Lake Erie Fishing Report:
Walleye reports have been steady, continuing the pattern from last week. Anglers have reported that they “haven’t seen fish this consistent or this large in a long time.” Much like last weekend, you will do well trolling deep diving stick baits at 1.8 – 2.2 mph. With larger walleye being easy picking this year, limits of 18-24” fish are being caught 25-30 feet deep off the reef complex, with darker colored bait being most popular and having best results 40-80 feet back. Hair jigs are reported to bring the action off the Gold Coast, with reports of 30 fish being caught, thanks to depth changes and drop offs. Drifting in shallow waters off Wildwood has reported 17-19” walleye. And we have heard reports of limits being reached every time at Edgewater. The walleye are moving in tight packs and Perfect 10s remain a popular and consistent bait of choice. Also, Bandits and Bombers, targeting the 15-20 feet depth range in 25-30 FOW. Casting Erie Dearies and drifting Hawg Harnesses’ from 3/8 oz to 5/8 oz from 20-30 FOW has also been effective. Fishing off of Kelleys Island continues to be good as well, in waters 30-40 feet deep from Huron to Cleveland with deep diving stick bait 80-120 feet back. In these same areas, it should pick up for casting and drifting worm harnesses and weight-forward spinners in the next few weeks. We will keep you posted on reports.
Small Mouth Bass have also had a good year with size. Reports of big fish in 9-20 feet of water throwing jerk baits, swimbaits, and fishing near the bottom with hair jigs in rocky areas. As the water temps increase, the fish should continue to push towards shallow waters in the coming weeks. The Ashtabula/Conneaut breakwall areas, in and around the Islands and near Vermilion have been reported to have the best results.
Crappie fishing has been decent, with up to 14” fish being caught. Fishing is best near the shore and harbor areas with crappie jigs and soft plastics, as well as minnows. Look for best results in 2-10 FOW adjacent to structures.
Channel Catfish numbers have been up in numbers and size with increased water temps in Sandusky Bay and other tributaries of Lake Erie. The most popular bait has been shrimp fished on a Carolina rig, but reports have suggested that worms, cut-bait, and stink baits are also yielding results. Target channel edges for best results.
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