Michigan Fishing Reports

[Rick]

LANSING, MI - The weekly Michigan fishing reports & hunting report from 8/15/13 are gathered by local DNR officials, angler creel surveys, county and state parks staff. They are compiled. There are always current Michigan Fishing Reports and hunting reports as well as outdoor reports in this forum. Enjoy.

For Current Michigan Fishing Reports - Click Here

To visit the Michigan Outdoor Fishing-Hunting Community Forum Click Here.

Fishing seems to be scattered in certain areas and steady in others. Cooler temperatures in many water bodies are pushing fish in.

SOUTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

Lake Erie: Catch rates for perch were slow and steady. Those willing to put in the time could catch a decent number of fish when using minnows. Weeds and algae were making it difficult for those trolling for walleye. Some limit catches were taken in Ohio waters around West Sister Island.

Detroit River: Catch rates for perch were spotty. Anglers have been fishing the Cross-Dike and the south side of Sugar Island.

Lake St. Clair: Continues to produce muskie for those trolling. Bass are still being caught in waters six to 10 feet deep.

Lexington: Anglers are getting a mixed bag of lake trout, coho, Chinook and steelhead in 60 to 100 feet of water. Magnum spoons worked best.

Port Sanilac: Perch fishing was spotty but a few boats did manage to catch some fish in 40 feet. Those heading out deeper caught Chinook, coho, steelhead and lake trout when trolling large spoons.

Harbor Beach: Lake trout were scattered in 80 to 120 feet. Try dodgers with spin-glows and spoons just off the bottom. Steelhead were hitting on small or regular size spoons. Walleye fishing slowed but a few were caught between here and Port Hope in 60 to 90 feet. Crawler harnesses at night worked best. Those using small body baits off the wall early or late caught the occasional walleye. A couple brown trout were caught in 50 feet. Bass are still being caught but perch were slow.

Grindstone City: Those trolling to Lighthouse Park have caught smallmouth bass in 25 to 35 feet and walleye in 35 to 45 feet. Those trolling spin-glows for lake trout also caught a couple walleye in 140 to 160 feet.

Saginaw Bay: For the most part, the walleye have moved far offshore, even beyond the Charity Islands. This is typical for August as the fish head out to deeper water. The baitfish that hatched last spring are now big enough to interest the walleye. With that said, your crawlers and crank baits are competing with millions of shiners and gizzard shad. Most of the walleye anglers from Pinconning to Essexville are making the long trip out to Buoys 1 and 2 as well as four to five miles past them. Walleye have been caught northeast of the Black Hole in 22 feet. No perch activity to report. Boat anglers from Quanicassee, Sebewaing and Bay Port are heading across the Bar to fish deeper water along the east side of the shipping channel or going out to and past Buoys 1 and 2. Catch rates were not great with only one to four fish per boat. The walleye off Caseville and Port Austin have moved to deeper water.

Saginaw River: Is producing some catfish, freshwater drum and smallmouth bass in the lower river near Essexville. The Hot Pond is producing catfish.

SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

St. Joseph: Salmon fishing remains slow as the fish seem to be scattered in waters 80 to 140 feet deep. Perch were still being caught in 36 feet of water. Pier fishing was slow.

St. Joseph River: Has experienced a large run of steelhead during the first couple weeks of August. Lots of fish were distributed throughout the river in Berrien County and some have moved into the cold tributary streams such as the Dowagiac River.

South Haven: Had slow fishing as the fish were scattered here as well. Try trolling in 60 to 140 feet. Start shallow and move out as the sun comes up. Perch are still being caught in 18 to 20 feet. Pier fishing is slow.

Holland: Fish have been caught in 90 to 120 feet of water with 250 or 300 copper with plugs and divers with meat rigs. Hot colors were glow, white, green or yellow. Boat anglers caught a few perch in 30 to 60 feet.

Grand Haven: Boat anglers are fishing between the end of the pier and 120 feet of water. Most are fishing the top 50 feet with meat rigs that glow on divers or plugs. Hot colors were glow, white, green or yellow. Pier and boat anglers managed to catch a few perch. Boats fishing off the north pier were just off the mud line.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Has a good number of steelhead. Fish are being caught on half a crawler, spawn bags, wobble glows, spinners with four to five blades and small blue and glow Cleo’s. A good number of walleye are also in the river. They are hitting on body baits like perch runs or Hurky jerks. Anglers are catching bluegill and crappie up and down the river and in the bayous. Pike are hitting on suckers or half ounce spoons. Panfish have been caught in Millennium Park.

Grand River at Lansing: Continues to produce bass and channel cats for those using live bait. Try the backwaters for bluegill. Anglers might find a walleye or two near the Moore’s Park Dam.

Reeds Lake: Is producing some panfish. Bluegills and crappie were hitting on minnows, leaf worms and wax worms. Perch were caught by those using perch rigs on the bottom.

Muskegon River: Water levels were low and clear. Anglers are still taking good numbers of smallmouth bass.

Whitehall: Is producing trout and salmon as shallow as 60 to 80 feet or as deep as 200 feet or more. Most are using spoons in red, orange or glow. Pier fishing was slow but some nice bluegills were caught in the channel by those using live bait.

White Lake: Anglers have caught a good number of walleye and pike when trolling crawler harnesses in 20 feet.

NORTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

Rogers City: Anglers are getting a few Chinook, steelhead or lake trout but they are working to get them. Try straight out from the harbor, south towards Swan Bay and Adams Point or north and west near the State Park and Forty Mile Point. Most are fishing halfway down in waters 40 to 150 feet deep with spoons, plugs and flashers with squid or flies. Good colors were blue and silver, orange and silver, orange and green, black and white, purple, green or chartreuse.

Presque Isle: The better fishing was straight out from the red can and north between the two lighthouses in 45 to 130 feet of water.

Rockport: Walleye were caught however anglers need to move around to find them. Most are using crank baits but crawler harnesses may also be a good choice. The fish are scattered throughout the water column. Salmon were caught 40 to 70 feet down in 100 to 200 feet. Spoons worked best.

Alpena: Most of the walleye were caught both north and south of the bay. The fish are scattered throughout the water column. Lake trout were caught out near the Humps. Anglers are trolling deep with spin-glows behind flashers.

Thunder Bay River: Gave up a few smallmouth bass and rock bass.

Harrisville: Few anglers have been out. A couple Chinook were caught by those casting spoons in the harbor. This seems a bit early but the cool water temperatures may jump start the pier fishing. Walleye seem to be moving in from deeper water. More boats are fishing north of the harbor and near the Black River. Late night was best for walleye in 25 to 100 feet when using spoons, crawler harnesses and body baits.

Oscoda: Catch rates were slow as the fish were scattered.

Au Sable River: Steelhead should be making their way in especially with the cooler water temperatures. Catfish have been caught in good numbers in the late evening. Crawlers and minnows worked best. Walleye catches were slim and most of the fish were on the small side. A good number of smallmouth bass are in the river.

Higgins Lake: Those trolling spoons, body baits, cowbells and rapalas continue to catch lake trout. Those jigging Swedish pimples, sand kickers and small spoons just off the bottom have also caught fish. Perch anglers are still taking some fish around Treasure Island and the Sunken Island. Rock bass are everywhere.

Houghton Lake: Catch rates were slow but a few walleye were caught. Cooler water temperatures have the bluegill in six to eight feet.

Tawas: Those trolling are heading out past Buoy #2 to waters 35 to 45 feet deep. Some are fishing around Tawas Point and up near Au Sable Point in 80 feet. Walleye were suspended 25 to 50 feet down. In Tawas Bay, a few walleye were caught on crawler harnesses in 20 to 25 feet off Jerry’s Marina.

Au Gres: Still has a good number of walleye anglers. A few limit catches were taken by the die-hards. Some are heading straight out from the mouth of the river to waters 25 to 35 feet deep but catch rates were slow. Others are traveling anywhere between two and nine miles south of Pointe Au Gres. A few were perch fishing in 35 to 40 feet off the hotel but most of the fish caught were small.

Au Gres River: Is producing a good number of catfish and some freshwater drum.

NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Harbor Springs: Most of the boat anglers were fishing around Harbor Point in 180 to 200 feet of water. The salmon were up higher in 60 to 80 feet but the lake trout were deeper at 100 to 120 feet. Spoons were the ticket.

Petoskey: Few fish were seen or caught off the breakwall, the D-Pier, or at the Bobber Hole. A couple salmon were caught between the pier and the water treatment plant. Salmon and lake trout were caught 90 feet down in 120 feet of water with spoons, flashers and flies. One angler managed to land a 27 pound salmon.

Bear River: Chinook and steelhead can be found up near the dam however the big push of fish has not yet occurred. The fish being caught are the typical early ones that come in every year.

Charlevoix: Boat anglers are getting a few salmon but catch rates were still low. The fish caught were over 20 pounds and taken 80 to 100 feet down in 90 to 120 feet between North and South Point. Fish were caught on spoons without dodgers, dipseys and green flies. Salmon, lake trout and cisco were caught off Fisherman’s Island. Lake trout were 70 to 85 feet down in 120 feet and cisco were 80 feet down. Pier anglers caught rock bass and sub-legal smallmouth bass on crawlers, minnows and leeches.

Traverse City: Chinook have been caught in the East Bay. Most were running about 80 feet down, but the fish were scattered. Some were caught just 50 feet down. Numbers are low, but the salmon are very good size, up to 30 pounds. Lake trout and the occasional whitefish were caught. Smallmouth bass fishing was decent in 40 to 50 feet. Try drop-shotting with plastic baits. In the West Bay, salmon were caught by those trolling along the west shore. Try spoons or a Hoochie Mama 50 to 90 feet down in 90 to 200 feet of water. A few lake trout were caught. Those looking for smallmouth bass will want to fish the drop-off in 30 to 50 feet.

Elk River: Anglers have caught smallmouth bass and rock bass on plastics, crawlers and leeches. There has been rumor of salmon or steelhead being spotted near the power dam.

Boardman River: Fishing was slow with only a few smallmouth bass or rock bass taken. A couple steelhead and salmon were in the river but they will not stay long with the warmer temperatures.

Frankfort: Has good fishing with several Chinook salmon weighing in between 22 and 30 pounds. Anglers are heading straight west of the lighthouse to waters 180 to 220 feet and then trolling 55 to 110 feet down while heading north. Fish were caught on splatter back plugs, meat rigs, UV ladder back spoons in green or blue and flies. Coho and steelhead were also caught. Early morning is best.

Onekama: Is producing some fish. Anglers are trolling 60 to 90 feet down in 180 to 220 feet with J-plugs. Those trolling north to the “Barrel” reported lots of baitfish right along with trout and salmon in 60 to 70 feet.

Portage Lake: Those looking for bass and panfish will want to look for an area where the fish are moving in and out of the shallows. Those moving around seem to catch more fish.

Lake Cadillac: Is producing some bluegills along the weed beds. Those fishing near the high school did well for pike and bass. Crappie were a bit scattered but some have taken limit catches.

Lake Mitchell: Has good pike fishing. Try spoons or live bait. Panfish are being caught along the weed beds.

Manistee: Boat anglers found trout and salmon 40 to 90 feet down in 60 to 220 feet of water with glow spoons, plugs or meat rigs. Hot colors were green, red or purple.

Manistee River: Continues to provide very good smallmouth bass fishing. A light number of salmon were reported in the lower river.

Ludington: Trout and salmon were caught anywhere from 60 to 400 feet of water. Early morning was best. Coho and steelhead were taken on glow spoons, plugs or meat rigs. Good colors were green and orange, black and white or red. Freshwater drum were caught but pier fishing is slow.

Pere Marquette River: Has a light run of salmon moving into the lower river, but no big numbers yet as it is still a bit early. Anglers continue to catch a fair to good number of brown trout when casting small spoons or flies.

Pentwater: Fishing was good as salmon and trout moved in closer to shore. Some caught fish in 60 to 80 feet while others did well in 200 feet or more when trolling 50 to 70 feet down with red, orange and glow spoons. Pier fishing was slow.

UPPER PENINSULA

Keweenaw Bay: Catch rates were hit-or-miss but anglers did manage to catch Chinook, coho and lake trout. Fish were caught between Sand Point and the red rocks when using spoons 25 to 75 feet down in 30 to 80 feet. Trolling speeds were between 1.2 and 2.6 mph. Those jigging for lake trout did best out from the pine tree on Pequaming Point. Boats trolling near the Lighthouse, Farmers, Newton’s and the Big Reef took a fair number of coho and lake trout 25 to 70 feet down in 30 to 90 feet. Traverse Bay anglers are jigging for lake trout in 170 to 220 feet off Gay Point and Big Louie’s Point or trolling 60 to 145 feet down in 80 to 150 feet. Fish were also caught near Five Mile and Six Mile Reef.

Marquette: Surface water temperatures are averaging 60 degrees. Most anglers are targeting lake trout because few salmon were caught. They are heading north towards Presque Isle and the Clay Banks and using spoons or flies tipped with cut bait. Lake trout were averaging four pounds but a few were up to 12 pounds. A large fish weighing in at 34 pounds was caught last week! Some lake trout were caught out near Stannard Rock.

Menominee: Those heading out to the Whalesback and Green Island for salmon have not had much luck. Many were switching to walleye fishing. They are trolling north and south along the first drop off.

Menominee River: Those trolling crawlers or rapalas have caught smallmouth bass, walleye, pike, catfish and freshwater drum.

Cedar River: Anglers caught some nice smallmouth bass right along with the small ones when drifting crawlers, artificial shad or crayfish.

Little Bay De Noc: Walleye fishing was slow. Anglers were trolling or drifting crawler harnesses or rapalas in 18 to 23 feet of water near the mouth of the Escanaba River. When the weather allows, boats were heading south to Round Island, the “Fingers” or the Minneapolis Shoals. Those trolling crank baits in the early morning caught fish in 10 to 18 feet. A few nice perch were taken in 18 to 25 feet off the mouth of the Escanaba River. Perch fishing was fair to good around Butler Island but the fish were smaller. Try minnows or crawlers in six to 23 feet.

Escanaba River: Has had the most consistent walleye fishing. Anglers are trolling or drifting crawler harnesses or rapalas.

Big Bay De Noc: Bass fishing was fair off Ansell’s Point and Garden Bluff. Anglers were fishing six to 28 feet of water with crawlers and minnows. Some were trolling or drifting crank baits, spinners or plastic baits along the weeds. Ogontz had smaller fish. Perch anglers in Fayette reported several nice catches in the harbor when using crawlers along the weeds in eight to 14 feet. Those salmon fishing at Fairport picked up the occasional large fish. Some are fishing out deep but most were trolling spoons 60 feet down in 80 to 120 feet of water along the “Gap”.

Au Train: Those targeting lake trout had poor results as few fish were caught. Those salmon fishing had no luck. Anglers were fishing off the Shelter Bay Flats and just east of Au Train Island in 140 to 180 feet.

Munising: Windy conditions have kept anglers at bay. Surface water temperatures were in the low 60’s. Boat anglers targeting lake trout reported slow catch rates while those fishing for Chinook and coho reported fair catches. Small splake were also caught. Try Murray’s Bay or Trout Bay in 100 feet of water or less. There was a mixed catch of bass, pike and perch in the bay and around Grand Island. Those still-fishing off the pier for splake had poor results.

Grand Marais: Also had windy conditions. Boat anglers targeting lake trout were fishing five to seven miles north in the shipping channel in 150 to 250 feet of water. The fish range two to five pounds. Those targeting coho were fishing east and west of the bay, about halfway down in 50 to 60 feet. Pier anglers targeting whitefish reported very slow catch rates and small fish. Try a single egg in the early morning.

St. Mary’s River: Had good walleye fishing in the shipping channel between the north end of Lime Island and the old Bell Buoy. Most are using crawler harnesses with bottom bouncers. Gold beads and gold spinner blades worked best. Walleye were caught across from the Neebish Island Ferry Dock. Try minnows or small worms just off the weed beds in eight to 12 feet.

DeTour: Anglers are catching Chinook, Atlantic salmon and lake trout between Frying Pan Island, the lighthouse and the #2 red can near Drummond Island. Good colors were white, green or any other color with some white on it.

Drummond Island: Yellow perch are good outside Harbor Island in eight to 10 feet. Smallmouth bass have been caught near Peck Island. Most are trolling crawler harnesses in 12 to 14 feet.

Cedarville and Hessel: Catch rates for perch picked up around Haven Island in eight to 12 feet. Some nice catches were reported from the marina dock, the east end of Hessel Bay, Musky Bay, the Middle Entrance and Moscoe Channel. Good pike action in Hessel Bay, Snows Channel, the west end of Musky Bay and Government Bay. Salmon were caught in Yacht Entrance in 70 feet.

St. Ignace: Boat anglers are fishing from the city launch to the flats and over to the Coast Guard Station. Chinook salmon were caught on spoons in white with multi-color strips, blue and white, black and white or green.

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[Rick]

LANSING, MI - The weekly Michigan fishing reports & hunting report from 8/22/13 are gathered by local DNR officials, angler creel surveys, county and state parks staff. They are compiled. There are always current Michigan Fishing Reports and hunting reports as well as outdoor reports in this forum. Enjoy.

For Current Michigan Fishing Reports - Click Here

To visit the Michigan Outdoor Fishing-Hunting Community Forum Click Here.

SOUTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

Lake Erie: Those willing to put in the time have caught a decent number of yellow perch in 18 to 20 feet of water near the River Raisin Channel and the E-Buoy. White perch, white bass and freshwater drum were also caught. Most of the walleye were caught in Ohio waters.

Huron River: Is producing smaller white bass, smallmouth bass and panfish.

Detroit River: Those looking for perch are fishing near the Cross-Dike or the south end of Sugar Island. Not many but the occasional walleye was caught.

Lake St. Clair: Had clear water conditions. Smallmouth bass remain scattered in the deeper waters.

St. Clair River: Smallmouth bass are showing up in all three channels. Walleye fishing was slow but some anglers did manage to find a few keepers in the shipping channel. Perch fishing also picked up.

Lexington: Is still producing a mixed bag of Chinook, steelhead, lake trout and the odd walleye in 100 to 135 feet. Most fish were caught between 80 feet down and the bottom. Pier fishing was slow.

Harbor Beach: Fishing started to pick up with some lake trout taken in 120 to 140 feet. Try dodgers or cowbells with spin-glows, peanuts or spoons just off the bottom. Salmon and steelhead were hitting on small or regular spoons in 90 to 120 feet. A few walleye were caught between here and Port Hope. Try 60 to 90 feet with small body baits and spoons or crawler harnesses. Bass are still hitting on spoons or body baits. Perch fishing was slow.

Grindstone City: Was slow with only a couple walleye caught.

Port Austin: Boat anglers trolling around the lighthouse caught smallmouth bass in 12 to 15 feet. Those heading out to waters 160 to 190 feet deep caught Chinook, lake trout and even walleye. The thermocline started about 110 feet down. Lake trout were within 10 feet of the bottom.

Saginaw Bay: Walleye fishing is slow all over, and the perch have not really started yet. A few walleye were caught off Gambill’s Marina near Pinconning and off the mouth of the Kawkawlin River in 14 feet or west of Buoys 1 & 2 in 25 feet. A couple perch were taken near the Red Spark Plug (Buoys 11 & 12) but no big numbers yet. Perch fishing will improve as the cooler weather moves in. Walleye anglers on the east side had a slow week. Those trolling off Quanicassee, Sebewaing and Bay Port were lucky to get one fish per angler.

Shiawassee River: Is producing the occasional walleye at the Corunna Dam and the spillway off Main Street in Owosso. Panfish and smallmouth bass were also caught. Most are using shiners or crawlers. Catfish numbers were down however the fish were bigger.

SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

St. Joseph: Had good perch fishing north of the piers in 35 feet. Salmon fishing was slow as the fish were scattered. A few were caught about 60 feet down in waters up to and beyond 140 feet deep. Pier fishing was slow.

St. Joseph River: Warmer weather has slowed the steelhead bite. Target the deeper holes.

Branch County: Near limit catches of panfish were taken from Morrison Lake.

South Haven: Perch were caught north or south of the pier in waters 20 to 40 feet deep. Those trolling for salmon caught Chinook and coho along with the occasional steelhead in 100 feet. Pier fishing was slow.

Holland: Salmon were hitting 40 to 70 feet down in 50 to 170 feet of water. Use 5 color lead and 150 coppers with bright orange or yellow spoons and green spinnies with green flies out deeper. Pier anglers caught a couple perch and steelhead. Try live bait such as minnows for the perch. For steelhead, go with shrimp under a bobber. Anglers were perch fishing off the State Park.

Grand Haven: Perch are still being caught of both piers and just off the mud line in Lake Michigan. Minnows worked well. Boats are finding fish in 50 to 150 feet with downriggers set about halfway down. Most are using orange and yellow spoons up high or green spinnies with green flies out deep.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Steelhead were caught up near the 6th Street Dam in the early morning. With the warm temperatures, target the deeper holes. Bluegill and crappie fishing were fair to good. Catfish slowed but some big flatheads were taken on live bait, cut bait or crawlers.

Grand River at Lansing: Continues to produce bass and channel cats for those using live bait. A few limits of panfish were reported. Try the backwaters for bluegill. Anglers might find a walleye or two near the Moore’s Park Dam.

Clinton County: The inland lakes had mostly small bluegills.

Muskegon River: Water levels continue to be low and clear. This may be good for bass fishing but not good for salmon and steelhead. Fish the weed beds for bass but try the deeper holes for trout.

Whitehall: Catch rates slowed. Many were fishing around Minor Park but some traveled as far as Stoney Creek. The water near shore is very warm but seemed to be cooler near Stoney Creek. The bite was better in the early morning with fish caught on anything that glows before daylight. Try 50 to 70 feet down in 150 feet of water with green flashers and blue flies. Pearl J-plugs on lead core worked well. Pier anglers caught freshwater drum.

NORTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

Rockport: Has no set pattern for catching fish at this time. The thermocline is very deep or is not found at all in depths less than 100 feet. Fish are scattered and are difficult to target. Lake trout can still be found near bottom when fishing spoons. Some caught the occasional Chinook or Atlantic salmon. A few walleye were found and actually caught out in waters 120 feet or deeper.

Long Lake: In Alpena County was producing good numbers of bass and pike.

Alpena: Had few anglers fishing Thunder Bay because the walleye have moved out to deeper water. Some may still find the occasional walleye, bass or catfish.

Thunder Bay River: Is producing the occasional rock bass, under-sized smallmouth bass, freshwater drum or channel catfish.

Harrisville: Catch rates were slow as the fish are scattered and out deep. Steelhead should start to show up closer to shore. Try up near the surface in 50 to 70 feet. For trout and salmon, lead core and planer boards have worked best this year. Spoons with dodgers, wobble glows and body baits have caught fish but don’t be afraid to experiment with other bait combinations.

Oscoda: A few salmon were showing up around the pier. Those fishing late night with glow spoons did catch a couple fish.

Au Sable River: A few walleye were caught but no big numbers. The water is too warm for trout and salmon.

Gladwin County: The inland lakes were producing limit catches of bass and panfish but anglers are working hard to get them.

Clare County: The inland lakes are producing some nice bass.

Tawas: Walleye anglers trolling out around Tawas Point and north to Au Sable Point found success in 50 to 80 feet. Fish were also caught in 20 to 50 feet off Alabaster and in 20 to 25 feet along the weed beds off Jerry’s Marina. Pier anglers caught walleye, large and smallmouth bass, rock bass and small perch.

Au Gres: Walleye fishing slowed a great deal but those trolling did pick up the occasional 10 or 11 inch perch.

NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Harbor Springs: Boat anglers were focusing their effort between Harbor Point and Five Mile Point. Try 65 to 70 feet down in 180 to 190 feet for salmon or 100 feet down for lake trout.

Petoskey: Is producing a light number of salmon for those trolling between the hospital and the Water Treatment Plant. Anglers are using spoons and flies. Green was the hot color. Meat rigs with cut bait caught fish. The occasional lake trout was also caught. Pier anglers caught smallmouth bass and rock bass.

Bear River: Water levels were low. Very few fish were seen jumping at the dam but some anglers were still trying for a steelhead or coho when still-fishing with spawn, flies, or rubber eggs. Those using crawlers at the dam caught a couple small brown trout and one nice brook trout.

Charlevoix: Salmon are starting to show up in greater numbers but some boat anglers are still getting skunked. Many of the Chinook were more than 20 pounds. Try 50 to 80 feet down in 100 to 230 feet with spoons, dipseys, flies, squid and dodgers or meat rigs. Pier anglers are still catching smaller bass on leeches, crawlers or minnows.

Traverse City: The East Bay is producing Chinook about 80 to 100 feet down. The bite was slow but those using meat rigs and flies seem to do best. Don’t rule out the occasional lake trout or whitefish. Smallmouth bass were deep in 20 to 50 feet. In the West Bay, salmon were caught 80 feet down in waters 100 to 150 feet deep. Most are running spoons, flies, and meat rigs. Those jigging in 100 to 150 feet caught whitefish and lake trout.

Elk River: Anglers caught panfish and sub-legal smallmouth bass on live baits.

Boardman River: A couple salmon and steelhead were spotted near the Union Street Dam however they will not be there long with the warmer temperatures.

Frankfort: Anglers caught a good number of salmon between the Herring Hole and Platte Bay. Several large Chinook were caught right along with coho ranging 10 pounds or more. They are trolling plugs 40 to 80 feet down in 100 to 180 feet. Fish were caught on magnum spoons 30 to 100 feet down in 200 to 240 feet. Steelhead were up near the surface. West Platte Bay has been very good for coho. Anglers are using high lines or boards. Fish were caught just in front of the piers when using blue, pearl or chartreuse plugs or spoons that glow. Pier anglers casting blue and glow wobblers or Cleo’s caught a mix of Chinook, coho and brown trout.

Betsie River: Has a few salmon and steelhead but no big numbers, it is too warm.

Onekama: Those fishing the “Barrel” have done well for lake trout and the occasional Chinook or coho salmon. Those heading north to waters between 150 and 200 feet and trolling 40 to 80 feet down had some luck when they found bait fish. Early morning was best.

Portage Lake: Had good bluegill fishing along the weed beds in 12 to 18 feet. A few nice perch were also caught. Water temperatures were a bit cool in the early morning but anglers will want to head out to deeper water as the sun comes up.

Lake Cadillac: Is producing crappie, bluegills and bass. Walleye fishing was hit-or-miss. Some are trolling crawler harnesses or crank baits while others are still-fishing with a leech and slip bobber. Crappie were caught on the east end in the early morning.

Lake Mitchell: Is producing some nice bluegills in eight to 12 feet of water. Try crickets, leaf worms, wax worms or butter worms.

Manistee: Fishing was slow but some large salmon more than 25 pounds have been caught ion glow spoons or plugs in the early morning. Salmon and steelhead were also caught 40 to 90 feet down in 80 to 200 feet. Try green flies and meat rigs as well as orange or green spoons. Pier anglers caught a couple salmon on spoons.

Manistee River: Was producing a decent number of summer steelhead up near Tippy Dam but warmer temperatures this week will once again slow catch rates.

Manistee Lake: Those trolling did catch some salmon however south winds this week will slow catch rates.

Ludington: The fish are scattered. Salmon can be found anywhere from 45 to 80 feet down in 50 to 300 feet. Try glow spoons and plugs or red and green meat rigs. Pier anglers caught the occasional salmon or freshwater drum when casting spoons.

Pere Marquette River: Has salmon but no big numbers yet.

Pentwater: Anglers caught salmon close to port. Some were taken 50 to 70 feet down in 80 to 90 feet or deeper in 150 to 180 feet. They are using green flashers and blue flies. Pier anglers were trying but few fish were caught. Smallmouth bass were hitting on live bait in the channel.

UPPER PENINSULA

Keweenaw Bay: The bite was hit-or-miss but trout and salmon were caught by those trolling from Sand Point to the red rocks and off Pequaming Point. Try spoons 25 to 75 feet down in 30 to 80 feet. Those jigging caught lake trout in 230 feet off Pequaming Point. From the South Portage Entry, anglers caught Chinook, coho and lake trout when trolling near the Lighthouse, the reefs, the red rocks and the Mud Banks. Fewer fish were caught from Traverse Bay.

Marquette: Produced a few limit catches of lake trout. Average size was six pounds but some were 12 to 15 pounds. They are fishing at various depths in 110 to 220 feet of water between the white rocks and Granite Island. Try spoons and cut bait. A few coho were caught but no Chinook. Shore anglers fishing near the mouth of the Chocolay River had poor results. Stannard Rock had good lake trout action for those jigging or casting spoons.

Menominee: Catch rates for salmon were very slow around Washington Island, Rock Island and Chambers Island. Walleye anglers are picking up a few fish especially at night. Try 20 to 30 feet when trolling north or south of the river. Fishing in Green Bay was slow.

Menominee River: Is producing walleye in the evening for those trolling crawler harnesses or stick baits. Smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie and perch were caught.

Cedar River: Is still producing smallmouth bass for those drifting crawlers or casting stick baits.

Little Bay De Noc: Walleye anglers were targeting the Second Reef off Kipling, and the “Black Bottom” in 14 to 23 feet of water. They are using crawlers or minnows. Perch fishing was fair to good off the mouth of the Escanaba River and near Kipling in 22 to 29 feet.

Big Bay De Noc: A couple anglers were targeting walleye down near Round Island. Perch fishing was fair in 18 feet off Ansell’s Point. In Fayette Harbor, perch were taken on minnows and crawlers in eight to 14 feet. Smallmouth bass fishing was fair in Kate’s Bay, off Ansell’s Point and near the Bluff in eight to 21 feet. Try minnows, crank baits or plastics. Catch rates for salmon improved off Fairport. Try spoons 35 to 65 feet down in 80 to 130 feet.

Au Train: Catch rates were slow but those willing to put in the time did catch a few east of Au Train Island and near Shelter Bay when fishing in 100 to 150 feet. Those fishing in deeper water out near the shipping channel and Wood Island had poor results. Surface water temperatures were in the low 60’s near shore and upper 50’s out deeper.

Munising: Boats targeting lake trout and salmon had fair results in Trout Bay and Murray’s Bay in 100 feet of water or less. Those fishing the Big Reef reported good catches including several large fish coming in at 20 pounds. Pier fishing was light as catch rates were poor.

Grand Marais: The majority of lake trout anglers are fishing in 100 to 250 feet of water in the shipping channel. Fish between three and 10 pounds were caught off the Southwest Bank. Those targeting coho did well east and west of the bay. Try halfway down in 50 to 60 feet. Shore anglers caught pike near the boat launch.

St. Mary’s River: Out from Raber Bay, walleye have been caught at the Canadian Rock Pile when jigging orange and brown twister tails in six to 10 feet. Early morning was best.

DeTour: Anglers continue to fish from Frying Pan Island to the #3 Green Can and to the #2 Red can near Drummond Island. They caught Chinook, lake trout and steelhead. Hot colors were watermelon, purple, green or any color with white on it.

Drummond Island: Had a few reports of yellow perch were coming from the red buoy on the south end of Grape Island. They are drifting minnows in eight to 12 feet in the early morning. Walleye fishing slowed however a few fish were taken on crawler harnesses and bottom bouncers in 12 to 14 feet on the northwest side of Peck Island.

Cedarville and Hessel: Perch anglers did well off the Hessel Pier and the north end of the Snows Channel when using minnows or crawlers in eight to 10 feet. Musky Bay, Middle Entrance and the Moscoe Channel are also producing good numbers of perch. Pike are there too for those still-fishing with chubs. Government Bay had excellent pike fishing in 10 to 16 feet. Good salmon fishing off Hessel in 70 feet or more.

St. Ignace: Boats are still heading from the city launch to the flats and over to the Coast Guard Station and water treatment plant. Trout and salmon were caught around Bois Blanc Island, Round Island and the backside of Mackinac Island.

[Rick]

LANSING, MI - The weekly Michigan fishing reports & hunting report from 8/29/13 are gathered by local DNR officials, angler creel surveys, county and state parks staff. They are compiled. There are always current Michigan Fishing Reports and hunting reports as well as outdoor reports in this forum. Enjoy.

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SOUTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

Lake Erie: A few continue to fish for walleye but the majority are now perch fishing near the Raisin River Buoys 1 and 2, the humps around the Banana Dike or in 22 to 24 feet off Stony Point. No big numbers yet but those doing the best are moving around. Bass, white perch and freshwater drum have also been caught. Those launching out of Bolles Harbor were fishing in 17 to 20 feet around the E-Buoy and the Dumping Grounds. A good number of smallmouth bass have been caught in eight to 12 feet throughout the lake.

Huron River: Is producing some white bass, smallmouth bass and panfish.

Detroit River: Perch fishing has been spotty. A couple anglers did find fish along the south end of Celeron Island. A few walleye were caught by those jigging.

Lexington: Lake trout, steelhead and Chinook were caught in 105 to 140 feet of water. Salmon and steelhead are up high and the lake trout are at the bottom. Strong winds have stirred up the waters so it will take a few days for conditions to improve. Perch fishing was slow.

Harbor Beach: Recent storms have the fish scattered. Start shallow in 60 to 70 feet and work your way out deeper for salmon and steelhead. Try spoons off downriggers, lead lines with offshore boards. For lake trout, try using dodgers or cowbells with spin-glows, peanuts and spoons just off the bottom. For walleye, try 70 to 90 feet with small body baits and small spoons or crawler harnesses. Bass were caught by those trolling spoons and body baits. Perch fishing is slow.

Port Austin: Those trolling have caught steelhead, salmon and lake trout along the outside of the Thumb however recent winds have turned the lake over so finding the right temperatures means a trip out to at least 140 feet.

Saginaw Bay: Walleye fishing was on the slow side and perch fishing is slowly getting started. A few walleye were taken in six to 10 feet off the state park, the mouth of the Kawkawlin River, or out near the Black Hole in 14 feet. Anglers were drifting crawler harnesses above the weeds. Walleye were caught from the Slot and off the Bar but the average was one fish per angler. Catfish were caught from the Hot Pond.

Saginaw River: Smallmouth bass have been caught near Essexville.

SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

St. Joseph: Salmon have been caught in 100 feet of water. Pier fishing was slow. Catch rates for perch were good south of the piers in 20 feet of water.

St. Joseph River: Has some steelhead. Target the deeper holes.

South Haven: Salmon fishing remains consistent. No limit catches to report but the size of the Chinook has been impressive. Boats are trolling in 100 to 130 feet. Catch rates for perch remain good north and south of the piers in 30 feet.

Holland: The better fishing was very early morning or at night. Try 45 to 80 feet down in 110 to 130 feet of water. Coppers are 300, 350, 400 and 450. Meat rigs are working best. Hot colors were blue and purple with 10 inch spinnies. Pier fishing is slow. Perch were caught on minnows in 35 to 45 feet.

Port Sheldon: Those fishing out near the “Bubbler” have caught perch.

Grand Haven: Boat anglers are fishing 60 to 95 feet down in 85-115 feet of water with glow plugs, green and yellow spoons and white paddles with a mirage fly. Perch fishing has slowed as the fish are moving out to deeper water. Pier anglers are struggling because of the warm water and the lack of baitfish.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Heavy rain should have pushed some steelhead and salmon up into the river. Walleye anglers were bouncing crawlers off the bottom. Catfish were hitting on cut bait. For bluegill and bass, try the bayous and backwaters.

Grand River at Lansing: Is producing catfish, carp, smallmouth bass and the occasional largemouth bass.

Lake Lansing: Is producing bass, bluegill and a few crappie.

Lake Interstate: Is producing bluegill.

Muskegon River: Water levels were low and water temperatures were at or near 70 degrees. Trout fishing will be slow during the current warm spell but this is a great time for bass fishing.

Whitehall: Trout and salmon fishing was slow with few fish taken. Anglers could travel north and look for cooler water. Early morning is the best time to head out. Try any lure that glows, J-plugs, lead core and dipseys.

NORTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA

The inland lakes such as Grand, Long and Hubbard are producing some very nice smallmouth bass. This is grasshopper and cricket season on the smaller trout streams and those using imitations are doing well.

Rogers City: Adult Chinook are beginning to show up and they are good size. The better fishing was very early and after sunset when heading south towards Swan Bay and Adams Point but the fish are moving. Head to deeper water as the sun comes up while using downriggers, short segments of lead core, dipseys and copper with spoons, J-plugs, bombers and flashers with either squid or flies. Hot colors were green, blue, pearl, red, purple, orange with green or silver as well as black and white. Those fishing north and straight out of the harbor caught a mix of salmon, steelhead and walleye.

Presque Isle: Catch rates were slow but picking up. Anglers were hanging out in shallow waters 35 to 60 feet deep as they wait for the fish to come in and feed on the abundant baitfish. Try straight out or north between the two lighthouses and fish the top half of the water column.

Rockport: Is producing a few Chinook, lake trout and walleye. Walleye were also caught in to 20 to 40 feet.

Alpena: Few anglers were out but they did manage to catch a couple smallmouth bass and the occasional walleye in Thunder Bay. The trick is to move around until you find fish.

Thunder Bay River: Catch rates have improved for smallmouth bass that average 12 to 14 inches but some were as big as 17 inches. Freshwater drum, channel catfish, and rock bass were caught. Most are using crawlers but a few did well with crank baits. A few salmon are in the river but catch rates were poor. Cooler weather is needed.

Harrisville: The fish are scattered so anglers will have to work for them. The walleye are deep, 100 to 140 feet and most were caught by those targeting trout and salmon with spoons and body baits. A few salmon were caught in the harbor but these fish seem to be early runners.

Oscoda: Fish are on the move so finding them can be difficult. Walleye are deep and were caught with the trout and salmon. Pier anglers caught a few salmon with glow spoons in the early morning or evening.

Au Sable River: Fishing below Mio has been very good and the white fly hatch should continue through the Labor Day weekend. Water temperatures have been fairly cool below Mio which means the fish have been active and healthy. Catfish are moving in and out of the river.

Higgins Lake: Was producing perch near the Sunken Island and along the drop offs. No big numbers but the fish were nice size. Those trolling just off the bottom in 80 to 120 feet caught lake trout on the north end including the north side of Treasure Island. Those jigging found lake trout and whitefish in 80 to 100 feet. Anglers are still catching lots of rock bass. This is a great fishery for kids.

Houghton Lake: Catch rates were slow but steady. Those using crawlers, leeches and leaf worms caught bass, walleye, and panfish.

Tawas: Boat and pier fishing in the bay are slow. A few walleye were taken off Alabaster, Au Sable Point and Jerry’s Marina but anglers need to fish deeper water. One angler targeting walleye actually caught a 15 pound Chinook in 80 feet of water when trolling a crawler harness.

Au Gres: A few walleye are still being caught straight out from the mouth of the river or six to eight miles south in 26 to 30 feet of water. Those targeting perch found a few in 30 to 40 feet four to eight miles to the south.

Au Gres River: Is producing a few catfish and freshwater drum.

NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA

Salmon fishing is going strong. At this point, offshore is the place to be, in depths deeper than 100 feet. Heavy south winds pushed the fish deep so the piers and drowned river mouth lakes have not been as productive.

Harbor Springs: Had a small number of salmon and lake trout in and around the harbor. Boat anglers were fishing around Harbor Point. Chinook were caught 70 to 90 feet down and lake trout 100 to 130 feet down. Try spoons, flies and squid. Green and white was the hot color.

Petoskey: Some boat anglers did catch the odd salmon or lake trout. Most were fishing from the water treatment plant and east to the buoy just past the pier. Salmon were caught 100 to 115 feet down on glow spoons, meat rigs and flies. A few lake trout were also caught.

Bear River: Had a few salmon moving in even with the low water levels. Those fishing up near the dam caught the occasional fish on spawn or yellow flies.

Charlevoix: Salmon fishing was still a bit slow as anglers were averaging maybe one fish per trip. Boats are trolling 60 to 85 feet down in 120 feet of water between North Point and South Point. Try plugs, spoons, meat rigs and dodgers with flies or squid. Lake trout were 80 to 125 feet down in 120 to 250 feet. Pier anglers are still taking sub-legal bass but a good number were also keepers. Try just off the bottom with crawlers, leeches or minnows. Some nice rock bass were caught near the end of the piers.

Lake Charlevoix: Anglers are marking some large fish where Round Lake comes into Lake Charlevoix.

Traverse City: Those trolling in the East Bay caught Chinook 60 to 110 feet down in 80 to 200 feet. Try blue and green spoons with flies or glow spoons early and late. A few lake trout were caught. Those looking for smallmouth bass were fishing 20 to 50 feet or deeper. In the West Bay, salmon were found 40 to 100 feet down. Try spoons, plugs and meat rigs or flies with flashers. Those jigging in 110 feet caught the occasional whitefish or lake trout.

Elk River: Fishing was relatively slow with only smaller bass and panfish caught on crawlers or leeches. No large number of salmon yet.

Boardman River: Had a few salmon. Anglers were targeting Chinook with spawn, flies and stick baits.

Frankfort: Good numbers of large Chinook salmon have been caught between the piers, straight out and near the Herring Hole. The fish were starting to stage. Many are trolling 30 to 90 feet down in 200 to 225 feet. Platte Bay has coho running in 40 to 80 feet. Spoons work best. Pier fishing was good between 2:00 a.m. and daybreak for those casting wobblers. Green, orange and blue were good colors.

Betsie River: The Chinook are in and all the way up to the Homestead Dam.

Onekama: Had good fishing just outside the “Barrel” when trolling 40 to 80 feet down with J-plugs in chrome, splatter back and perch or meat rigs. Lake trout are hitting on cowbells and spin-glows throughout the day.

Portage Lake: Continues to have good bass fishing for those working the weed beds and along the drop offs. A nice largemouth bass was caught off the wall in the channel. Panfish are hitting on worms along the weed beds in the morning and moving to deeper water by afternoon.

Lake Cadillac: Catch rates were very good for panfish and bass.

Lake Mitchell: Has also been good for bass and panfish.

Manistee: Salmon have been caught 40 to 80 feet down in 80 to 200 feet of water off the Shelf. Glow spoons and plugs worked well in low light, standard size spoons and meat rigs have produced during mid-day. Pier and harbor fishing was slow.

Manistee River: Anglers have caught a few salmon in the lower river. Try fishing the deeper holes as the fish will seek out colder water. Bass fishing slowed a bit but those fishing near the brush piles in the early morning or late evening should find some fish.

Ludington: Salmon are 40 to 90 feet down in 80 to 160 feet of water. Spoons, plugs and meat rigs are all taking fish. Pier and harbor fishing was slow.

Pentwater: Fishing was fair. Salmon were caught 50 to 70 feet down in 80 to 90 feet or as deep as 150 to 180 feet. Meat rigs were the ticket this week however fish were also taken on pearl colored J-plugs or spoons. Bass were caught by those using live bait in the channel.

UPPER PENINSULA

Keweenaw Bay: Those heading out for trout and salmon had to work hard to get them. They caught a mix of Chinook, coho and lake trout 40 to 90 feet down in 50 to 100 feet of water from Carla’s Restaurant north past the red rocks and off Pequaming Point. Those jigging for lake trout had little success. Near the South Portage Entry, a fair number of lake trout, Chinook and coho were taken near the lighthouse, the reefs and the Mud Banks. They are using a mix of spoons in a variety of colors. For Traverse Bay, lake trout action picked up some for those jigging in 170 to 220 feet off Gay Point and Big Louie’s Point. Those trolling 60 to 145 feet down in 80 to 150 feet also caught fish.

Marquette: Most anglers are targeting lake trout but those using high lines for salmon and trout had mixed results. Lake trout were caught near the Clay Banks, Granite Island, and Shot Point in 120 to 130 feet. A couple small coho were caught. Surface water temperatures were in the low 60’s. Those fishing near the mouth of the Chocolay River had poor results. Anglers are being asked to participate with the creel census surveys that are being conducted in the area. The information you share plays a vital role in fisheries management on the Great Lakes.

Menominee: Bay anglers were trolling for walleye near Green Island. Catch rates were fair to good. No trout or salmon were caught. Those targeting walleye did best in the evening when trolling rapalas in 20 to 30 feet of water. Salmon anglers tried closer to shore because of the high winds but no fish were caught.

Menominee River: Is producing a fair number of walleye for those trolling rapalas and crawler harnesses. Many were on the small side. Shore and boat anglers caught smallmouth bass when floating crawlers or casting crank baits.

Cedar River: Those floating crawlers caught smallmouth bass.

Little Bay De Noc: Walleye anglers had fair catch rates near Kipling. They are trolling or drifting crawlers and stick baits in 15 to 25 feet between the Second and the Center Reef and along the drop near Gladstone in 25 feet. Fair to good perch action was reported off the mouth of the Escanaba River when using minnows and crawlers in 20 to 25 feet or the Second Reef in eight to 17 feet. Smallmouth bass were caught on crawlers and crank baits near the mouth of the Ford River. A couple salmon were caught out near the Ford River Can when trolling spoons 60 to 70 feet down in 100 to 130 feet.

Big Bay De Noc: Had good smallmouth bass fishing for those using minnows or crank baits in 10 to 28 feet off Ansell’s Point and the many shoals. Those trolling spoons or cut bait off Fairport did well 60 to 75 feet down in 120 to 130 feet of water.

Au Train: Lake trout anglers have had mixed results depending on wind direction. The hot spots were the edge of the flats and the humps near the shipping lanes east of AuTrain Island in 140 to 200 feet. Offshore surface water temperatures have risen to the low 60’s. No salmon to report.

Munising: Catch rates for Chinook and coho were fair in Trout Bay and Munising Bay. Lake trout fishing continues north of Wood Island. A couple pier anglers were targeting splake but catch rates were slow.

Grand Marais: Lake trout anglers were fishing in 100 to 200 feet of water along the shipping channel, five to seven miles north of the bay. The fish have been feeding on insects and sculpin. Whitefish are feeding in the shallows. Coho anglers were fishing east or west of the bay in 50 to 60 feet. Shore anglers casting for pike had poor results.

St. Mary’s River: Walleye fishing in Raber Bay has slowed in the shipping channel from Point Aux Frenes to the old bell buoy. A few pike were caught on the southwest end of Neebish Island, at the mouth of the Munuscong River or the southwest end of Kemps Point when trolling chrome spoons or black bucktail spinners. Anglers need to watch for low water levels when boating on the St. Mary’s River and around Drummond Island.

DeTour: Anglers are still taking Chinook and lake trout between Frying Pan Island, the #3 green can and the #2 red can out near Drummond Island. Chinook salmon are ranging seven to 15 pounds. Hot colors are watermelon, green, purple and white.

Drummond Island: Wind direction did have an effect of walleye fishing. Fish were caught by those trolling crawler harnesses with bottom bouncers in 12 to 14 feet around Peck Island. Anglers had fair to good perch fishing in Maxton Bay. Most are drifting or still-fishing with medium size minnows near the red buoy located on the south end of Grape Island. A few nice pike were taken on the northwest side of the island when casting or trolling chrome spoons with a red eye in eight feet of water. Smallmouth bass are hitting tube jigs near Harbor Island or a crawler with a slip bobber on the west side of Peck Island. Brown and green tube jigs worked well.

Cedarville and Hessel: Perch anglers have done well off the east end of the marina pier in Hessel Bay and off the public dock. They are using minnows or crawlers in eight to 12 feet. The south end of Hessel Bay had excellent pike fishing for those using chubs. Salmon were caught in 50 to 70 feet in Hessel Bay and the Yacht Entrance.

St. Ignace: Had no change. Lake trout and salmon are still being caught around Mackinac Island, Round Island, Bois Blanc Island, the flats and the Coast Guard Station.