Bait-shops in Clare and Isabella County

Clare County Main Lakes are Budd Lake, Lake Thirteen, Long Lake, Shamrock, George, and Crooked Lake, also the trout streams produce lots of healthy trout. Clare County has good deer numbers with the best hunting on the east part of the county. Farwell and Harrison has fabulous pike and bluegill fishing though the ice. Isabella County main lakes are Coldwater Lake, Stevenson Lake, and Littlefield Lake. The Chippawa River flows with though the county and offers great fishing.

Β 

Farwell Trading Post

720 N. Main Street Farwell Mi
989-588-4161
Β 

Has a full line of live bait and tackle

704 North First Street , Harrrison, MI

(989) 539-3700

Has a full line of bait and tackle

Sharp’s Market
5201 N. Grant Ave Harrison, Mi
989-539-9862

Has a full line of bait and tackle

K.D. Quick Stop
235 N. Clare Ave Harrison, MI
989-539-9862

Has a full line of bait and tackle

Bev’s 8 Point Lake Party Store
10585 S. Shore Dr. Lake, MI
989-544-3340

Has a full lineΒ  of bait and tackle

8800 S. Clare Ave. Clare, Mi
989-386-3475

Has crawlers and worms with a huge inventory of hunting and fishing supplies

NO MINNOWS

Kerns Grocery
2775 N. Rogers Ave Harrison, MI
989-539-6803

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🎣 Michigan Weekly Fishing Report

πŸ—“οΈ July 12–18, 2025Presented by Buc’s Aqua Farms Inc.🌐 www.bucsfishingreport.comπŸ’₯ Sponsor of the Week: Captain Chucks II – Ludington, MIπŸ“ 75 N Jebavy Rd, Ludington, MIπŸ“ž (231) 843-4458🌐 capt-chuck.comπŸ’° Prize Structure & Field SizeOver 900 boats participated, making it the largest freshwater salmon tournament in the U.S. by field size Chamber Alliance of Mason CountyMajor payouts include up to $10,000+ for Big Boys and Pro divisions, with additional prizes for Youth, Ladies, and Big Fish categoriesπŸ… Tournament Records & StandingsTeam Katch Me registered the tournament’s first-ever 30-lb+ king with a 32.30 lb catch on Day 2 of the Big Boys event The 2024 Big Boys winner, β€œHammbone,” claimed the title again in 2025 The Pro division 2025 champion, Team EZ Limits, took home the $20,000 top prize with a two-day total weight of 257.25 lb 🎯 Gear & Depth StrategyKing salmon are staging deep: fish are hitting between 100–140 ft using meat rigs and cowbells near the 250 ft shelf🎣 Ludington Offshore Classic – July 14–20Big Boys Tournament, Ladies Pro/Am, Youth Classic, and the Offshore Classic Pro/Am🎁 Huge cash prizes, weigh-ins, and the kings are running deep!πŸ§ƒ Bait Shop of the Week: Lyman’s on the LakeπŸ“ 6560 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MIπŸ“ž (989) 422-3231πŸ’¬ β€œNew live bait deliveries every Monday and Friday!”⏱️ This Week in 60 SecondsFish are deep. Salmon are staging offshore, trout are glued to thermoclines, and panfish are crushing waxworms around docks. Weedlines and early mornings are everything. Get out early β€” and stay mobile.🎯 Top 5 Bites in MichiganLudington Offshore – Kings 100–130 ft down on meat rigsTorch Lake – Lake trout at 95–115 ft on silver flashersFletcher Pond – Topwater frog bite is hot for bassDuck Lake (TC) – Bluegill under docks, bass roaming 10–12 ftHoughton Lake – Walleye active in 10–14 ft at first light🌦️ Weather Outlook & Hatch TrendsAir Temps: 83–91Β°FSurface Temps: Great Lakes ~66Β°F, Inland ~72–75Β°FThermocline: 65–90 ftBug Hatch: Caddis, ants, hoppers β€” trout rising at dawn and duskπŸ“ Regional Bite Reports & Tactics🟦 Mid MichiganLakes: Houghton, Budd, Pratt, Lancer, Missaukee, Mitchell, St. Helen, Five Lakes, Dodge, ShamrockWalleye: Houghton & Lancer on spinner harnesses at 10–14 ftBass: Missaukee and Mitchell β€” jigs near timber and weed bedsPanfish: Wiggins, Five Lakes β€” wax worms tight to docksCrappie: Pratt & Lancer β€” slip floats over 8–10 ft brushShamrock: Bass hitting finesse plastics around shaded cover🟨 Northern Mid MichiganLakes: Otsego, Indian River, Sturgeon River, Bellaire, Fletcher Pond, East/West Twin, Crooked, McCormickOtsego: Pike and walleye trolling crankbaitsSturgeon River: Brook and brown trout rising to dry fliesFletcher Pond: Explosive frog bite at dawnMcCormick: Walleye on crawler harnesses in 15–22 ftTwin Lakes: Wax worms for panfish, soft plastics for bassCrooked Lake: Bass cruising structure β€” use chatterbaitsπŸŸ₯ Upper PeninsulaLakes: Gogebic, Indian Lake, Michigamme, Portage, Chicagon, Au TrainGogebic: Walleye and perch in 12–16 ft on jigsIndian Lake: Pike/walleye off weed edges on stickbaitsPortage/Au Train: Deep trolling for trout & splakeChicagon: Smallmouth working rocky structure🌊 Lake Michigan Shoreline (Port-by-Port)Ludington – Offshore Classic FocusKings running deep (100–140 ft) on meat rigs and paddlesSteelhead suspended (40–70 ft) on orange spoonsLakers on bottom in 160+ ft, slow-rolled cowbellsOther Ports:Manistee/Frankfort: Chrome spoons, 80–120 ftWhitehall/Muskegon: Steelhead and coho in top 50 ftGrand Haven: Lake trout deeper than 160 ftLake Michigan Shoreline – Full Port BreakdownFrom Grand Haven to LelandLudington (Tournament Central):Kings in 100–140 ft down over 250 ft β€” meat rigs early AMSteelhead suspended 40–70 ft β€” orange/green spoonsLakers deep, bottom-dragging cowbells in 160 ft+Familiar Bite herring is working the bestManistee: Mixed king/coho bite; chrome spoons and white paddles at 90–120 ftOnekama: Troll the β€œBarrel” offshore; lakers and steelhead mixed in 100–140 ftFrankfort: Best bite near the pierheads first light; salmon running 70–90 ftLeland: Near Pyramid Point β€” meat and paddle bite over 180–240 ftWhitehall & Muskegon: Steelhead staging in top 40 ft; lake trout on downriggers 120–180 ftGrand Haven: Deeper water bite 140–180 ft, big paddles and meat rigs producingPier Action (all ports): Bass early on tubes, smallmouth and rock bass on live bait rigsπŸ”· Traverse City β†’ Mackinaw CityLakes: Torch, Glen, Leelanau, Charlevoix, Elk Lake, Duck, GreenTorch: Lakers 95–115 ft, spoons & flashersCharlevoix: Smallmouth hitting jerkbaits 10–18 ftGlen Lake: Bass active on topwater at duskDuck Lake: Bluegill tight to docks, bass on minnowsLeelanau: Perch and smallmouth 20–30 ft breaksLong Lake by Interlochen has been good for smallmouth bass and walleye best success is slip bobbers and leeches πŸŸͺ Saginaw BayKey Ports: Linwood, Pinconning, Quanicassee, Sebewaing, Bay Port🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:Walleye: Strong bite continues in 15–23 ft using crawler harnesses with chartreuse or purple bladesHot Zones: Off the Sparkplug, Callahan Reef, and the SlotDrum & Catfish: Evening action near shallow flats and piers β€” live crawlers or stink baitsTrolling Tips: Slow speeds (1.1–1.3 mph) have been best; glow blades at dawnWeather Impact: Afternoon chop has helped push active fish shallower🟧 Southwest MichiganCoverage: South Haven, St. Joseph, Paw Paw, Decatur, DowagiacTop Inland Lakes: Paw Paw Lake, Magician Lake, Lake Cora, Corey Lake, Diamond Lake🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:Paw Paw Lake: Largemouth bass in 6–10 ft along docks and seawalls, topwater frogs and senkosMagician Lake: Bluegill and crappie tight to structure β€” jig and bobber combosCorey Lake: Smallmouth in 10–15 ft near rocky transitions, tubes and swimbaits hotSt. Joseph River: Catfish and smallmouth on live bait rigs, especially at current seamsLake Michigan (St. Joe Pier): Steelhead early morning on shrimp and alewives under bobbers🟨 US-131 Corridor (South of M-115)Coverage: Tustin, Leroy, Reed City, Big Rapids, Greenville, LakeviewTop Inland Lakes: Lincoln Lake, Little Muskegon River, Townline Lake, Martiny Chain🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:Martiny Chain: Bass biting on spinnerbaits in channel cuts; bluegill on worms near docksLincoln Lake: Decent mixed bag on live bait β€” perch, small bass, and pikeBig Rapids Area: Little Muskegon River producing smallmouth and rock bass on small plugsTownline Lake: Nightcrawler harnesses drawing in walleye during low light hours See MoreSee Less

🎣 Michigan Weekly Fishing Report
πŸ—“οΈ July 12–18, 2025
Presented by Buc’s Aqua Farms Inc.
🌐 www.bucsfishingreport.com
πŸ’₯ Sponsor of the Week: Captain Chucks II – Ludington, MI
πŸ“ 75 N Jebavy Rd, Ludington, MI
πŸ“ž (231) 843-4458
🌐 capt-chuck.com
πŸ’° Prize Structure & Field Size
Over 900 boats participated, making it the largest freshwater salmon tournament in the U.S. by field size 
Chamber Alliance of Mason County
Major payouts include up to $10,000+ for Big Boys and Pro divisions, with additional prizes for Youth, Ladies, and Big Fish categories
πŸ… Tournament Records & Standings
Team Katch Me registered the tournament’s first-ever 30-lb+ king with a 32.30 lb catch on Day 2 of the Big Boys event 
The 2024 Big Boys winner, β€œHammbone,” claimed the title again in 2025 
The Pro division 2025 champion, Team EZ Limits, took home the $20,000 top prize with a two-day total weight of 257.25 lb 
🎯 Gear & Depth Strategy
King salmon are staging deep: fish are hitting between 100–140 ft using meat rigs and cowbells near the 250 ft shelf
🎣 Ludington Offshore Classic – July 14–20
Big Boys Tournament, Ladies Pro/Am, Youth Classic, and the Offshore Classic Pro/Am
🎁 Huge cash prizes, weigh-ins, and the kings are running deep!
πŸ§ƒ Bait Shop of the Week: Lyman’s on the Lake
πŸ“ 6560 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI
πŸ“ž (989) 422-3231
πŸ’¬ β€œNew live bait deliveries every Monday and Friday!”
⏱️ This Week in 60 Seconds
Fish are deep. Salmon are staging offshore, trout are glued to thermoclines, and panfish are crushing waxworms around docks. Weedlines and early mornings are everything. Get out early β€” and stay mobile.
🎯 Top 5 Bites in Michigan
Ludington Offshore – Kings 100–130 ft down on meat rigs
Torch Lake – Lake trout at 95–115 ft on silver flashers
Fletcher Pond – Topwater frog bite is hot for bass
Duck Lake (TC) – Bluegill under docks, bass roaming 10–12 ft
Houghton Lake – Walleye active in 10–14 ft at first light
🌦️ Weather Outlook & Hatch Trends
Air Temps: 83–91Β°F
Surface Temps: Great Lakes ~66Β°F, Inland ~72–75Β°F
Thermocline: 65–90 ft
Bug Hatch: Caddis, ants, hoppers β€” trout rising at dawn and dusk
πŸ“ Regional Bite Reports & Tactics
🟦 Mid Michigan
Lakes: Houghton, Budd, Pratt, Lancer, Missaukee, Mitchell, St. Helen, Five Lakes, Dodge, Shamrock
Walleye: Houghton & Lancer on spinner harnesses at 10–14 ft
Bass: Missaukee and Mitchell β€” jigs near timber and weed beds
Panfish: Wiggins, Five Lakes β€” wax worms tight to docks
Crappie: Pratt & Lancer β€” slip floats over 8–10 ft brush
Shamrock: Bass hitting finesse plastics around shaded cover
🟨 Northern Mid Michigan
Lakes: Otsego, Indian River, Sturgeon River, Bellaire, Fletcher Pond, East/West Twin, Crooked, McCormick
Otsego: Pike and walleye trolling crankbaits
Sturgeon River: Brook and brown trout rising to dry flies
Fletcher Pond: Explosive frog bite at dawn
McCormick: Walleye on crawler harnesses in 15–22 ft
Twin Lakes: Wax worms for panfish, soft plastics for bass
Crooked Lake: Bass cruising structure β€” use chatterbaits
πŸŸ₯ Upper Peninsula
Lakes: Gogebic, Indian Lake, Michigamme, Portage, Chicagon, Au Train
Gogebic: Walleye and perch in 12–16 ft on jigs
Indian Lake: Pike/walleye off weed edges on stickbaits
Portage/Au Train: Deep trolling for trout & splake
Chicagon: Smallmouth working rocky structure
🌊 Lake Michigan Shoreline (Port-by-Port)
Ludington – Offshore Classic Focus
Kings running deep (100–140 ft) on meat rigs and paddles
Steelhead suspended (40–70 ft) on orange spoons
Lakers on bottom in 160+ ft, slow-rolled cowbells
Other Ports:
Manistee/Frankfort: Chrome spoons, 80–120 ft
Whitehall/Muskegon: Steelhead and coho in top 50 ft
Grand Haven: Lake trout deeper than 160 ft
Lake Michigan Shoreline – Full Port Breakdown
From Grand Haven to Leland
Ludington (Tournament Central):
Kings in 100–140 ft down over 250 ft β€” meat rigs early AM
Steelhead suspended 40–70 ft β€” orange/green spoons
Lakers deep, bottom-dragging cowbells in 160 ft+
Familiar Bite herring is working the best
Manistee: Mixed king/coho bite; chrome spoons and white paddles at 90–120 ft
Onekama: Troll the β€œBarrel” offshore; lakers and steelhead mixed in 100–140 ft
Frankfort: Best bite near the pierheads first light; salmon running 70–90 ft
Leland: Near Pyramid Point β€” meat and paddle bite over 180–240 ft
Whitehall & Muskegon: Steelhead staging in top 40 ft; lake trout on downriggers 120–180 ft
Grand Haven: Deeper water bite 140–180 ft, big paddles and meat rigs producing
Pier Action (all ports): Bass early on tubes, smallmouth and rock bass on live bait rigs
πŸ”· Traverse City β†’ Mackinaw City
Lakes: Torch, Glen, Leelanau, Charlevoix, Elk Lake, Duck, Green
Torch: Lakers 95–115 ft, spoons & flashers
Charlevoix: Smallmouth hitting jerkbaits 10–18 ft
Glen Lake: Bass active on topwater at dusk
Duck Lake: Bluegill tight to docks, bass on minnows
Leelanau: Perch and smallmouth 20–30 ft breaks
Long Lake by Interlochen has been good for smallmouth bass and walleye best success is slip bobbers and leeches 
πŸŸͺ Saginaw Bay
Key Ports: Linwood, Pinconning, Quanicassee, Sebewaing, Bay Port
🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:
Walleye: Strong bite continues in 15–23 ft using crawler harnesses with chartreuse or purple blades
Hot Zones: Off the Sparkplug, Callahan Reef, and the Slot
Drum & Catfish: Evening action near shallow flats and piers β€” live crawlers or stink baits
Trolling Tips: Slow speeds (1.1–1.3 mph) have been best; glow blades at dawn
Weather Impact: Afternoon chop has helped push active fish shallower
🟧 Southwest Michigan
Coverage: South Haven, St. Joseph, Paw Paw, Decatur, Dowagiac
Top Inland Lakes: Paw Paw Lake, Magician Lake, Lake Cora, Corey Lake, Diamond Lake
🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:
Paw Paw Lake: Largemouth bass in 6–10 ft along docks and seawalls, topwater frogs and senkos
Magician Lake: Bluegill and crappie tight to structure β€” jig and bobber combos
Corey Lake: Smallmouth in 10–15 ft near rocky transitions, tubes and swimbaits hot
St. Joseph River: Catfish and smallmouth on live bait rigs, especially at current seams
Lake Michigan (St. Joe Pier): Steelhead early morning on shrimp and alewives under bobbers
🟨 US-131 Corridor (South of M-115)
Coverage: Tustin, Leroy, Reed City, Big Rapids, Greenville, Lakeview
Top Inland Lakes: Lincoln Lake, Little Muskegon River, Townline Lake, Martiny Chain
🎯 Tactics & Bite Conditions:
Martiny Chain: Bass biting on spinnerbaits in channel cuts; bluegill on worms near docks
Lincoln Lake: Decent mixed bag on live bait β€” perch, small bass, and pike
Big Rapids Area: Little Muskegon River producing smallmouth and rock bass on small plugs
Townline Lake: Nightcrawler harnesses drawing in walleye during low light hoursImage attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment

🎣 Michigan Fishing Report – July 12–18, 2025

πŸ”₯ This Week’s Top Bites: 1. Ludington Offshore Classic: Kings 100–130 ft deep on meat rigs. Tournament weigh-ins daily! πŸ† 2. Torch Lake Lakers: Solid bite at 95–115 ft with silver flashers. 3. Fletcher Pond: Explosive bass action on topwater frogsβ€”fish early! 4. Houghton Lake: Walleye cruising weed edges (10–14 ft) on crawler harnesses. 5. Duck Lake (Traverse City): Bluegills thick around docks; bass chasing bait shallow.🐟 Bait Shop of the Week:@lymansonthelake (Houghton Lake)β€”fresh bait Mondays & Fridays!πŸ“ Quick Tips by Region:Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Northern Mid MI: Trout on dries, bass near weeds.Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β UP: Walleye deep, perch steady on minnows.Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Lake Michigan Shoreline: Salmon, steelhead active from Manistee to Ludington; spoons & meat rigs best.Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Traverse City Area: Lakers deep, bass hitting jerkbaits.🌦️ Weather: Warm, 80–90Β°F; Fish early mornings and dusk!πŸ“Έ Photo highlights: Big Ludington kings, topwater explosions, Torch Lakers.πŸ™ Sponsored by @captainchucks2πŸ”— Full details at bucsfishingreport.com#MichiganFishing #BucsFishingReport #CaptainChucks #FishingReport #LakeMichiganFishing #PureMichigan #OffshoreClassic See MoreSee Less

🎣 Michigan Fishing Report – July 12–18, 2025
πŸ”₯ This Week’s Top Bites:
1. Ludington Offshore Classic: Kings 100–130 ft deep on meat rigs. Tournament weigh-ins daily! πŸ†
2. Torch Lake Lakers: Solid bite at 95–115 ft with silver flashers.
3. Fletcher Pond: Explosive bass action on topwater frogsβ€”fish early!
4. Houghton Lake: Walleye cruising weed edges (10–14 ft) on crawler harnesses.
5. Duck Lake (Traverse City): Bluegills thick around docks; bass chasing bait shallow.
🐟 Bait Shop of the Week:
@lymansonthelake (Houghton Lake)β€”fresh bait Mondays & Fridays!
πŸ“ Quick Tips by Region:
Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Northern Mid MI: Trout on dries, bass near weeds.
Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β UP: Walleye deep, perch steady on minnows.
Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Lake Michigan Shoreline: Salmon, steelhead active from Manistee to Ludington; spoons & meat rigs best.
Β Β Β β€’Β Β Β Traverse City Area: Lakers deep, bass hitting jerkbaits.
🌦️ Weather: Warm, 80–90Β°F; Fish early mornings and dusk!
πŸ“Έ Photo highlights: Big Ludington kings, topwater explosions, Torch Lakers.
πŸ™ Sponsored by @captainchucks2
πŸ”— Full details at bucsfishingreport.com
#MichiganFishing #BucsFishingReport #CaptainChucks #FishingReport #LakeMichiganFishing #PureMichigan #OffshoreClassic

Pro-Staff Update: Captain Dylan Tysiak from Legacy Sportfishing Charters shared a photo showcasing his customers’ impressive King Salmon haul. He mentioned, “All of our Kings were caught using Familiar Bite Herring Strips.”

www.facebook.com/LegacySportfishingLLC/ See MoreSee Less

🎣 NEW Fishing Report drops Thursday!

From salmon tournaments in Ludington to slab bluegill on hidden inland lakes β€” we’re covering it all.πŸ”₯ This week’s report includes:β€’ Big catches from the Ludington Offshore Classicβ€’ New tactics for Mid Michigan lakesβ€’ Deepwater trout patterns from Torch & Higginsβ€’ Walleye action across the UP and Saginaw Bayβ€’ β€œTop 5 Bites in Michigan” featureβ€’ Photos of the Week πŸ“Έβ€’ Sponsored by Captain Chucks II – Ludington, MIπŸ•“ Don’t miss it. Final report goes live Thursday afternoon.πŸ“ @bucs_fishing_report | www.bucsfishingreport.com#MichiganFishing #FishingReport #CaptainChucks #HoughtonLake #LudingtonClassic #BucsFishing See MoreSee Less

🎣 NEW Fishing Report drops Thursday!
From salmon tournaments in Ludington to slab bluegill on hidden inland lakes β€” we’re covering it all.
πŸ”₯ This week’s report includes:
β€’ Big catches from the Ludington Offshore Classic
β€’ New tactics for Mid Michigan lakes
β€’ Deepwater trout patterns from Torch & Higgins
β€’ Walleye action across the UP and Saginaw Bay
β€’ β€œTop 5 Bites in Michigan” feature
β€’ Photos of the Week πŸ“Έ
β€’ Sponsored by Captain Chucks II – Ludington, MI
πŸ•“ Don’t miss it. Final report goes live Thursday afternoon.
πŸ“ @bucs_fishing_report | www.bucsfishingreport.com
#MichiganFishing #FishingReport #CaptainChucks #HoughtonLake #LudingtonClassic #BucsFishing

β€œThe Stillest Hour”

Green Lake, Interlochen, Michiganβ€œSometimes, you find yourself in the middle of nowhere. And sometimes, in the middle of nowhere, you find yourself.”There’s something sacred about the hush that settles on a lake at sunset. The birds go quiet. The water softens. Even the trees seem to lean in a little closer, listening.That’s what I felt as I stood behind the camera on Green Lakeβ€”not aiming for the perfect frame, just trying to hold on to a moment that was already slipping into memory.A young girl stood alone on the dock, fishing rod in hand, barely moving. The line didn’t twitch. The fish weren’t biting. But that didn’t seem to matter.She wasn’t there for the catch.She was there for this:The glow spilling across the lake like warm molasses.The orange flame of the sun sinking behind the hills.The stillness that makes your heart beat slower and your thoughts stretch wider.There’s a kind of beauty that doesn’t announce itself. It just is.And this was that.Maybe that’s why I took the shot.Not because it was dramatic or loudβ€”but because it was quiet.And in that quiet, it said everything.The world needs more of this.More stillness.More golden hours.More girls fishing alone on docks at sunset. See MoreSee Less

β€œThe Stillest Hour”
Green Lake, Interlochen, Michigan
β€œSometimes, you find yourself in the middle of nowhere. And sometimes, in the middle of nowhere, you find yourself.”
There’s something sacred about the hush that settles on a lake at sunset. The birds go quiet. The water softens. Even the trees seem to lean in a little closer, listening.
That’s what I felt as I stood behind the camera on Green Lakeβ€”not aiming for the perfect frame, just trying to hold on to a moment that was already slipping into memory.
A young girl stood alone on the dock, fishing rod in hand, barely moving. The line didn’t twitch. The fish weren’t biting. But that didn’t seem to matter.
She wasn’t there for the catch.
She was there for this:
The glow spilling across the lake like warm molasses.
The orange flame of the sun sinking behind the hills.
The stillness that makes your heart beat slower and your thoughts stretch wider.
There’s a kind of beauty that doesn’t announce itself. It just is.
And this was that.
Maybe that’s why I took the shot.
Not because it was dramatic or loudβ€”but because it was quiet.
And in that quiet, it said everything.
The world needs more of this.
More stillness.
More golden hours.
More girls fishing alone on docks at sunset.

Shop Owner and Pro-Staff Update: Charles Broadhurst, the owner of Charlie’s Fishin Hole, stated, “The meat was flying out the door today; bam, it worked great for me.” That’s Mike Hall holding a handful of fish, on board High Priorities. Charlie has an ample supply of Familiar Bite Herring Strips, so give him a call and see for yourself. Inquire with Charlie regarding the Charter services that are currently available.

Get the “Big One” with Familiar Bite…www.facebook.com/CharliesFishinHole/ See MoreSee Less

6 days ago
Buc's Northern Michigan Fishing Report

Thanks for bringing your daughter I’m glad you had a great time being part of the fishing community See MoreSee Less

Thanks for bringing your daughter Im glad you had a great time being part of the fishing community

NWMI Kids Fishing Day 2025 – Full Recap

β€œThe purpose of life is a life of purpose.” Today, that purpose was loud and clear.I had the honor of donating the bait for the NWMI Kids Fishing Tournament this morningβ€”and let me tell you, it was powerful. Not just because of the fish caught, but because of the meaning behind each cast. a gathering of young hearts, curious minds, and wide-eyed joy. We weren’t just teaching fishing. We were planting seeds.We weren’t just teaching kids how to fish. We were teaching them how to be patient. How to stay focused. How to believe in themselves.Some caught their very first fish. Others reeled in their personal best. A few walked away with prizes. But every single one of them left with something they’ll carry for life.This wasn’t just an event. It was a ripple of something much bigger.From the moment the rods hit the water, you could feel itβ€”kids learning not only how to cast a line, but how to slow down, stay patient, and connect with the world around them. Some made their first catch ever. Others walked away with full baskets and great memories. But every child left with something far more important: belief in themselves.πŸ† Highlights That Hit Home:πŸ“ A girl holding a bluegill on a pink Zebco, beaming like she just won the Bassmaster Classic.πŸ“ A girl holding a new fishing rod with her dad and was all smilesπŸ“ One young angler with a full lineup of panfish, proudly taking home 1st place.πŸ“ Big bass, caught from the dock by a quiet kid who lit up when the fight hit.πŸ“ Families gathered around the station, having a great time bonding with nature and with the kids.πŸ“ Tackle boxes handed out. Rods awarded. Respect earned.πŸ™ Thank you to…– The NWMI Fishing Club for organizing a day that truly mattered.– The volunteers who showed up early, stayed late, and coached every step.– The parents who made the time to get their kids outside and engaged.– And most of allβ€”the kids. Y’all showed up ready, eager, and focused. You’re the reason I do this.Every kid walked away with a prize… and a new passion.This is what #bucsbait stands for.Real bait. Real purpose. Real change.This is how we pass down the right thingsβ€”one rod at a time.πŸ“Έ Photos from Today:– Group shot with all the young anglers and their gear– Kids on the boat mid-fight– Prize table with Zebco rods and plaques– Proud catchesβ€”bass, panfish, pike– Dockside learning and family coaching– Volunteers and the NWMI crew doing what they do bestHashtags:#bucsbait #NWMI #NWMIKidsFishing #FishingWithPurpose #livebait #takeakidfishing #CatchMemories #PassTheRod #YouthFishingMatters See MoreSee Less

NWMI Kids Fishing Day 2025 – Full Recap
β€œThe purpose of life is a life of purpose.” Today, that purpose was loud and clear.
I had the honor of donating the bait for the NWMI Kids Fishing Tournament this morningβ€”and let me tell you, it was powerful. Not just because of the fish caught, but because of the meaning behind each cast. a gathering of young hearts, curious minds, and wide-eyed joy. We weren’t just teaching fishing. We were planting seeds.
We weren’t just teaching kids how to fish. We were teaching them how to be patient. How to stay focused. How to believe in themselves.
Some caught their very first fish. Others reeled in their personal best. A few walked away with prizes. But every single one of them left with something they’ll carry for life.
This wasnt just an event. It was a ripple of something much bigger.
From the moment the rods hit the water, you could feel itβ€”kids learning not only how to cast a line, but how to slow down, stay patient, and connect with the world around them. Some made their first catch ever. Others walked away with full baskets and great memories. But every child left with something far more important: belief in themselves.
πŸ† Highlights That Hit Home:
πŸ“ A girl holding a bluegill on a pink Zebco, beaming like she just won the Bassmaster Classic.
πŸ“ A girl holding a new fishing rod with her dad and was all smiles
πŸ“ One young angler with a full lineup of panfish, proudly taking home 1st place.
πŸ“ Big bass, caught from the dock by a quiet kid who lit up when the fight hit.
πŸ“ Families gathered around the station, having a great time bonding with nature and with the kids.
πŸ“ Tackle boxes handed out. Rods awarded. Respect earned.
πŸ™ Thank you to…
- The NWMI Fishing Club for organizing a day that truly mattered.
- The volunteers who showed up early, stayed late, and coached every step.
- The parents who made the time to get their kids outside and engaged.
- And most of allβ€”the kids. Y’all showed up ready, eager, and focused. You’re the reason I do this.
Every kid walked away with a prize… and a new passion.
This is what #bucsbait stands for.
Real bait. Real purpose. Real change.
This is how we pass down the right thingsβ€”one rod at a time.
πŸ“Έ Photos from Today:
- Group shot with all the young anglers and their gear
- Kids on the boat mid-fight
- Prize table with Zebco rods and plaques
- Proud catchesβ€”bass, panfish, pike
- Dockside learning and family coaching
- Volunteers and the NWMI crew doing what they do best
Hashtags:
#bucsbait #NWMI #NWMIKidsFishing #FishingWithPurpose #livebait #takeakidfishing #CatchMemories #PassTheRod #YouthFishingMattersImage attachmentImage attachment+Image attachment

Michigan Fishing Report – July 5–11, 2025

Presented by Buc’s Aqua Farms Inc. β€’ www.bucsfishingreport.com🌿 OverviewHot days and cool nights pushed thermoclines deeper across the state. Great Lakes trolling remained productive, with early-morning flashers still dominating. Inland waters produced solid panfish and bass action around vegetation. Look for fish to hold tight to structure with water temps warming into the 70s.πŸ”₯ Top 5 Bites – July 5–111. Saginaw Bay – Walleye limits trolling 16–22 ft east of Sparkplug2. Fletcher Pond – Crappie and bass aggressive in shallow brush3. Higgins Lake – Lakers deep at 90–100 ft on flashers4. Glen Lake – Trout holding deep; surface bass bite at dusk5. Otsego Lake – Walleye early, pike chasing spinners near weed edgesNorthern Mid Michigan🎯 Tactics & ConditionsSturgeon River: Brown trout on spinners; dry fly action near coverOtsego Lake: Walleye on bottom bouncers early; pike active near drop-offsFletcher Pond: Crappie in 4–8 ft near brush; topwater bass at duskTraverse City β†’ Mackinaw City🎯 Tactics & ConditionsLake Charlevoix: Smallmouth on jerkbaits; early walleye bite in 18–22 ftGlen Lake: Trout deeper than 100 ft; dusk bass on topwaterDuck Lake: Bluegill shallow under docks; bass cruising shallowsMid Michigan🎯 Tactics & ConditionsHoughton Lake: Walleye in 10–14 ft on spinner harnesses; pike chasing cranksHiggins Lake: Lake trout deep at 90 ft; perch on wigglersLake Missaukee: Bass tight to docks; bluegill on worms near weedlinesNortheast Michigan🎯 Tactics & ConditionsBlack Lake: Pike on spinnerbaits in cabbage; walleye at dawnGrand Lake: Smallmouth active on rocky points; jigs producingLong Lake: Topwater action for smallmouth; trolled cranks for walleyeSaginaw Bay🎯 Tactics & ConditionsBay Area: Walleye steady in 16–22 ft; crawler harnesses hotEvenings: Drum and catfish near the river mouths after dark🌊 Lake Michigan Shoreline – Port-by-Port ReportLelandSpecies: Chinook, lake troutDepths: 70–100 ft for salmon, 140–160 ft for lakersTactics: Early morning bite on flasher/fly combos; mag spoons laterHot Zone: Whaleback and NW trollFrankfortSpecies: Coho, steelheadDepths: 60–100 ftTactics: Orange spoons and dipsey divers producing; 4-color leadcore for steelheadHot Zone: Betsie drop, shelf edgesOnekamaSpecies: ChinookDepths: 100–120 ftTactics: Troll meat rigs low and fast; glow paddles best before sunriseHot Zone: Outside the BarrelManisteeSpecies: Lake troutDepths: 150–170 ft on bottomTactics: Spin-n-Glos behind paddles near thermoclineHot Zone: Straight out from harborLudingtonSpecies: Chinook, cohoDepths: 80–110 ftTactics: Meat rigs early, spoons later; dipsy setups at 60 ftHot Zone: The Trench firing again this weekWhitehallSpecies: SteelheadDepths: 40–70 ftTactics: Bright spoons in top 30 ft; 3-color leadcore bestHot Zone: Pier headlines and southern trollMuskegonSpecies: Chinook, lake troutDepths: 80–130 ftTactics: Glow paddles and meat combos; flasher/fly mid-depthHot Zone: North shelf line edgesGrand HavenSpecies: Lake troutDepths: Bottom at 160 ftTactics: Spin Doctors and cut bait; chrome paddles running hotHot Zone: Sandbar contour west of pier πŸ“ Complete List of Lakes & Rivers Covered – July 5–11, 2025β€’ Black Lakeβ€’ Duck Lakeβ€’ Fletcher Pondβ€’ Frankfortβ€’ Glen Lakeβ€’ Grand Havenβ€’ Grand Lakeβ€’ Higgins Lakeβ€’ Houghton Lakeβ€’ Lake Charlevoixβ€’ Lake Missaukeeβ€’ Lelandβ€’ Long Lakeβ€’ Ludingtonβ€’ Manisteeβ€’ Muskegonβ€’ Onekamaβ€’ Otsego Lakeβ€’ Saginaw Bayβ€’ Sturgeon Riverβ€’ Whitehall πŸ“Έ Photos of the WeekSaginaw Bay Walleye SuccessProud anglers holding up their catch after a morning limitβ€”perfect display of the Bay’s hot walleye bite. Another Saginaw Bay TrophySharp-eyed angler lands a hefty walleye, showcasing the classic β€œtrophy shot” local fishers Duck Lake Bluegill SlabYoung angler nets a beautiful bluegill from Duck Lakeβ€”a great example of the ultralight action we reported. Saginaw Bay Spring Limit OutAnother shot of a full limit haul, reinforcing Saginaw Bay’s exceptional walleye bite this week. See MoreSee Less

Michigan Fishing Report – July 5–11, 2025
Presented by Buc’s Aqua Farms Inc. β€’ www.bucsfishingreport.com
🌿 Overview
Hot days and cool nights pushed thermoclines deeper across the state. Great Lakes trolling remained productive, with early-morning flashers still dominating. Inland waters produced solid panfish and bass action around vegetation. Look for fish to hold tight to structure with water temps warming into the 70s.
πŸ”₯ Top 5 Bites – July 5–11
1. Saginaw Bay – Walleye limits trolling 16–22 ft east of Sparkplug
2. Fletcher Pond – Crappie and bass aggressive in shallow brush
3. Higgins Lake – Lakers deep at 90–100 ft on flashers
4. Glen Lake – Trout holding deep; surface bass bite at dusk
5. Otsego Lake – Walleye early, pike chasing spinners near weed edges
Northern Mid Michigan
🎯 Tactics & Conditions
Sturgeon River: Brown trout on spinners; dry fly action near cover
Otsego Lake: Walleye on bottom bouncers early; pike active near drop-offs
Fletcher Pond: Crappie in 4–8 ft near brush; topwater bass at dusk
Traverse City β†’ Mackinaw City
🎯 Tactics & Conditions
Lake Charlevoix: Smallmouth on jerkbaits; early walleye bite in 18–22 ft
Glen Lake: Trout deeper than 100 ft; dusk bass on topwater
Duck Lake: Bluegill shallow under docks; bass cruising shallows
Mid Michigan
🎯 Tactics & Conditions
Houghton Lake: Walleye in 10–14 ft on spinner harnesses; pike chasing cranks
Higgins Lake: Lake trout deep at 90 ft; perch on wigglers
Lake Missaukee: Bass tight to docks; bluegill on worms near weedlines
Northeast Michigan
🎯 Tactics & Conditions
Black Lake: Pike on spinnerbaits in cabbage; walleye at dawn
Grand Lake: Smallmouth active on rocky points; jigs producing
Long Lake: Topwater action for smallmouth; trolled cranks for walleye
Saginaw Bay
🎯 Tactics & Conditions
Bay Area: Walleye steady in 16–22 ft; crawler harnesses hot
Evenings: Drum and catfish near the river mouths after dark
🌊 Lake Michigan Shoreline – Port-by-Port Report
Leland
Species: Chinook, lake trout
Depths: 70–100 ft for salmon, 140–160 ft for lakers
Tactics: Early morning bite on flasher/fly combos; mag spoons later
Hot Zone: Whaleback and NW troll
Frankfort
Species: Coho, steelhead
Depths: 60–100 ft
Tactics: Orange spoons and dipsey divers producing; 4-color leadcore for steelhead
Hot Zone: Betsie drop, shelf edges
Onekama
Species: Chinook
Depths: 100–120 ft
Tactics: Troll meat rigs low and fast; glow paddles best before sunrise
Hot Zone: Outside the Barrel
Manistee
Species: Lake trout
Depths: 150–170 ft on bottom
Tactics: Spin-n-Glos behind paddles near thermocline
Hot Zone: Straight out from harbor
Ludington
Species: Chinook, coho
Depths: 80–110 ft
Tactics: Meat rigs early, spoons later; dipsy setups at 60 ft
Hot Zone: The Trench firing again this week
Whitehall
Species: Steelhead
Depths: 40–70 ft
Tactics: Bright spoons in top 30 ft; 3-color leadcore best
Hot Zone: Pier headlines and southern troll
Muskegon
Species: Chinook, lake trout
Depths: 80–130 ft
Tactics: Glow paddles and meat combos; flasher/fly mid-depth
Hot Zone: North shelf line edges
Grand Haven
Species: Lake trout
Depths: Bottom at 160 ft
Tactics: Spin Doctors and cut bait; chrome paddles running hot
Hot Zone: Sandbar contour west of pier
πŸ“ Complete List of Lakes & Rivers Covered – July 5–11, 2025
β€’ Black Lake
β€’ Duck Lake
β€’ Fletcher Pond
β€’ Frankfort
β€’ Glen Lake
β€’ Grand Haven
β€’ Grand Lake
β€’ Higgins Lake
β€’ Houghton Lake
β€’ Lake Charlevoix
β€’ Lake Missaukee
β€’ Leland
β€’ Long Lake
β€’ Ludington
β€’ Manistee
β€’ Muskegon
β€’ Onekama
β€’ Otsego Lake
β€’ Saginaw Bay
β€’ Sturgeon River
β€’ Whitehall
πŸ“Έ Photos of the Week
Saginaw Bay Walleye Success
Proud anglers holding up their catch after a morning limitβ€”perfect display of the Bay’s hot walleye bite.
Another Saginaw Bay Trophy
Sharp-eyed angler lands a hefty walleye, showcasing the classic β€œtrophy shot” local fishers  Duck Lake Bluegill Slab
Young angler nets a beautiful bluegill from Duck Lakeβ€”a great example of the ultralight action we reported.
Saginaw Bay Spring Limit Out
Another shot of a full limit haul, reinforcing Saginaw Bay’s exceptional walleye bite this week.Image attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment