Curly's Photo and Fishing Blog
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Opening Weekend was Slow
Walleye and pike fishing was fair to good and should only get better. Crappie fishing slowed however the bluegill bite has started to pick up and the catfish are active.The “Catch & Immediate Release” bass season for the Lower Peninsula is open.
Trout opener was great but the walleye opener was slow. Some are reporting walleye have been biting on Long Lake and Lake Leelanau by Traverse City
New Walleye Regulations for Mullett Lake and Associated Rivers
The new regulations take effect for the 2010 fishing season on April 1. The regulations were developed in collaboration with many of the recreational fishing groups in the area, as well as the Indian River Chamber of Commerce. Changes to the regulations include a change in bag limit and season length for walleye for state-licensed recreational anglers. The regulations cover Mullett Lake proper, the Cheboygan River from Mullett Lake downstream to the Cheboygan Dam, and the Black River from Alverno Dam downstream to its confluence with the Cheboygan River.
In those areas, the bag limit for the harvest of walleye by state-licensed recreational anglers will be three walleye per day. The walleye season for state-licensed recreational anglers on Mullett Lake will be May 15 to March 15.
The State and Tribes have agreed to work together to develop a multi-faceted approach to monitoring and enhancing the walleye population over next five years, through the 2014 fishing season.
The plan includes a collaborative assessment and monitoring program by both the state and the Tribes that encompasses continued creel surveys for the 2010 fishing season, a joint assessment of the entire chain of lakes, and longer term the potential to develop a joint fish stocking effort.
“These changes will protect the adult walleye population in the lake, while offering state-licensed recreational anglers the opportunity to continue harvesting walleye,” said DNR Fisheries Chief Kelley Smith. “Both the State and the Tribes are concerned with the walleye population in the lake, and our plan is to address it together.”
Saginaw Bay - Most of the fishing activity was near the mouth of the Saginaw River; especially in windy conditions. Walleye were caught on jigs baited with crawlers. The Hot Pond was also producing a few walleye for those using jigs or crank baits. Near Quanicassee, catch rates for walleye improved on the Callahan Reef. Boat anglers were fishing in 3 to 12 feet of water with crawler harnesses and crank baits. Not much activity at Sebewaing as boat anglers wait for the channel markers to go in. A few crappie were caught in the marina. Anglers are reminded that fishing will not be allowed from the docks after May 1st. Areas away from the boats will remain open to fishing. At Bay Port, anglers caught a few crappie at the public access site and Bay Shore Marina. Pier anglers at Caseville caught a few walleye, trout or salmon.
Tittabawasse River - The walleye opener was good but not outstanding. Most everyone caught fish but no limits were taken. The fish spooked easily because of the clear water and it appears that many had already dropped back to Saginaw Bay after spawning about a week earlier than normal this year. The better fishing was downstream from Imerman Park near State Street.
Saginaw River -Walleye fishing here was particularly good in the vicinity of the various bridges in Bay City for both boat and shore anglers.
Wixom Lake has a good crappie and gill bite. A few pike and walleye also.
Portage Lake - Perch anglers were out however only small fish in the 5 to 7 inch range were caught. Try wigglers in 15 to 20 feet of water near the mouth. The northern pike opener was good with some nice fish caught in shallow waters when using spoons, body baits or spinners.
Houghton Lake - The walleye opener was pretty good for those trolling crank baits or using jigs with leeches. Pike anglers were out but many of the fish were small. The bluegill and crappie bite slowed with the colder weather. Look for the best bite in the afternoon after the sun has warmed the water.
Lake Cadillac - The walleye opener was off to a slow start but the pike anglers did well. Some nice crappie were caught.
Lake Mitchell - Boat and shore anglers looking for crappie are fishing in the coves.
Big Bay De Noc - Still had fair to good catches of perch in Garden Bay although the fish were getting smaller. Most were still-fishing with worms in 8 to 10 feet of water near the commercial landing.
Spring fishing is just getting started. Anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have the new 2010 Michigan Fishing License by April 1st. Strong storms this week have raised water levels in the rivers and that should help those seeking steelhead and suckers. Colder weather by the end of the week will most likely slow the bite for panfish however it should rebound with the next warm up. As we move into spring fishing, anglers are reminded that bass season is closed.The 2010 regulations also go into effect on April 1st. Fishing Guides should be available from all license vendors.
Northwest:
Traverse City - Those fishing the West Bay reported good perch fishing in the deep waters of Suttons Bay. Lake trout fishing was hit-or-miss.
Elk River - Anglers will find fair to good numbers of steelhead in the river bypass.
Boardman River - Steelhead can still be caught when using spawn bags or wax worms. A few walleye were spotted in the weeds near the dam.
Frankfort - Those able to get out in windy conditions have caught a few brown trout when trolling just inside the breakwalls with planer boards and body baits. Pier anglers also managed to take a few brown trout.
Betsie River - Steelhead fishing was fair with some fish caught above the M-31 Bridge when floating flies on the gravel. The sucker run is pretty much done however a few fish could still be found between the Homestead Dam and the mouth. Small brown trout were caught above Kurick Road.
Portage Lake - Perch anglers were out however only small fish in the 5 to 7 inch range were caught. Try wigglers in 15 to 20 feet of water near the mouth. The northern pike opener was good with some nice fish caught in shallow waters when using spoons, body baits or spinners.
Lake Cadillac - The walleye opener was off to a slow start but the pike anglers did well. Some nice crappie were caught.
Manistee - Steelhead fishing is basically done. Brown trout and a few chinook salmon were caught by those trolling or fishing off the piers. Perch fishing was slow.
Ludington - Boats are catching brown trout and a few salmon when trolling the shoreline. Pier action was slow for perch and brown trout.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - The public access site and the DNRE access site on the east side of the lake have the docks in and are ready for use. Surface temperatures have ranged from the high 40’s in the north to the low 50’s in the south near Pigeon Bay and the Indian River. High winds have made boating difficult. Walleye fishing remains closed until May 15th. Those targeting northern pike were still-fishing in 8 feet of water in Pigeon Bay. Trout anglers were trolling stick baits in 6 to 15 feet of water off Red Pine Point but no fish were caught.
Rogers City - Few boat anglers have been out because of the strong winds. The fish cleaning station is currently closed.
Alpena - Boat activity has started to pick up however catch rates were not good for those targeting salmon, steelhead and walleye. A few suckers were caught.
Thunder Bay River - Steelhead fishing has been slow, and the sucker run is pretty much done. Some large steelhead are there for the taking, so try black or brown artificial flies. The best tactic is to wade into the river and cast close to the dam where the spawning holes are. Be extremely careful because the bottom is uneven. Small brown trout were still being caught. Smallmouth bass were hitting on artificial flies and rapalas.
Harrisville - The walleye are in and around the harbor. Catch rates were steady with some anglers getting a bonus steelhead or Atlantic salmon. Early morning and late evening were the most productive when using body baits in clown or fire-tiger.
Oscoda - Boat traffic stayed in the river and around the pier. Those fishing off the end of the pier did manage to catch brown trout, steelhead and Atlantic salmon.
Au Sable River - Boat traffic picked up with the opening of walleye season. Catch rates were steady early morning and evening with body baits, crawler rigs or spoons.
Higgins Lake - Limits of rainbow trout were caught in shallow waters along the south end of the lake. Try 70 to 80 feet of water along the drop-off for lake trout.
Houghton Lake - The walleye opener was pretty good for those trolling crank baits or using jigs with leeches. Pike anglers were out but many of the fish were small. The bluegill and crappie bite slowed with the colder weather. Look for the best bite in the afternoon after the sun has warmed the water.
Tawas - Those trolling crawler harnesses and crank baits did mange to catch some walleye in the evening in 10 to 25 feet of water. Pier anglers were getting a few walleye on both sides of the harbor. Pike and brown trout were caught on the lake side. Perch anglers were doing a lot of sorting to find a few keepers.
Tawas River - Some walleye were caught in the lower river.
Au Gres - Walleye were caught by those trolling stick baits in 20 to 30 feet of water.
Au Gres River - Those fishing near the Singing Bridge at night caught steelhead and walleye when casting rapalas in the surf.
Upper Peninsula
The western U.P. is exceptionally dry. Black crappie are showing up in the shallows of inland lakes while other panfish are waiting in slightly deeper water for stable, warm weather. Many rivers and creeks have sucker runs going on. Some of the cooler streams, including those in the Keweenaw Peninsula, contain decent numbers of steelhead.
Black River Harbor - Windy conditions have stopped many boats but those brave enough to venture out were still picking up a few coho.
Ontonagon - As more lake trout start showing up, boat anglers are catching fish in 12 to 40 feet of water. Early morning before the wind picks up is best. Catch rates were spotty for chinook and brown trout.
Marquette - Those fishing the upper harbor caught coho near the breakwall and the bubblers. In the lower harbor, the better catch rates were between the breakwall and the mouth of the Chocolay River. A few lake trout were caught near the white rocks, the Garlic River and out towards the “Sand Hole”. There were reports of limit catches out near Stannard Rock. Water temperatures remain near 42 degrees.
Little Bay De Noc - Perch were caught off the access site at Masonville Road when jigging wigglers in 20 feet of water. South of the Narrows, anglers were still-fishing with worms in 20 to 30 feet of water.
Days River - The better steelhead fishing was north of US-2.
Big Bay De Noc - Still had fair to good catches of perch in Garden Bay although the fish were getting smaller. Most were still-fishing with worms in 8 to 10 feet of water near the commercial landing.
Big Fishdam River - Has a good number of white suckers.
Au Train - Still had good coho fishing for those trolling rapalas or spoons. The hot spot was between the Red Rock area and the mouth of the Au Train River. Lake trout were also caught however the fish were somewhat scattered. Anglers did catch some nice brown trout and the occasional chinook salmon.
Munising - Boat anglers reported fair to good catches of coho near Pictured Rocks and in Trout Bay when trolling body baits. Pier and shore anglers caught a few splake but the overall catch rates were slow.
Grand Marais - Coho fishing was fair but steelhead fishing has tapered off. Pier anglers were catching more whitefish along with the occasional menominee. A single egg on a hook works best.
St. Mary’s River - Pink salmon along with a few small steelhead were still being caught off the bridge on Portage Street when using spawn bags or chrome colored flatfish. Small chinook salmon in the 17 to 19 inch range were caught on the back side of the Edison Power Plant at Sault Ste. Marie when casting chrome Hot-n-Tots. A few yellow perch were caught in some of the bays of Lake Nicolet. Try 4 to 6 feet of water with minnows and worms.
De Tour - A limited number of steelhead were seen below the weir in Albany Creek. Boat anglers were fishing Drummond Island and Scott Bay for perch however catch rates were slow.
Cedarville and Hessel - Angler pressure has been low. Those fishing off the Hessel pier caught small perch and the occasional splake. Anglers are reminded that splake season does not open until May 1st. Those fishing Musky Bay and Cedarville Bay have caught perch however the fish were too small to keep.
Carp River - Anglers are targeting steelhead but the run was slow. Most were still making a day of it by catching white suckers. No word on smelt.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Strong east winds caused muddy conditions. Despite the bad weather, a few walleye were caught in Brest Bay in 20 feet of water when trolling crawler harnesses or crank baits.
Huron River - The water is up and a few leftover steelhead along with a few walleye were caught near the bridge on Telegraph Road. Largemouth, smallmouth and white bass were caught on white twister tails, jigs or flies.
Detroit River - Those jigging or hand-lining have caught a few walleye.
Lexington - The fish were scattered and catch rates were slower. Some lake trout were caught in 25 feet of water and steelhead in 50 feet of water.
Harbor Beach - Had good lake trout fishing in 35 to 60 feet of water when trolling spoons or body baits straight and north of the harbor. Good colors were blue, gray, and chartreuse. Salmon were also caught with regular and magnum spoons or body baits with offshore boards and downriggers. Blue, green, purple and silver were good colors. For brown trout, fish close to shore with long lines and boards however watch for the big rocks. Try body baits or medium spoons in silver and blue or perch colors.
Saginaw Bay - Most of the fishing activity was near the mouth of the Saginaw River; especially in windy conditions. Walleye were caught on jigs baited with crawlers. The Hot Pond was also producing a few walleye for those using jigs or crank baits. Near Quanicassee, catch rates for walleye improved on the Callahan Reef. Boat anglers were fishing in 3 to 12 feet of water with crawler harnesses and crank baits. Not much activity at Sebewaing as boat anglers wait for the channel markers to go in. A few crappie were caught in the marina. Anglers are reminded that fishing will not be allowed from the docks after May 1st. Areas away from the boats will remain open to fishing. At Bay Port, anglers caught a few crappie at the public access site and Bay Shore Marina. Pier anglers at Caseville caught a few walleye, trout or salmon.
Tittabawasse River - The walleye opener was good but not outstanding. Most everyone caught fish but no limits were taken. The fish spooked easily because of the clear water and it appears that many had already dropped back to Saginaw Bay after spawning about a week earlier than normal this year. The better fishing was downstream from Imerman Park near State Street.
Saginaw River - Walleye fishing here was particularly good in the vicinity of the various bridges in Bay City for both boat and shore anglers.
Quanicassee River - Was also producing some walleye. Limits were not the rule but everyone seemed to catch some fish. Shore anglers caught pike.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
The crappie bite on the inland lakes has slowed as it usually does this time of year but anglers fishing the channels were catching bluegills on rubber spiders.
St. Joe - Trout and salmon fishing were slow however pier anglers were catching freshwater drum and catfish on the river side.
St. Joe River - Steelhead fishing was slow as few anglers were out. A couple fish were caught by those drifting wobble glo’s, small spoons or body baits.
South Haven - Catch rates for trout and salmon were slow.
Grand Haven - Boat anglers are perch fishing when they can get out. The fish are scattered in small groups which makes it hard for boats to anchor on schools of fish. A few were getting limits while others struggled. Try minnows, spikes and wigglers in various depths near the bathhouse at the State Park. Pier anglers caught few trout or salmon. Most were using spawn or alewife for bait.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - The walleye opener was good for those drifting crawlers with drift socks. Channel catfish were caught all along the river when using small bluegills, crawlers, chicken liver or cut up suckers. Northern pike action was good for those casting big spinners, rapalas and body baits of floating suckers. Smallmouth bass were hitting on leeches. Crappie could be found in the backwaters. Bluegills were caught on leaf worms. Flatheads and channel catfish were caught off Fulton Street, Wealthy Street and Bridge Street. Riverside Park was good for bluegill, crappie and pike.
Grand River at Lansing - The walleye opener was a bit slow but the smallmouth bass fishing was good over near Eaton Rapids and below the North Lansing Dam. Moore’s Park was good for channel catfish. The best spot for crappie and bluegill is the Waverly Road Bridge.
Maple River - Most anglers are fishing for flathead and channel catfish closer to the town of Maple Rapids.
Lake Ovid - Is producing some nice catfish however the bass were small.
Sessions Lake - Reported good crappie fishing.
Morrison Lake - Still has good crappie fishing. The fish are off the beds and have moved to waters 6 to 12 feet deep.
Reeds Lake - The bigger bluegills were still in the cattails and lily pads. Those fly fishing with white flies in the early morning or evening did best. Crappie were 15 feet down in 30 feet of water near the island. Perch were caught in 20 to 40 feet of water when dead drifting. Largemouth bass were caught on chrome and black or chrome and blue rattle traps. Pike anglers did well when slow trolling with live suckers.
Muskegon - Walleye anglers have been successful off the short pier when casting spoons. Those trolling north of the port in 8 to 12 feet of water caught brown trout on black and gold rapalas. No perch to report.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
Saturday was the opening day for trout, pike and walleye. We were able to get the best part of the day in before the rain started.
The stream trout anglers for the most part did well. The rivers and streams are low and clear but the overcast weekend helped keep the trout from spooking. Dillys and Leafworms accounted for most catches. Colorful browns were in the majority but several nice brook trout were taken.
Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell were not fished hard. Checking the boat launches, you wouldn’t have known it was the spring opener.
Earlier in the month on those calm, 60ty degreed days there were more boats on our lakes fishing the early crappie bite.
The serious pike fishermen were not disappointed on either lake. Most targeting them caught their limit. Both lakes deserve their reputation for trophy pike. Bobber fishing with live sucker minnows was especially effective.
The walleye we’ve been waiting for didn’t come to the opener. Keeper size or undersize weren’t to be found. Time will tell what kind of season we’ll have.
Most everyone, regardless what they were fishing for caught bass, especially using live bait. Fun to catch, but not to keep! Most were impressed by the size and health of both the large and small mouths caught.
Many turned their attention to catching crappies. Good catches were reported from both lakes, especially from Lake Cadillac. Slabs in the 12 inch range are coming from the canal area on both lakes. Usually in the 8 to 10 foot depths.
Bull heads in the Master Angler range are being caught in the canal separating Cadillac and Mitchell. All three species, blacks, browns and yellow bellies can be caught. Start weighing them when they hit that 14” range, because Master Angler size are common.
The Second Period for Spring Turkey Hunting runs April 26th thru May 2nd.
Get out and enjoy this spring weather - - - Go Fish!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
New Walleye Regulations for Mullett Lake and Associated Rivers Approved
New regulations to address a low population of adult walleye in Mullett Lake in Cheboygan County were approved at Thursday’s Michigan Natural Resources Commission meeting in Lansing.
The regulations, approved by Department of Natural Resources Director Rebecca Humphries, are the result of a collaborative resolution reached by the DNR and the five Tribes in the 1836 Treaty-ceded territory of Michigan. The new regulations will allow for harvest of walleyes to continue on the lake in 2010 by state-licensed recreational anglers.
The new regulations take effect for the 2010 fishing season on April 1. The regulations were developed in collaboration with many of the recreational fishing groups in the area, as well as the Indian River Chamber of Commerce. Changes to the regulations include a change in bag limit and season length for walleye for state-licensed recreational anglers. The regulations cover Mullett Lake proper, the Cheboygan River from Mullett Lake downstream to the Cheboygan Dam, and the Black River from Alverno Dam downstream to its confluence with the Cheboygan River.
In those areas, the bag limit for the harvest of walleye by state-licensed recreational anglers will be three walleye per day. The walleye season for state-licensed recreational anglers on Mullett Lake will be May 15 to March 15.
The State and Tribes have agreed to work together to develop a multi-faceted approach to monitoring and enhancing the walleye population over next five years, through the 2014 fishing season.
The plan includes a collaborative assessment and monitoring program by both the state and the Tribes that encompasses continued creel surveys for the 2010 fishing season, a joint assessment of the entire chain of lakes, and longer term the potential to develop a joint fish stocking effort.
“These changes will protect the adult walleye population in the lake, while offering state-licensed recreational anglers the opportunity to continue harvesting walleye,” said DNR Fisheries Chief Kelley Smith. “Both the State and the Tribes are concerned with the walleye population in the lake, and our plan is to address it together.”
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Fishing Season Open April 24
Many are getting ready for trout, walleye and pike opener with trout streams looking great. This coming Saturday, April 24th marks the opening day of trout season on the Type 1 and Type 2 streams as well as the walleye, northern pike and muskellunge opener on the Lower Peninsula inland waters. The “Catch & Immediate Release” bass season for the Lower Peninsula will also open this coming Saturday. Dry conditions around the state may very well impact some trout streams as water temperatures will be warm and levels will be lower compared to most openers. Anglers will want to try streams that are more resistant to low water levels.
Yesterday was cold, today the weather is great. Conditions look great for for the opener with many readt to get out and catch some walleyes.
Saginaw Bay - When boats can get out, they were catching walleye when trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses in 14 to 18 feet of water off Linwood or vertical jigging with minnows or crawlers near Spoils Island. Those trolling were also going out of Quanicassee and fishing the Callahan Reef. At Caseville, pier anglers caught walleye at night. Perch runs are just about done however warmer weather should turn the crappie bite back on.
Tittabawasse River - The prognosis for the walleye opener is mixed, and will depend somewhat on the weather this week. Rivers are low and clear.
Saginaw River - Water levels are low and clear. An early spring caused the walleye to spawn about a week earlier than normal, so more fish may have already dropped back to the bay.
Wixom Lake has a good crappie and gill bite. Portage Lake by Oneckema has a good perch bite in the channel also Manistee Lake has been good for perch off the piers and boats. The last two days the bite has slowed with small fish being caught.
Lake Cadillac - Boat and shore anglers are looking for perch and crappie in the shallows along the southwest and the far east sections of the lake.
Lake Mitchell - Boat and shore anglers looking for crappie are fishing in the coves.
Big Bay De Noc - Had good perch fishing with limit catches reported off the northwest bank when still-fishing with worms, minnows or wigglers in 8 feet of water. Many were 8 and 9 inch fish. Look for the bite to pick back up after it warms up.
Spring fishing is just getting started. Anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have the new 2010 Michigan Fishing License by April 1st. Strong storms this week have raised water levels in the rivers and that should help those seeking steelhead and suckers. Colder weather by the end of the week will most likely slow the bite for panfish however it should rebound with the next warm up. As we move into spring fishing, anglers are reminded that bass season is closed.The 2010 regulations also go into effect on April 1st. Fishing Guides should be available from all license vendors.
Northwest:
Traverse City - Anglers trolling or jigging along the east shoreline of the West Bay have picked up lake trout and whitefish. The bite was slow but should increase as the water warms.
Elk River - The action was slow with only light numbers of fish caught.
Boardman River - The peak of the steelhead run has passed, but anglers can still find a decent number of fish between the mouth and Union Dam. Try wax worms and wigglers on a small jig. Suckers are running in good numbers.
Frankfort - Boat anglers trolling the shoreline in 8 to 15 feet of water did catch brown trout on body baits. Those trolling inside the breakwalls did better using rapalas.
Portage Lake - Perch fishing is starting to slow as anglers were catching small 4 to 6 inch fish in 20 feet of water just inside the channel.
Manistee - Brown trout fishing was good for those trolling. Most are long-lining in the shallows with body baits. Chinook salmon have also been caught. Pier fishing was slow for perch and brown trout.
Manistee River - Steelhead fishing is winding down, although there are still some fish up at Tippy Dam.
Ludington - Brown trout were caught by those long-lining in shallow waters.
Pentwater - Steelhead fishing off the piers has slowed.
Pentwater Lake - A few perch were caught in front of the Yacht Club.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Rogers City - Anglers are starting to fish from the docks in the marina. They are casting for brown trout, steelhead, and Atlantic salmon. Boats have started trolling around the breakwall with planer boards. Catch rates were slow but should pick up.
Alpena - Eggs from lake trout and whitefish hatch this time of year. Staff from the Fisheries Division has placed 30 fry emergence traps on the reefs near the Lafarge Cement Plant to study success of the hatch. Anglers are advised to scout out the reefs before night fishing in this area so they do not get caught in the float lines that mark each net. Pier anglers are reporting successful walleye fishing on the lake side when casting clown rapalas with a red head.
Thunder Bay River - The walleye opener looks good with fair to good numbers of fish showing up in the river. Water temperatures should be warm enough to produce some good fishing. The sucker run is almost over however there are still a lot of fish in the river and they have pushed steelhead off the beds which in turn slowed catch rates. A few fish were taken on black leeches with a chartreuse head or black wooly bugs with a red head.
Otsego Lake - Fishing remains slow though the panfish activity is picking up.
Harrisville - Fishing has picked up with lake trout caught straight out and north of the harbor in 40 to 60 feet of water. Steelhead and Atlantic salmon are being caught in and around of the harbor in 25 to 50 feet of water. Spoons or body baits in orange and silver or blue and silver were the most productive.
Oscoda - Anglers fishing off the pier were catching lake trout, steelhead, Atlantic salmon and walleye. Try spoons or body baits in orange or chartreuse.
Tawas - Pier anglers are getting the occasional pike, walleye, coho, Atlantic salmon and a few perch. Those targeting perch will want to fish early in the morning and expect to do lots of sorting. Salmon and walleye were caught on rapalas.
Tawas River - Still has some steelhead.
Au Gres - Boats trolling near the mouth of the river and out to about 25 feet of water were catching post-spawn walleye when using crank baits or crawler harnesses.
Au Gres River - Steelhead are still being caught on spawn. Those surf casting at night near the Singing Bridge caught walleye on rapalas.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Fishing is still good however the fish are now scattered. Good numbers of coho are showing up however the key is to find them. Trolling in 14 to 20 feet of water with stick baits was productive. Purple and pink were good colors.
Ontonagon - Still has good fishing with nice catches of trout and salmon. This time of year is great because those with smaller boats can go out and fish in shallow waters. Most are trolling body baits in 12 to 16 feet of water.
Keweenaw Bay - Those able to get out did well when trolling for salmon 35 to 65 feet down in waters 40 to 135 feet deep from Baraga south to the head of the bay and north to Old Mission. Slow trolling around two miles per hour worked best for coho and chinook. Try spoons, body baits or dodgers and flies in green, gold, orange or blue. A few coho were also caught off the dock near the L’Anse Marina.
Fall’s River - A few smelt have been taken but no big numbers to report.
Marquette - Coho fishing was fair however catch rates for steelhead have increased near the Carp River when using copper spinners with a single egg. Coho were caught by those trolling between the lower harbor breakwall, the Carp River and the mouth of the Chocolay River. Lake trout were caught in 40 to 100 feet of water.
Little Bay De Noc - All the docks are in at the launch ramps. A few perch were caught along the west side of the “Narrows” by those using minnows or worms in 6 to 18 feet of water. Fish were also caught in Nelsons Bay when still-fishing with worms in 4 to 11 feet of water.
Days River - Steelhead anglers were out however not many fish were caught.
Big Bay De Noc - Had excellent perch fishing in Garden Bay when still-fishing worms or minnows in 8 feet of water. No smelt to report.
Sturgeon River - Anglers have hit the river for steelhead however no reports yet.
Au Train - Had good coho fishing for those trolling or casting from Shelter Bay to the mouth of the Au Train River. Try jigs tipped with crawlers, spoons or crank baits in 15 to 30 feet of water.
Rock River - Is producing some steelhead.
Munising - Is producing fair catches of coho. Pier and dock anglers had poor fishing across the board. Catch rates for pier and dock anglers were not good.
Grand Marais - Boat and pier anglers are catching some steelhead and coho. Steelhead fishing appears to be on the downside as the fish work their way upstream to spawn. Pier anglers caught the occasional whitefish and menominee.
St. Mary’s River - Steelhead and pink salmon have been caught off the Portage Street Bridge. Try chrome flatfish or spawn bags when the Edison Power Plant has shut the turbines down.
De Tour - Anglers are still watching Albany Creek for steelhead, but seems the run is over. Anglers fishing Drummond Island are catching a limited number of perch off Monahan’s dock and in Scott Bay when using minnows.
Cedarville and Hessel - A few splake and perch were caught off the pier at Hessel.
Carp River - Steelhead fishing slowed as more anglers were catching suckers. There are no smelt in the river.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Is producing walleye in Brest Bay and south of Luna Pier. The popular fishing spots were 12 to 15 feet of water near the campground at Sterling State Park and the Dumping Grounds off Luna Pier. Most were jigging with blade baits or hair jigs tipped with minnows. The Hot Ponds and the channels near Bolles Harbor should be good for “Catch and Release” bass fishing this weekend.
Huron River - Is still producing some steelhead. The bass opener looks to be good.
Detroit River - Walleye fishing is good for those jigging with minnows or hand-lining with #9 and #11 rapalas. Fire-tiger was a good color. Some are starting to use pencil plugs at night. Fish the lower end in 16 feet of water.
Lexington - Boat anglers have caught a few coho and steelhead. Angler reports say the water is so clear they can see bottom in 40 feet of water.
Saginaw Bay - When boats can get out, they were catching walleye when trolling crank baits or crawler harnesses in 14 to 18 feet of water off Linwood or vertical jigging with minnows or crawlers near Spoils Island. Those trolling were also going out of Quanicassee and fishing the Callahan Reef. At Caseville, pier anglers caught walleye at night. Perch runs are just about done however warmer weather should turn the crappie bite back on.
Tittabawasse River - The prognosis for the walleye opener is mixed, and will depend somewhat on the weather this week. Rivers are low and clear.
Saginaw River - Water levels are low and clear. An early spring caused the walleye to spawn about a week earlier than normal, so more fish may have already dropped back to the bay.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe River - Catch rates were still slow even with all the steelhead that have moved into the river. Look for fish on the gravel.
Grand Haven - Pier anglers are catching small brown trout and the occasional steelhead. Some were netting alewife to use as bait. Word has it that coho were caught off the south pier.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead can be found between Fulton Street and the dam. Water levels were holding so the walleye opener should produce some fish. White suckers are still being caught and crappie can be found near the brush piles and other structures. Try minnows, crawlers, leaf worms, or crank baits.
Grand River at Lansing - Steelhead are still being caught in the Lansing area, but not in big numbers. Channel catfish are still hitting over near the Moore’s Park Dam. Good crappie fishing near the Waverly Road bridge in the evening.
Maple River - Anglers are catching both flathead and channel catfish in town as well as near the State Game Area on US-127. Try stink baits, crawlers or large minnows.
Lake Ovid - Is producing some panfish.
Duck Lake - Continues to provide fair to good crappie fishing. The better bite is in the late afternoon or evening after the sun has been out. Try jigs with minnows.
Sessions Lake - Near Ionia is producing some crappie.
Morrison Lake - Has good crappie fishing in the evening. With the cold mornings, anglers need to wait until later in the afternoon after the waters have warmed up for the fish to start biting.
Rogue River - Still has good numbers of steelhead in it.
Reeds Lake - Bluegills have been caught near the cattails and lily pads by those using leaf worms and wax worms. Crappie were in shallow waters.
Muskegon - Pier anglers were struggling when casting or using spawn.
Whitehall - Those trolling close to shore and pier anglers reported a slow but steady catch of brown trout in the 2 to 3 pound range. Pier anglers fishing the lakeside have caught the occasional walleye just before dark.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
One day it’s cold, windy, and dreary. The next it’s warm, sunny and calm. It’s Spring in Michigan! Most of us are looking forward to the last Saturday in April, the 24th. A whole new season of pike, walleye and trout fishing begins.
Last year 5 State fishing records were broken. In June a l.58 pound sunfish was caught on Pickerel Lake to set a state record. Later in October this record was broken with a 2.15 pound sunfish which was caught on Lake Nepessing, near Flint. It almost broke the world record. In September, a 50 pound 8 ounce Great Lake Muskie was caught on Torch Lake. Closer to home also in September, a 41 pound, 7.25 ounce Brown Trout was caught near Pine Creek on the Manistee River. This did break the world record. What will be caught this year?
So far, when the wind isn’t blowing in the 20 to 30 MPH range, crappie fishing has been good. They seem to prefer the 8 to 10 foot range and most are fishing Lake Cadillac. However, catches are just starting at the Coves on Lake Mitchell.
Shore fishing has slowed at the Causeway on the west side of Lake Cadillac. Boat fishing has been fair out past casting distance from shore.
Two to three football fields out from the canal on Cadillac, larger and better numbers of crappie are being caught.
The City dock Area has been better for shore fishing, when the winds are light to moderate, lots of accidental catches of pike and bass have been reported. They like the small minnows we use to catch crappie and are in the shallows.
Get out and enjoy this spring weather - - - Go Fish!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
ONe Week Away From Opener
The crappie fishing is great in Houghton Lake in the canals with bluegills biting also.
Over in the thumb the perch are running in the rivers and ditches and limit catches are reported. Wixom Lake has a good crappie and gill bite. Portage Lake by Oneckema has a good perch bite in the channel also Manistee Lake has been good for perch off the piers and boats.
Lake Cadillac - Boat and shore anglers are looking for perch and crappie in the shallows along the southwest and the far east sections of the lake.
Lake Mitchell - Boat and shore anglers looking for crappie are fishing in the coves.
Big Bay De Noc - Had good perch fishing with limit catches reported off the northwest bank when still-fishing with worms, minnows or wigglers in 8 feet of water. Many were 8 and 9 inch fish. Look for the bite to pick back up after it warms up.
Spring fishing is just getting started. Anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have the new 2010 Michigan Fishing License by April 1st. Strong storms this week have raised water levels in the rivers and that should help those seeking steelhead and suckers. Colder weather by the end of the week will most likely slow the bite for panfish however it should rebound with the next warm up. As we move into spring fishing, anglers are reminded that bass season is closed.The 2010 regulations also go into effect on April 1st. Fishing Guides should be available from all license vendors.
Northwest:
Charlervoix - Some big perch were caught straight out from the river in 100 feet of water. The trick is finding a school of fish.
Traverse City - Boats are still going out for whitefish however anglers were catching more lake trout.
Boardman River - Steelhead fishing was hit-or-miss.
Frankfort - Brown trout were still being caught by both pier and boat anglers.
Betsie River - Fishing slowed however steelhead were still being caught both above and below the Homestead Dam. Most fish were caught on the gravel in the middle of the day when using artificial flies. Suckers are pretty much everywhere from the Dam to Betsie Lake. They were in the deeper holes and hitting on worms or flies.
Lake Cadillac - Boat and shore anglers are looking for perch and crappie in the shallows along the southwest and the far east sections of the lake.
Lake Mitchell - Boat and shore anglers looking for crappie are fishing in the coves.
Manistee - Boat anglers are catching brown trout and the occasional salmon when trolling along the shoreline. Try body baits in natural colors or small spoons. Pier fishing was slow for perch and brown trout.
Ludington - Boat anglers have caught brown trout when trolling around the harbor and along the shoreline.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Ocqueoc River - Steelhead were caught by those drifting spawn or flies. Look for more fish to enter the river system.
Rogers City - All the docks are in at launch ramps however the cleaning station and the marina do not open until May. Look for small boats fishing along the shoreline for brown trout and salmon as the warm water flows toward the big lake. Those fishing from the breakwall or the docks are casting small spoons or body baits. Bright colors work good or anything that resembles smelt. Try running planer boards with body baits at last 100 feet off the board and follow the brown water close to shore. Most are fishing Seagull Point, Swan Bay or Calcite Harbor.
Rockport - Atlantic salmon have moved in close to the piers. Anglers are trolling in 30 feet of water with chartreuse and orange lures.
Thunder Bay River - Is full of suckers which makes it hard to target steelhead. Walleye were hitting as well however the season is still closed. Those trying to target trout were using spawn bags or bright yellow and black flies.
Harrisville - Atlantic salmon, lake trout and walleye have been caught straight out from the harbor in 12 to 40 feet of water. Spoons and body baits were the ticket, gold and orange were the hot colors.
Oscoda - Pier fishing has improved as anglers were catching Atlantic salmon, steelhead, walleye and the occasional lake trout. Spoons, spawn and body baits are working well. The walleye preferred crawlers but were also hitting body baits. Orange and gold, blue and silver or green were good colors.
Higgins Lake - Crappie have been caught in the canals and near the Cut River.
Houghton Lake - Is also producing crappie and bluegill in the cuts and canals.
Tawas - Pier anglers fishing inside the harbor were getting some perch however be ready to sort out the small ones. Early morning was best for bigger perch. Those fishing the lake side were getting a mix of coho, brown trout, steelhead, walleye and northern pike. Boats out trolling rapalas were picking up a few walleye off the mouth of the river.
Au Gres - Boats trolling off the mouth of the river are taking walleye on rapalas.
Au Gres River - Steelhead fishing has slowed. Those surf-casting with rapalas near the Singing Bridge have caught walleye at night. There were rumors of a few smelt however no big numbers and certainly not enough to warrant a trip at this time.
Rifle River - Sucker runs have most likely peaked, but there are still a lot of fish in the river.
Upper Peninsula
Black River - Coho fishing is good right now for those trolling in shallow waters less than 14 feet deep. Most of the fish caught were coho however chinook and brown trout were also in the mix. Those fishing off the breakwalls did not catch as many fish however some nice coho were caught when floating worms under a bobber.
Ontonagon - Fishing has been very good with chinook, coho, brown trout and lake trout caught in shallow waters when trolling planer boards with stick baits or rapalas.
Keweenaw Bay - Those trolling for coho and lake trout did well in 30 to 60 feet of water off Baraga, L’Anse, the head of the bay and north towards Old Mission. Coho were caught off the dock near the marina in L’Anse. Anglers jigging for lake trout caught fish in 150 feet of water near Gay Point and 220 feet of water near Five Mile Reef, which is straight out from the Traverse Marina.
Marquette - Catch rates for coho were fair with water temperatures between the mid 30’s and 40 degrees. Most were fishing near the bubblers or the upper harbor in 20 to 30 feet of water with crawlers. More lake trout were caught in waters 40 to 100 feet deep. Whitefish action was slow. Pier anglers in the lower harbor caught coho.
Carp River - Is producing light numbers of coho and steelhead for those using crawlers, spawn or spoons.
Little Bay De Noc - Good catches of small perch were reported near the beach at Gladstone. Try using worms or minnows in waters 6 to 20 feet deep.
Escanaba River - A few brown trout were caught up near the first dam when casting lures or spawn. No smelt reports this week.
Big Bay De Noc - Had good perch fishing with limit catches reported off the northwest bank when still-fishing with worms, minnows or wigglers in 8 feet of water. Many were 8 and 9 inch fish. Look for the bite to pick back up after it warms up.
Little Fishdam River - Smelt anglers took a few fish but no big numbers to report.
Au Train - Anglers are catching coho when trolling or casting jigs tipped with crawlers, spoons or crank baits. Stay shallow in 15 to 30 feet of water between the red rock area and the Rock River or near the mouth of the Au Train River. Splake and steelhead were caught near the Rock River.
Munising - Those trolling the bay, around Grand Island and near the Miners River reported good catches of coho along with a few splake or steelhead. Pier and dock fishing was slow. The Sand Point launch is experiencing low water levels.
Grand Marais - Boat anglers reported fair catches of coho and steelhead. Pier fishing was fair for trout and salmon however a few whitefish were also caught.
St. Mary’s River - Steelhead and pink salmon are still being caught off the Portage Street Bridge when using spawn bags or flatfish.
De Tour - The docks were not in at the city launch. Those steelhead fishing at Albany Creek have caught some nice steelhead in the 6 pound range when floating spawn bags.
Carp River - Anglers casting spawn have caught steelhead at the Mackinaw Trail Bridge and the McDonalds Rapids. No smelt in the river yet.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Boat anglers fishing in Michigan waters have caught walleye off the reefs when jigging minnows or trolling with crank baits. Those fishing the cuts and canals around Point Mouillee and Erie Metro Park have caught crappie and bluegill.
Sand Lake - In Lenawee County is still producing crappie in the shallows. The better catch rates came on sunny days.
Huron River - Has steelhead and check the backwaters for bluegill and crappie.
Detroit River - Walleye action continues to be good in the lower Trenton Channel. Anglers are jigging minnows or trolling rapalas. Stinger hooks are a must. A few northern pike were caught in the backwaters. Perch are spawning.
Clinton River - Is producing steelhead for those using spawn or flies.
Lexington - Boat anglers trolling in 10 to 35 feet of water were catching coho, steelhead, lake trout and the occasional chinook on crank baits. Coho were running 2 to 3 pounds and steelhead 2 to 5 pounds. The best fishing was within 10 miles south of the port. Pier anglers caught perch, coho and steelhead inside the harbor.
Port Sanilac - Those out trolling did best between the port and 5 miles north for trout and salmon. Crank baits worked best.
Saginaw Bay - Lots of post-spawn walleye have been caught off Linwood in 14 to 18 feet of water, around Spoils Island and in 7 feet of water from the mouth of the Kawkawlin River to the mouth of the Saginaw River. Anglers are trolling rapalas and crank baits or vertical jigging with crawlers or minnows. Those trolling off the mouth of the Quanicassee River were starting to catch walleye on crank baits or crawler harnesses. At Caseville, crappie are in the marina and pier anglers caught salmon, trout, whitefish and burbot.
Kawkawlin River - Channel catfish are hitting on minnows in the lower river.
Sebewaing River - Shore anglers were catching perch and other panfish.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Catch rates were fair. Pier anglers caught coho and brown trout. Boat anglers did well when trolling in shallow waters 18 to 30 feet deep. Flathead catfish have also been caught off the pier.
St. Joe River - Steelhead are still coming up from the big lake however catch rates were a bit slow. Fish are there for anglers to catch. Try drifting spawn or flies.
South Haven - Boat and pier anglers were catching trout and salmon however the action here was a little slower than St. Joe.
Holland - Pier anglers have caught a few perch.
Grand Haven - Muddy water from the river slowed perch fishing in the 60 foot hole. Try minnows, spikes or mousies once the water has cleared up. Brown trout fishing off the pier was also slow. Boat anglers caught a few brown trout north and south of the pier when trolling close to shore.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Still has good numbers of steelhead between Fulton Street and the Sixth Street Dam. Yarn and wobble glo’s worked best. Good colors were chrome and pink, red or black. Bluegills and crappie are hitting in the backwaters. At Riverside Park, anglers are using small tube baits 2 or 3 feet down for crappie and leaf worms for bluegills. Millennium Park was also good for bluegill and crappie. Carp and suckers have been caught.
Grand River at Lansing - Those fishing near the dam at Moore’s Park are catching smaller catfish and the occasional steelhead which are leftover from the run. Crappie were caught near the Waverly Road Bridge.
Maple River - Anglers are catching both flathead and channel catfish near the State Game Area on US-127. Try stink baits, crawlers or large minnows.
Duck Lake - Is still producing crappie on sunny days. Try jigs with minnows.
Vineyard Lake - Crappie fishing slows with each cold front.
Reeds Lake - Is still producing limit catches of crappie and bluegill. Anglers are fishing in waters up to 4 feet deep and catching mostly males.
Rogue River - Still has lots of steelhead for the taking.
Muskegon - Boat anglers trolling around the piers caught brown trout on jointed rapalas. Pier fishing was slow. No word on perch.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
Take advantage of this early start to spring fishing. The crappie and perch are in the shallow warmer water looking for an easy meal. The crappie on Lake Cadillac has started in the predictable early spots, the east side (city of Cadillac) and the Causeway area (west side parallel to M-115). Either area can be fished from shore but anglers with boats usually do best because of their mobility. Just catch one in an area and you know there’s more. The City Dock was made for fishing. Often casting of any distance isn’t necessary because on bright sunny days the crappie stay under the floating dock. Keeper size perch and hand size and larger crappie can be caught there. Once pike and walleye seasons open, fishermen cast their favorite lures to catch the tasty predators. The City Dock gives the advantage of fishing deeper water.
Boat anglers anchor over the slab wood patches on the east side. Small pockets of slabs dot the bottom, left from the lumbering days, when saw mills were located on the city shore; these are food factories for the fish. Crayfish, leeches, and whatever live in these areas. Most boats are equipped with electronics, making it easier to find the fish. Near by shallower areas have weed lines and sand bars, great for spring spawning. Now its perch and crappie time, soon the bluegills and bass will be spawning there.
On Lake Mitchell most fishermen concentrate on the west side, Cove areas. The emerging weeds, warmer water and sand bars make it perfect for spawning. Everything happens here from panfish to bass and pike.
The crappie and soon bluegills will follow the shore lines of the Big and Small Coves. Gills often bed near and around the docks. The Coves are the home of all species from all panfish, pike, walleye and bass. Less desired, but fun and likely candidates for a Master Angler Awards, are the bowfin and bullheads. Chances are good in both lakes but especially Mitchell.
Another text book structure is Blind Island outside and between the Big and Small Coves. It’s a hump in two foot of water that melts down to four foot, 6 foot surrounded by a variety of weeds. Great for spring fishing. Panfish up shallow and bass, pike and walleye eating them as they move to around the Sunken Island.
Get out and enjoy this spring weather - - - Go Fish!
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Weather Cools Down
The crappie fishing is great in Houghton Lake in the canals with Long Point canals are full of nice size perch.
Over in the thumb the perch are running in the rivers and ditches and limit catches are reported. Wixom Lake has a good crappie and gill bite. Portage Lake by Oneckema has a good perch bite in the channel also Manistee Lake has been good for perch off the piers and boats.
All lakes are wide open and get your boat out as it is fishing time. Steelhead fishing is good but with the rain maybe another run
Spring fishing is just getting started. Anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have the new 2010 Michigan Fishing License by April 1st. Strong storms this week have raised water levels in the rivers and that should help those seeking steelhead and suckers. Colder weather by the end of the week will most likely slow the bite for panfish however it should rebound with the next warm up. As we move into spring fishing, anglers are reminded that bass season is closed.The 2010 regulations also go into effect on April 1st. Fishing Guides should be available from all license vendors.
Northwest:
Harbor Springs - No docks were in as of this report.
Petoskey - The docks are in at the launch sites. Boats are fishing in 20 to 30 feet of water for steelhead, brown trout and lake trout. Anglers are reminded that the minimum size limit for lake trout is 24 inches. Pier anglers were catching steelhead in the early morning when floating spawn off the bottom.
Bear River - The better steelhead fishing was up near the dam.
Traverse City - The East Bay had good catches of whitefish in 120 feet of water. Lake trout were found in both bays however no big numbers over the last week.
Boardman River - Light numbers of steelhead have been caught however if water levels go up by the end of the week, the bite should improve.
Glen Lake - Was producing a few perch.
Frankfort - Brown trout have been caught from the north pier and when trolling in the shallows. Most fish were three or four pounds and hitting on anything chartreuse.
Betsie River - Catch rates for steelhead improved with some fish on the gravel. Red worms and crawlers were good for sucker fishing.
Onekama - The pier has not been producing as well as some would like however a few brown trout were caught off the south pier.
Portage Lake - Was producing some limits of perch. Anglers will need to sort out the small ones however some nice 8 to 10 inch perch have also been caught. They were hitting mostly on minnows but it might be a good idea to take along some wigglers as well. Boats could be found in 20 feet of water on the north end near the channel.
Lake Cadillac - Fair to good numbers of crappie were caught during the warm spell however cooler weather by the end of the week will most likely slow the bite. Boat and shore anglers were fishing with minnows.
Manistee - All the docks are in at the city launch. Boat anglers have caught brown trout when trolling near the piers and along the shoreline. Pier anglers caught a few perch and brown trout.
Manistee River - Good numbers of steelhead have been caught up at Tippy Dam. Some are floating spawn, flies or wax worms while others are casting spinners. Fair to good sucker fishing.
Ludington - All the docks are in at the city launch. Boats are catching steelhead and brown trout when trolling along the shoreline. Try body baits in natural patterns. Pier anglers caught brown trout when using fresh spawn.
Pere Marquette River - Should still have good numbers of steelhead.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Cheboygan River - Anglers are catching steelhead.
Ocqueoc River - Is producing some steelhead in the lower river.
Rogers City - Small brown trout were spotted however the fish would not bite. For those casting, try spoons or body baits in colors that resemble smelt. Boat anglers are running planer boards with body baits. Try blue and silver, fire-tiger, green and silver or anything that looks like smelt and run the lines way back behind the boat.
Alpena - Boat anglers were brown trout fishing behind the cement plant. Most were using small fluorescent spinners or still-fishing with minnows. Anglers are reminded that the “catch & immediate release” bass season does not open until the last Saturday in April. Those fishing Squaw Bay caught some big northern pike.
Thunder Bay River - Boat anglers caught brown trout behind the Armory and near the mouth when using black and silver rapalas. Shore anglers caught steelhead and suckers up at the dam. Steelhead anglers were drifting spawn bags or fluorescent and black flies.
Au Sable River - Anglers should find good numbers of steelhead after much needed rain this week. Try spawn, flies, spinners or small spoons.
Higgins Lake - The ice is gone. Boats are trolling for lake trout and rainbow along the drop-off. Yellow perch should start coming up along the drop-off in the evening.
Houghton Lake - Those fishing the canals were taking some nice catches of bluegill, perch and crappie. Most were using minnows or leaf worms. The cold spell will most likely stall the bite however it should return with warmer temperatures.
Tawas - Anglers are doing a lot of sorting but still finding some decent perch inside the harbor. Pier anglers fishing the outside of the breakwall are getting a few walleye and the occasional brown trout. Boats trolling rapalas caught walleye.
Au Gres - Those trolling rapalas have caught some walleye.
Au Gres River -Steelhead were hitting on spawn in the river and in the surf near the Singing Bridge access site.
Rifle River - Sucker runs continue and should hold up for another week. Steelhead were caught further upstream.
Upper Peninsula
Black River - Anglers fishing off both piers were catching coho.
Ontonagon - Anglers are taking a mix of salmon, brown trout and lake trout in shallow waters 6 to 15 feet deep.
Keweenaw Bay - The ice is gone and fishing was good with anglers catching rainbow and coho off Sand Point, off the rock docks and the bridge at the head of the bay. Those trolling did well for salmon when using spoons or Hot-n-Tots in 30 to 60 feet of water between L’Anse and Sand Point.
Fall’s River - Anglers were struggling as water levels were low and clear.
Huron River - Had good numbers of steelhead.
Marquette - Catch rates for coho did slow with warm weather pushing water temperatures up to the 40 degree mark, especially in the harbor. Splake and whitefish were caught off the lower harbor breakwall and along the coal docks. Those trolling near the Carp River caught coho in 25 to 30 feet of water.
Carp River - Has produced a few catches of steelhead and coho for those using spawn bags, crawlers or spoons.
Menominee River - Had good numbers of walleye however cooler weather will again slow catch rates.
Little Bay De Noc - It should not be long before all the docks are in at the launch sites. Boats have started heading out in all directions however few reports have come in. Rain in the forecast should help those looking for steelhead in the rivers.
Au Train - Fishing was slow. Coho and steelhead were caught on spawn bags near the Rock River.
Munising - Boat launches are in use at Sand Point, the Anna River and the Municipal launch. Water levels were slightly lower than normal however coho, steelhead and splake were caught.
Grand Marais - Had fair catches of coho and steelhead for both pier anglers and those trolling around the mouth of the river. The boat launch is open and in full use.
St. Mary’s River - Limits of perch were caught in the upper river above the Locks in 35 feet of water. Most were using minnows. Boat anglers were launching from Sherman Park which is in Sault Ste. Marie Michigan. Steelhead and pink salmon were caught off the Portage Street Bridge when drifting chrome colored lures. Some nice perch were caught in the bays of Lake Nicolet.
De Tour - Shore anglers have caught some nice six pound steelhead by floating spawn bags near Albany Creek. The docks were not in at the city launch.
Cedarville and Hessel - The ice is finally gone but no boats had been out.
Carp River - Anglers are steelhead fishing at the Mackinaw Trail Bridge and the McDonalds Rapids. They are casting spawn with good results. No smelt to report.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
ake Erie - Those fishing off Luna Pier and Bolles Harbor have caught some limits of walleye. The Edison fishing pier is open. Anglers are catching channel catfish, white bass and the occasional out of season bass. The “catch and immediate release” bass season does not open until the last Saturday in April. Bluegill and crappie were caught in the cuts and canals around Point Mouillee and Lake Erie Metro Park.
Sand Lake - In Lenawee County is producing crappie in shallow waters. Try jigs tipped with small minnows.
Huron River - Catch rates for steelhead were spotty. Some are participating in the catch and release trout season in the Proud Lake Recreation Area.
Detroit River - Has good walleye action in the Trenton Channel with jigs, big minnows and stinger hooks in 6 to 16 feet of water. Purple, pink and chartreuse were good colors. Some of the walleye caught have already spawned. Perch are also spawning and smaller fish were caught in the canals on the south end of Grosse Ile.
Lake St. Clair - Anglers are targeting bluegill, rock bass and crappie at the Selfridge access site. Good catches of large panfish were coming from the marinas.
Lexington - Had a good deal of fishing activity with boat anglers trolling in 10 to 20 feet of water with planer boards and long lines. They caught mostly coho, a few chinook and steelhead along with the occasional brown trout and whitefish. Pier anglers caught perch, pike, salmon, trout and bullhead. Crappie were starting to show up in the marina.
Port Sanilac - Boats are trolling for trout and salmon and pier anglers are fishing both inside and outside the harbor. Look for crappie in the marina.
Saginaw Bay - The perch bite off Pine River and Palmer Road was slow. Those trolling rapalas off Linwood caught walleye in 18 feet of water. Near Spoils Island, boat anglers vertical jigging with minnows or crawlers caught walleye. At Caseville, pier anglers fishing Lake Huron were taking a few salmon and trout.
Saginaw River - Shore anglers caught a few perch along with channel catfish when using live bait in the lower river.
Tittabawassee River - Sucker runs continue and should hold up for another week.
Flint River - Is still producing some suckers however walleye season is closed.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joe - Pier and boat anglers were still catching steelhead and brown trout.
St. Joe River - Steelhead fishing was slow but should improve with much needed rain this week. A few fish were caught on the gravel when using spawn or flies. Good sucker fishing at the Berrien Springs Dam. Bluegills were also caught.
Grand Haven - Boat anglers are trolling for brown trout along the shoreline. Perch fishing was good in 60 feet of water. Spikes, mousies and minnows were the bait of choice. Those pier fishing were using spawn for brown trout and steelhead however most of the fish caught were small brown trout.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead are being caught between Fulton Street and the Sixth Street Dam. Anglers are using spawn bags, small Cleo’s, or white jigs with wax worms. Try chrome wobble glo’s with red, pink or chartreuse. Suckers were caught at the dam. Bluegill and crappie off the points and in the backwaters.
Grand River at Lansing - Moore’s Park is producing steelhead and catfish. Carp and catfish have been caught at the North Lansing Dam and Riverfront Park.
Duck Lake - In Calhoun County was good for crappie when using jigs with minnows.
Vineyard Lake - In Jackson County was good for crappie when fishing the shallows.
Morrison Lake - Had fair to good crappie fishing.
Reeds Lake - Had good bluegill fishing on sunny days with limit catches reported. Leaf worms and wax worms in the shallows were the ticket. Crappie fishing was spotty. Big perch were caught in 15 to 40 feet of water on perch rigs with minnows.
Rogue River - Those floating spawn at the dam have caught steelhead. In the lower river, fly anglers did well with streamers or black stone flies.
Muskegon - Boats are trolling along the shoreline for brown trout. Pier anglers were using spawn for steelhead and brown trout but few fish were caught.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
The warm weather and rain were all that was needed to start spring fishing on Lake Mitchell and Cadillac. Serious crappie and perch fishing has begun. Many caught their share from shore but the early boat fishermen were practically guaranteed their limit. The good weather brought out numbers of anglers. No fancy equipment is necessary. Bobber fishing with small minnows is all it takes.
Rodney Sanders enjoyed Spring Break catching crappies. He’s holding a Master Angler size crappie.
Steelhead fishing is at center stage. Numbers are good at Tippy Dam even with the low, clear water.
Friends, Jake Cubitt, Steve Sawyer and R J Marine each caught a steelhead fishing at night at Tippy Dam, using spawn for bait. Each had several others on.
Robert Galloup is no stranger to the Manistee River. He’s holding a 30 and 28 inch fresh steelhead.
The River’s fun! Everyone is fishing a different method. Some float spawn, others waxworms or wigglers. Wobble Glos, especially glow, flies and spinners all work.
Suckers are starting to show up. Chances are good for Longnose, hog, red horse and whites. Master Angler sizes of each species are common in the Manistee.
Don’t make a mistake. 2010 licenses have been necessary since the 1st of April. No price increase, no excuse!
Get out and enjoy this spring weather - - - Go Fish!
Thursday, April 01, 2010
Crappie and Bluegill have a bite on
The crappie fishing is great in Houghton Lake in the canals with Long Point canals are full of nice size perch.
Over in the thumb the perch are running in the rivers and ditches and limit catches are reported. Wixom Lake has a good crappie and gill bite.
Spring fishing is just getting started. Anglers 17 years of age and older are required to have the new 2010 Michigan Fishing License by April 1st. Steelhead fishing remains good on most of the major river systems. Bluegill and crappie are starting to come alive and the sucker runs are currently underway.
Northwest:
Petoskey - The ice along the east end of Little Traverse Bay is pretty much gone. There is still some ice near the Bay View area. Docks at the boat launches were not in yet. Good steelhead fishing off the piers. Try light line with a quarter ounce egg sinker so the fish will not feel the weight when they take the bait. Put spawn bags about a foot off the bottom in the early morning or evening.
Bear River - The steelhead run is underway. Try between the mouth and the dam.
Traverse City - Lake trout and whitefish have been caught in 145 feet of water in both the East Bay and the West Bay however the action was hit-or-miss. Perch anglers are also heading out.
Boardman River - Only had a light number of steelhead being caught.
Long Lake - Still has some ice but no safe ice.
Crystal Lake - Ice fishing is done as ice conditions are no longer safe.
Betsie River - Fishing was red hot at the Homestead Dam. Those wading or fishing from shore were taking limits of steelhead and some brown trout when using small spawn bags or fly’s in egg patterns. Those fishing down to the M-31 Bridge were also taking good numbers of fish. Water levels were good and clearing up. The sucker runs have also started. Anglers will find good numbers of fish near Adams Road and County Road 608.
Manistee - Pier and boat anglers trolling along the shoreline have caught steelhead.
Manistee River - Fresh steelhead are moving into the river. Catch rates were good in the early morning or evening when floating spawn bags or flies. A few brown trout have also been caught.
Ludington - Pier and boat anglers are targeting steelhead and brown trout.
Pere Marquette River - Has a decent number of steelhead in the upper river but the lower river was slow.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Alpena - Walleye, steelhead, and small brown trout were caught in Thunder Bay.
Thunder Bay River - Has fresh-run steelhead at the Ninth Street Dam. The boat ramp on the river is open. Walleye season on the river is closed.
Au Sable River - Is producing some steelhead.
Higgins Lake - Still has ice out past the drop off however ice along the shoreline is gone. Ice fishing is done as there is no safe ice. It could be a while yet before the docks are put in at the launch sites.
Houghton Lake - Also has some ice but no safe ice to report. About half the lake now has open water. The canals have open water and a few anglers have been trying to crappie however it is still too cold.
Tawas - Boats trolling rapalas have caught a few trout and walleye off the mouth of river. Pier fishing was slow with only a couple walleye, steelhead or perch taken.
Tawas River - The occasional steelhead and a few suckers have been caught.
Au Gres - Boats trolling rapalas near the mouth of the river have caught some walleye. Steelhead and brown trout were taken in the surf near the Singing Bridge. Most are floating spawn.
Au Gres River - Those fishing the East Branch have caught good numbers of steelhead in both the upper river and in the lower end of Whitney Drain.
Rifle River - The sucker runs are underway. Hook and line anglers are doing well from the mouth to Stoddard’s Landing, which is upstream from Omer.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Pier anglers are catching coho.
Silver City - Salmon and brown trout have been caught just off the mouth of the Big Iron River.
Lake Gogebic - Ice conditions are dangerous. Ice fishing is done.
Keweenaw Bay - Any remaining ice is dangerous and anglers need to stay off it. Catch rates were hit-or-miss with fluctuating temperatures and water levels.
Fall’s River - Coho and steelhead were caught on spawn bags and yarn.
Marquette - Anglers are fishing from boat, shore and piers. Boat access is possible at both the upper and lower harbors. Coho, splake, steelhead and even a few lake trout have been caught. The average size for coho and splake was 16 to 18 inches. Fish were caught near the Carp River when using jigs with twister tails, spoons, spawn or crawlers along the shoreline or the backwaters in the lower harbor.
Menominee River - Shore anglers are targeting trout and walleye near Boom and Stephenson Island, the Cat Walk and near the dam. The number of gates open on the dam seems to affect catch rates. When three gates were open, fishing was good. When the gates were closed, the water levels were lowered and catch rates slowed. Those fishing off the Cat Walk were using top water rapalas. The perch color with red hooks worked best. Shore anglers and those wading were casting rapalas or drifting yarn and spawn.
Green Bay - Continues to open up. Any remaining ice is not safe.
Little Bay De Noc - Has open water in the southern half of the bay with the exception of the Escanaba Yacht Harbor. Open water at the Rapid River launch and the Ford River launch however the docks were not in yet. Rivers in the area are open however water levels are below normal. If boating early, be sure to stay at a slow speed and watch for ice flows.
Au Train - Ice was still present near the Brownstone ramp so boat access was not possible. The ice should leave the bay soon. Fishing has picked up in Au Train Bay. Anglers are targeting coho and steelhead.
Au Train River - Anglers are fishing the mouth for steelhead and coho however catch rates were spotty. Try spawn for steelhead or spoons for coho.
Rock River - Catch rates for coho and steelhead were slow but fish were caught.
Munising - Still had some fishable ice between Sand Point and the Anna River however extreme caution needs to be use. Coho and splake were caught but no limits were seen. Smelt fishing was poor.
Munuscong Bay - Anglers are heading 200 yards west of Dan’s Resort and fishing in 2 ½ feet of water using minnows. Harvest rates were good with perch averaging 8 to 11 inches.
Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers in Cedarville are taking boats across Snows Channel to access the ice on the west end of Musky Bay. Some were fishing off Little Joe Island but catch rates were slow. The ice is deteriorating quickly so extreme caution needs to be used.
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Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Boat fishing for walleye has started.
Huron River - More steelhead are moving in and fish have been caught throughout the river including Flat Rock and below Rockwood. Shore anglers are using jigs under a bobber and boat anglers are using rapalas or Hot-n-Tots.
Detroit River - There is open water fishing however there is still ice coming down. Boats are perch fishing with perch rigs and shiners in the canals of Gibraltar and off the south end of Grosse Ile. Those fishing near the bridge on South Gibraltar Road also caught perch. Anglers need to park on Kings Bridge Drive. A couple walleye were caught out near Horse Island.
Clinton River - Steelhead are starting to move in.
Saginaw Bay - Did not have much in the way of fishing activity. Ice conditions are bad with areas of open water and so-called ice mountains popping up everywhere. Anglers are reminded that the Hot Ponds are considered to be “inland waters” which closed to walleye fishing on March 15th. Lakeward of that point where the Hot Pond channel flows in is open all year for walleye fishing.
Tittabawassee River - Heavy rain caused high and muddy water. Some suckers were caught by those fishing off the bottom.
Quanicassee River - Was giving up a few perch.
Sebewaing River - Has just opened up but no reports on perch.
Pigeon River - Has also opened up.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
New Buffalo - Coho are starting to make their way up the coast and that means pier anglers will be out fishing.
Galien River - Has good steelhead action.
St. Joe River - Pier anglers will be targeting coho and steelhead.
Kalamazoo River - Reports good steelhead action.
Grand Haven - Anglers are steelhead fishing off the piers.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Water levels are up however visibility was starting to improve. Good numbers of steelhead have been caught up near the Sixth Street Dam when using spawn bags and yarn with a good deal of weight to hold it in place.
Grand River at Lansing - With walleye and pike season closed, anglers are steelhead fishing. While the fish have made it up this far, not many were caught.
Rogue River - Also has good steelhead action.
Muskegon - Pier anglers are catching steelhead and brown trout on spawn bags.
Muskegon Lake - The ice is gone and the launches are open. Perch anglers are fishing the deep water off the Bear Lake Channel. Fish in the 7 to 10 inch range were caught however be ready to sort. Spikes and mousies seem to work best.
Muskegon River - Anglers are catching steelhead. A few were caught in the lower stretch but the better fishing was between Bridgeton and Maple Island Road.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP 231-775-5412
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell are both sleeping giants. The crappie bite at the Causeway or the perch bite at the canal has not started. Possibly the warm weather predicted this Easter Weekend will wake them. No fish catching stories at any of the other area lakes either.
However, River Fishermen have had an early start. The words out on the Manistee. Catching is not as strong as the past couple of weeks. The water level is down and very clear. The clarity has made the fish skittish. Early mornings and evenings into dark have been best.
The next good rain should push more fresh fish all the way to Tippy Dam. Pockets of shiny silver colored steelhead get us excited.
Michael Hayter from Cadillac had a productive day on the Manistee catching a fresh, platinum steelhead.
Rich Oakley knows the river. Sunday’s trip paid off. Another fresh one.
Last ice was the charm on Portage Lake. While fishing with her dad Emily Meeuwes caught a number of the size perch we dream of. They are outr in boats doing good
?
Get out and enjoy this spring weather Go Fish!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Ice Fishing is Coming to an End
The weather has taken it’s toll on the ice and we will fish this weekend but after that it will be done.
Those trying to fish last ice need to use extreme caution as conditions will become even more dangerous with rain and warm temperatures in the forecast. It is time to start thinking about spring fishing. Anglers are reminded that walleye season on inland waters will close on Monday March 15th however; Saginaw Bay and the Great Lakes remain open all year round. March 15th also marks the end of spearing season for northern pike and musky.
Lake Mitchell has been awesome for big crappie
Higgins Lake- Still has ice with shorelinr getting a little rough. The smelt are really biting and can be caught during the day.
Lake St. Helen is reporting lots of pike with a panfish bite.
Margrethe and Otsego the shanties are off but a few are getting out and catching perch.
Portage Lake has ice and lots of pike being caught on golden shiners. Also great perch bite
Lake Missaukee - Has been good for bluegills with a few pike and walleye.
Lake Cadillac Ice fishing continues at least for a bit longer. Anglers are catching crappie along with the occasional bluegill. Pike are hitting on tip-ups. Avoid the areas near inlets or outlets especially with the warm weather and run-off.
Lake Mitchell -Had good crappie fishing with limits taken on the west side of the lake in Big Cove. This is also a good spot for pike.
Hamlin Lake - Some nice bluegills have been caught but not many. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows in 15 to 25 feet of water with minnows after dark. Perch and a few walleye were caught along the drop-off south of the Narrows. Northern pike were hitting on tip-ups.
Saginaw Bay - Ice conditions are deteriorating rapidly. Shore ice is getting soft, pressure cracks are getting wider and machines are going through at many locations. Walleye and perch were caught in 5 feet of water off White’s Beach. Walleye were caught off Linwood and Erickson Road. Some were fishing off the Bay City State Park and near the mouth of the Kawkawlin River in 3 to 10 feet of water however the shore ice was deteriorating. Fishing out near Spoils Island was spotty but the action at the mouth of the Hot Ponds was good for those wading. Ice at the mouth of the Saginaw River is getting bad. Perch were caught off Vanderbilt Park and Quanicassee but walleye were taken off Thomas Road. Ice is getting bad in the marinas. Both the Sebewaing and Pigeon Rivers could open up in a few days given the weather.
Little Bay De Noc - Warm temperatures have taken their toll on ice conditions. Mud and slush around the shoreline have made accessing the ice difficult in some areas. Pressure cracks have opened up even more. Most anglers are staying in the northern part of the bay as the ice in the southern regions is failing. Dangers still exist on the northern sections so anglers need to use extreme caution. Foot traffic is best and no vehicles should be driving out on the ice. Those fishing the head of bay have caught walleye when using large sucker minnows on tip-ups in 6 to 13 feet of water. Catch rates for perch were slow but fish were caught off the Center Reef when jigging minnows in 28 to 33 feet of water. Fair whitefish action off Sand Point however ice conditions in this area are dangerous and should be avoided.
Saginaw River - People should stay off any remaining ice. In Saginaw, the river is open and boat anglers were catching walleye when vertical jigging or drifting jigs with minnows. Some had limits while others did not. Try launching off Rust Avenue which is on the west side of the river.
Tittabawassee River - The only boat ramp that is currently open is the Caldwell ramp located south of Midland off Gordonville Road. There has been a lot of activity however those fishing up near the Dow Dam reported slow catch rates. Sounds like the run of fish have not made it up that far.
Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers are catching smaller perch at the east end of Hessel Bay in 6 to 8 feet of water. Most are using minnows or wax worms. Musky Bay fishing is about the same with plenty of big perch being spotted but not biting. Those perch should start moving into shallow water soon which may increase catch rates. Moscoe Channel, Cedarville Bay and Little Joe are spotty but should increase as we move into spring.
Houghton Lake -Still has good ice. The is a great crappie bite on the lake with the cut river mouth being one of the hotspots.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Stop the Asian Carp Meeting
You are invited to join me and special guest Congressman Dave Camp for an Asian carp briefing this coming Monday, March 15, 2010 on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
There you can learn the latest information about our fight to stop Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes and ask state experts about the risk Asian carp pose to the Lake Huron region.
Stop Asian Carp Public Briefing
Monday, March 15, 2010
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Saginaw Valley State University
Curtiss Hall, 2nd Floor
Seminar Rooms D&E
7400 Bay Road
University Center, MI
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Fishing is picking up
Sunday finally the fish started biting on many of the lakes which is great news . Perch on Big Glenn are still slow this week with just a few being caught, it seems Little Glenn has been better for perch but not as big. Ice fishing continues and we are looking forward to the March run. Those seeking panfish have started to catch some of the bigger fish in deeper waters. Walleye action continues around the state and those seeking pike have done well with tip-ups or when spearing.
The ice on inland lakes around the state is holding however anglers are reminded to still use caution. Stay away from areas that are known to have a current or run-off from melting snow. Shoreline ice will deteriorate quickly with temperatures up near 40 degrees. Lakes with snow cover may present travel problems due to slush. Permanent ice shanties in the southern portions of the Lower Peninsula should have been removed from the ice on March 1st.
The boys have been hitting Big Glenn but they still have not got back into them, they went to Portage Lake this week as a bite was on, but they found it slow with perch biting right at daybreak and they caught enough to eat. Lake Mitchell has been awesome for big crappie
Higgins Lake- Still had ice with little to no slush. Lake trout can be found in 80 to 90 feet of water. Smelt are being caught late evening and early morning. Fish the entire water column in 25 feet of water. Some bigger perch have started to bite however those bigger fish are scattered.
Lake St. Helen is reporting lots of pike with a panfish bite.
Down at Wixom Lake they are doing good off the access site with crappie and pike, also by the dam crappie haver been biting
Margrethe and Otsego have good ice and many shanties are showing up on the lakes with a poor bite. A huge muskie was caught on Lake Margrethe also sturgeon are being spotted on Otsego Lake.
Around Leroy, Farwell, Cadillac, Harrison and Sanford they have good ice and are catching fish.
Long Lake and Lake Leelanau by Traverse City have good ice for walking and perch and walleye are biting. Some are getting off the north-end but the best fishing is on the south-end but you need snowmobile as no public access on the south-end
Mullet Lake - Anglers have caught a few nice perch on the east side of the lake, but had to sort through many small ones. Not much activity with cisco, walleye, pike or musky.
Burt Lake - Ice anglers have started to catch a few walleye. Anglers should stay away from the large pressure crack between Colonial Point and Cedar Point. This area had open water last week and the ice that has formed is not safe. Perch fishing has been fair on Maple Bay and look for it to improve
Crystal Lake is froze and should be a great weekend for fishing with many getting off of Lobb rd. and doing good on smelt.
Portage Lake has great ice and lots of pike being caught on golden shiners. Also this week perch fishing has picked up
Green Lake - Smelt anglers can be found in the northeast corner of the lake between the Music Camp and the Betsie River. For pike, try using tip-ups in the shallows off the State Park.
Cedar Lake - Ice anglers are doing well on pike when using tip-ups with large minnows. Those targeting smelt are fishing day or night with teardrops or Hali jigs with spikes and wax worms.
Lake Missaukee - Has been good for bluegills with a few pike and walleye.
Lake Cadillac Ice fishing continues at least for a bit longer. Anglers are catching crappie along with the occasional bluegill. Pike are hitting on tip-ups. Avoid the areas near inlets or outlets especially with the warm weather and run-off.
Lake Mitchell -Had good crappie fishing with limits taken on the west side of the lake in Big Cove. This is also a good spot for pike.
Hamlin Lake - Some nice bluegills have been caught but not many. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows in 15 to 25 feet of water with minnows after dark. Perch and a few walleye were caught along the drop-off south of the Narrows. Northern pike were hitting on tip-ups.
Saginaw Bay -There is slush on the ice which makes travel a little more difficult. Anglers should stay away from any pressure cracks and areas with stumps or pilings. The crack near DeFoe Island is extremely dangerous. Warm temperatures will cause the ice to deteriorate rapidly; extreme caution needs to be used. Those fishing in the evening caught a few walleye in the Catfish Hole which is straight east of White’s Beach. Evenings were best. The hot spot for walleye was off Erickson Road. Walleye were caught around the south end of the Black Hole and off Linwood. Near the mouth of the Saginaw River, a few walleye were caught northeast of Channel Island and out to the Spark Plug in 15 to 20 feet of water. Move often as catch rates were spotty. Foot traffic only is suggested. At Sebewaing, perch fishing slowed on both sides of the river channel and out from the VFW Hall. There were a lot of minnows in the marina. Walleye anglers going out to the Slot caught fish in 12 to 18 feet of water but it is hard to tell how long the ice will last.
Little Bay De Noc - Ice conditions remain tricky to navigate with pressure cracks presenting most of the problems. Anglers have consistently had problems when trying to cross in the Kipling and Gladstone areas. Please use caution and “look before you leap” especially with a vehicle. The ice is thicker in the north end of the bay and less in the southern sections. With warmer weather in the forecast, many have started to remove their ice shanties. The better walleye fishing was in the head of the bay when using tip-ups with large minnows in 6 to 20 feet of water. Most caught large fish with many in the 10 pound range. Reports for the rest of the bay were spotty when jigging or using tip-ups in 15 to 30 feet of water. Although there are anglers fishing in the southern waters, ice in that area is dangerous and should be avoided. Catch rates were down but did increase for those fishing in 28 to 33 feet of water around the Center Reef. Try jigging minnows. Fair to good whitefish action off Sand Point in Escanaba however the area is dangerous so foot traffic only.
Big Manistique Lake - Anglers were catching a significant number of small fish.
South Manistique Lake - Is also producing walleye and a few perch. Both lakes should also start producing some pike.
Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers are catching small perch in 6 to 8 feet of water at the east end of Hessel Bay. Musky Bay is about the same. Big perch were spotted but they would not bite. Catch rates were just fair in Cedarville Bay and the Moscoe Channel.
Houghton Lake -Still had good ice. There is some snow on the ice but little slush as of this report. Catch rates did slow however anglers are still going out and finding pike and walleye. Bluegills have just started to bite but no big numbers yet. Off the Cut River walleye and crappie are biting. Dave at Four Season party Store is out looking for a good spot and has done well the last few days so give him a call at 989-422-5230 for his hot-spot He caught four keeper walleye last night.. Lyman’s on the lake has shanties out and has a weekly pike contest with pike action getting better
Thursday, February 25, 2010
We need to Do a Fish Dance
Fishing is still slow so please do a fish dance tonight to get them biting.
It is like a broken record as fish are not biting this week from most of the reports I have heard. Higgins Lake a few smelt are being caught, but no great bite yet. Perch on Big Glenn has been slow this week with just a few being caught, it seems Little Glenn has been better for perch but not as big. Ice fishing continues and we are looking forward to the March run. Those seeking panfish have started to catch some of the bigger fish in deeper waters. Walleye action continues around the state and those seeking pike have done well with tip-ups or when spearing. Steelhead can be found in many of the major river systems. Stay away from areas that are known to have a strong current or run-off from melting snow. Slush is making for difficult travel on some lakes.
The boys have been hitting Big Glenn but they have not got back on the perch tis week, as they are seeing them but lock jaw has set in.
Higgins Lake- Catch rates slowed last weekend with all the activity on the ice. Now that things have slowed down the catch rate should improve. Target lake trout just off the bottom in 80 to 100 feet of water. Perch fishing was slow and the fish are small. Smelt activity continues in 20 to 30 feet of water.
Lake St. Helen is reporting pike and panfish bite.
Down at Wixom Lake they are doing good off the access site with crappie and pike, also by the dam crappie haver been biting
Margrethe and Otsego have good ice and many shanties are showing up on the lakes with a poor bite. A huge muskie was caught on Lake Margrethe also sturgeon are being spotted on Otsego Lake.
Around Leroy, Farwell, Cadillac, Harrison and Sanford they have good ice and are catching fish.
Long Lake and Lake Leelanau by Traverse City have good ice for walking and perch and walleye are biting. Some are getting off the north-end but the best fishing is on the south-end but you need snowmobile as no public access on the south-end
Mullet Lake - Anglers are catching perch more often however they are sorting through lots of small ones to find the keepers. A few pike, cisco, and gar have also been taken but not too many anglers are targeting these species.
Burt Lake - Ice anglers have started to catch a few walleye. Anglers should stay away from the large pressure crack between Colonial Point and Cedar Point. This area had open water last week and the ice that has formed is not safe. Perch fishing has been fair on Maple Bay
Crystal Lake is froze and should be a great weekend for fishing with many getting off of Lobb rd. and doing good on smelt.
Portage Lake has great ice and lots of pike being caught on golden shiners.
Green Lake - Smelt anglers can be found in the northeast corner of the lake between the Music Camp and the Betsie River. For pike, try using tip-ups in the shallows off the State Park.
Cedar Lake - Ice anglers are doing well on pike when using tip-ups with large minnows. Those targeting smelt are fishing day or night with teardrops or Hali jigs with spikes and wax worms.
Lake Missaukee - Has been good for bluegills with a few pike and walleye.
Lake Cadillac -Is producing more crappie than bluegills. Try minnows or wax worms. Those using tip-ups are taking some pike.
Lake Mitchell - Is still a good choice for northern pike or crappie.
Hamlin Lake - Some nice bluegills have been caught but not many. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows in 15 to 25 feet of water with minnows after dark. Perch and a few walleye were caught along the drop-off south of the Narrows. Northern pike were hitting on tip-ups.
Saginaw Bay - Anglers are reminded that EXTREME CAUTION needs to be used when going out on the ice. There are some areas with slush and cracks with water coming up through the ice. The weight of additional snowfall this week will push the ice down and water will be forced up. With that said, walleye were caught in 13 feet of water off Cody-Estey Road and in 6 to 8 feet of water off Newman Road and Erickson Road. Off Linwood, try 18 to 22 feet of water however watch out for pressure cracks. Walleye were caught between the mouth of the Saginaw River and northeast of Spoils Island however anglers have broke through the ice near the mouth of the Saginaw River. Walleye were caught in 20 feet of water off Callahan Road and 24 to 28 feet of water off Thomas Road. Look for perch in 6 feet of water off Vanderbilt Park. At Sebewaing, pike spearing was the main attraction. The marina and the river have started to fill up with shiners. A few nice perch were caught between Bay Shore Camp and the factory. A few anglers have started to fish the ridge and weed beds straight out from the access site at Geiger Road in hopes of finding a few crappie with the melting snow and run off. Anglers still need to pay attention to the crack that runs from Defoe Island to Popp’s Place. A few limits of walleye were caught off the Slot in 15 to 18 feet of water. Bay Port and the Bayshore Marina had rumors of some nice perch caught in the channels and the marina. Near Mud Creek, perch and walleye were small but a few nice pike were speared. There are more areas of open water and slush near North Island and Sand Point. Ice in the channels and marinas along Sand Point has deteriorated and those on machines have gone through the ice.
Little Bay De Noc - Ice remains favorable north of the “Narrows” with the exception of pressure cracks and the warm water discharge near the power plant. The southern bay remains mixed with hidden dangers from the shipping traffic. No anglers in this area are driving vehicles out on the ice. Walleye catches where up near the First and Center Reefs while using tip-ups with large sucker minnows in 8 to 13 feet of water. Anglers off the Escanaba River also did well when jigging rapalas with minnows or tip-ups 25 to 35 feet down along the break. Walleye were caught near the shipping docks when jigging rapalas or minnows in 20 to 30 feet of water. Perch were in 10 to 20 feet of water. Use extreme caution in this area. Many perch have started to move into shallow waters 6 to 11 feet deep. Northern pike are active just off the mouth of the Whitefish River. Good numbers of large fish have been taken off tip-ups with minnows in 10 feet of water. Whitefish anglers have moved in off Sand Point for the first time this year. The ice has not been stable in the area and is still considered dangerous.
Big Manistique Lake - Anglers were catching a significant number of small fish.
South Manistique Lake - Is also producing walleye and a few perch. Both lakes should also start producing some pike.
Cedarville and Hessel - Catch rates for perch picked up in Hessel Bay in 6 to 8 feet of water. Anglers in Musky Bay are fishing in 7 to 12 feet of water in the middle of bay and along the east end however anglers say the fish are moving towards the west side. Government Bay and the Moscoe Channel are providing larger fish, but catch rates were slower. Most are using minnows however wax worms and wigglers are producing as well. A few anglers limited out while spearing pike in Musky Bay.
Houghton Lake -Walleye were caught in about 9 feet of water out near the Middle Grounds and the Cut River. Crappie were hitting about 5 feet off the bottom in 12 feet of water. The bluegill bite has started to improve. Dave at Four Season party Store is out looking for a good spot and has done well the last few days so give him a call at 989-422-5230 for his hot-spot He caught four keeper walleye last night.. Lyman’s on the lake has shanties out and has a weekly pike contest with pike action getting better
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Crappie Fest feb 24
The annual Crappie Fest on Wixom Lake by Edenville is this wednesday Feb 24 at the access site. THe contest runs from 7am to 11am and register at the access site from 6am to 7am wednesday
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Fishing Slow This Weekend
Most reports I have got is fishing is still slow as we are in the Feb doldrums.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
We experienced a short warm spell this weekend. Mid thirty temperatures, no wind and plenty of sun! It was so comfortable that shanties weren’t necessary. Hole hopping was easy for those with gas augers. Those using hand augers didn’t move much.
For some unexplained reason, some are catching the biggest crappies of the year. The past 2 weeks we’ve measured the best of the season. Many are Master Angler size, over 14 inches. These slabs cover a dinner plate. Don’t know where they’ve been all season but it’s fun fishing now.
The crappie pattern hasn’t changed. Dark to late morning is good, but 4:30ish into dark is best. After dark some are using underwater lights (smelt lights) attracting them the same principle as smelt. It works.
The darker it is the more aggressive they are, bright days often they’ll just mouth a bait. Set your hook after any movement. Small minnows are their traditional favorite food, but spikes and waxworms catch their share. Those using both let the specks tell them what they want.
Six year old Stephanie Grames is holding 2 slabs caught on Lake Mitchell.
Ryan Nicholas traveled from Battle Creek to take advantage of the crappie fishing.
Nice size crappie and pike were caught by Cody Freese and Chris Baker while fishing on Lake Cadillac.
Aaron French from Reed City with a 14 ¼ inch crappie.
A short drive from Mesick, Johnnie Leigh caught his biggest pike ever while fishing Lake Mitchell. He was proud of his trophy.
Tasty smelt are available on the Big 3 - Crystal, Green and Higgins Lakes. Most catches are in the 50 to 100 range. Those investing more time, or hitting it just right talk about buckets filled with hundreds. Remember there is now a creel limit of 2 gallons.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Fishing Slow This Week
It has been slow this week from most of the reports I have heard. Higgins Lake a few smelt are being caught, but no great bite yet. Perch on Big Glenn has been slow this week with just a few being caught, it seems Little Glenn has been better for perch but not as big. Ice fishing continues as we move into the second half of February. Those seeking panfish have started to catch some of the bigger fish in deeper waters. Walleye action continues around the state and those seeking pike have done well with tip-ups or when spearing. Steelhead can be found in many of the major river systems.
1st ANNUAL 2010
OSBORN’S BIG ICE FISHING CONTEST
(231) 889-3775
FEB.19TH,20TH, 21ST. MANISTEE-BENZIE AREA LAKES BIG PRIZES FOR BIG FISH!!
Rules:
$5.00 Registration and weigh in at Osborn’s Sports Shop
Registration qualifies you for any and all classes.
Largest fish will be determined by weight only, except smelt will be by length.
Only one prize per person will be awarded.
Children s class will be 12 years and under.
Higgins Lake- Perch can still be found in 20 to 40 feet of water during the day and switch to smelt in the evening and after dark. Be ready to sort out the small perch. Lake trout action has been very good with fish caught on blues and greys in 85 to 100 feet of water. A nice 45 inch pike was caught recently.
Lake St. Helen is reporting pike and panfish bite.
Down at Wixom Lake they are doing good off the access site with crappie and pike, also by the dam crappie haver been biting
Margrethe and Otsego have good ice and many shaties are showing up on the lakes with a fair bite. A huge muskie was caught on Lake Margrethe also sturgeon are being spotted on Otsego Lake.
Around Leroy, Farwell, Cadillac, Harrison and Sanford they have good ice and are catching fish.
Long Lake and Lake Leelanau by Traverse City have good ice for walking and perch and walleye are biting. Some are getting off the north-end.
Mullet Lake - Fishing remains consistent. A few nice perch were caught on minnows in 10 to 45 feet of water, but many were small. Those targeting pike have not had much luck with spearing or still-fishing. Some have started to target lake herring.
Burt Lake - Ice anglers have started to catch a few walleye. Anglers should stay away from the large pressure crack between Colonial Point and Cedar Point. This area had open water last week and the ice that has formed is not safe. Perch fishing has been fair on Maple Bay
Crystal Lake is froze and should be a great weekend for fishing with many getting off of Lobb rd. and doing good on smelt.
Portage Lake has great ice and check out Osborn’s Fishig contest for the lakeAlso lots of pike being caught on golden shiners.
Green Lake - Ice fishing continues and smelt are hitting at night. Try Hali jigs or teardrops with wax worms or spikes.
Cedar Lake - Ice anglers are doing well on pike when using tip-ups with large minnows. Those targeting smelt are fishing day or night with teardrops or Hali jigs with spikes and wax worms.
Lake Missaukee - Has been good for bluegills with a few pike and walleye.
Lake Cadillac - Ice anglers continue to catch walleye, pike and crappie. Try the smallest jigs with a single spike and not much movement. Those with cameras are seeing panfish however they were not interested in biting.
Lake Mitchell - Has been good for pike and a few crappie. Look for bluegills when fishing near the coves on the west side of the lake.
Hamlin Lake - Some nice bluegills have been caught but not many. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows in 15 to 25 feet of water with minnows after dark. Perch and a few walleye were caught along the drop-off south of the Narrows. Northern pike were hitting on tip-ups.
Saginaw Bay - Anglers need to use extreme caution when venturing out. Ice rescues are still taking place on the east side of the bay after people, machines and even a dog went through the ice. The west side of the bay has anglers crossing two major pressure cracks. A few perch were caught in 8 feet of water off White’s Beach. Walleye anglers were going out from Erickson Road and off Linwood to waters 18 to 22 feet deep. No word on ice conditions at those two locations but it would be wise to assume there are active pressure cracks. A few walleye were caught out by Spoils Island and off the mouth of the Saginaw River however the action has since slowed. Look for perch off Vanderbilt Park near Quanicassee. Some walleye anglers were heading out 10 miles off Callahan Road and Thomas Road. At Sebewaing, water in the marina remains cloudy. A few nice perch in the 9 to 11 inch range were caught near Bay Shore Camp and in front of the Sugar Plant. Perch were caught by those jigging beads in 4 feet of water out near Lone Tree Island and Defoe Island however catch rates were not consistent. Anglers need to pay close attention to the pressure crack that runs from Defoe Island to Pap’s Place as anglers have fell in trying to cross it. New pressure cracks along with areas of open water have been reported between North Island and Sand Point. At Caseville, a few walleye were caught after dark from the marina and out along the breakwall. Be careful on the ice out past the Christmas tree along the breakwall as it has not had time to firm up after the thaw and high winds a few weeks back.
Little Bay De Noc - Ice conditions remain about the same with most anglers fishing between the Escanaba River and the head of the bay. Some are fishing as far south as Portage Point however the ice is dangerous in this area and should be avoided. Pressure cracks are still a problem so caution needs to used at all times when crossing or traveling around them. Lots of fish were marked throughout the bay however catch rates were slow. A few walleye were caught near the Escanaba River on tip-ups with minnows or jigging rapalas in 25 to 35 feet of water. Some large walleye and a few perch were caught at the head of the bay when using tip-ups with minnows in 10 to 23 feet of water near the Day’s River. Perch anglers were marking good numbers of small fish in the Butler Island area in 6 to 12 feet of water. Some large perch were caught south of the Narrows when jigging minnows in 20 to 33 feet of water. Good numbers of whitefish remain in the flats out from the Terrace Bay Inn however few anglers were taking advantage of this fishery.
Big Manistique Lake - Anglers were catching a significant number of small fish.
South Manistique Lake - Is also producing walleye and a few perch. Both lakes should also start producing some pike.
Cedarville and Hessel - Perch fishing has picked up and so has the size of fish caught even though there is still a lot of undersized perch and pike present. Anglers are using wax worms and minnows in 6 to 12 feet of water. The Moscoe Channel and Government Bay were hit-or-miss however bigger fish were caught when the bite was on. Pike were speared in Musky Bay.
Houghton Lake -The bite has picked back up and so have catch rates for walleye and bluegills. Anglers will want to target waters 12 feet or deeper to find the bigger fish. Good numbers of pike have been caught on tip-ups however few were keepers. Dave at Four Season party Store is out looking for a good spot and has done well the last few days so give him a call at 989-422-5230 for his hot-spot He caught four keeper walleye last night.. Lyman’s on the lake has shanties out and has a weekly pike contest with pike action getting better
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Happy Valentines Day
Happy Valentines Day! Lots of people out over free fishing weekend, not a lot of catching from what few reports I have heard.
FISHING CONDITIONS ON LAKES CADILLAC AND MITCHELL
FROM PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2010
More then half the ice fishing season has past. Experienced anglers call this time the doldrums of fishing because it??s not easy to fill creel limits.
The fish are still there but have moved from the early season shallows. Skill and knowing the lakes play a large part of success. It??s time to experiment with different jigs, colors or baits. One simple change may make the difference.
Tip-up fishing for pike has become hit and miss. One day good, the next slow. You just have to be there. When they??re on, many break the 30 inch mark.
When it comes to panfish, the predominate fish is crappie. Gills over hand size are a minority, but crappie have been ranging 8 to 12 inches. The numbers are usually there one they are found. Early mornings and just before dark is definitely the best time for good numbers.
??
Donald Kline had a good day on Lake Cadillac.
Tired of catching small perch. Jason Gross caught one almost 10 inches.
5 year old Ben Umbreit iced a monster 13 ¼ inch perch.
Catch a walleye lately? Ed Hux II iced a 27 ½ inch walleye weighing 7 pounds.
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Smelt fishing has begun for real. The three main smelt lakes, Green, Higgins and Crystal are turning into villages. You can??t miss where to fish. Just look for the concentration of shanties. Use an ultra light rod, a Hali tipped with waxworms and catch your share.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Free Fishing Weekend
This coming weekend is Michigan’s annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend. For two days only, Saturday February 13th and Sunday February 14th, both resident and nonresidents can fish without a license however all state regulations still apply. This is a great time for novice anglers to take someone new out and introduce them to the winter sport of ice fishing. Sharing ones knowledge in ice fishing techniques as well as ice safety is one of the best ways to pass on the fishing tradition in Michigan! Ice is awesome on most lakes
Big Glenn has a good perch bite as the photos above show a good catch from Dick and Nick Timmons. It has been hit and miss this week but some have caught limits will others get skunked. Wigglers seem to be working better
Don’t forget you can use 3 lines per person this year.
ROCK ICE FISHING DERBY
February 13, 2010 6AM-DUSK on beautiful Fife Lake
One $10,000 tagged fish and several $100 tagged fish. Other prizes for largest fish and total weight. Many other prizes, drawings, etc. Fun for the whole family!Food and beverages will be available for purchase. All proceeds will benefit the ROCK Youth Center.
Registration fee: $10 per fisher, Family of three or more $25
For details contact Terry Street (231) 499-4870
1st ANNUAL 2010
OSBORN??S BIG ICE FISHING CONTEST
(231) 889-3775
FEB.19TH,20TH, 21ST. MANISTEE-BENZIE AREA LAKES BIG PRIZES FOR BIG FISH!!
Rules:
$5.00 Registration and weigh in at Osborn’s Sports Shop
Registration qualifies you for any and all classes.
Largest fish will be determined by weight only, except smelt will be by length.
Only one prize per person will be awarded.
Children s class will be 12 years and under.
Higgins Lake is safe and the smelt and lake trout are on the bite with the warm-up. Smelt were hitting in 20 to 40 feet and lake trout in 85 to 120 feet of water. Those using tip-ups or spearing have taken some large northern pike along the southwest end of the lake in 20 to 30 feet of water. Perch anglers were taking fish in 15 to 25 feet of water in the afternoon and then switching over and fishing for smelt just before dark in the same area. It has been hit and miss there also this week
Lake St. Helen is reporting great pike and panfish bite.
Down at Wixom Lake they are doing good off the access site with crappie and pike..
Margrethe and Otsego have good ice and many shaties are showing up on the lakes with a fair bite. A huge muskie was caught on Lake Margrethe also sturgeon are being spotted on Otsego Lake
Around Leroy, Farwell, Cadillac, Harrison and Sanford they have good ice and are catching fish.
Long Lake and Lake Leelanau by Traverse City have good ice for walking and perch and walleye are biting. Some are getting off the north-end.
Mullet Lake - Fishing remains consistent. A few nice perch were caught on minnows in 10 to 45 feet of water, but many were small. Those targeting pike have not had much luck with spearing or still-fishing. Some have started to target lake herring.
Burt Lake - Ice anglers have started to catch a few walleye. Anglers should stay away from the large pressure crack between Colonial Point and Cedar Point. This area had open water last week and the ice that has formed is not safe. Perch fishing has been fair on Maple Bay
Crystal Lake is froze and should be a great weekend for fishing with many getting off of Lobb rd. and doing good
Portage Lake has great ice and check out Osborn’s Fishig contest for the lakeAlso lots of pike being caught on golden shiners.
Green Lake - Ice fishing continues and smelt are hitting at night. Try Hali jigs or teardrops with wax worms or spikes.
Cedar Lake - Ice anglers are doing well on pike when using tip-ups with large minnows. Those targeting smelt are fishing day or night with teardrops or Hali jigs with spikes and wax worms.
Lake Missaukee - Has been good for bluegills.
Lake Cadillac - Ice anglers continue to catch walleye, pike and crappie. Try the smallest jigs with a single spike and not much movement. Those with cameras are seeing panfish however they were not interested in biting.
Lake Mitchell - Has been good for pike and a few crappie. Look for bluegills when fishing near the coves on the west side of the lake.
Hamlin Lake - Some nice bluegills have been caught but not many. For crappie, try the drop-off along the Narrows in 15 to 25 feet of water with minnows after dark. Perch and a few walleye were caught along the drop-off south of the Narrows. Northern pike were hitting on tip-ups.
Saginaw Bay - Ice conditions continues to be extremely variable, with active cracks and thin ice over recently open water. Anglers need to be careful and proceed with extreme caution! Heavy snow will make ice conditions worse because anglers will not be able to distinguish new ice from the older, thicker ice. It would be a good idea for anglers to carry a cell phone, a throwable life preserver on a line and spikes to help them grip the ice should they fall through. Some perch were taken in 6 to 8 feet of water off White’s Beach and Newman Road. A few walleye anglers caught fish off Linwood. Walleye and whitefish have been caught off the Bay City State Park in 7 feet of water, the mouth of the Saginaw River in 4 to 6 feet of water and near Spoils Island in 10 feet of water. On the east side of the bay, a few nice perch and the occasional walleye were caught in 7 feet of water off Vanderbilt Park and Thomas Road.
Little Bay De Noc - Ice conditions remain good for the most part from Gladstone to Garth Point. Large pressure cracks have created dangerous conditions in some areas and anglers are advised to stay away from those areas, especially with any type of vehicle. Several anglers have gone through the ice, so caution needs to be used. Take the time to study the area or talk to other anglers before traveling too far out on the ice. Fair to good walleye catches at the head of the Bay when using tip-ups with sucker minnows in 8 to 13 feet of water. Avoid the area between the Escanaba River and the Terrace Bay Inn or Aronson Island and Portage Point as they are considered to be dangerous areas. Limits of perch were caught at the head of the bay on minnows, wigglers and spike in 8 to 13 feet of water and out from Kipling in 11 to 17 feet of water. Northern pike spearing was good in the Escanaba Yacht Harbor when using live decoys in 4 to 10 feet of water.
Big Manistique Lake - Anglers were catching a significant number of small fish.
South Manistique Lake - Is also producing walleye and a few perch. Both lakes should also start producing some pike.
Cedarville and Hessel - Cedarville Bay and Hessel Bay were slow with only small perch caught so anglers were fishing the Moscoe Channel and taking a few 12 to 15 inch fish. Those in Hessel Bay could see the larger perch but they did not want to bite. Musky Bay is seeing 3 to 7 inch perch with the occasional 10 to 15 inch fish also caught.
Houghton Lake -Has a large pressure crack that extends from Long Point to the south shore. The ice has been pushed up about 5 feet and is not safe to drive over. Good walleye action in 8 feet of water in the East Bay and near the Middle Grounds. Walleye and northern pike have been caught on tip-ups. The bluegills have started to bite. Anglers will find them along the weeds in about 6 feet of water. Crappie were caught by the Cut River. Dave at Four Season party Store is out looking for a good spot and has done well the last few days so give him a call at 989-422-5230 for his hot-spot He caught four keeper walleye last night.. Lyman’s on the lake has shanties out and has a weekly pike contest with pike action getting better