Curly's Photo and Fishing Blog
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Happy New Year and Let’s Go Fishing
Check out Buc’s Facebook Fishing Report
95% of the lake are froze with Higgins, Mullet, Burt, and Elk still unsafe till the warm spell passes. Were are getting rain tonight but will not affect the ice conditions. Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee - Had reports of anglers seeking panfish in shallow waters and a great pike bite with many 30+ size.
Cadillac Area: Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Lake Leelanau has a good perch and walleye bite on the south end
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch with limit catches of walleye.
Portage lake is safe with lots of pike being caught with some perch and walleye
Skegemog is producing some nice catches of perch and big pike with wigglersworking best.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Lake Charlevoix - Anglers are fishing the South Arm for walleye.
Intermediate Lake - In Antrim County also has walleye anglers targeting the south end of the lake.
Manistee River - Look for steelhead movement with warm temperatures and possible rain by the end of the week. Those fly fishing below Tippy Dam were still catching some nice fish.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Black Lake is froze with pike and a few walleyes being caught.
Higgins Lake -Is froze over and should be safe by New Years weekend
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught. Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230. Lyman’s on the Lake has been
Tawas - Skim ice was reported on most of the inland lakes in the area. Some brave anglers were catching a few panfish on Tawas Lake and some of the smaller lakes in the region. Anglers need to use extreme caution.
Lake Margrethe has ice and has a awesome bite this week.
Otesego Lake they are catching pike also some perch, Bradford Lakea few are getting out perch fishing.
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught.
Wixom Lake has been hot with Muddy Bay reporting limit catches of gills and many pike.
Grand Lake - Some anglers were out ice fishing for perch however catch rates were slow and the fish were running small.
Long Lake - Try tip-ups with a minnow on the bottom for northern pike. Those looking for perch will want to fish along the north and south shores.
Higgins Lake - Is ice covered witha few guys are fishing shallow water
Upper Peninsula
Most inland lakes in this region have ice. Anglers are heading out and fishing but not many reports have come in yet. Anglers are reminded to use caution when traveling on the ice. The fishing is good but most Yoopers like to drive to there favorite spot and the ice is not think enough yet
Newberry - Inland lakes in the area are frozen however ice thickness may not be consistent, so be sure to use extreme caution and the check the ice as you go.
Manistique Lake - Walleye action was fair to slow on both South and Big Manistique Lakes. Most are using tip-ups with minnows.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Most of the lakes in Southeast Michigan have ice. Anglers should stay off the deeper lakes as they are not safe yet. The shallow lakes are producing good bluegill action.
Huron River - Look for steelhead with the warm-up.
Lake St. Clair - Anglers reported fair ice fishing for yellow perch. Most are fishing near the Cut-off access site, Metro Beach, Harley Ensign, and Fairhaven. Some activity at Cotton Road as well, but access there is very limited due to parking issues. There are lots of small perch, but some nice ones were also caught. Anglers are reminded that it is unlawful to leave dead fish on the ice, so put the small ones back.
Lexington - Ice anglers in the harbor were catching some nice rainbow trout however they were also losing a good number of fish as it is hard to land a trout that size through a hole in the ice. Slow bite on windy days and as long as the water is turbid, underwater cameras will not do any good.
Port Sanilac - Ice was still iffy so most are fishing the south end of the harbor.
Saginaw Bay - Ice anglers were catching perch near Standish when fishing off Newman Road and Palmer Road. A few nice fish were caught however be ready to sort out the small ones. There is not much snow cover on the west side of the bay.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
We have reports of good panfish action with limits caught on several lakes in the region. Most are using teardrops with wax worms or spikes. Pike fishing has been good for those using tip-ups with large minnows.
St. Joseph River - The river levels are almost back to normal (for the winter). Anglers continue to make decent catches of steelhead when using spawn or running crank baits. As of this report, there are still several boat launches open and very few ice flows. Some ice is beginning to develop along the shoreline however the river remains very fishable for both boat and shore anglers.
Gull Lake - Ice is starting to form on the south end of the lake only. Anglers are heading out for panfish and smelt.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Steelhead were caught on nickel size spawn bags as well as white jigs with a wax worm near the Post Office. Use light line because the water is clear. At Fulton Street, anglers are casting plugs. Walleye have been caught on body baits, twister tails and bucktail jigs.
Grand River at Lansing - Try Moore’s Park for steelhead toward the end the week. Warm temperatures coupled with possible rain may bring some fish in.
Lake Lansing - Ice anglers are getting pike on tip-ups with minnows. Largemouth bass have also been caught however that season closes on December 31st.
Park Lake - Is producing some crappie. Try teardrops with wax worms or spikes.
Muskrat Lake - Is producing some crappie and bluegills. Try fishing deeper water if the bite is slow but use caution and check the ice. Early morning was best for bluegills but the crappies seem to bite better in the evening.
Reeds Lake - Pike were caught 4 to 5 feet off the bottom in 20 to 40 feet of water. Nice perch were caught on minnows and wax worms in 30 to 45 feet of water. For bluegills, fish the first hour or two of daylight. For crappie, try 15 to 20 feet down in 40 feet of water at night.
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
Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Lyman’s Ice Shanty Rental
Our shanties are located on the South Shore
weedbed of Houghton Lake.
Northern Pike are very good and the occasional Walleye will be caught in this location.
Shanty rental includes transportation to and from the shanty and a propane heater.
Reservations are recommended.
Rates
From 7:00 am till 7:00 pm. With heat and transportation out there.
2 Man $35.00
4 Man $40.00
6 Man $50.00
Sleeper Shanty Sunday-Friday $80.00 Friday And Saturday $100.00
From 8am/8am
NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEATHER
Tonight
Dec 30 Showers 38° 60 %
Fri
Dec 31 PM Showers 43°/40° 40 %
Sat
Jan 01 Partly Cloudy / Wind 40°/18° 20 %
Sun
Jan 02 Snow Shower 22°/21° 40 %
Mon
Jan 03 Few Snow Showers 29°/23° 30 %
Tue
Jan 04 Few Snow Showers 27°/22° 30 %
Wed
Jan 05 Flurries 28°/22° 30 %
Thu
Jan 06 Few Snow Showers 28°/23° 30 %
Fri
Jan 07 Snow Shower 28°/22° 60 %
Sat
Jan 08 Snow Shower 28°/23° 40 %
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Fishing Good
Buc’s Facebook Fishing Report Page
Most sport shops are reporting good pike bite with gills biting good. Crappie still a little slow, but reports yesterday a few had good catches. Lake Margrethe has a hell of a bite with lots of fish being caught this week. Otsego Lake has been better this week with walleye, pike and perch biting on minnows.
Long Lake by Traverse City had a good bite last night with limit catches of walleye.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Fish are Biting
Check out Buc’s Facebook Fishing Report
Dave at Four Season Party Store in Houghton Lake is catching walleye and will give you info where his shanty is you can call or visit him at his store phone# 989-422-5230
HIggins Lake is not safe and they had a rescue today and the sheriff was telling people to stay off the lake.
Lake Missaukee has a great pike bite with many being caught over 30 inches on Minnow
Lyman’s on the lake does not have his shanties out on Houghton Lake yet.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Holiday Fishing is Good
Check out Buc’s Facebook Fishing Report
The ice is better since the last report. Expect to find 6 to 8” in most areas on both Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac. However some spots with less still exist. It’s still smart to check with your spud wherever you go. Right or wrong, quads and snowmobiles are now on the lakes.
No hot spot for pike—good, healthy pike are coming from both lakes. Tip-ups baited with golden shiners or suckers are the way to go. Many are buying half and half and letting the pike choose the one they prefer.
Three lines are legal and remember to put your name and address on your tip-ups.
Tim and Timmy Rizor caught their limit while fishing Using a tip-up baited with a golden shiner, Josh Crame caught a
on Lake Mitchell. Nice pike ranging from 33 to 25”. 32” pike that weighed over 7 pounds.
Some of the local fishermen are doing well on walleye. Their choice of tackle has been light line tip-ups baited with medium sized blue shiners. Jigging Rapalas are also taking their share. We’ve seen impressive numbers and better then average size for our lakes. Lake Mitchell has been more consistent then Lake Cadillac with even a limit or two.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
It looking at lot like Ice Fishing
The shallow lakes are safe with many shanties out and about. Deep lake like Higgins and Green Lake have ice capped and will be safe for New Years weekend. There is a great bite on most lakes with lots of pike being caught. Check out the facebook fishing report
Northwest:
Manistee Lake -Has a good pike bite right now with a few perch being caught
Lake Missaukee - Had reports of anglers seeking panfish in shallow waters and a great pike bite.
Lake Cadillac -has started on the east side, Kenwood Park and and the Causeway area.
Lake Mitchell - the Big and Small Coves, Thirsty’s and Mitchell State Park.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and a few pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye as the snow has settled.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Lake Leelanau has a good perch and walleye bite on the south end
Long Lake is producing walleye and perch
Portage lake is safe with lots of pike being caught with some perch and walleye
Skegemog is producing some nice catches of perch and big pike.
Lake Bellaire they are just starting to venture out on and a few walleye being caught.
Around Leroy has safe ice with a good pike bite and panfish.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Black Lake is froze with pike and a few walleyes being caught.
Alpena - Long and Grand Lake have safe ice and perch and a few walleye being caught.
Grayling - Lakes in the area are frozen over but not safe yet.
Higgins Lake -Is froze over and should be safe by New Years weekend
Houghton Lake -Has safe ice with lots of small pike and walleye being caught.
Tawas - Skim ice was reported on most of the inland lakes in the area. Some brave anglers were catching a few panfish on Tawas Lake and some of the smaller lakes in the region. Anglers need to use extreme caution.
Lake Margrethe has ice and many pike with a few walleye being caught
Otesego Lake they are catching pike also some perch, Bradford Lakea few are getting out perch fishing.
Harrison report all the lakes are froze and have safe ice with panfish and pike biting great with first ice.
Lake St Helen has a good pike and panfish bite with a few walleyes being caught.
West Branch has safe ice with many pike and gills being caught.
Wixom Lake has been hot with Muddy Bay reporting limit catches of gills and many pike.
Upper Peninsula
Lake Gogebic - Anglers were catching walleye in Bergland Bay. The ice is not safe yet on most lakes. One angler already fell through the ice on Lake Antoine in Dickinson County.
Little Bay De Noc - Anglers have started to head out ice fishing as there is very little snow cover on the bay. Most of the activity is north of Gladstone near Kipling however a few were also south of the Day’s River. Until the ice has more time to harden, most anglers are traveling on foot.
Indian Lake - Ice anglers were taking some perch, but caution needs to be used.
St. Mary’s River - A few perch were taken in Fowlers Bay.
Newberry has safe ice with many getting out.
Soo is reporting in that they have safe ice and fish are biting.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Small local lakes in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties were starting to get a thin layer of ice on them however no safe ice to report at this time.
Lake Erie - Metro Park Marina is producing some panfish.
Huron River - Still has some steelhead for those willing to brave the cold.
Lake St. Clair - Ice has formed on the cuts and canals in shallow waters only. Not much activity to report yet. It has been too cold and windy.
Lexington - A couple anglers in the harbor caught a few perch and small rainbow trout. They are using the usual ice fishing methods and baits.
Saginaw Bay - A few anglers were creeping out on the cuts, canals and marina basins last week as shallow water fishing seems to be the only safe ice fishing at the moment. Some perch were caught out of a cut near Pinconning. Heavy snow is not helping with the formation of ice but instead pushing the ice down and creating slush. Anglers are encouraged to use extreme caution and stay in shallow waters. Best way to stay dry is to go someplace like a marina basin and fish off the docks. Anglers will use half a cement block tied to a rope to punch a hole in the ice; then sit on the dock and fish through the hole.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - Steelhead fishing continues to be fair. Boat anglers continue to do better than shore anglers. Spawn was the favored bait however a few fish were also caught on crank baits. River conditions continue to improve as heavy snow improved depth and flow considerably. Boat launches were still open from Berrien Springs to the lake.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - A good number of steelhead can still be found up near the Sixth Street Dam when floating spawn or near the post office when using a white jig. A few walleye were taken on body baits. Those trolling plugs have caught steelhead and walleye. Water levels are still a bit low so fish the deeper holes. There is ice above the dam.
Lansing - Ice can be found on the smaller lakes but still no safe ice to report in this area of the state. Those anxious to get out should fish in shallow waters only while exercising extreme caution. Snow cover will not only cause slush problems, but will also insulate the ice and slow the freezing process. River fishing is at a stand still.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Heavy Snow Hurts Ice
Many Lake are froze over in Northern Michigan and will be safe next week as 2 feet of snow has slowed the freezing process. Many shallow lakes out of the snow belt have 2 to 5 inches but use extreme caution. A few guys are getting out on Houghton Lake, and Muddy Bay on Wixom Lake but have not heard too much any where else. Things are improving but still not many venturing out yet but hear reports of some lakes with 6 inches of ice. Ice is just beginning to form in the region with some early reports of pike and bluegills being caught. Caution needs to be used especially on the first ice of the season. Strong winds will keep the large lakes open so anglers will want to fish the small, shallow lakes for now.
Northwest:
Manistee River - Those not affected by arctic weather will still find some steelhead for the taking.
Lake Missaukee - Had reports of anglers seeking panfish in shallow waters when using small jigs with wax worms.
Lake Cadillac - Ice fishing has started however anglers are reminded to use extreme caution. Most are pike fishing in shallow waters only as the ice is not solid in all areas of the lake. Shoreline ice is also breaking up easily. The lake had over a foot of snow cover which will make for slushy conditions.
Lake Mitchell - Ice anglers here are also starting to fish for pike, just be sure to stay in shallow waters only.
Fife Lake they are catching perch and a few pike.
Clam Lake some nice pike being caught.
Manistee Lake by Kalkaska is producing some perch and walleye but heavy snow has made it tough.
Little Glen is producing pike and perch.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Sturgeon River - Was producing some steelhead.
Alpena - Anglers were starting to fish inland lakes in the area however catch rates were slow. The weight of the snow on the ice will produce slush. For now, fish shallow waters only.
Grayling - Lakes in the area are frozen over but not safe yet.
Higgins Lake - Had shoreline ice only. The rest of the lake is open water and will stay that way until the winds subside.
Houghton Lake - Is getting ice, but also has snow cover. We have reports of ice anglers fishing in the East Bay and along the north shore.
Tawas - Skim ice was reported on most of the inland lakes in the area. Some brave anglers were catching a few panfish on Tawas Lake and some of the smaller lakes in the region. Anglers need to use extreme caution.
Lake Margrethe has ice but no report yet.
Otesego Lake they are catching pike but not many venturing out yet
Upper Peninsula
Lake Gogebic - Anglers were catching walleye in Bergland Bay. The ice is not safe yet on most lakes. One angler already fell through the ice on Lake Antoine in Dickinson County.
Little Bay De Noc - Anglers have started to head out ice fishing as there is very little snow cover on the bay. Most of the activity is north of Gladstone near Kipling however a few were also south of the Day’s River. Until the ice has more time to harden, most anglers are traveling on foot.
Indian Lake - Ice anglers were taking some perch, but caution needs to be used.
St. Mary’s River - A few perch were taken in Fowlers Bay.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Small local lakes in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties were starting to get a thin layer of ice on them however no safe ice to report at this time.
Lake Erie - Metro Park Marina is producing some panfish.
Huron River - Still has some steelhead for those willing to brave the cold.
Lake St. Clair - Ice has formed on the cuts and canals in shallow waters only. Not much activity to report yet. It has been too cold and windy.
Lexington - A couple anglers in the harbor caught a few perch and small rainbow trout. They are using the usual ice fishing methods and baits.
Saginaw Bay - A few anglers were creeping out on the cuts, canals and marina basins last week as shallow water fishing seems to be the only safe ice fishing at the moment. Some perch were caught out of a cut near Pinconning. Heavy snow is not helping with the formation of ice but instead pushing the ice down and creating slush. Anglers are encouraged to use extreme caution and stay in shallow waters. Best way to stay dry is to go someplace like a marina basin and fish off the docks. Anglers will use half a cement block tied to a rope to punch a hole in the ice; then sit on the dock and fish through the hole.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - Steelhead fishing continues to be fair. Boat anglers continue to do better than shore anglers. Spawn was the favored bait however a few fish were also caught on crank baits. River conditions continue to improve as heavy snow improved depth and flow considerably. Boat launches were still open from Berrien Springs to the lake.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - A good number of steelhead can still be found up near the Sixth Street Dam when floating spawn or near the post office when using a white jig. A few walleye were taken on body baits. Those trolling plugs have caught steelhead and walleye. Water levels are still a bit low so fish the deeper holes. There is ice above the dam.
Lansing - Ice can be found on the smaller lakes but still no safe ice to report in this area of the state. Those anxious to get out should fish in shallow waters only while exercising extreme caution. Snow cover will not only cause slush problems, but will also insulate the ice and slow the freezing process. River fishing is at a stand still.
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
Cadillac is digging out of the first winter storm of the season. Snowmobilers and skiers are extatic. Ice fishermen not so. The first real snow fall measures 14 inches on the level and more is expected along with cold, windy temperatures.
The brave have started ice fishing on lakes Cadillac and Mitchell! Current conditions show 3 to 5 inches of clear ice on selected parts of the lakes.
In some areas, the shoreline can be punky or wet. Expect to break through for the first ten feet or more and then come to solid ice.
The snow is not the ice fishermens friend but with the current strong winds, much of the snow is blowing off the lakes. Avoid any deep areas if youre going out and spud your way where ever you go. The popular areas were the Causeway on Lake Cadillac and the Big Cove on Lake Mitchell.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Ice Fishing Close
Many Lake are froze over in Northern Michigan and will be safe next week as 2 feet of snow has slowed the freezing process. Many shallow lakes out of the snow belt have 2 to 5 inches but use extreme caution. A few guys are getting out on Houghton Lake, and Muddy Bay on Wixom Lake but have not heard too much any where else.
Northwest:
Petoskey - Steelhead fishing continues for those surfcasting especially. Most are floating spawn bags in shallow waters.
Boardman River - Had rumors of steelhead hitting on spawn or wax worms.
Frankfort - Those surfcasting in the shallows have caught steelhead.
Manistee - Surfcasting is the way to go in windy conditions. Look for steelhead in the early morning or late evening.
Manistee River - Steelhead are still available for those tough enough to brave the arctic conditions.
Lake Missaukee - Has ice however no safe ice to report. Remember; first ice can be dangerous ice. Snow cover will insulate and slow the freezing process.
Lake Cadillac - Had ice however no safe ice to report. Cold weather this week will help the freezing process however heavy lake effect snow in the forecast will not.
Lake Mitchell - Also has ice, but no safe ice. No anglers were out yet but that could change by the weekend. Those anxious to get out are advised to fish in shallow waters only.
Pere Marquette River - Look for steelhead in the lower river
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Alpena - The peak of the whitefish action is pretty much done for this year.
Thunder Bay River - Is freezing over and the launch ramp next to the Alpena Research Station is iced in. Shore anglers were catching small perch along with the occasional whitefish, steelhead or brown trout.
Au Sable River - Steelhead are still available for those willing to brave the cold temperatures. The lower river is still best for those floating spawn.
Tawas - Whitefish were still being caught off the state dock however catch rates were starting slow.
Au Gres - Still has whitefish but it won’t be long and this fishery will be done.
Upper Peninsula
Little Bay De Noc - Docks have been pulled out at the public access sites as boats are no longer going out. Open water fishing is pretty much done as it is starting to freeze up rather quickly with the onset of cold weather. The north end of the bay is starting to freeze over and ice is forming along the shoreline just south of Gladstone. There is no safe ice to report at this time.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Detroit River - A few walleye were caught in the lower Trenton Channel. Anglers were jigging a large minnow near the hot water discharge off Gibraltar. For perch, no big numbers were caught but some nice fish were taken around Rat Island.
Lake St. Clair - Ice is starting to form in the canals however there is no safe ice.
St. Clair River - Has good musky fishing especially in the North Channel. Most anglers are jigging but a few were using sucker minnows if you can find them.
Saginaw Bay - Ice is just starting to form however no safe ice has been reported. Anglers might want to try fishing the shallow cuts and canals or off the docks in the marinas for perch. Boat anglers heading out to Spoils Island were catching walleye and perch but open water fishing may not last much longer.
Kawkawlin River - Last weekend, anglers were open water fishing for perch but the river has just frozen over.
Quanicassee River - Is also starting to freeze.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - This is the first report in a while without low water warnings. The river is not high by any means but is closer to normal winter levels and should continue to rise with all the snow. Steelhead fishing remains fair for those drifting spawn. Some decent fish are also being caught by those using crank baits. Boat anglers are consistently out fishing shore anglers. All the launches between Berrien Springs and the big lake were open and not iced in however lake effect snow will make using the launches a challenge.
Grand Haven - Those surfcasting may find some good steelhead action as more fish are apt to move into the shallows when there is wave action.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Is still producing a fair to good number of steelhead all the way up to the Sixth Street Dam. Spawn bags and flies were the favored baits. Walleye were hitting on bucktail jigs, twister tails and body baits.
Lansing - Ice is starting to form on the inland lakes in mid-Michigan, but no safe ice yet. Anglers could be out by the weekend if the cold weather continues and we do not get a lot of snow.
Muskegon - Whitefish are still being caught in the early morning or late evening.
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
If you haven’t already - get your ice fishing equipment out of storage. Time to change line on your reels and tip-ups. Check your needs. There’s lots of NEW TACKLE for the 2010-11 Season. We’re about to start a new ice season.
As of Sunday, December 5th - Lake Mitchell has been completely frozen since Friday. We’re finding 2 inches on the general lake areas. NOT SAFE YET! Cold temps are predicted all week. If nothing changes, like a dump of snow, we’ll be on the ice by next weekend.
Lake Cadillac skimmed over completely Saturday, but definitely is not ready. Traditionaly, Lake Mitchell will have safe ice first. Normally the Big Cove or the State Park area have the best ice.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Fall Color Fishing Report
The perch fishing is still great with Grand Traverse Bay getting lots of action. Perch have been biting on Big Glen, Lake Leelanau, Lake Margrethe, Fife Lake, Lake Charlevoix and Burt Lake. Anglers are reminded that snagging in not legal in Michigan. All fish, regardless of species must be released immediately if they are not hooked in the mouth. Those looking for the number of fish passed at the weirs can call the Little Manistee Weir at 231-775-9727 (ext) 6072 and the Platte River Weirs at (ext) 6073. Anglers should note that the message is changed only when we handle fish.
Saginaw Bay -Had some perch activity behind Spoils Island and near Buoys 16 and 17. From Quanicassee to Fish Point, perch were caught in 5 to 8 feet of water. Baitfish were showing up in the many cuts, canals and marina basins however fishing was still generally slow and the perch were small. At Port Austin, fishing was slow.
Whitehall -a few perch are starting show up
Wixom Lake has been super for gills being caught on waxworms
Mullett Lake Surface temperatures were 55 to 58 degrees. Most anglers are still targeting perch near the points, in the bays and near the mouth of the Indian River. Try 15 to 40 feet of water with crawlers, minnows or shrimp. The fish measured 4 to 12 inches. Bass anglers were still targeting waters 8 to 24 feet deep around Needle Point, Dodge Point, Round Point and the southern Sunken Islands. Try tube baits, stick baits, spinners or crank baits.
Oscoda -Catch rates were slow even when boats can get out. Anglers fishing off the pier are having the most success with blue and silver or green and silver little Cleo’s. Boats are mainly using chrome and green J-plugs.
Higgins Lake -Some nice 10 and 11 inch perch were caught in 30 to 40 feet of water near Big Creek. Minnows and wigglers worked best. A few boats are still targeting whitefish and lake trout in deeper waters.
Houghton Lake - A few walleye were being caught in the early morning when fishing in shallow waters near shore. Some nice bluegills were caught along with a couple walleye or crappie.
Lake Margreathe by Grayling A perch bite is on with minnows in about 9 feet of water is still going strong also walleye are biting on golden shiners
Charlevoix -Perch fishing is picking up with wigglers, and perch minnows working best.
Traverse City -Calm weather made for good fishing in both bays. In the East Bay, whitefish were caught off Deepwater Point in 100 feet of water. Mornings were best. Anglers are targeting perch in 30 feet of water in front of the marina and smallmouth bass along the weeds in 25 to 40 feet of water. In the West Bay, whitefish were caught in 80 to 110 feet of water along the west side of Marion Island. Good perch action in the weeds off Hilltop Road.
Lake Leelanau - Had steady walleye action. Perch are biting on the North lake just past the narrows.
Portage Lake -Cooler weather was good for bluegill fishing as some limit catches were reported near Little Eden. THe fishing has been great with Perch were also caught in the same area and around the buoy. Be ready to sort out the small ones.
Lake Missaukee -Was good for panfish and bass.
Lake Cadillac -A few are still chasing the crappie bite and report neat limits. Bluegills and sunfish are back in the green weeds. Perch are in the shallows with some descent size, but the schools move and are here today and gone tomorrow.
Lake Mitchell -Is producing some panfish. Bass are hitting on spinner baits and pike favored large crank baits.
Little Bay De Noc -Has mostly perch anglers during the day and walleye anglers at night. Fair to good catches of perch east and northeast of Butler Island when using minnows and crawlers in 10 to 25 feet of water. Walleye anglers did best at night when trolling crawler harnesses in 10 to 20 feet of water over the Second and Third Reefs or from the Terrace Bay Inn over to the Black Bottom in 8 to 23 feet of water. Those walleye fishing during the day caught a few fish just off the Black Bottom in waters 40 feet or deeper.
Big Bay De Noc -Reported very good smallmouth bass fishing between Snail Shell Harbor and Snake Island. Try drifting minnows in 15 to 30 feet of water.
Indian Lake - Some nice perch were caught by those drifting crawlers in 8 to 10 feet of water along the south end of the lake. Catch rates for walleye were slow with only a couple fish taken on crawler harnesses near the rock pile, and they were too small. For northern pike, anglers were fishing the north end of the lake with crawlers on large spinner baits or casting crank baits. Smallmouth bass and bullhead were caught on the bottom with crawlers.
St. Mary’s River -he chinook and pink salmon appear to done spawning near the rapids and the Electric Plant. Good yellow perch in the late morning in Bay Dewausi when using minnows in 6 feet of water near the weed line and in the afternoon across from the Neebish Island Ferry Boat in 8 to 10 feet of water. Good smallmouth action on the south end of Neebish Island. Try tube baits, jigs, and crawlers in 8 to 10 feet of water near the rock piles. Muskie and pike were caught in Raber Bay when trolling large crank baits and bucktail spinners. Catch rates for walleye were slow.
Cedarville and Hessel -Pier anglers are seeing a good number of splake and taking limit catches of chinook. Remember, splake season is closed! For perch, try the Middle Entrance, Musky Bay, Cedarville Bay, Moscoe Channel, and the west end of Snows Channel with minnows in 6 to 12 feet of water. This is a good time for pike and smallmouth bass.
Northwest:
Petoskey - Salmon fishing slowed with only a light number of fish inside the breakwall.
Bear River - Is low and clear but fresh fish are coming in daily. Rain is needed to increase the flow and push any remaining fish up into the river.
Charlevoix - Salmon fishing is starting to wind down while steelhead, perch and menominee action should be starting to pick up. Fish could still be seen around the cement plant however the quality was deteriorating.
Traverse City - Calm weather made for good fishing in both bays. In the East Bay, whitefish were caught off Deepwater Point in 100 feet of water. Mornings were best. Anglers are targeting perch in 30 feet of water in front of the marina and smallmouth bass along the weeds in 25 to 40 feet of water. In the West Bay, whitefish were caught in 80 to 110 feet of water along the west side of Marion Island. Good perch action in the weeds off Hilltop Road.
Elk River - Anglers are doing well for salmon and lake trout using skein in the current near the dam. Good perch action in the early morning when using wigglers.
Boardman River - Salmon are present and can be found in the deeper holes. Lake trout could be seen and were caught under the bridge and at the mouth by those using shallow running baits.
Platte River - A few fish were passed at the Lower Weir and crews will be taking eggs at the Upper Weir through next week if all goes as planned.
Frankfort - Fishing picked up slightly when the east wind blew the warm water out. Lots of baitfish in the harbor, so pier anglers started to catch some steelhead in the early morning with spawn. Boat anglers heading out deep have caught young chinook, coho, and steelhead in 450 to 600 feet of water. Hot baits were yellow, orange, chartreuse and gold spoons. Steelhead were 35 feet down in 135 feet of water just north of the lighthouse.
Betsie River - A fresh run of fish showed up at the Homestead Dam. Chinook have been caught on the gravel and in the holes when using orange and pink yarn or spawn bags. A good number of fish were heading over the dam to the closed section above Kurick Road.
Onekama - Limits of chinook and steelhead were caught straight out from the pier in 350 to 500 feet of water. Those in smaller boats did mange to catch some fish closer to shore. Gold and orange or yellow and green were good colors to start with.
Portage Lake - Those fishing along the drop-offs are still catching bluegills on worms. Perch were starting to show up however most were small.
Manistee - Salmon and steelhead fishing is good in 300 to 500 feet of water. Try orange and green spoons. Pier anglers and those surfcasting have caught some steelhead on spawn.
Manistee River - Is still producing some salmon and steelhead. Fresh fish are moving into the river daily. Some were caught on the gravel.
Ludington - Boat anglers caught salmon and steelhead when trolling the top 70 feet of waters 200 to 400 feet deep with standard size spoons. Pier fishing was slow.
Pentwater - The majority of the salmon run has already come through. No steelhead to report off the piers however boat anglers heading out waters 160 to 190 feet deep have caught some.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - Surface temperatures were 55 to 58 degrees. Most anglers are still targeting perch near the points, in the bays and near the mouth of the Indian River. Try 15 to 40 feet of water with crawlers, minnows or shrimp. The fish measured 4 to 12 inches. Bass anglers were still targeting waters 8 to 24 feet deep around Needle Point, Dodge Point, Round Point and the southern Sunken Islands. Try tube baits, stick baits, spinners or crank baits.
Rogers City - A good number of brown trout have been showing up in the marina. They are not biting right now due to spawning activity, but will begin to hit on small spoons and body baits soon. A few adult salmon are present as well but they are starting to turn dark. Boats are still heading out and fishing the top 45 feet in waters 100 feet deep and taking small salmon on spoons. Good colors were silver, green and silver or blue and silver.
Rockport - Pier anglers did find a couple chinook salmon in the early morning. Try casting yellow and green body baits or stick baits off the end of the pier.
Alpena - Walleye are beginning to bite around Sulfur Island. Fish were caught right off the bottom when using crawler harnesses in 12 feet of water.
Thunder Bay River - Chinook salmon were hitting on spawn, skein and artificial flies up near the Ninth Street Dam. Yellow and green were the hot colors this week. Salmon were thick at the dam and stacked up at the mouth. Steelhead and brown trout were also hitting on spawn or flies. There are silver salmon mixed in with the dark fish at the dam currently, and so it appears that the run will be staggered like the steelhead run this spring. Small perch were caught off the docks in the marina.
Black River - Chinook, coho, steelhead and walleye are making there way into the river. Cooler weather will bring more action.
Harrisville - Salmon are making their way into the harbor even with the warm weather. It seems early for the run and there should be more fish coming later in the month. The fish are healthy and good size, with the largest fish caught at 25 pounds. Little Cleo’s, wobblers and spawn all seem to be working well day and night.
Van Etten Lake - Is producing some perch.
Oscoda - Catch rates appear to be slow with few anglers on the pier.
Au Sable River - Has a few fish from the mouth up to Foote Dam. Fish were at the Whirlpool and High Banks however it may still be early. Try spawn or spoons.
Higgins Lake - Some nice 10 and 11 inch perch were caught in 30 to 40 feet of water near Big Creek. Minnows and wigglers worked best. A few boats are still targeting whitefish and lake trout in deeper waters.
Houghton Lake - A few walleye were being caught in the early morning when fishing in shallow waters near shore. Some nice bluegills were caught along with a couple walleye or crappie.
Tawas - A lot of minnows were moving in. Those fishing both inside and outside the pier caught lots of perch. Most of the fish were 4 to 6 inches but they are getting a few larger ones in the mix. A few salmon were caught by those casting spoons, rapalas, J-plugs or spawn.
Tawas River - Had a few salmon running and the fish were bigger.
Au Gres - Perch anglers fishing inside and outside the breakwall are doing well in 35 to 45 feet of water however they are sorting out the small ones. Pier anglers were starting to catch some whitefish and brown trout. A few salmon and steelhead were caught at the Singing Bridge.
Upper Peninsula
Silver City - Had exceptional lake trout fishing in 60 to 120 feet of water. The key, trolling spoons or spin glows just off the bottom where there is structure. Salmon fishing was slow.
Ontonagon - A couple steelhead were caught near the mouth of the river.
Keweenaw Bay - Catch rates were spotty with only a few coho caught by those casting Cleo’s from the rocks in L’Anse. Traverse Bay was slow. A few hardy anglers going across to the Huron Islands caught lake trout in 130 to 150 feet of water. In the South Portage Entry, a few lake trout were caught by those trolling in 100 to 140 feet of water along the Farmers Reef and Newton’s Reef or those jigging in 220 to 240 feet of water near the Big Reef.
Marquette - Had good lake trout fishing with limit catches reported out towards the white rocks and north of Granite Island in 150 to 200 feet of water when trolling silver and melon colored spoons just off the bottom. Chinook and coho were slow with only a few reports of fish caught near the Lower Harbor breakwall and the Chocolay River.
Dead River - Catch rates were slow as water levels have dropped considerably. Fish were visible however they were not hitting. Try casting small spinners.
Carp River - Also had low water levels and slow catch rates.
Little Bay De Noc - Has mostly perch anglers during the day and walleye anglers at night. Fair to good catches of perch east and northeast of Butler Island when using minnows and crawlers in 10 to 25 feet of water. Walleye anglers did best at night when trolling crawler harnesses in 10 to 20 feet of water over the Second and Third Reefs or from the Terrace Bay Inn over to the Black Bottom in 8 to 23 feet of water. Those walleye fishing during the day caught a few fish just off the Black Bottom in waters 40 feet or deeper.
Big Bay De Noc - Reported very good smallmouth bass fishing between Snail Shell Harbor and Snake Island. Try drifting minnows in 15 to 30 feet of water.
Indian Lake - Some nice perch were caught by those drifting crawlers in 8 to 10 feet of water along the south end of the lake. Catch rates for walleye were slow with only a couple fish taken on crawler harnesses near the rock pile, and they were too small. For northern pike, anglers were fishing the north end of the lake with crawlers on large spinner baits or casting crank baits. Smallmouth bass and bullhead were caught on the bottom with crawlers.
Munising - Coho season is winding down however boats trolling in front of the Anna River in the early morning or evening were taking a fish or two. Shore anglers caught more splake early in the morning or just before dark. Shore anglers caught a few coho when casting spawn or small spoons. Boat and shore anglers have started to catch a few whitefish and menominee. No steelhead to report this week.
Grand Marais - Boats trolling just off the mouth of the Sucker River have caught some nice steelhead along with a few coho. Those trolling in the bay caught steelhead in shallow waters 5 to 10 feet deep. Shore anglers saw improved catch rates for steelhead and coho with spawn bags near the mouth of creeks and rivers.
St. Mary’s River - The chinook and pink salmon appear to done spawning near the rapids and the Electric Plant. Good yellow perch in the late morning in Bay Dewausi when using minnows in 6 feet of water near the weed line and in the afternoon across from the Neebish Island Ferry Boat in 8 to 10 feet of water. Good smallmouth action on the south end of Neebish Island. Try tube baits, jigs, and crawlers in 8 to 10 feet of water near the rock piles. Muskie and pike were caught in Raber Bay when trolling large crank baits and bucktail spinners. Catch rates for walleye were slow.
De Tour - Was slow except for a few anglers at Albany Creek catching pink salmon.
Cedarville and Hessel - Pier anglers are seeing a good number of splake and taking limit catches of chinook. Remember, splake season is closed! For perch, try the Middle Entrance, Musky Bay, Cedarville Bay, Moscoe Channel, and the west end of Snows Channel with minnows in 6 to 12 feet of water. This is a good time for pike and smallmouth bass.
Carp River - Is producing steelhead and pink salmon at the mouth. Upstream, a few chinook salmon were hitting on spinners, spawn bags or small Cleo’s.
St. Ignace - Anglers targeting chinook salmon are fishing from the docks near the city launch.
Sunday, October 03, 2010
Last Light at the Lighthouse
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Gale winds make for Great Photo Opt.
Fishing was slowed with high winds so I went to Point Betsie and shot this with water stinging my face.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Perch fishing is Good
The perch fishing has been good with Grand Traverse Bay getting lots of action. Perch have been biting on Big Glen, Lake Leelanau, Lake Margreathe, Fife Lake, Lake Charlevoix and Burt Lake.
Saginaw Bay -Perch are still being taken along the shipping channel from Au Gres south to the mouth of the Saginaw River, when boats can get out. Beyond that, shore anglers in various marinas around the east side of the bay were getting some bluegills, crappie and rock bass on leaf worms and wax worms under a bobber.
Tittabawasse River -Has been slow with a few pike and catfish.
Saginaw River-Slow but things should pick up with cooler weather.
Whitehall -a few perch are starting show up
Wixom Lake has been super for gills being caught on waxworms
Mullett Lake -Perch fishing continues to dominate. Try fishing the points, the bays and near the mouth of the Indian River with crawlers or minnows in 15 to 30 feet of water. Walleye fishing slowed with no fish recorded. Perch anglers have also caught a few pike in 20 to 25 feet of water on minnows. Fish were 18 to 25 inches. Bass anglers can be found at Needle Point, Dodge Point, Round Point and near Aloha with crawlers, artificial worms, tube baits, crank baits and spinners.
Oscoda -Catch rates were slow even when boats can get out. Anglers fishing off the pier are having the most success with blue and silver or green and silver little Cleo’s. Boats are mainly using chrome and green J-plugs.
Higgins Lake -Perch fishing is good with fish up to 10 inches
Houghton Lake - Walleye and gills are being caught but very few fishing
Lake Margreathe by Grayling A perch bite is on with minnows in about 9 feet of water is still going strong.
Charlevoix -Perch fishing is picking up with wigglers working best.
Traverse City -Strong winds have scattered the salmon in both bays. In the East Bay, schools of whitefish are still present just south of the Center Road launch in 85 to 100 feet of water. Most anglers are jigging sand kickers. For salmon, fish were being marked from Lee Point Road down to the Center Road launch in 100 feet of water and along the east side of the bay from Dock Road north to Yuba. In the West Bay, anglers were marking fish outside the Boardman however more fish were caught north along the peninsula when starting just south of Marion Island. Try waters up to 120 feet deep with flies and plugs.
Lake Leelanau - Had steady walleye action. Perch are biting on the North lake just past the narrows.
Portage Lake -Cooler weather was good for bluegill fishing as some limit catches were reported near Little Eden. THe fishing has been great with Perch were also caught in the same area and around the buoy. Be ready to sort out the small ones.
Lake Missaukee -Was good for panfish and bass.
Lake Cadillac -Crappie fishing has been good after dark and in the early morning. Cooler weather will bring the bluegills back into shallower waters. Try wax worms, leaf worms or crickets under a bobber. Bass and pike are hitting again.
Lake Mitchell -Is producing some panfish. Bass are hitting on spinner baits and pike favored large crank baits.
Little Bay De Noc - Heavy rainfall of 4 inches caused rivers in the area to rise fast. Rivers like the Sturgeon, Ogontz and Day’s had high water and strong currents which put salmon fishing on hold until water levels recede. Walleye anglers reported mixed results with most wanting to go further south. Gladstone was good for those drifting or jigging crawlers in 25 to 35 feet of water. Several perch were also caught. The North Shore and the Ford River launch were difficult to use due to the fast water.
Big Bay De Noc -Still had primarily smallmouth anglers that were trying to make it out to the Garden Bluff area where good catches were reported 15 to 30 feet down along the break when using minnows. Walleye anglers marked fish between Garden Bluff and the Shoals in 20 feet of water however few were caught.
Indian Lake - Walleye anglers did best when drifting or trolling along the weeds around the shoreline. More fish were caught along the west shore but the fish were small. Try crawler harnesses or surface raps. A few keeper size perch were also caught this way however most of the perch anglers were fishing the north or south shore while drifting or still-fishing with crawlers.
St. Mary’s River -The pink salmon run has slowed however a few are still being caught off the Pier Power Plant when casting pink Little Cleo’s. Walleye and yellow perch fishing slowed with the recent storms. Smallmouth bass action is still good on the rock piles along the south end of Neebish Island. Crank baits worked best in the stained water.
Cedarville and Hessel -Few anglers were out except for those targeting perch in the east end of Hessel Bay, the west end of Snows Channel, Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance. Fish were caught on minnows in 12 feet of water. Both pink salmon and chinook salmon can be found in Bush and Beavertail Creeks.
Northwest:
Petoskey - Has been hit-or-miss with good numbers of salmon one day and light numbers the next. Shore anglers fishing off the breakwall, piers, and docks have taken fish on glow spoons, reef runners and rapalas.
Bear River - The fish were not holding in the river very long. They are either dropping back to the lake or pushing past the falls. Try spawn, yarn or flies.
Charlevoix - Boats were long-lining with plugs in 10 to 40 feet of water. Those casting have caught fish on glow spoons, rapalas, thundersticks and rattle traps. Medusa is producing the best salmon action for those using skein under a slip bobber. The first harvest at the Medusa weir produced 684 chinook and 6 coho.
Traverse City - The East Bay shows good numbers of fish in 120 feet of water but the bite was slow. Those boats finding the baitfish also found active whitefish. Those jigging caught good numbers of cisco and lake trout. Whitefish were active in 100 feet of water south of Yuba Creek. In the West Bay, good numbers of fish were marked at various depths in front of the Boardman. Strong winds have slowed the bite but try trolling thundersticks or plugs in the early morning or late evening in shallow waters.
Elk River - Salmon and lake trout are slowly moving up near the dam. Mid-day seems to be best bite. For lake trout, try using live or artificial minnows due to the number of baitfish at the dam.
Boardman River - Has seen a very good run of fish and many have moved up river to the weir. The next good rain should push another round of fresh fish into the river. Try drifting skein under a bobber in the deeper holes.
Platte Bay - Salmon were caught in shallow waters in the early morning when using small spoons.
Frankfort - Boat anglers heading out did mange to mark fish however could not get them to bite. A nice steelhead was caught in 75 feet of water on an orange crush spoon. Pier anglers caught fish as well.
Betsie River - Fishing is still good around the Homestead Dam with chinook caught on the gravel, in the holes and near the log jams. A fresh run of fish just moved into the river. Most anglers are drifting artificial bait.
Portage Lake - Cooler weather pushed the perch into shallow waters.
Manistee - Weather permitting, boats are finding good numbers of steelhead and immature chinook salmon 8 to 16 miles offshore. Try running small spoons in orange or green. Those trolling around the piers caught few fish.
Manistee River - Is still producing salmon. Those fishing up near Tippy Dam are drifting spawn and flies or casting spinners and crank baits.
Big Sable River - Salmon have been in and out of the river mouth depending on the day. Only a few fish were up near the Hamlin Lake Dam.
Ludington - Boats are doing well for salmon and steelhead in 200 to 400 feet of water when trolling small spoons. Both pier anglers and those surfcasting at the State Park reported slow action.
Pentwater - Big water fishing has shifted to steelhead and two year old salmon. The fish are out deep about 100 feet down in 250 feet of water.
Pentwater Lake - Is producing some salmon. Good bluegill and perch action in 15 feet of water.
Pentwater River - Salmon have been caught in the flats off Monroe Road.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - Perch fishing continues to dominate. Try fishing the points, the bays and near the mouth of the Indian River with crawlers or minnows in 15 to 30 feet of water. Walleye fishing slowed with no fish recorded. Perch anglers have also caught a few pike in 20 to 25 feet of water on minnows. Fish were 18 to 25 inches. Bass anglers can be found at Needle Point, Dodge Point, Round Point and near Aloha with crawlers, artificial worms, tube baits, crank baits and spinners.
Rogers City - Reported slow going for salmon. Anglers in the shallow waters of Swan Bay are trolling, anchoring and casting. Those trolling are using bombers off planer boards while those casting are using Cleo’s or body baits. Pier anglers have caught a few brown trout, but no salmon.
Thunder Bay River - Is producing some chinook, steelhead and pink salmon.
Harrisville - Salmon are starting to come into the harbor and the fish look healthy. Try spawn in the harbor and J-plugs outside the walls. If you plan to fish spawn, anglers will want to purchase their bait before they get to Harrisville as there are no bait shops in town.
Oscoda - Catch rates were slow even when boats can get out. Anglers fishing off the pier are having the most success with blue and silver or green and silver little Cleo’s. Boats are mainly using chrome and green J-plugs.
Au Sable River - There are no fish in the river and only a few caught off the piers.
Tawas - Pier anglers caught walleye at night behind the State Police Post.
Au Gres - Perch are still being caught along the shipping channel when boats can get out. Fish were also caught out near Buoy 18 as well as 30 to 40 feet of water straight out from the mouth of the Au Gres River.
Upper Peninsula
Black River Harbor - Lake trout have been caught in 80 to 120 feet of water when trolling spoons about halfway down.
Black River - Water levels were high and fast. Anglers are now catching chinook in the 10 to 12 pound range. Coho and brown trout are also starting to run.
Ontonagon - Fishing was slow and the mud line was out in 100 feet of water. A few lake trout were taken 60 to 70 feet down in 100 to 115 feet of water when trolling spoons or spin and glows.
Firesteel River - Has good pink salmon fishing but the chinook action was only fair.
Keweenaw Bay - The bite was good with most anglers catching coho along with a couple steelhead. Boats are trolling from Sand Point northward to the first set of red rocks. Try 30 to 70 feet down in waters up to 150 feet deep with spoons, body baits or dodger and flies. Fair to good action for lake trout in Traverse Bay for those trolling spoons or dodgers with peanuts in 130 to 150 feet of water.
Marquette - Angler reports say salmon are moving up into the rivers however high water levels made fishing difficult. Pink salmon along with a few chinook salmon were caught on small Mepps spinners in the Dead and Carp Rivers. Fish were marked inside the Lower Harbor breakwall.
Little Bay De Noc - Heavy rainfall of 4 inches caused rivers in the area to rise fast. Rivers like the Sturgeon, Ogontz and Day’s had high water and strong currents which put salmon fishing on hold until water levels recede. Walleye anglers reported mixed results with most wanting to go further south. Gladstone was good for those drifting or jigging crawlers in 25 to 35 feet of water. Several perch were also caught. The North Shore and the Ford River launch were difficult to use due to the fast water.
Big Bay De Noc - Still had primarily smallmouth anglers that were trying to make it out to the Garden Bluff area where good catches were reported 15 to 30 feet down along the break when using minnows. Walleye anglers marked fish between Garden Bluff and the Shoals in 20 feet of water however few were caught.
Au Train - Heavy rain did push some fish into local rivers. Anglers did catch a few coho, chinook and steelhead in the Rock River when using spawn sacks.
Munising - Anglers had mild success when trolling the bay for coho however they had to work hard for the fish they caught. Coho fishing has increased, with a successful trip yielding 1 or 2 salmon for the most part as limit catches were few and far between. Coho were caught by those using spawn bags or casting spinners and spoons. Steelhead were also caught but the fish were running small. Shore anglers were taking splake on spawn bags and the time of day did not seem to matter.
Grand Marais - Fishing was slow as boats had found it difficult to troll near the mouth of the Sucker River due to strong winds. Those able to get out into the bay caught the occasional coho and steelhead. Pier and shore anglers had limited success.
Indian Lake - Some walleye were caught along the west shore in front of the park when trolling crawler harnesses and small rapalas. Smallmouth bass and pike were caught near the weeds on the north end when casting crank baits or crawlers. Fair to good numbers of perch were caught when drifting or jigging crawlers in the deeper holes on the south, west, and north shore.
St. Mary’s River - The pink salmon run has slowed however a few are still being caught off the Pier Power Plant when casting pink Little Cleo’s. Walleye and yellow perch fishing slowed with the recent storms. Smallmouth bass action is still good on the rock piles along the south end of Neebish Island. Crank baits worked best in the stained water.
De Tour - Chinook salmon have been caught just off the bottom in 40 to 50 feet of water with spoons. Best colors were chartreuse and silver or purple and cream glow. Same areas, Drummond Island side of the red can and near the lighthouse. Albany Creek is full of pink and chinook salmon. Try orange or pink spawn bags.
Cedarville and Hessel - Few anglers were out except for those targeting perch in the east end of Hessel Bay, the west end of Snows Channel, Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance. Fish were caught on minnows in 12 feet of water. Both pink salmon and chinook salmon can be found in Bush and Beavertail Creeks.
Carp River - Salmon are on the beds near the Mackinaw Trail Bridge and the McDonald Rapids. Use caution by the rapids as this area flooded after recent rainfall.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
ake Erie - Fishing was good when anglers could get out. Good perch fishing in recent days in 18 feet of water off Bolles Harbor. A few walleye were caught in 15 feet of water near the Fermi Plant and Stony Point when using crawlers or crank baits. A good number of white bass were also caught in the same area.
Huron River - A couple steelhead along with a few walleye were caught on rooster tails near the dam at Flat Rock. Steelhead are just starting to move into the river.
Detroit River - Perch fishing has been good around the islands especially north of Sugar Island. Some limit catches were reported and the fish were 8 to 12 inches. Most anglers were hand-lining with flat fish or rapalas.
Lexington - Some 18 to 20 inch brown trout have been caught by pier anglers casting spoons or plugs.
Harbor Beach - Also has pier anglers catching small brown trout.
Saginaw Bay - Perch are still being taken along the shipping channel from Au Gres south to the mouth of the Saginaw River, when boats can get out. Beyond that, shore anglers in various marinas around the east side of the bay were getting some bluegills, crappie and rock bass on leaf worms and wax worms under a bobber.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph River - Water levels are VERY LOW due to work being done on a dam in Indiana. Some anglers are struggling just to launch a boat. Be sure to go slow and use caution. Fish are running up the river however catch rates were slow. Try early morning and night fishing. Anglers casting spinners have caught fish however most are drifting spawn. Catch rates should pick up once more fish arrive. Smallmouth bass fishing was decent for those using small crank baits or jigs.
Grand Haven - Salmon fishing was slow. Boat anglers are using downriggers 100 to 160 feet deep in 200 to 240 feet of water. Try spoons in green and yellow or your best spinner baits. Pier anglers did fair in the early morning when casting spoons.
Grand River at Lansing - Small coho are being caught on spinners at Moore’s Park and the point where the Grand meets the Red Cedar. Catfish are hitting on crawlers while pike and smallmouth bass were hitting on crawlers and minnows at Moore’s Park. Look for smallmouth bass at the North Lansing Dam.
Sessions Lake - Is still good for panfish in deep water.
Muskegon Lake - Has a few boats out perch fishing.
White River - Salmon fishing was great in the lower river with most drifting spawn.
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
Don’t winterize your boat if you enjoy catching bass and pike. Both lakes, Cadillac and Mitchell are producing. With temperatures dropping, the cabbage beds are health; lush green and become magnets for fish. The other weeds are deteriorating. Cast the living beds and you’ll have success.
Only a few die hards are fishing panfish. No bluegill stories. However, the crappie have been active, especially just before dark. A few are taking advantage of them from the City Dock on the east side of Cadillac.
Young Bryson Roller knows the Fall is
a good time to catch pike
Perch fishing has been spotty. Catch them here today and they’re gone tomorrow. Mostly 8 to 10’s when you find them.
Manistee River
Salmon season may be close to peaking out. The Manistee has not been itself so far this year. Optimistically we’ll have a substantial late run of fish and everyone will be happy. Reports from the Betsey and Boardman Rivers indicate fair numbers of salmon.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Perch Fishing
Hearing of a good Perch run on Grand Traverse Bay, Big Glen Lake, Lake Leelanau, Lake Margreathe, and Fife Lake.
Waterfalls in Fall Colors
Monday, September 27, 2010
Blue heron in the pond
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Labor Day Holiday was Horrible
It has been so bad this week with rain and wind no fishing reports on lakes, but salmon are running the rivers. We had the hurricane over the weekend as the holiday was a disaster.
Cooler weather should get the fish back on the bite, and we hope to get fisherman out again.
Saginaw Bay -No one has been able to get out on the bay. With the gales of September, it has just been too windy. Before the wind, perch anglers were doing well around the Spark Plug, Buoys 11 and 12 and along the shipping channel. Anglers will need to do lots of sorting but some nice fish could be found.
Tittabawasse River -Has been slow with a few pike and catfish.
Saginaw River-Slow but things should pick up with cooler weather.
Whitehall -Pier anglers have caught some salmon in the evening when casting Cleo’s, mega baits or anything that glows.
Wixom Lake has been super for gills being caught on waxworms
Mullett Lake -Surface temperatures were 65 to 70 degrees. Walleye fishing was fair with fish ranging from 14 to 24 inches caught between Red Pine Point and Round Point or Dodge Point and Needle Point. Pike were found in 14 to 20 feet of water between the Sunken Island and Parrot Point. Try minnows, spinners or stick baits. Bass are still hitting near the islands and the points. Try crawlers in 20 feet of water. Perch hot spots were Scott Bay, Pigeon Bay, Long Point, Dodge Point and the sunken islands in 10 to 40 feet of water. Try crawler harnesses with minnows.
Oscoda - The dredging is done and the river is clear. Salmon are coming into shallow water just outside the pier. J-plugs and spoons are working well in a variety of colors, including blues and silvers. Steelhead were caught on anything orange in 40 to 60 feet of water. Lake trout are coming back into shallow water as well and hitting on lures that resemble smelt.
Higgins Lake -Very few fishing as weather been terrible. Lots of rock bass in the 9 to 12 inch range have been caught on minnows and worms. Perch are biting on wigglers.
Houghton Lake - Is producing panfish and bass. Early morning or late afternoon is best for bass up in the shallows. Walleye have been fair with crawlers working best.
Tawas -Walleye were caught before the state was hit with strong winds. Try trolling in 50 to 70 feet of water between Au Sable Point and Tawas City.
Foote Dam Pond - Walleye have been caught off the points in the early morning and late evening. Smallmouth bass, crappie and bluegills were also caught.
Lake Margreathe by Grayling A perch bite is on with minnows in about 9 feet of water is still going strong.
Charlevoix -Boat anglers caught fish near the cement plant when casting or trolling rapalas or thundersticks. Black and silver or fire-tiger were good colors. Lake Charlevoix - A few salmon were caught near the Coast Guard Station.
Traverse City -Strong winds have scattered the salmon in both bays. In the East Bay, schools of whitefish are still present just south of the Center Road launch in 85 to 100 feet of water. Most anglers are jigging sand kickers. For salmon, fish were being marked from Lee Point Road down to the Center Road launch in 100 feet of water and along the east side of the bay from Dock Road north to Yuba. In the West Bay, anglers were marking fish outside the Boardman however more fish were caught north along the peninsula when starting just south of Marion Island. Try waters up to 120 feet deep with flies and plugs.
Lake Leelanau - Had steady walleye action. Perch are biting on the North lake just past the narrows.
Portage Lake -Cooler weather was good for bluegill fishing as some limit catches were reported near Little Eden. THe fishing has been great with Perch were also caught in the same area and around the buoy. Be ready to sort out the small ones.
Lake Missaukee -Was good for panfish and bass.
Lake Cadillac -Crappie fishing has been good after dark and in the early morning. Cooler weather will bring the bluegills back into shallower waters. Try wax worms, leaf worms or crickets under a bobber. Bass and pike are hitting again.
Lake Mitchell -Is producing some panfish. Bass are hitting on spinner baits and pike favored large crank baits.
Little Bay De Noc - Catch rates for walleye were fair when trolling crawler harnesses off the break and out from the Terrace Bay Inn in 25 to 40 feet of water. Fish were caught shallow before daylight. Those fishing from the southern Black Bottom to the lighthouse were drifting and trolling crawlers in 20 to 40 feet of water. The north end of the bay was also producing fish however many were sub-legal. Jumbo perch were reported north of the Ore Docks in Escanaba. Try still-fishing with crawlers in 25 to 35 feet of water. No salmon in the rivers yet.
Big Bay De Noc -Had good smallmouth fishing from Snake Island to Garden Bluff while drifting minnows 15 to 30 feet down just off the break. No perch or walleye reports this week.
Indian Lake - Walleye anglers did best when drifting or trolling along the weeds around the shoreline. More fish were caught along the west shore but the fish were small. Try crawler harnesses or surface raps. A few keeper size perch were also caught this way however most of the perch anglers were fishing the north or south shore while drifting or still-fishing with crawlers.
St. Mary’s River -Near Sault Ste. Marie, a few pink salmon were caught when casting pink spoons at the fishing pier on the east end of Cloverland Power Plant. Chinook and Atlantic salmon are just beginning to make their run up to the rapids however water temperatures are still warm and the fishing was slow. The walleye bite was good in Raber Bay. Those fishing in the evening were trolling crawler harnesses and smiley blades in 8 to 12 feet of water near Antelope Point. Bass were caught on the east side of Lime Island and around Hart Island. Try jigging tube baits.
Cedarville and Hessel -Anglers continue to target perch off the Hessel Marina pier, in the east end of Hessel Bay, along the south shoreline, and the north side of Haven Island and Snows Channel. Use crawlers in 6 to 12 feet of water. Those fishing out of Cedarville are harvesting perch and some pike in Musky Bay. The Middle Entrance has been continuously producing in 8 to 10 feet of water. Boat anglers caught pink salmon out of Hessel, 15 to 35 feet down in 60 to 80 feet of water. Atlantic, chinook, steelhead and lake trout were also caught. Dredging continues at the Cedarville launch.
Northwest:
Petoskey - Windy conditions have kept anglers off the big water.
Bear River - Rain and the northwest wind pushed a decent number of salmon up into the river. Those fishing from the falls down to the mouth have caught fish on wooly buggers, yarn flies and spawn. At the mouth, fish were hitting on orange and silver or blue and silver spoons or fire-tiger body baits.
Charlevoix - Boat anglers caught fish near the cement plant when casting or trolling rapalas or thundersticks. Black and silver or fire-tiger were good colors.
Lake Charlevoix - A few salmon were caught near the Coast Guard Station.
Traverse City - Strong winds have scattered the salmon in both bays. In the East Bay, schools of whitefish are still present just south of the Center Road launch in 85 to 100 feet of water. Most anglers are jigging sand kickers. For salmon, fish were being marked from Lee Point Road down to the Center Road launch in 100 feet of water and along the east side of the bay from Dock Road north to Yuba. In the West Bay, anglers were marking fish outside the Boardman however more fish were caught north along the peninsula when starting just south of Marion Island. Try waters up to 120 feet deep with flies and plugs.
Boardman River - A few fish have moved into the river but most anglers are still out fishing the big water. Try thundersticks or skein at the mouth.
Platte River - Some coho started to run last weekend. With the change in weather, some fish were passed at the weir.
Frankfort - A few anglers were able to fish the harbor and Betsie Bay. Those trolling mid-morning caught the most fish. Pier anglers casting spawn caught a few fish but those jigging the holes near the old car ferry caught the most fish.
Betsie River - Salmon action is starting to pick up with chinook caught up at the Homestead Dam. Small runs of fish are at the dam but they are not holding there. More runs were reported in the lower stretch. Up near the dam try yarn flies or streamers. In the lower river, try spawn under a bobber.
Portage Lake - Wind kept most anglers off the lake however a few did manage to lay some ground work for future trips as a few nice largemouth and smallmouth bass were caught near Little Eden.
Manistee - Boats had a hard time getting out on the big lake but those able to make it have caught salmon out on the Shelf. Most are trolling in the harbor and channel while catching a few chinook. Pier anglers caught a few fish when casting spoons.
Manistee Lake - Has been good for salmon on certain days.
Manistee River - Salmon have started moving into the lower river.
Ludington - Those able to get out on the Lake Michigan caught salmon in 60 to 120 feet of water between the Bath House and Big Sable Point when trolling green fly combos. Pier anglers fishing in the early morning caught a few salmon.
Northeastern Lower Peninsula
Mullett Lake - Surface temperatures were 65 to 70 degrees. Walleye fishing was fair with fish ranging from 14 to 24 inches caught between Red Pine Point and Round Point or Dodge Point and Needle Point. Pike were found in 14 to 20 feet of water between the Sunken Island and Parrot Point. Try minnows, spinners or stick baits. Bass are still hitting near the islands and the points. Try crawlers in 20 feet of water. Perch hot spots were Scott Bay, Pigeon Bay, Long Point, Dodge Point and the sunken islands in 10 to 40 feet of water. Try crawler harnesses with minnows.
Rogers City - Fishing was good in waters 45 to 80 feet deep. Look for structure and baitfish while fishing higher in the water column and keep the bait out and away from the boat. Most are fishing straight out, north towards Forty Mile Point or south towards Swan Bay and catching chinook, lake trout, steelhead, pink salmon, the occasional walleye or brown trout. Try downriggers with lead core of 3 to 7 colors off boards and dipsey divers about 135 feet back. Small spoons in bright colors.
Presque Isle - Use the same techniques here as Rogers City. Hot spots were straight out from the red can, north between the lighthouses, and near Stoneport.
Rockport - Pink salmon and lake trout were caught in 60 feet of water.
Thunder Bay River - Only a couple salmon have been caught. Most anglers are coming up empty handed. Cooler weather should open the possibilities to those looking to fish the river.
Harrisville - Salmon are making their way into the harbor. Anglers are catching chinook when long-lining with spoons, body baits or J-plugs and floating spawn. Boat anglers are still catching steelhead in 40 to 60 feet of water. Lake trout are coming back into the shallow waters and hitting on anything black and chrome. Walleye were caught between the harbor and the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse in 12 to 20 feet of water. The walleye were hugging the bottom so anglers might want to use bottom bouncers.
Oscoda - The dredging is done and the river is clear. Salmon are coming into shallow water just outside the pier. J-plugs and spoons are working well in a variety of colors, including blues and silvers. Steelhead were caught on anything orange in 40 to 60 feet of water. Lake trout are coming back into shallow water as well and hitting on lures that resemble smelt.
Au Sable River - A couple walleye were caught but overall fishing was slow.
Tawas - Walleye were caught before the state was hit with strong winds. Try trolling in 50 to 70 feet of water between Au Sable Point and Tawas City.
Upper Peninsula
Ontonagon - Strong winds have pushed cooler water into the river. Look for fishing to improve in 40 to 70 feet of water.
Keweenaw Bay - Those trolling in the bay have picked up some nice coho along with a few walleye. No salmon to report in the Falls River yet. A few lake trout were caught in Traverse Bay between Gay Point and Hermits Cove. Those running from Traverse Bay to the Huron Islands have caught limits of lake trout.
Marquette - There are reports of a few coho and steelhead near the Chocolay River and coho were scattered near the Dead River.
Little Bay De Noc - Catch rates for walleye were fair when trolling crawler harnesses off the break and out from the Terrace Bay Inn in 25 to 40 feet of water. Fish were caught shallow before daylight. Those fishing from the southern Black Bottom to the lighthouse were drifting and trolling crawlers in 20 to 40 feet of water. The north end of the bay was also producing fish however many were sub-legal. Jumbo perch were reported north of the Ore Docks in Escanaba. Try still-fishing with crawlers in 25 to 35 feet of water. No salmon in the rivers yet.
Big Bay De Noc - Had good smallmouth fishing from Snake Island to Garden Bluff while drifting minnows 15 to 30 feet down just off the break. No perch or walleye reports this week.
Au Train - Few anglers were able to get out. Surface water temperatures have cooled and are averaging 58 to 60 degrees.
Munising - Few boats were out but those able to reach the Big Reef caught lake trout on jigs and cut bait. Shore anglers had some success for splake when using natural baits such as spawn bags. Menominee whitefish were caught on crawlers.
Indian Lake - Walleye anglers did best when drifting or trolling along the weeds around the shoreline. More fish were caught along the west shore but the fish were small. Try crawler harnesses or surface raps. A few keeper size perch were also caught this way however most of the perch anglers were fishing the north or south shore while drifting or still-fishing with crawlers.
St. Mary’s River - Near Sault Ste. Marie, a few pink salmon were caught when casting pink spoons at the fishing pier on the east end of Cloverland Power Plant. Chinook and Atlantic salmon are just beginning to make their run up to the rapids however water temperatures are still warm and the fishing was slow. The walleye bite was good in Raber Bay. Those fishing in the evening were trolling crawler harnesses and smiley blades in 8 to 12 feet of water near Antelope Point. Bass were caught on the east side of Lime Island and around Hart Island. Try jigging tube baits.
De Tour - Is a great spot for pink salmon with Atlantic, chinook, coho and steelhead mixed in. Anglers are trolling from Frying Pan Island to the number 3 green can with small pink or lime colored spoons with dots. Try fishing 3 to 35 feet down. Some boats are fishing near the lighthouse and three miles south.
Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers continue to target perch off the Hessel Marina pier, in the east end of Hessel Bay, along the south shoreline, and the north side of Haven Island and Snows Channel. Use crawlers in 6 to 12 feet of water. Those fishing out of Cedarville are harvesting perch and some pike in Musky Bay. The Middle Entrance has been continuously producing in 8 to 10 feet of water. Boat anglers caught pink salmon out of Hessel, 15 to 35 feet down in 60 to 80 feet of water. Atlantic, chinook, steelhead and lake trout were also caught. Dredging continues at the Cedarville launch.
Carp River - Those fishing the mouth are taking some chinook and pink salmon. Anglers are reminded that the Mackinaw Trail Bridge is closed.
St. Ignace - Fishing remains steady with anglers trolling the Flats to the Coast Guard Station and the fuel tanks and to the Edison Plant. Anglers are mainly harvesting pink salmon but chinook and steelhead could also be found. Try silver or green flashers and flies or green spoons.
Southeast Lower Peninsula
Lake Erie - Yellow perch were caught in 15 to 18 feet of water when anglers can get out. Try Luna Pier, the E Buoy near Bolles Harbor and Stony Point. Walleye were scattered however a few fish were caught near the Ohio state line. Cooler temperatures are needed before good numbers of walleye will return.
Huron River - No steelhead to report yet. Carp and catfish were still biting and a few crappie were caught on minnows in the backwaters.
Detroit River - Had good perch fishing near the mouth including the area from the Toll Bridge on down and near Celeron Island and Sugar Island when using a jig and worm in 9 to 12 feet of water.
Harbor Beach - The last report was those out trolling caught good numbers of lake trout and steelhead in 100 to 150 feet of water, weather permitting.
Saginaw Bay - No one has been able to get out on the bay. With the gales of September, it has just been too windy. Before the wind, perch anglers were doing well around the Spark Plug, Buoys 11 and 12 and along the shipping channel. Anglers will need to do lots of sorting but some nice fish could be found.
Southwest Lower Peninsula
St. Joseph - Few reports have come in due to weather conditions. Anglers are just waiting for the lake to settle down.
St. Joseph River - Fishing slowed even with the cooler weather. Only a few smallmouth bass were taken. Some are starting to look for salmon and steelhead however there is not much to report yet as there are very few fish in the river.
Kalamazoo River - Is closed from Marshall to Morrow Dam until further notice.
Grand Haven - Boats anglers might do well just outside the piers when trolling in the early morning and pier anglers should start picking up a few fish.
Grand River at Grand Rapids - Chinook, coho, and steelhead are in the river. They are hitting on flies, spawn, skein, wobble glows, spinners, rapalas and thundersticks. Pike were hitting on spinners, suckers or bluegills. Those trolling upstream have caught walleye on Hot-n-Tots. Brown trout were caught using half a crawler with a two foot leader. Bluegills and crappie were caught at Riverside Park.
Grand River at Lansing - Moore’s Park has been good for walleye along the wall. Some nice catfish have also been caught. The North Lansing Dam has been good for smallmouth bass.
Sessions Lake - In Ionia County is producing crappie and other panfish in waters 30 to 40 feet deep.
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 holiday’s cold wind and rain did not keep anglers away. It did however keep most from launching their boats. Many shore fishermen found leeward areas to fish.
One bright spot was the canal between Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell. Have no explainatioin why bass would be there but several in the 15-17 inch range were caught.
Lake Mitchell was rough because of the west/northwest winds. White caps continue to pound the shoreline. The majority of fishing was done on Lake Cadillac. At lease between the two lakes there’s always a place for anglers.
For an honest, accurate fish report the lakes will have to calm down.
MANISTEE RIVER
Salmon fishing and salmon catching has begun. A few are alreadey at Tippy Dam. Better numbers are at the Pine and Bear Creek areas.
Pier fishing at Manistee or Frankfort is worth while. Start before day break.