Salmon are moving into the rivers however the run is still about one full week behind last years run. Cooler temperatures and the much needed rain will help bring the fish in as there are still good numbers of fish out in deeper waters.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - Windy conditions have hampered fishing. A few perch were caught about a mile south of Stony Point in 24 feet of water. Smaller minnows seemed to produce more hits. White bass were caught but walleye fishing was slow.

Huron River - A couple steelhead were caught on jigs with wax worms below the first coffer dam and near the Telegraph Bridge. No big numbers yet as the run is still about a week or two away. Some nice bluegills were caught in Huron Park when fishing the backwaters.

Detroit River - Perch were caught near Rat Island, Fox Island and Powder House Island. With the strong winds, the fish will be scattered for a few days.

Lexington - Perch anglers are still finding fish in 40 to 45 feet of water however the action has been hit-or-miss. Boat anglers heading out to waters 90 to 130 feet deep were still taking a mix of trout and salmon.

Port Sanilac - Boat anglers were catching salmon and trout. A few perch were caught however anglers need to keep moving to find a school of fish.

Harbor Beach - High winds have hampered fishing and it will take a good two days or so after the winds stop before the fish start to bite again. Try 80 to 130 feet of water for salmon and steelhead. Good lures are spoons, spin doctors with flies or squid, J-Plugs or body baits. Lake trout season closes on September 30th.

Port Austin - Salmon were jumping in the harbor but none were caught.

Saginaw Bay - The waters are stirred up after several windy days. Some perch and a few walleye were caught straight off the Quanicassee River in 6 to 7 feet of water. At Bay Port, bass anglers caught some nice smallmouth around Heisterman Island. Most were using minnows under a bobber or artificial baits in shallow waters.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe - Pier fishing should be good as soon as the winds die down.

St. Joe River - Good numbers of fish are moving up into the river now that the area got some rain. Anglers are catching mostly chinook and coho along with a few brown trout or steelhead.

Kalamazoo River - Also has good numbers of chinook, coho, brown trout and even some steelhead. Water levels should be up slightly after the rain so try up near the Allegan Dam.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Should be producing good numbers of coho up near the Sixth Street Dam. Try spawn, wax worms or small Cleo’s. Look for the pike and smallmouth bass action to pick up as the fish start their fall feeding frenzy.

Grand River at Lansing - Coho salmon have been caught at the point where the Grand meets the Red Cedar as well as the Webber Dam and the Lyons Dam. A few fish were also taken over at Moore’s Park. Lots of walleye have been caught at Portland, Grand Ledge and near the North Lansing Dam. Catfish can be found at Moore’s Park and the North Lansing Dam.

Looking Glass River - Pike fishing should be good for the next few weeks. Look for bluegills and crappie in the backwaters.

Muskegon River - Salmon are being caught from the lower river all the way up to Croton Dam.

Whitehall - Pier fishing should pick up this week as more fish move into the river. Boats heading out to 150 feet of water were still picking up salmon and steelhead when trolling 3 colors of lead with red and orange spoons.

White River - Salmon are in the river and being caught from Pine Point to the dam in Hesperia.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Cheboygan - Salmon were caught between the mouth and the second can. Those fishing off the wall caught salmon in the early morning. Try lures that glow.

Burt Lake - Those trolling crawler harnesses have caught walleye in 30 to 45 feet of water on the north arm. Anglers trolling north of Colonial Point were also targeting walleye with crawler harnesses and bottom bouncers. The perch were scattered and had not moved into Maple Bay yet.

Mullett Lake - Bass and pike were caught on artificial baits. Lots of little perch along with a few nice ones were caught just south of Dodge Point.

Rogers City - Continues to have good salmon fishing with chinook staging off Swan Bay, Adams Point and Calcite. Anglers are fishing shallow waters less than 30 feet deep with J-Plugs or bombers. A mixed bag of chinook, coho, steelhead, lake trout, brown trout and even a few walleye can still be found out in deeper waters. Good colors have been blue and silver, purple, green or anything that looks like smelt.

Presque Isle - Had very good fishing with some limit catches reported. A mixed bag of chinook, coho, steelhead and lake trout were caught in the top 40 feet of waters up to 70 feet deep. Good colors were blue, purple, orange and yellow.

Rockport - Lake trout are hitting in 60 to 90 feet of water out near Middle Island and the wreck. Good colors were green and black. Salmon have moved into 30 feet of water but the bite was slow. Pier anglers have caught chinook when casting double jointed Cleo’s and other body baits. Green and orange were good colors.

Alpena - A few walleye have been caught in the bay near the launch and marina. The fish are close to shore and hitting on green and orange jointed body baits

Thunder Bay River - Has good numbers of chinook in the 30 pound range being caught. The fish were hitting on chartreuse flies, crank baits or rattle traps.

Harrisville - Fishing has picked up with salmon entering the harbor. They are hitting on spawn or spoons. Walleye are also in shallow waters 15 to 25 feet deep and hitting on blue and silver spoons or body baits.

Oscoda - Light numbers of salmon have been caught on spoons near the mouth of the river and out into Lake Huron. Blue and silver or green and yellow were good colors. A few walleye have also been caught.

Au Sable River - Salmon are slowly coming into the river but the water was still in the mid 60 degree range. Due to a required 8 foot drawdown at the Mio Dam for repairs, the river downstream will be higher but should still be fishable.

Higgins Lake - Weather permitting, boats are still heading out for lake trout. Perch fishing should pick up with the cooler weather but the rock bass action will slow down.

Houghton Lake - Fishing was good until the storms and strong winds hit. Anglers were catching a mix of walleye, pike, crappie, bluegills and bass. Even after the weather clears, the water will be murky for a few days.

Tawas - A few salmon are showing up in the harbor, and some have been caught by pier anglers casting hardware and fishing spawn under a bobber. Perch fishing is slow. A few walleye were caught east of Tawas Point in 25 to 30 feet of water.

Tawas River - A few salmon have been caught.

Au Gres - Had slow fishing except a few walleye caught off the mouth.

Au Gres River - Boats trolling in the lower river continue to catch a few pike. Off the East Branch, those surfcasting have caught salmon and steelhead near the Singing Bridge and in the lower stretch of Whitney Drain.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Petoskey - A lot of fish are gathering at the mouth of the marina and holding along the bank in 100 feet of water. One angler reported good success when trolling plugs and flies 60 to 80 feet down. Hot colors were green and pearl. Salmon runs have started in the local river and there are still plenty of fish yet to come in.

Charlevoix - Salmon fishing was hit-or-miss over the last week. Boats trolling shallow waters with body baits were taking a few fish. The salmon are running in Medusa Creek but few fish were actually caught. Try spawn, rattle traps or Jr. Thundersticks.

Lake Bellaire - Surface temperatures were holding in the mid 60’s. Anglers continue to target walleye in waters 8 to 30 feet deep. They are trolling crawler harnesses or jigging crawlers in the south and northwest arm and near the access site. Good bass fishing along the drop-offs in 15 to 25 feet of water. Try artificial worms or tube baits. Pike anglers were trolling stick baits in the northwest arm. Perch were still hitting on crawlers in 3 to 20 feet of water but the fish were small.

Elk River - Has a fair to good number of salmon in it. Try drifting spawn, wax worms body baits or small spoons.

Boardman River - Salmon are hitting on spawn.

Leland - When boats can get out they were still taking some chinook salmon when trolling from the northwest side of North Manitou Island and heading straight north.

Glen Arbor - Some nice 3 year old salmon were caught on the west side of South Manitou Island in 65 to 80 feet on spoons and flies.

Platte Bay - Fishing was good for coho. Boats were trolling in 40 to 60 feet of water early then heading out to waters up to 90 feet deep after sunrise. They were using green spoons and flasher fly combos. Shore anglers caught some big coho at the mouth of the river when casting glow spoons early or spinners after sunrise. Fish were caught just east of the mouth when using spawn.

Platte River - Has fair to good numbers of coho salmon.

Betsie River - Chinook are moving into the river however the peak of the run is not here yet. Water flows are up and temperatures are dropping.

Manistee - Before the strong winds, boats were heading out to waters as deep as 400 feet as the fish were scattered. Some steelhead and salmon were caught in 50 to 150 feet of water. Orange and green spoons did the trick. Pier anglers were taking a few fish when casting glow spoons. Green and blue were good colors.

Manistee River - The rain and cooler weather has once again sparked the salmon runs as they move upstream to the gravel beds. Good chinook action at Tippy Dam.

Ludington - When boats can get out, they found steelhead and salmon in 60 to 120 feet of water. Pier and surf fishing were slow but should pick up soon.

Pere Marquette River - Salmon should be moving upstream and heading towards the spawning grounds. Higher flows and cooler temperatures should produce better catch rates.

Pentwater River - Had fair to good action off Long Bridge and Monroe Road.

UPPER PENINSULA

Copper Harbor - Splake are in the harbor still but are not actively feeding.

Lac La Belle - Walleye are showing up in 20 to 30 feet of water but the fish were not very active. Those lucky enough to catch one were trolling with deep diving lures.

Keweenaw Bay - Boat anglers trolling in 55 to 75 feet of water have caught a few coho and some lake trout at the head of the Bay and between Sand Point and Carla’s Restaurant. Those surfcasting at the head of the Bay picked up a few coho when casting Cleo’s. Traverse Bay continues to provide good lake trout fishing in 120 to 150 feet of water between Gay Point and Big Louie’s Point.

Marquette - Good lake trout fishing continues as the fish move in closer to shore. Lake trout were caught in waters less than 70 feet deep. Chinook and coho have been reported near the Carp and Chocolay Rivers.

Paint Pond - Muskie fishing is picking up.

Hagerman Lake - In West Iron County has good smallmouth bass fishing.

Ottawa Lake - Also has good smallmouth action.

Dead River - Chinook and pink salmon are moving up into the river.

Menominee - Fishing was slow however a good number of salmon were jumping near the mouth of the Menominee River. Catch rates were slow as it was difficult to get them to hit. Off Stoney Point, walleye were caught in 12 to 20 feet of water with the same rigs. Up near the Cedar River, walleye fishing has picked up for those trolling at night. Boats are trolling north and south of the river with crawler harnesses or rapalas in 15 to 20 feet of water.

Menominee River - Shore anglers fishing at night have caught walleye between the mouth and the Hattie Street Dam. Try jigs with crawlers or crawler harnesses. Salmon are starting to move into the river and a few fish were caught on blue and silver spoons or spawn bags.

Cedar River - Lots of rock bass have been caught however only sub-legal smallmouth bass were taken. No salmon to report.

Little Bay De Noc - Had very good walleye fishing. Anglers are trolling stick baits or drifting crawlers in 9 to 20 feet of water from Little Round Island to the “Fingers” and No-See-Um-Creek. Fish early morning or at dusk. Catch rates slowed near the Black Bottom. Perch were caught in the “Narrows” when still-fishing with minnows in 13 to 28 feet of water. Several large pike were caught off the mouth of the Escanaba Yacht Harbor when trolling buck tails just off the break. Shore anglers reported salmon near the mouth of the Ford River.

Big Bay De Noc - Good numbers of walleye were reported around Round Island but few anglers were targeting them. Smallmouth bass were caught near Garden Bluff when casting tube baits in 15 to 25 feet of water. Off Fairport, a few salmon were still caught by those trolling 60 to 120 feet down in waters 125 to 160 feet deep.

Au Train - Catch rates for salmon were slow however lake trout are still hitting around the islands and the flats.

Munising - Salmon fishing remains slow with only a few fish caught by those working the harbor, the bay and near the mouth of the river. Lake trout fishing is still good in waters 80 to 150 feet deep.

Grand Marais - Lake trout are still active in waters up to 150 feet deep. Those trolling near the mouth of the river have caught a few salmon.

Munuscong Bay - Musky were caught near Moon Island when trolling or casting black and chrome crank baits.

De Tour - Those able to get out were still targeting salmon by trolling the shipping channel to the #3 Green Can. Try 60 feet down with silver flashers and yellow flies. De Tour Point is producing a few walleye for those trolling stick baits or crawler harnesses. Upstream, walleye are hitting Swedish Pimples along the west side of Pipe Island. Try pink with pearl beads.

Drummond Island - Perch fishing picked up around Peck Island and the south side of Ashman Island when using minnows in 8 to 14 feet of water.

Cedarville and Hessel - Splake are back in the bay however no one is fishing for them. Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance are producing some yellow perch. Try minnows in 6 to 12 feet of water. The south side of Connors Point is also producing perch in 8 to 12 feet of water. Look for smallmouth bass around the shoals and the rocks.

Carp River - Shore anglers have caught chinook and pink salmon at the mouth when casting spawn or stick baits. Orange along with blue and silver were good colors. Spawning beds have been spotted in the deeper holes up near the rapids.

Nunn’s Creek - Salmon are also present however anglers must wade or fish from shore in waters of Lake Huron. Try casting black stone flies.

St. Ignace - Had no boat activity however those shore fishing near the ferry docks were catching a few chinook salmon. Anglers were also fishing off the breakwall near the city launch. Try casting silver and green J-Plugs or small Cleo’s.

Cool weather is once again hampering fishing conditions around the state. May 15th marks the opening day for walleye, northern pike and muskellunge fishing on the Upper Peninsula inland waters not otherwise closed to fishing, the waters of the Great Lakes and the St. Mary’s River.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - Catch rates have started to improve with walleye taken in 8 to 22 feet of water off Stony Point. Most anglers were drifting bottom bouncers or trolling reef runners. A few walleye were caught in 18 feet of water straight out from the launch at Bolles Harbor and in 15 feet of water out from the grey shack on the Banana Dike. Good numbers of white bass and white perch were also caught. Pike were caught on the south side of the Cross Dike.

Huron River - Some drop-back steelhead and walleye are still being caught near the Telegraph Bridge and the DNR Launch. Lots of white bass are being caught.

Detroit River - Walleye were caught on the east side of Grosse Isle and up near Wyandotte when using a jig with a minnow or crawler. Plastic worms and grubs also caught fish. Good colors were chartreuse, green or purple. A few walleye and lots of white bass are in the Lower Trenton Channel.

Lexington - Lots of lake trout along with a few chinook and coho salmon have been caught by those trolling spoons. Walleye were caught at night.

Port Sanilac - Boat anglers are catching trout and salmon while the shore anglers are taking walleye at night when fishing outside the breakwall.

Harbor Beach - Chinook and coho have been caught on spoons or body baits in 25 to 40 feet of water. Good colors are glow green and chartreuse or green camo. Try two or three color lead lines when fishing the top 20 to 30 feet of water. Steelhead were taken on orange and chartreuse spoons or body baits. Try long lines 50 to 100 feet back. Lake trout were 5 to 10 feet off the bottom in 30 to 50 feet of water. Try small spoons and dodgers with green and orange spin glows. Some are night fishing for walleye.

Port Austin - Lots of lake trout have been caught by those trolling spoons off downriggers or long lines. A few chinook and some coho were also caught in 20 to 40 feet of water. Pier anglers casting outside the breakwall have caught good numbers of walleye in the evening.

Saginaw Bay - Walleye are hitting on crawler harnesses in 14 to 22 feet of water at the Spark Plug (Buoys 11 & 12), in 4 feet of water off Finn Road, off the beach at Linwood and the mouth of the Saginaw River. Excellent walleye action was noted straight off the mouth of the Quanicassee River in 10 to 14 feet of water. A few pike were also caught. Good channel cat action off the mouth of the Sebewaing River while walleye were taken in the Slot. Those fishing Sunset Bay Marina and Fish Point caught walleye in 11 feet of water. Up at Bay Port, walleye fishing was very good off the tip of Sand Point and out in the Slot. Some are jigging around the weed beds while others are trolling planer boards with crawler harnesses.

Tittabawassee River - Still has good walleye fishing especially in the lower river near the Center Street Launch in Saginaw Township. Walleye can be found from the mouth up to the Dow Dam. The white bass runs are just getting started and smallmouth bass are being caught and released.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe - Boat anglers are catching good numbers of chinook, coho and lake trout.

St. Joe River - Only the occasional steelhead have been caught. Bass are hitting on crawlers, tube baits or plugs. Look for bluegill and crappie in the backwaters.

Grand Haven - Boat anglers are still catching chinook salmon when trolling straight out or south of the piers. Spoons and body baits are producing fish.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Both flathead and channel cats have been caught off the east side near the dam. Off Fulton Street, channel cats were caught on cut bait. Good numbers of pike are hitting on large sucker minnows, spinners or body baits. Look for bluegills and crappie in the backwaters.

Grand River at Lansing - Panfish action has been slow. A few walleye are still being caught near the dams. Catfish are becoming more active with fish caught on crawlers and stink baits above the Moore’s Park Dam. Carp fishing has been good as the fish are on a feeding frenzy before the spawn. Most fish were caught close to shore when using corn.

Reeds Lake - Crappie are in the shallows and the big bluegills are 10 to 15 feet down in waters 25 to 30 feet deep. Those trolling sucker minnows along the edge of the weeds have caught pike.

Cranberry Lake - Near Rockford is producing some nice bluegills. Try leaf worms about halfway down in waters 20 to 30 feet deep.

Muskegon - Boats are trolling north and south of the piers for salmon. Fish were found 30 to 80 feet down in waters 80 to 120 feet deep. Set dipsey divers 125 to 150 feet back. Blue, green and carmel spoons were taking fish.

Muskegon Lake - A few walleye were caught when fishing along the ledge in the middle of the lake near the black buoy. Bluegills were starting to show up in the bays and coves however the fish are not on the beds yet. Those fishing the southeast corner of the lake were picking up some big bluegills.

Whitehall - Chinook salmon were caught in waters 45 to 130 feet deep. A good number of lake trout were also caught when trolling close to shore with crank baits.

White Lake - Perch fishing was slow but the bluegill action was excellent. Some crappie were caught in front of Armstrong’s.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Cheboygan River - Is producing some nice walleye.

Mullett Lake - Walleye, smallmouth bass and perch were caught on the north end of the lake.

Rogers City - Shore anglers caught a few brown trout, atlantic salmon and walleye when casting spoons or body baits in the early morning or late afternoon. Good colors were silver with chartreuse, blue or green and fire-tiger. Boat anglers are catching mostly lake trout in the shallows of Calcite Harbor and Swan Bay. Those going deeper than 30 feet of water are using downriggers 5 to 10 feet off the bottom. For brown trout and atlantic salmon, fish along the shoreline in waters 8 to 25 feet deep with planer boards and long lines. Try spoons or body baits.

Presque Isle - Boats are going out but catch rates were spotty. A few limits of lake trout were taken out in deeper waters however the fish should be moving in closer to shore. Try 5 to 10 feet off the bottom in waters up to 70 feet deep.

Rockport - Lake trout were caught in 25 to 40 feet of water out near Middle Island.

Alpena - Is providing some great walleye fishing especially for those fishing on or near the rock reefs and around Grass Island. Most are trolling in 15 to 25 feet of water with body baits that resemble perch or smelt. The water is very clear so the better fishing is at night.

Thunder Bay River - Has produced some nice walleye and the occasional pike.

Harrisville - Walleye action has picked up. Early morning and late afternoon were best when using body baits and crawler rigs. Hot colors were red and silver, blue and silver or fire-tiger. Lake trout can be found north and south of the harbor in waters 45 to 65 feet deep.

Houghton Lake - Walleye were caught on leeches in 4 to 6 feet of water around the weed beds. A few crappie were taken on leaf worms.

Oscoda - The walleye are in and the mornings seem to be producing some limit catches. Boat and shore anglers are drifting crawlers or body baits.

Au Sable River - Has very good walleye fishing in the lower river. The water is very clear so the best fishing is at night.

Tawas - Boat anglers have caught walleye near the mouth of the river, Buoy #2, and out near the artificial reef in 15 to 35 feet of water. Planer boards and crawler harnesses were the ticket. Pier anglers caught a mixed bag of coho and atlantic salmon, walleye, pike, channel cats, smallmouth bass and rock bass.

Au Gres - Those trolling are taking limit catches of walleye in 35 feet of water when using planer boards and crawler harnesses. Fish off the hotel, Point Lookout, Whitestone Point or the Gravelly Shoals.

Au Gres River - The spring steelhead fishing is done for this year. Surf anglers casting rapalas at night are still taking some walleye.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Petoskey - Anglers are targeting other species as the steelhead fishing winds down.

Lake Charlevoix - Perch fishing has been tough as the fish are scattered. Some were caught in 50 to 85 feet of water along the northwest shore however anglers will need to sort out the small ones. Try jigs with minnows or wigglers.

Lake Bellaire - Anglers were trolling between the rivers and along the east side of the lake but no walleye were caught. Pike have been caught near the Intermediate River when using rapalas or sucker minnows. Anglers are targeting bass with spinners, tube baits, stick baits, and grubs in waters 2 to 15 feet deep.

Traverse City - The East Bay has cold water temperatures and no boats have been out. The West Bay has been good lake trout action between the mouth of the Boardman and Marion Island. Boats are trolling in 70 to 150 feet of water with spoons, peanuts, spin glows, flashers and flies. When trolling, run high lines for steelhead and salmon.

Elk River - Steelhead are still present and fish were caught on spawn, wax worms or wigglers. Remember, the fish are easily spooked when the water is clear.

Boardman River - The bite has been slow however anglers can find a variety of fish in the river such as pike, walleye, suckers, carp, and the occasional steelhead.

Leland - Fishing was slow with only lake trout caught in 60 to 80 feet of water.

Frankfort - Boats trolling in the shallow waters up to Pt. Betsie have caught lake trout and brown trout. Those trolling inside the harbor also caught some brown trout on small spoons or body baits. Hot colors were orange, black, gold and silver. Pier fishing was slow except for a couple brown trout taken on spawn.

Onekama - Anglers trolling in 15 to 30 feet of water south of the port are catching lake trout and brown trout on spoons or body baits. Good colors are orange, silver or blue. Walleye were caught off the piers at night when casting body baits.

Portage Lake - Perch fishing was slow but those trolling for walleye and pike were taking fair numbers of fish. Those trolling or casting were catching pike and those trolling at night found walleye. A few bass were caught on the west side.

Manistee - Brown trout can be found when trolling along the shoreline with body baits in fire-tiger and clown patterns. Perch fishing was slow.

Ludington - The docks are back in at Loomis Street and the fish cleaning station is open. Boats are starting to catch chinook and lake trout in 40 to 80 feet of water when using orange and green spoons. Those trolling along the shoreline with body baits have caught some brown trout. Pier fishing was slow.

UPPER PENINSULA

Copper Harbor - Fishing was slow with only the occasional large splake caught on smelt and cut bait fished on the bottom or when jigging cut bait over the rocks. In Eagle Harbor, splake are present but catch rates were slow due to the fly hatches. A few whitefish were hooked when still-fishing with crawlers or spawn.

Keweenaw Bay - Anglers picked up a couple coho and steelhead off the pier located next to the L’Anse Marina. Those fishing the South Portage Entry caught a few chinook, coho, lake trout and steelhead when trolling near the lighthouse.

Fall’s River - The bite was slow however a couple steelhead were caught on yarn or spawn. Those trolling caught only light numbers of fish.

Marquette - Fishing has picked up with most boats getting a mixed bag of chinook, coho and lake trout. The Upper Harbor was good for salmon when trolling around the bubblers. The Lower Harbor has coho, steelhead and lake trout.

Menominee - Those trolling in Green Bay have caught a few walleye in 15 feet of water when using crawler harnesses or different colored rapalas.

Menominee River - Only a few walleye were caught on the Wisconsin side near the Hattie Street Bridge. They were caught at night on minnows or crawlers. Boats fishing the deeper holes have caught some walleye however they are putting in a lot of time to take a few fish. Steelhead action was slow with only one fish caught when drifting yarn near the rocks on the Michigan side. Not many suckers are being caught however freshwater drum are now in the river.

Cedar River - A few shore anglers were out but not much was caught, most likely due to the Mayfly hatch.

Little Bay De Noc - Had lots of anglers out looking for perch however catch rates were slow. Those fishing the Narrows did best catching jumbo perch when jigging minnows or crawlers in 25 to 33 feet of water. Smaller fish were caught in and around Butler Island. The walleye opener this Friday looks good. Hot spots should be the “Narrows”, the Second and Third Reefs, and the mouth of the Escanaba River as anglers have marked good numbers of fish in these areas. All the boat launches are open but the buoys have not been installed in the Escanaba River. Water temperatures vary from the low 40’s to near 50.

Big Bay De Noc - A couple perch anglers were catching smallmouth bass off Garden Bluff however the catch and immediate release season does not open until May 15th. The walleye opener looks good especially at the head of the Bay. Work the shallows 6 to 10 feet deep between the launch at Fish Dam and Kates Bay. At Fairport, the salmon fishery generally starts in June and peaks mid-summer.

Au Train - Some nice fish were caught near the mouth of the rivers because of smelt showing up.

Munising - When conditions allow, boat anglers were still picking up a mixed bag of fish along the shoreline of Pictured Rocks. Munising Bay remains slow due to cold water temperatures.

Grand Marais - Catch rates for whitefish were a little more consistent pier. Boat anglers reported better fishing from the Sucker River east to Lonesome Point.

Drummond Island - Yellow perch are still being caught however catch rates have slowed at the Bayside Dock. Most are using minnow spreaders. If it is windy, try attaching a quarter ounce or heavier sinker to help keep your minnows in the strike zone. Even though water levels are up anglers are reminded to be very careful of the rocks and reefs around the islands and in Raber Bay.

De Tour - A few boats are beginning to head out from the city launch. They were marking fish but catch rates were slow. A couple steelhead can still be found in Albany Creek.

Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers fishing from the Hessel Marina pier are casting minnows, smelt, stick baits and Cleo’s for splake. The pike and walleye opener on May 15th looks to be good.

Pine River - Anglers are fishing for white suckers.

Carp River - Steelhead are hitting on red and black spinners or chartreuse yarn with a single egg.

On the inland waters, bluegills are beginning to show up in the shallows, but it will probably be another week or so before spawning begins in the Lower Peninsula. Largemouth bass are active in the shallows. Anglers are reminded that all largemouth and smallmouth bass must be released immediately.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - Has fair walleye fishing with most fish taken on bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses in 10 to 15 feet of water near the Banana Dike, Point Mouillee and the mouth of the River Raisin. Good numbers of white bass and freshwater drum throughout the lake.

Huron River - Water levels are high but fishable. Walleye were caught down from the DNR launch when using rapalas. Crappie can be found in the backwaters in the early morning. Good numbers of white bass are in the river.

Detroit River - A few perch were caught on perch rigs with minnows in the shipping channel. Walleye could still be found in the Trenton Channel, the east side of Grosse Isle and up near Wyandotte. Jigs and minnows or crawlers took fish. White bass can be found in the Trenton Channel near the hot water discharge and smallmouth bass are becoming more abundant. The fish are becoming more active as the waters have warmed to about 51 degrees.

Lake St. Clair - Panfish are in the marinas and some big catfish have been caught.

St. Clair River - Walleye are starting to hit in both the North and South Channels.

Lexington - Good catch rates for chinook and coho when trolling in 20 to 40 feet of water. Most are using spoons or body baits off downriggers, dipsey divers, long lines and planer boards.

Port Sanilac - Has good salmon fishing when trolling north and south of the pier.

Harbor Beach - Boat anglers caught chinook and coho when trolling spoons or body baits. Pier fishing slowed except for small perch, rock bass and bullhead.

Port Austin - Anglers are just starting to troll for lake trout.

Saginaw Bay - There’s still a lot of muddy water to contend with in the inner bay after all the rain. Angler activity has picked up off Linwood and Parish Road. Those trolling and drifting east of Spoils Island caught fish when using crawler harnesses and jigs with crawlers. Quanicassee had fair to good walleye action near the mouth of the river. At Bay Port, boat anglers are catching walleye in the channel off the tip of Sand Point, around North Island and out in the Slot. At Caseville, walleye were caught off the breakwall at night.

Saginaw River - A few walleye were caught down at the mouth near the Power Plant intake channel.

Sebewaing River - Walleye were caught on jigs in the early morning. Catch and release bass anglers are catching fish as well.

Pigeon River - Smallmouth are being caught and released in the lower river.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe - Dredging has caused boat anglers fishing for trout and salmon to head out to waters up to 80 feet deep. Pier anglers were still catching coho.

St. Joe River - Steelhead fishing has slowed below the Berrien Springs Dam. Good numbers of smallmouth bass were hitting on plugs.

Paw Paw Lake - In Kalamazoo County is giving up good numbers of crappie.

South Haven - Pier fishing was slow but the boat anglers are catching good numbers of chinook, some coho and lake trout. Most were trolling in 60 to 80 feet of water south of the Power Plant. No perch.

Black River - Near Holland is producing white bass.

Grand Haven - Perch are still being caught in 60 feet of water south of the piers. Wigglers, minnows, spikes, and mousies are still working for bait. Limit catches were taking longer. Chinook salmon were caught in 60 feet of water along the mud lines using purple, green and orange spoons.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Water levels are still high but anglers are catching both flatheads and channel cats off the east wall and up near the Sixth Street Dam. Bluegills and crappie were caught on leaf worms, wax worms and minnows at Millennium Park.

Grand River at Lansing - Only a few catfish were caught as water levels are high and muddy.

Looking Glass River - Is still not fishable.

Maple River - Is still not fishable.

Reeds Lake - Is producing crappie in the shallows. Bluegills are hitting on leaf worms and perch were caught in 10 to 25 feet of water.

Muskegon - There have been rumors of chinook being caught. Anglers have tried for perch in 60 feet of water, but no luck.

Muskegon Lake - Anglers are trolling the channel and the lake for walleye but catch rates were spotty.

Muskegon River - Steelhead have been caught in the upper section between Bridgeton and the dam. Walleye were caught in the Maple Island area.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Mullett Lake - Anglers are targeting northern pike along the south end of the lake.

Rogers City - Surface water temperatures on Lake Huron were about 42 degrees, so fish the muddy water off the rivers because they are slightly warmer. Lake trout season is now open and the fish will be in shallow waters. Catch rates were slow but should improve with warmer weather. Those heading out will want to fish in shallow waters 8 to 30 feet deep. Try high-lining Cowbells with Spin Glo’s for lake trout or planer boards with a variety of body baits and small spoons for brown trout and atlantic salmon. Good colors this time of year are chartreuse and silver, blue and silver, fire-tiger and orange. Shore anglers in Swan Bay and Calcite Harbor were getting a few fish when casting spoons.

Presque Isle - A couple anglers on the docks reported seeing atlantic salmon in the harbor. Try casting spoons or fishing minnows under a bobber. Lake trout should be here soon especially in the shallow waters of North Bay.

Harrisville - With lake trout season underway, more anglers should be out. A few walleye were caught around the harbor and off the wall when fishing the lake side with body baits and crawler harnesses.

Higgins Lake - Not much going on until the temperatures warm up and stay that way. There were rumors of a few trout in Big Creek.

Houghton Lake - A few bluegill, walleye and crappie were caught but overall fishing has been slow.

Oscoda - Walleye fishing heated up as more anglers are fishing near the mouth.

Au Sable River - Is getting busy with walleye and steelhead anglers. Walleye were caught at night down towards the mouth on body baits and crawlers. Steelhead were caught on body baits or spawn.

Tawas - Boat anglers have caught good numbers of walleye when using crawler harnesses in 15 to 30 feet of water down towards Alabaster. A few trout were also picked up. At the State Harbor, pier anglers caught small perch, pike and brown trout inside the wall and walleye on the outside.

Au Gres - Has very good walleye fishing off the various points when using crawler harnesses in 15 to 30 of water.

Au Gres River - On the East Branch near the Singing Bridge, steelhead action is winding down with only a few drop-back fish still being caught. Most are catching walleye at night when casting rapalas in the surf.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Lake Charlevoix - Perch fishing was slow. Anglers jigging and using shiners did manage to catch a few nice fish but many were small.

Lake Bellaire - Those targeting walleye were trolling crawler harnesses and jigs from the steep drop-offs in the northern section of the lake, west of the Intermediate River and from the Fisherman’s Paradise access site down to the southern section of the lake in 10 to 30 feet of water.

Traverse City - Strong winds have kept anglers off the East Bay. For the West Bay, lake trout have been caught along the east shoreline from the Maritime Dock down to Bowers Harbor when trolling or jigging near the drop-off. White jigging spoons caught fish. A few perch were caught on wigglers near Suttons Bay.

Elk River - Steelhead fishing was not been consistent. Those able to find fish caught them on spawn, wax worms or wigglers.

Boardman River - Still has the occasional steelhead but the bite was slow. Those fishing from the mouth to the Union Street Dam will find suckers.

Frankfort - Boats are still trolling in the harbor for brown trout and steelhead. Most are staying close to shore and fishing the warmer waters.

Betsie River - Anglers fishing up near the Homestead Dam were taking some steelhead. Fish the deeper holes until the water levels come back down.

Clam River - In Missaukee County was producing some nice brook trout.

Manistee - Boat anglers are catching brown trout and the occasional steelhead on body baits. Green and orange were good colors. Perch were caught off the pier however anglers will need to sort out the small ones.

Ludington - The docks have been pulled at the Loomis Street boat launch due to dredging. Anglers are catching brown trout while trolling along the shoreline. Most fish were caught between the Lincoln River and the Point.

UPPER PENINSULA

Copper Harbor - Water levels in the northern Keweenaw Peninsula are presently very high and moderately muddy with more snow-melt yet to occur in the coming days. Fishing for splake in the harbor is fair to good and should only get better. Trolling plugs, casting jigs tipped with cut bait or casting hardware are all effective.

Lac LaBelle - In Keweenaw County reports no fishing as the ice has just come off.

Lake Medora - Also in Keweenaw County still had several inches of ice on it but most likely is not safe for ice fishing.

Keweenaw Bay - Those trolling have caught a few coho and the occasional chinook salmon 30 to 55 feet down in waters 40 to 60 feet deep. Pier anglers caught steelhead and coho near the L’Anse Marina and shore anglers near Linden Creek. South Portage Entry has produce coho, chinook, lake trout and steelhead for those trolling in 30 to 90 feet of water near the lighthouse or between the shoreline and the Mud Bank. Lake trout were caught in 190 and 220 feet of water when jigging. Steelhead action should pick up soon. There were reports of moderate smelt catches coming in from some of the tributaries on the northern Keweenaw shoreline.

Fall’s River - Steelhead were caught in the early morning. Smelt were picked up near the first bridge next to the Baraga State Park.

Marquette - Fishing was slow but should pick up. Those trolling spoons or flies in front of the river systems caught coho, steelhead and brown trout in the warm water.

Menominee - Those trolling in Green Bay have caught some walleye along the Michigan and Wisconsin shorelines. No limits were reported but those putting in the time were getting a few fish. Pier anglers at both the Marina and the Lighthouse were getting perch, but most were small. North of Stony Point, the occasional walleye was caught in 7 to 12 feet of water when trolling or jigging. A few splake were caught near the mouth of the Cedar River.

Menominee River - Those trolling rapalas and crawler harnesses have picked up some walleye. Those wading near Boom and Stephenson Island took a few walleye but it was slow. Near the Cat Walk, the better fishing was at night. Those floating spawn along the rocks near the Hattie Street Dam caught steelhead and brown trout. Sucker fishing has been very good.

Little Bay De Noc - Perch anglers fished the Narrows near Butler Island but few fish were caught in the deeper waters. Those fishing in shallows waters 4 to 8 feet deep caught fish but they were small. Water temperatures were edging up near 50 degrees but no reports of smelt.

Ford River - Steelhead anglers can be found 7 to 10 miles upstream.

Day’s River - Steelhead anglers are fishing 4 to 8 miles upstream

Au Train - A couple coho and lake trout were caught in Shelter Bay. Schools of smelt were seen in front of the Rock River during the day.

Munising - Boat anglers were still taking some fish in Trout Bay and along the Pictured Rocks shoreline.

Grand Marais - Coho and steelhead catch rates have started to slow for boat anglers. Some whitefish were caught off the pier.

Drummond Island - Limits of perch are still being caught off the Bayside Dock and throughout Maxton Bay when using slip bobbers and minnows.

De Tour - Albany Creek is harboring a few steelhead but catch rates are slow.

Cedarville and Hessel - Pier anglers in the marina at Hessel have caught splake. Catch rates declined due to strong winds however some nice fish were caught.

Carp River - A handful of anglers are still fishing the McDonald Rapids for steelhead.

Opening weekend followed tradition as it was wet in most areas. Extensive rainfall has many rivers flooded. It could take a minimum of seven to ten days for the watersheds to return to near normal conditions. Avoid standing near the edge of riverbanks because the ground is saturated and could pull away at anytime. Anglers hard-bitten by the fishing bug are encouraged to try inland lakes that are not connected to any river systems, because they were least affected by recent rains. Southeast Lower Peninsula Lake Erie – Bad weather has kept anglers on shore. When they can get out, anglers were still finding fair catches of walleye near the Dumping Grounds between Bolles Harbor and Luna Pier. Most were jigging in 8 to 12 feet of water however water clarity has been poor due to runoff after the storms. Good numbers of catfish have been caught in the Hot Ponds off Bolles Harbor. The catch and immediate release bass season was off to a good start with good numbers of fish caught in the marinas. Huron River – High water levels have bought the white bass in and anglers are catching their limits on minnows or jigs with tails. Good numbers of walleye were caught on minnow wraps or flies. Detroit River – Walleye are stacked up in the river. Anglers are doing well along the entire river when jigging or trolling. Humbug Marina off Gibraltar was a local hot spot. Good walleye action on the Canadian side. St. Clair River – Has good walleye fishing along the entire river. Hot spots were Marine City and the Middle Grounds. Look for steelhead and salmon off the mouth of the Black River. Lexington – Possibly the better fishing for Great Lakes anglers will be off the Thumb ports where good catches of coho, chinook and even some walleye were taken on downriggers with long lines in 10 to 25 feet of water. Try spoons or body baits. Port Sanilac – The better catch rates were north and south of the port when trolling. Harbor Beach – Should start producing chinook, coho and walleye. Saginaw Bay – Angler will want to seek out areas of clear water far away from river mouths, or fish along the line where clear and muddy waters converge. Walleye were hitting good on crawler harnesses fished off planer boards. Saginaw River – Had a good walleye opener but the river is now flooded. It will take a week or more for the Saginaw River watershed to recede enough for anglers to start fishing again. Tittabawassee River – The walleye opener was absolutely incredible, by all reports….for Saturday only. Central Michigan received a lot of rain and the river is not fishable at this time. Southwest Lower Peninsula St. Joe – Boats trolling in the channel caught brown trout and coho. St. Joe River – Is high and muddy. There were reports of steelhead at Berrien Springs, Buchanan, Niles and Mishawaka. Look for pike and crappie in the backwaters. Grand Haven – A brown trout was caught off the north pier when using spawn. Perch are still biting south of the pier in the 60 foot hole. Minnows, wigglers, spikes, and mousies are all working. The fish were a little smaller than last week. Grand River at Grand Rapids – The walleye opener was a good one however the river is high and muddy at this time. Those looking to wade should wait until the water levels come back down. Grand River at Lansing – Is running high and fast so use caution. The steelhead fishing is pretty much done but the pike and walleye action has been good over at Moore’s Park Dam. Carp were also caught. The Portland and Lyons area have also been good for pike and walleye. Chartreuse would be a good color to use with the muddy water. Looking Glass River – Is not fishable due to high water levels. Maple River – Is not fishable due to high water levels. Muskegon – Pier anglers were catching fish but the boat anglers were not able to get out due to storms and strong winds. Muskegon Lake – Perch were still being caught however anglers may need to move around to locate a school of fish. Muskegon River – Anglers were catching steelhead and suckers before the water levels went up. Northeast Lower Peninsula Rogers City – Fishing was slow however recent rains have brought the rivers up and the run-off will help warm up the shoreline waters. Boats trolling for salmon and brown trout had little luck, the waters are too cold. With a warm up, look for fish in Calcite Harbor or Swan Bay. Those fishing off the breakwall had limited results when casting spoons in chartreuse, blue and silver, green and silver or fire-tiger. Alpena – Boats are trolling just off the mouth of the river for walleye and brown trout. Thunder Bay River – Anglers are catching steelhead, walleye and suckers. Steelhead and walleye can be found up near the dam and suckers are throughout. Harrisville – Anglers fishing both sides of the wall were catching walleye. Boats out trolling picked up some fish on body baits. Good colors were fire-tiger, blue and silver or red and silver. Steelhead and brown trout were scarce. Lake trout were also caught but the season does not open until May 1st. Higgins Lake – Perch have been caught on minnows and wigglers. Boats trolling cowbells just off the bottom in 80 feet of water have caught some lake trout. Houghton Lake – Opening weekend was wet however anglers did manage to catch fish. Boats trolling in shallow waters 6 to 8 feet deep found walleye and northern pike. Bluegills and crappie can still be found in the canals. Oscoda – Walleye fishing picked up and the fish were most active from the early afternoon until well after dark. Pier anglers were using crawlers or body baits. Atlantic salmon and brown trout were also caught. Au Sable River – Steelhead have been seen all the way up to the dam. Tawas – Walleye action was good when trolling planer boards and body baits. Pier anglers caught walleye and brown trout. Au Gres – Good walleye fishing off the mouth of the river. Boats are trolling a crawler harness or vertical jigging. Au Gres River – Steelhead are still in the river. Anglers are surfcasting with spawn or small spoons near the Singing Bridge. Walleye have been caught at night. Chippewa River – In Isabella County has high water levels. Northwest Lower Peninsula Petoskey – Bad weather and cold water temperatures made for slow fishing. Bear River – Steelhead anglers caught some fish that came in with the rain. Most were using spawn, wax worms or flies. A few did well but most were disappointed. Lake Charlevoix – Steelhead anglers are working the rivers while perch anglers are targeting the lake. As the waters warm, anglers will be out looking for lake trout in the shallows. Suckers are still running in area streams. Lake Bellaire – Few anglers were out. The boat launch at Fisherman’s Paradise is in and ready for use, however, the construction at the access site is still not finished. For walleye, anglers were drifting jigs with crawlers and leeches or trolling a crawler harness or rapalas between Intermediate River and the Grass River outlet in 10 to 25 feet of water. Some targeted the river but no walleye were caught. Traverse City – Strong winds have hampered fishing efforts. When boats can get out, lake trout were caught in the West Bay when jigging. Boardman River – Steelhead action was slow due to cold water temperatures. Crystal Lake – In Benzie County is producing light numbers of steelhead for those surfcasting in the weeds off Cold Creek. Early morning is best. Platte Bay – Shore anglers using spawn were not catching anything but those trolling near the outlet were taking a few brown trout. Frankfort – Good numbers of brown trout were caught when trolling in the harbor. A few browns were caught between Frankfort and Point Betsie in 8 to 16 feet of water. Pier anglers caught fish when casting small spoons or using spawn. Betsie River – Once the water levels start to drop, target the area between Benzonia and the Homestead Dam for steelhead. Fish will still be in the river. Arcadia – Had fair fishing when there is warm water near shore. Boats trolling spoons around the Herring Hole have caught a few brown trout. Onekama – Pier fishing has been somewhat slow with the windy weather. A few walleye were caught when casting body baits after dark. Portage Lake – Good numbers of perch are still being caught in front of the channel, though a few smaller fish are now mixed in. Try in front of the channel and fish with minnows, wigglers, or wax worms. Pike were caught along the south shoreline. Manistee – Pier anglers targeting brown trout picked up a few fish when there was a nice chop on the water. Boats trolling in the harbor and along the shoreline have caught brown trout on body baits. Perch fishing off the pier has slowed. Manistee River – Steelhead and suckers can still be found however the river is high. Ludington – Pier fishing was slow but those trolling along the shoreline were catching some brown trout. Body baits in fire-tiger and clown patterns have been producing most of the fish. Pere Marquette River – Water levels are high and fast. Once the levels come down, good fishing should continue. UPPER PENINSULA Pilgrim River – Near Chassell, had a smelt run late last week. Anglers were getting their two gallon limit. Keweenaw Bay – Chinook, coho and steelhead have been caught from the Baraga Marina to the head of the Bay when fishing 30 to 55 feet down in waters 40 to 60 feet deep. Coho and steelhead were caught off the pier and when shore fishing near Linden Creek, which is across from the V.F.W. Hall in L’Anse. There were reports of smelt in Linden Creek and at the first bridge next to the Baraga State Park. Fall’s River – Steelhead fishing was fair and there were reports of a smelt run. Marquette – Fishing was slow except for the few fish caught by those trolling in front of the Carp River. The rivers are running high and fast. Menominee – Those trolling and jigging caught some nice walleye in the 18 to 21 inch range. Try a jig and minnow or plug 10 to 12 feet of water. Menominee River – Some nice walleye were seen in the river however catch rates were slow. Most were casting rapalas. There are lots of suckers in the river. Cedar River – Those trolling the shallows just off the mouth have been averaging one fish per boat of either brown trout or splake when using different colored plugs in 7 to 15 feet of water. Little Bay De Noc – The docks are in at Kipling and Ford River. The Rapid River Launch is the only one not installed. The rivers are high and fast. Shore anglers caught brown trout off Sand Point in Escanaba when casting crank baits or spoons in the harbor. Perch anglers are still anticipating the seasonal catches off Saunders Point, but no good reports as of yet. Ford River – Steelhead have been caught 4 to 8 miles upstream. Day’s River – Most anglers are fishing between old US-2 and the Golf Course. Big Bay De Noc – The docks are in Fayette, Garden and Ogontz. Several anglers headed out to Kate’s Bay where the late ice season was good, but few catches were reported. No smelt to report. Au Train – The ice is gone and the boat launch is in. The fishing has been exceptional with nice catches of coho and brown trout when casting or jigging near the mouth of the rivers. Munising – Pier anglers caught coho on spawn sacks or Cleo’s. The docks are in at the Municipal launch and boats are venturing out as the ice finally blew out. Extreme caution needs to be used because of floating ice. Out near Grand Island, boat anglers will need to watch for shelf ice. Boats in Trout Bay seem to be doing better than those trolling around in Munising Bay. Grand Marais – Pier anglers are catching coho. Boat anglers are taking a mix of steelhead, brown trout, coho, chinook and lake trout when fishing in the shallows along the shoreline or in front of the rivers and creeks that empty into Lake Superior. Drummond Island – Yellow perch fishing has been excellent. Limits of perch are being taken off the Bayside dock, the pier and also in Scotts Bay when using a crappie spreader with live minnows. De Tour – Some are fishing Albany Creek for steelhead. Most are using spoons and catch rates were limited. Cedarville and Hessel – Perch fishing has declined, perhaps due to low angler pressure. Splake have been caught off the Hessel Marina pier however the season does not open until May 1st. Carp River – A few anglers are still targeting steelhead. They are fishing spawn near the McDonald rapids.