Sucker River: The mouth has rerouted itself and is now coming out directly at the end of Cemetery Road. This allows much easier access.

DeTour: The water was cold and muddy. Temperatures here dropped from 85 to 35 degrees and the area received three inches of snow with the cold front.

Drummond Island: Yellow perch have been caught off Monahan’s Dock. Worms or small perch minnows worked best.

Cedarville and Hessel: Splake fishing was not very good most likely due to the change in weather. Pike and walleye season opened on May 15th.

Carp River: Has been producing a good number of steelhead. Anglers are using fly rods with artificial baits, spinners or spawn. Hot colors were green, pink and red.

Southeast Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

Lake Erie: Walleye fishing has been good for most. Anglers are drifting harnesses with inline weights or bottom bouncers in 12 to 23 feet of water in Brest Bay and the Dumping Grounds. Orange, copper and purple were the hot colors. The “Hot Hole” was producing limit catches of catfish when using live bait.

Huron River: Those fishing in the evening have caught the occasional steelhead or walleye. Catch rates for white bass have slowed but those using minnows have caught catfish. Crappie can be found in the backwaters.

Detroit River: Has lots of white bass. Walleye were scarce but only because the white bass were so dominate. Anglers were still doing fairly well for walleye in the lower river when bouncing jigs. Minnows were the top bait for white bass however fish were also caught on spinners.

Lake St. Clair: Walleye are starting to be caught in the south end of the lake. A few yellow perch and panfish were caught by shore anglers. Large channel cats were caught by shore anglers fishing at night. Try crawlers or cut bait.

Clinton River: Rock bass fishing remains fast and furious.

St. Clair River Walleye fishing continues throughout the river system.

Lexington: The fish are scattered but those trolling have caught chinook, steelhead lake trout and the odd coho in 80 to 90 feet of water. Try 15 to 20 feet down with spoons. Pier anglers caught bullhead and rock bass on crawlers.

Harbor Beach: The fish were scattered so anglers were trolling in waters 80 to 100 feet deep with spoons. Fish anywhere from 15 to 60 feet down. Pier anglers caught bullhead and rock bass.

Grindstone City: Had shallow water.

Saginaw Bay: Catch rates were a bit slow but a few walleye were caught in 18 feet of water off Linwood and 12 to 14 feet near the Pinconning Bar. Anglers have switched from body baits to crawler harnesses on bottom bouncers. A couple fish were taken off Jones Road and Finn Road. Walleye were taken in the lower Slot from Quanicassee north to Sunset Bay. Average catch were two to three fish per boat. The skid pier is now in at Quanicassee. Not much going on from Sebewaing to Bay Port. At Caseville, rumor has it some walleye were caught off the wall at night.

Saginaw River: Was still producing some walleye in the lower river. Anglers were trolling body baits near the Power Plants.

Tittabawassee River: Walleye were still being caught from Imerman Park downstream to Center Road and the confluence with the Saginaw River. The fish are clearly slipping back down the river but a fair number of fish remain. Smallmouth bass action has picked up. Anglers are catching and releasing lots of white bass because Community Health recommends not eating white bass from Saginaw Bay or its tributaries.

Quanicassee River: Catfish were just starting to bite even though it is a bit early yet.

Southwest Lower Peninsula Fishing Report

St. Joseph: Had slow fishing as boat anglers were struggling to find fish. There are a few salmon around but the bite was slow. Pier anglers caught catfish and freshwater drum.

South Haven: Fishing was very slow for boat and pier anglers.

Kalamazoo River: Is producing pike and smallmouth bass above Marshall.

Holland: Boat anglers caught chinook and coho when trolling in waters 70 to 150 feet deep. Try the upper half of the water column but go deeper if needed. Hot colors were green, blue and gold. No perch to report.

Grand Haven: Dredging at the Harbor Island boat launch could be finished by the weekend. Pier anglers lucky enough to get some alewife with cast nets have caught chinook salmon. Boat anglers were starting to catch salmon in the top 45 to 65 feet in waters 75 to 100 feet deep. Super slim or regular size baits in green, gold and blue worked well along with white or UV paddles with green and white or blue and white flies. No word on perch.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Is still producing the occasional steelhead. Walleye fishing was good for those using body baits and crawlers. A good number of flathead and channel cats are being caught on live suckers or cut bait. Riverside Park and Millennium Park were good for bluegill and crappie. The bluegills were hitting on leaf worms and wax worms. The pike action was good for those using large sucker minnows, spinners or body baits.

Grand River at Lansing: Catch rates have started to pick up along the Grand and the Red Cedar. No limit catches but anglers were still picking up bluegill, crappie, bass and catfish.

Lake Ovid: Is producing some musky.

Looking Glass River: Still had high water levels.

Maple River: Is producing a few crappie.

Byron Mill Pond: In Shiawassee County was producing bluegill and crappie. The fish were good size and some were getting near limit catches.

Reeds Lake: Is producing crappie in the channels. Bluegill, perch and pike were also caught.

Muskegon River: Had good walleye action with a few limit catches reported. Many were small but the keepers were average size. Steelhead fishing has slowed.

Whitehall: Very few walleye have been taken from the channel and the pier. Anglers were casting body baits but had no luck.

White Lake: Boat anglers continue to catch good numbers of pike and bass when casting spinner baits. The fish are still close to shore.

Jessica Mack from MC Sport has been slamming the steelhead at Elk Rapids this week and has become a addict. I hope she says hi to the little guy once and awhile.

2013 Lake Leelanau Walleye Tournament

Saturday ~ May 18th 2013 ~ 7:00am – 3:00pm

TWO MAN TEAMS 

 

Walleye Tournament begins at 7:00 am SHARP we have Two (2) check-in docks this year

*The DNR Boat launch on County Rd. 641 OR *The Narrows Launch “Old Bait Shop”

*New Rule* BOATS CAN LAUNCH AND COME FROM ANY SITE ON LAKE LEELANAU or RESIDENCE ON THE LAKE…BUT!! ALL TEAMS AND BOATS MUST BE CHECKED AND (IN THE NARROWS) IN THE WATER AND READY TO GO 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO 7:00AM START TIME!!

Click here to download form

 

ENTRY FEE: $50.00

 

PLEASE RETURN ENTRY FORM NO LATER THAN Thursday, May 16^th, 2013 TO:

2013 Walleye Tournament

Attn: Tony West

2375 S. Lake Leelanau Dr.

Lake Leelanau, MI 49653

**The form can also be dropped off at Dicks Pour House !!

 

Recent Size of Field & 1^st Place Prize

2010 –  40 Boats – $750.00

2011 – 51 Boats – $1,000.00

2012 – 42 Boats – $750.00

 

PAYMENT IS DUE WHEN the TOURNEY ENTRY FORM IS SUBMITTED

Questions? CALL TONY (231) 409-7223 OR MIKE MCSWEENEY (269) 506-3860

RULES AVAILABLE VIA EMAIL UPON REQUEST

 

FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL

FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2013

Trolling solo in a kayak, Derek Tonello holds the 18 1/2″    Wadding the canal area on Lake Mitchell, Jack Polus 4 walleye he caught on Lake Mitchell.  He holds 4 great walleyes caught casting  Rapalas.

The sequester has not affected the fishing.  But the rain, snow and wind has slowed things down.  Every thing was turning on at once.  Soon this cold front will pass and things will return to normal.

The missing gills and sunfish started biting in the shallows here and on other area lakes.  The coves on Mitchell is the place to find them.  The warm afternoons will find them as shallow as 2 feet.  There’s no evidence of them spawning or making beds.  They seem to enjoy the warm sun.

Limited crappie catches are coming from both lakes.  Many are in the 11-12 inch range and are as big and round as a dinner plate.  Easiest fish to find come from Lake Cadillac in 8 to 10 foot depths outside the State Park, canal area.  Boat Anglers are finding schools.  Those we’ve seen at the cleaning station have not spawned yet.  Egg sac’s are tight and small.  These catches will last for some time.  Shore fishermen are still waiting for them to come to the shallows.  Still no numbers coming from the causeway on Cadillac, a favorite place for shore fishing.

Walleye, everyone’s favorite fish, are co-operating on both lakes.   Thank the DNR for the stocking programs.  One of the better areas has been outside the canal, swimming beach on Lake Mitchell.  At dusk and into the dark, Anglers in waders are casting Rapalas and cashing in.  Several boats troll the area nightly.  Usually there’s no need to measure because they’ve been 16 to 22 inches.  A few are caught during the day however as has been the pattern, the best bite is after dark.