Fishing Michigan

As the salmon runs wind down the steelhead action will increase. Pier anglers have started to catch steelhead however more rain is needed to bring the fish in. Walleye fishing is very good on inland lakes this time of year, although few anglers participate. This is also a good time of year to catch pike and muskie.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - Yellow perch were caught along the edge of the channel at the Metro Park Marina when using shiner minnows on perch rigs. A few perch were caught near the mouth of the Huron River in 6 to 12 feet of water and off Stony Point in 20 feet of water. Those shore fishing caught a few perch at the Erie Metro Park launch.

Huron River - Steelhead have been caught however rain would help to push more fish into the river. Some 5 to 10 pound fish were caught on spawn, jigs and wax worms, spinners, and spoons. Check the backwaters for bluegill and crappie.

Detroit River - Walleye were caught in 8 to 16 feet of water in the lower Trenton Channel between the bridges. Try jigs with minnows or worms or handlining with rapalas. Some perch were caught off the seawall near Gibraltar. Shore anglers have caught bluegills, perch and crappie.

Lake St. Clair - Some yellow perch have been caught however many of the fish are small. Boat anglers are fishing off the 400 Club and Gino’s. Bluegill and crappie were caught in the canals off Metro Beach.

Lexington - A few perch and pike were caught in the harbor. Decent numbers of steelhead have been caught on the right day, as the fish seem to come and go. Pier anglers might catch 5 or 6 fish one day and none the next.

Harbor Beach - A few salmon were caught inside the harbor when trolling body baits or casting from shore. Lake trout are in close to shore for spawning however the season to take them is closed. Any fish caught must be released immediately,

Port Austin - A few perch were taken at the mouth of Bird Creek.

Saginaw Bay - A few perch were caught along the shipping channel and up the old shipping channel. Boats were lucky to get 5 to 8 keepers. Boat anglers vertical jigging with jigs or spoons baited with minnows are taking a few walleye at the mouth of the Saginaw River. One nice perch was caught off Quanicassee when fishing in 30 feet of water out near the end of the shipping channel, which is a long ways out from Quanicassee. Huge clouds of emerald shiners are starting to show up near shore and in the mouth of some rivers, so maybe the perch will follow.

Saginaw River - Shore anglers caught perch at Smith Park in Essexville.

Quanicassee River - Perch fishing was hit-or-miss. Try no more than half an hour at any one spot, then move on to someplace else and try to locate a school of fish.

Sebewaing River - Perch were caught by those willing to move around.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe River - Fish will still be found in the deeper holes until we get some rain and the temperatures drop. Shore anglers have caught bluegills in the backwaters.

Grand Haven - Boat anglers were taking steelhead and small salmon in 80 to 120 feet of water. The fish were in the top 50 feet and hitting on orange and gold spoons. Pier anglers are catching light numbers of steelhead when using spawn. Menominee were still being caught off the south pier.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Coho are done but some nice chinook along with steelhead and lake trout have been caught off the wall and by those wading. Not many brown trout have been caught.

Grand River at Lansing - The salmon run has slowed and although the fish are turning dark, some fresh fish are still being caught. Anglers will want to get out and fish the Moore’s Park Dam or the South Lansing Dam. Walleye and smallmouth bass were caught at Moore’s Park, North Lansing, and at Lyons. Good pike action at the Webber Dam and Lyons.

Looking Glass River - Has good pike fishing off Babcock’s Landing.

Lake Ovid - A few muskie have been caught on pike minnows.

Muskegon - Rumor has it boat anglers are catching trout and salmon about halfway down in waters up to 120 feet deep. Pier fishing was slow however the occasional steelhead was caught.

Whitehall - Steelhead action has started with pier anglers catching fish on spawn.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Cheboygan River - Salmon runs are on the downhill side but a few fresh fish were still being caught.

Mullett Lake - A few perch have been caught just south of Dodge Point, Long Point, and down near the Indian River. Try minnows in 20 to 30 feet of water.

Ocqueoc River - A few more salmon have appeared in the river even though the run seems to be somewhat smaller than recent years.

Rogers City - Anglers still should be able to find some fish especially younger salmon, steelhead, and brown trout. Finding baitfish has been the key. Try shallow waters 45 to 70 feet deep between Calcite Harbor, Swan Bay and Adams Point with orange, green, blue, silver or purple spoons.

Presque Isle - Fishing has slowed but a few fish are still there for the taking. Try straight out from the harbor and fish where there is structure.

Thunder Bay River - Chinook and lake trout have been caught at the Ninth Street Dam. The salmon are turning dark and are mostly spawned out. Anglers have done best drifting single eggs, artificial or natural. Artificial green eggs have worked very well. Lake trout have been taken on green and orange body baits. Angler pressure has been high with boat and shore anglers.

Harrisville - Salmon are slowly making their way into the harbor and some have been caught on spawn or body baits. Early morning and late afternoon have been the most productive.

Oscoda - Pier and shore anglers have caught salmon. Fish early or late with spawn or body baits.

Au Sable River - Salmon are still being caught between the mouth and the dam. There have been reports of some steelhead following salmon into the river.

Higgins Lake - Boats trolling are still taking a few lake trout.

Tawas - The few boat anglers still out are getting a few walleye and the odd brown trout off Jerry’s Marina and Buoy #6. A few walleye were caught off the pier when still-fishing with live minnows or spoons. Anglers also caught a couple smallmouth bass, a steelhead and burbot. Perch fishing was slow and required sorting out the small ones.

Au Gres - A couple boats trolling off the mouth of the river got a few walleye.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Bear River - A few late running salmon are turning up but for the most part the salmon are done for this year.

Charlevoix - A couple anglers were still targeting salmon near the Cement Plant.

Lake Bellaire - Some were targeting walleye off Fisherman’s Paradise when trolling crawler harnesses. A few bass were still being caught on tube baits, crank baits and rubber worms. Pike anglers are trolling stick baits in 15 to 30 feet of water in the Northwest Arm. A few perch were caught near the mouth of the Intermediate River when using minnows and crawlers.

Elk River - The salmon run is pretty much done.

Boardman River - The peak of the salmon run is over however fish are still in the river including a few fresh ones. Try spawn under a bobber in the deeper holes.

Leland - Those still heading out and fishing the north end of North Manitou Island have caught a few fish when trolling in 60 to 80 feet of water with green flies.

Glen Arbor - Docks at the boat launch have been removed for the season.

Glen Lake - Perch fishing was steady with fish 5 to 7 inches hitting on wigglers.

Platte River - Those drifting spawn or yarn have caught a few. Most of the coho have moved up to the lower weir.

Frankfort - Boat anglers were still catching chinook and steelhead when fishing in 100 to 140 feet of water as far north as Pt. Betsie. Try blue and orange spoons and flies in the top 25 to 40 feet. Steelhead fishing has been good for pier anglers and those surfcasting with spawn or small spoons. Menominee were caught off the pier when using a single egg.

Betsie River - Steelhead are just getting started in the lower river.

Arcadia - Catch rates were good for salmon and steelhead when trolling in 60 to 100 feet of water with lead and multi-colored spoons. Those surfcasting In Platte Bay have taken a couple steelhead in the evening.

Lake Missaukee - Some walleye and pike have been caught.

Manistee - Steelhead along with a few leftover salmon are being caught in 150 to 300 feet of water. Red and orange were still good colors. Pier and shore anglers are catching steelhead on fresh salmon spawn.

Manistee River - There are still a few salmon on the gravel, although the run has begun to wind down. Steelhead were caught in the lower river.

Ludington - Steelhead and salmon are being caught in waters 40 to 150 feet deep. Pier anglers were taking steelhead when casting red and orange spoons.

Pere Marquette River - Some steelhead were caught in the lower river.

Pentwater - Steelhead action has started with pier anglers catching fish on spawn.

UPPER PENINSULA

Keweenaw Bay - A few coho were caught off the pier near L’Anse, the head of the Bay and off Sand Point when casting spinners or Cleo’s. Good colors were gold, orange and green. A few fish were caught on spawn bags and crawlers. Those trolling in the bay have caught a few lake trout. In Traverse Bay, pier anglers caught coho and lake trout when casting spinners. Boats trolling in 20 to 30 feet of water near Buffalo Reef took some nice trout but the bite was slow.

Marquette - Catch rates for salmon were spotty however lake trout action was good for those trolling in 40 to 50 feet of water outside the breakwalls. Lake trout and splake were caught off the Lower Harbor breakwall.

Carp River - Is still reporting a few salmon in the upper river.

Chocolay River - Had a few reports of coho being caught.

Menominee - Walleye were reported by those trolling stick baits or rapalas near Chambers Island and Green Island. Up near the Cedar River, walleye fishing was good at night when trolling in 18 to 25 feet of water north to Deadman’s Point and beyond. Walleye and bass were caught down near Hayward Bay.

Menominee River - Anglers were fishing from the mouth to the Hattie Street Dam. A few boats trolling for walleye did fair to good. Most were wading from Stephenson and Boom Island or shore fishing from the Cat Walk or the platform near the dam. Fish can be seen however catch rates were slow. Brown trout were jumping and a few were caught. Salmon and steelhead action was slow.

Little Bay De Noc - Walleye have migrated up into the northern parts of the Bay and catch rates were fair. Anglers that fished before dawn or at dusk did best between the First Reef and the Black Bottom when trolling stick baits in 8 to 30 feet of water along the reefs and the east bank. Northern pike were very active as several large fish were caught by those trolling crank baits or stick baits straight out from the coal piles near Gladstone. Try 12 to 23 feet of water. Good smallmouth catches reported throughout the Bay especially off Hunter’s Point and Squaw Point.

Day’s River - The salmon runs are just about done but several nice catches of steelhead were reported when casting spawn or yarn.

Big Bay De Noc - Continues to provide excellent smallmouth bass fishing from Fayette south to Snake Island. Most are drifting minnows 15 to 35 feet down.

Big Manistique Lake - Had fair to good perch fishing.

Tahquamenon River - Walleye, musky and perch are starting to pickup.

St. Mary’s River - A few walleye were caught north of Sault Ste. Marie off Birch Point and Roach Point. Anglers were trolling chartreuse crawler harnesses with blades in 12 feet of water. Smallmouth bass were hitting on Twister Tails.

Drummond Island - Perch fishing was still slow. The waters had cleared up some and a few fish were taken in 12 feet of water between Rutland Island and James Island. Early morning was best.

Cedarville and Hessel - A few perch have been caught in Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance when using a red teardrop with a minnow in 6 to 12 feet of water. A few fish were also caught off Little Joe Island. Near Cedarville, Bush Creek still has a few salmon coming in. Anglers are casting an artificial orange egg on a single hook with a couple of split shots.

Carp River - Anglers are catching the occasional coho and steelhead when casting spawn at the mouth.

Nunn’s Creek - Those fishing down near the mouth in the waters of Lake Huron are still taking some nice silver chinook salmon when using spawn.

St. Ignace - Anglers are targeting salmon while fishing off the docks in the early morning before daylight and after dark.

The salmon are at or near peak along the northwest side of the state. Those fish will turn dark quickly as they finish out their spawning runs. As these runs finish up, look for more steelhead to start entering the rivers. On the inland waters, anglers are still catching some bluegill, bass, pike and walleye.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - Perch were caught in 12 to 14 feet of water straight off Erie Metro Park when using minnows. Perch were found near Turtle Island. A few bonus walleye were caught by those targeting perch. Bass fishing was rated as good in the Monroe Hot Pond and the action should continue to get better as water temperatures drop.

Huron River - Steelhead are being caught but no big numbers yet. A few anglers have been seen between the mouth and the dam. Try spawn, spinners, jig and wax worm, or small spoons. Catch rates should only get better in the next couple weeks. Those looking for panfish will want to check out Huroc Park for bluegills.

Detroit River - A few perch were caught off Stony Point however anglers will need to sort out the small ones. Some nice smallmouth bass have been caught by those using crayfish, minnows, tube baits and rubber worms. Fish the mouth for walleye.

Lexington - Salmon are moving into the harbor but few anglers were out. Try early morning or late evening with small spoons, body baits, or spawn under a bobber.

Port Sanilac - Try close to shore and off the piers for salmon and steelhead.

Port Austin - A few salmon were seen in the harbor but not much angler activity.

Saginaw Bay - A few perch and walleye were caught along the shipping channel and near Spoils Island. Anglers were only bringing in about 5 fish per trip so the action is still far from red hot. A few perch were being taken out of the Garner Road Drain near Oakhurst. At Sebewaing, bluegill and sunfish were caught in the marina by those using regular worms or wax worms.

Tittabawassee River - Is still producing some walleye.

Saginaw River - Is also producing fair numbers of walleye. There are fish in the river for those willing to spend a little time to find them.

Quanicassee River - Small perch were still being caught but the action was slow.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

Galien River - Anglers have caught salmon and steelhead in the South Branch however the season to take brown trout is closed. Use anything chartreuse.

St. Joe - Not much happening off the pier except for a few whitefish caught.

St. Joe River - The run is down somewhat this year however there is still a good number of fish in the river. There were more coho than chinook this year. Anglers are looking on the gravel but the fish are not there yet. Fish the deep holes.

Grand Haven - Those fishing off both piers have caught a couple steelhead on spawn. The occasional menominee was caught off the south pier. No perch.

Kalamazoo River - Fish moved in the beginning of October however not many are on the gravel yet. Fish the deeper holes until the fish move closer to spawning.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Salmon action was fair so a few fish were still being caught. The coho moved through pretty fast and the steelhead action has yet to gain momentum. Walleye are still hitting near the bridges. Pike have started to feed.

Grand River at Lansing - Anglers have caught coho, a few chinook and the occasional steelhead when using spawn sacks and egg imitations. Salmon were reported on the gravel in the Red Cedar River. Walleye were caught at both dams. Pike are feeding and hitting on spoons, crank baits and sucker minnows. Some large channel cats have also been caught.

Muskegon - Boat anglers were still catching a few young chinook and some steelhead when trolling about 50 feet down in waters 140 feet deep. Orange and gold were good colors. Anglers caught a couple steelhead off the south pier.

Muskegon River - Salmon can still be found and some are turning quite dark. Not many steelhead have entered the river yet.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Mullett Lake - A few perch were still being caught near Dodge Point and Round Point when using minnows. Trollers caught smallmouth bass and pike.

Ocqueoc River - Still has fair to good salmon action.

Rogers City - Most of the adult salmon have entered the weir however a few fish remain in the bay. Over 1100 fish have been harvested for eggs and the fish look very healthy. Try west of the harbor for younger chinook along with coho, atlantic salmon, steelhead and brown trout. Fish the top half of waters 30 to 65 feet deep. Good colors were blue, green and purple.

Presque Isle - Was the bright spot with limit catches of chinook along with a mix of coho, atlantic salmon, steelhead and brown trout taken straight out of the harbor, up towards the big lighthouse and south towards Stoneport. Try downriggers set in the top 25 to 35 feet of water and 3 or 5 color lead core off boards.

Alpena - There were reports of fish stacked up in the channel outside the mouth. Additional salmon could move in with the whitefish. Try Hot-n-Tots or rattle traps.

Thunder Bay River - Anglers are catching chinook and pink salmon as well as steelhead at the Ninth Street Dam. Rattletraps and pink flies are working best but some have also been taken on artificial and natural spawn. There are dark fish and silver fish pooled up in a section across from the access site near the dam. Some are wading on that side of the river however caution needs to be used because of the sheer drop-offs or fast water from the dam which could sweep anglers off their feet.

Harrisville - Salmon are slowly coming into the harbor. Best time to fish was between 5:00 and 8:00am or 7:00 and 9:00pm with spawn, spoons or body baits. Hot colors were silver, red or blue.

Oscoda - A few salmon are being caught off the pier.

Au Sable River - Has quite a few salmon up towards the dam. Try spawn or flies. More walleye were being caught up river than down near the mouth.

Lake Margrethe - Had fair to good perch fishing. Anglers were taking fish in 15 feet of water straight out from the boat launch.

Houghton Lake - Boat anglers continue to catch fish, mostly walleye. During the day, they are using jigs with leeches, crawlers or trolling Hot-n-Tots but at night fish the shallow waters along the shoreline because that is where the minnows are.

Tawas - The pier is producing a few small perch. A few walleye are being caught off the mouth of the river, behind the State Police Post, and outside the harbor when casting jigs or crank baits. A few salmon have also been caught at the mouth when floating spawn under a bobber.

Au Gres River - Salmon and walleye have been caught in the surf near the Singing Bridge and in the lower river. For salmon, try floating spawn under a bobber and for walleye, try casting jigs or crank baits.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Charlevoix - Salmon fishing near the Cement Plant has been hit-or-miss. Steelhead were starting to show up around the piers and docks. Some turned their attention to other species like menominee and perch for the last stretch of open water fishing.

Lake Bellaire - Surface water temperatures have dropped to the mid 50’s. Only a few walleye anglers have been out trolling crawler harnesses or jigging crawlers. Bass pressure was steady with anglers casting artificial worms, tube baits and crank baits in 5 to 30 feet of water off Fisherman’s Paradise and along the drop-off in the South Arm. Pike action picked up in the northwest arm when trolling stick baits in 12 to 25 feet of water. Perch were caught near the mouth of the Intermediate River.

Traverse City - The East Bay has good whitefish action in the southern sections. Try jigging Swedish Pimples or Sand Kickers.

Elk River - The salmon run has peaked and there is still a good number of fish in the river. Anglers will find coho, steelhead, lake trout and brown trout in the hole below the power dam. Spawn was best but a few fish were taken on spoons or body baits.

Boardman River - There is still a good number of fish in the river however the overall run is starting to slow down. Anglers are using spawn bags.

Glen Arbor - The boat launch has been removed for the season.

Crystal River - Has lots of angler activity at the mouth. Shore anglers reported large schools of fish. Chinook and steelhead can be seen in the river.

Frankfort - As the salmon action winds down, steelhead activity has started to pick up. When boats can get out, they were still finding a mix of chinook and steelhead when trolling in 100 to 120 feet of water off the Shelf. Pier anglers and those surfcasting have caught some steelhead along with a few brown trout.

Betsie River - The salmon run should be at peak by now. Watch for steelhead action to increase in the next week or two.

Onekama - Those able to get out were still finding a few chinook along with some steelhead when trolling. Pier fishing was slow.

Manistee - Boats were still finding a few salmon and steelhead in 50 to 150 feet of water. Try orange or red spoons in the top 30 feet. Pier and shore anglers have caught steelhead on spawn.

Manistee River - Should be seeing the peak of the salmon run. From here on, most of the chinook salmon will be very dark and actively spawning and less apt to bite. A few steelhead are starting to show up in the lower stretches. Pier anglers and those surfcasting are catching light numbers of steelhead.

Ludington - Boats trolling in 30 to 120 feet of water were still finding a few salmon and some steelhead. Most fish were taken on orange spoons close to the surface. Pier anglers caught steelhead on spawn or spoons.

Pere Marquette River - The spawning run should be at peak. For steelhead, the action will only get better. Fish the lower stretches for now. Pier fishing was slow.

UPPER PENINSULA

Copper Harbor - Fishing pressure was low due to cold temperatures and the arrival of snow. A few small splake were caught on minnows.

Paint Pond - In Iron County is producing some nice muskie.

Emily Lake - Near Crystal Falls is also producing muskie. This is a good time of year to catch them as they go on their fall feeding frenzy.

Marquette - Salmon action was spotty however lake trout action is fair to good for those trolling in 70 to 100 feet of water.

Carp River - Has a few salmon and steelhead in the upper river.

Chocolay River - Had reports of salmon and steelhead in the upper river.

Dead River - A few chinook were caught but the fish have already spawned.

Menominee - Walleye were still being caught up near the Cedar River when fishing at night. Most are trolling north to Deadman’s Point and beyond in 20 to 30 feet of water or south down to Hayward Bay. Anglers are using rapalas, different colored stick baits or crawler harnesses.

Menominee River - Those fishing from shore and wading near Stephenson Island caught chinook at night. Those drfting yarn on #8 and #10 hooks have picked up brown trout on the Michigan side near the Hattie Street Dam. The steelhead were picky about the color of yarn, but gave a nice fight before spitting the hook back out.

Cedar River - Those fishing between the mouth and the first rapids have caught smallmouth bass when casting crank baits in the deep holes.

Little Bay De Noc - Colder weather is lowering water temperatures and bringing walleye into the bay. More fish are starting to show up as far north as the Center Reef but the better catches were coming from the Narrows and south to the Black Bottom. Anglers are trolling stick baits or crawlers in 15 to 35 feet of water where the fish were suspended. Some nice perch were caught off the mouth of the Day’s River when using minnows in 10 to 19 feet of water.

Ford River - Fair salmon action just off the mouth when casting spoons or spawn.

Escanaba River - Had fair walleye fishing at the mouth for those drifting crawlers in 10 to 18 feet of water. Shore anglers casting Cleo’s at the dam have caught salmon.

Big Bay De Noc - Has excellent smallmouth bass fishing between Fayette and Snake Island. Big fish were reported by those trolling or drifting minnows 15 to 35 feet down along the break.

Munising - Those going out reported hit-or-miss salmon fishing. Boat anglers are doing better than the pier anglers as it seems the salmon are still staging in deeper water away from the mouth of the Anna River. Fish were caught by those trolling in 25 to 60 feet of water along the bank between the hospital and Sand Point.

Munuscong Bay - Had good smallmouth bass action around Moon Island. Try still-fishing crawlers over the rock piles.

De Tour - Fish were marked 20 to 45 feet down off the southwest side of Drummond Island. De Tour Point was producing some walleye for those trolling a harness. There were reports of walleye caught upstream near Lime Island when using orange and purple crawler harnesses.

Drummond Island - Yellow perch fishing is very slow as strong winds have the waters churned up. A few walleye were caught near Andrews Reef when trolling bottom bouncers with crawler harnesses in 30 feet of water.

Cedarville and Hessel - Anglers fishing in Cedarville Bay and off Little Joe Island were catching a few perch however most were heading to Musky Bay and Middle Entrance. An occasional pike was also caught by perch anglers. Salmon fishing near Cedarville in Bush Creek is improving as quite a few fish are moving in.

Carp River - Salmon action here slowed but fish are still present. Anglers are fishing the mouth to Towerline Road and upstream to McDonalds Rapids. Most are casting spawn or stick baits from shore.

Nunn’s Creek - Salmon are in but the creek is closed to fishing. Anglers can wade into the waters of Lake Huron or fish from the shore of Lake Huron only. Catch rates were good with some nice silver fish caught.

St. Ignace - Anglers are casting silver and green J-Plugs or small Cleo’s off the piers and breakwater rocks for salmon.

Salmon runs on the west side of the state are at or near peak conditions. Anglers looking for the number of fish passed at the weirs can call the Little Manistee Weir at 231-775-9727 (ext) 6072 and the Platte River Weirs at 231-775-9727 (ext) 6073. Anglers should note that the message is changed only when we handle fish.

Southeast Lower Peninsula

Lake Erie - A few perch were caught off the Fermi Power Plant and Stony Point.

Huron River - Steelhead are slowly coming into the river. Fish were caught up at the dam and near the bridge on Telegraph Road. Right now they are hitting on Mepps and Rooster Tail spinners, flies or a jig and wax worm. Those fishing the backwaters of Huroc Park found some nice bluegills.

Detroit River - Has had low angler participation because of the weather. There was a report of a few walleye caught in the Trenton Channel near Harrison Park. No word on perch this week.

Lake St. Clair - Perch were caught but not n big numbers. Those fishing in Anchor Bay caught some muskie.

Lexington - Boat anglers trolling spoons in waters 30 to 70 feet deep have caught a limited number of salmon and steelhead. Salmon were starting to come into the harbor where pier anglers are targeting them with body baits or spoons. They have also caught the occasional steelhead or northern pike. Perch fishing was slow.

Port Sanilac - Boats trolling closer to shore have picked up a few salmon or steelhead. Shore anglers have caught an occasional steelhead. No perch fishing.

Harbor Beach - Did not have much in the way of boating activity. Salmon and steelhead fishing were slow. A few walleye were caught however overall activity has been slow since lake trout season closed.

Port Austin - Salmon and steelhead fishing were slow.

Saginaw Bay - Anglers managed to pick up a few walleye when trolling crawler harnesses in front of the Hot Ponds. The remaining ports had little effort for walleye. A few perch are being taken in or near the shipping channel. Bay Port and Caseville were quiet.

Quanicassee River - Small perch were caught but overall the action was slow.

Sebewaing River - Anglers caught some perch however they were working hard to get a dozen keepers.

Southwest Lower Peninsula

St. Joe River - Fish are in the river however catch rates were slow. Anglers are using a variety of lures and natural baits but few fish were caught. Try the deeper holes up near Berrien Springs Dam or down near the mouth.

Paw Paw River - Is producing a few salmon.

Grand Haven - Rumor has it some steelhead were taken off both the north and south piers.

Grand River at Grand Rapids - Salmon action has slowed but a few fresh fish were still being caught up near the dam and off the east wall when drifting small spawn bags. Fish were also caught off the Fulton Street Bridge when back bouncing spawn bags. The occasional walleye was caught by those back trolling Hot-n-Tots or rapalas off the Fulton, Blue, Walk and Pearl Street bridges. Pike were hitting on spoons and crappie were caught near the bridge at Riverside Park and Bridge Street.

Grand River at Lansing - The salmon are here and anglers are catching some fish. The hot spot was the point where the Grand meets the Red Cedar followed by the North Lansing Dam and Portland. Anglers are reminded that snagging in not a legal method of take for any species including trout and salmon. Check out the North Lansing Dam for channel cats.

Looking Glass River - Look for hungry pike along the weed beds as this is the time of year these fish go on a feeding frenzy.

Muskegon River - Salmon are in the river and hitting on flies, spawn, or spoons. Some fish were spotted on the beds up near Newaygo. Not many steelhead yet.

White River - Salmon can still be found between Hesperia and Pine Point. Catch rates should only get better in the next week or two.

Northeast Lower Peninsula

Cheboygan River - Fish have been caught from the mouth all the way up to the Cheboygan Dam.

Mullett Lake - Anglers this past week were getting a few perch on the north end of the lake when using minnows.

Ocqueoc River - Salmon can be found throughout the river system. Try spawn, flies, spoons, body baits or plugs.

Rogers City - A few boats anchored in the bay had limited success when casting Cleo’s and fire-tiger body baits. There should be some silver fish in 40 to 70 feet of water. Pier and shore fishing was slow. Anglers are reminded of the spawning closure on the Swan River.

Grand Lake - Is producing some perch. For bass, try crawlers or spinners around the islands.

Alpena - Boating traffic has ceased for the most part. Shore anglers might still find a few walleye near the launch or the marina.

Thunder Bay River - Has been seeing all the action. The bite is slow but the salmon that have been caught are larger than last year measuring 28 to 30 inches. Shore anglers have been taking chinook on rubber eggs, flies, and rattletraps. Blue and silver or black and chrome were good colors. Pink flies have also taken fish. Boat anglers caught fish on Hot-n-Tots. A few pink salmon were also caught.

Fletcher’s Pond - Was yielding some pike and bass.

Harrisville - Salmon are slowly coming into and around the harbor and hitting on spawn or spoons. Blue and silver were the hot colors. A few walleye were caught on crawler harnesses or body baits.

Oscoda - Salmon are slow coming into the river but pier anglers have managed to catch a few fish. Walleye are still being caught but the numbers are down.

Au Sable River - After the rain, salmon were sighted all the way up to Foote Dam.

Higgins Lake - No word on perch however catch rates should start to improve soon. Fishing has taken a back seat to small game and bow hunting however it might be a good idea to bring a fishing pole for when the perch start biting.

Tawas - Pier anglers are catching a few perch from the floating docks. A couple walleye were caught from the outside pier. A few salmon are jumping in the harbor but not biting.

Tawas River - Fish up in the river are turning dark but anglers might be able to find some fresh fish down near the mouth.

Au Gres - Has been very slow with no perch caught and no walleye effort reported.

Au Gres River - Those surfcasting near the Singing Bridge had limited success for salmon, lake trout and steelhead. Any lake trout caught must be released immediately because the season closed on September 30th.

Northwest Lower Peninsula

Petoskey - Anglers are showing up in good numbers however fishing was generally slow. There are fish in the big lake however the number seems to be dwindling. Anglers were trolling J-Plugs, thundersticks, rapalas, rattle traps, spoons or spawn. Good colors were green and white, pearl, silver or fire-tiger. Water temperatures have cooled and the steelhead are beginning to show up around the piers. A few fish were caught on spawn.

Charlevoix - Boat anglers are still taking a few fish but not many. Pier anglers are catching the occasional steelhead on spawn or smallmouth bass on crawlers.

Lake Charlevoix - A few perch were caught on minnows.

Lake Bellaire - Surface temperatures have dropped to the mid 50’s. A few walleye anglers were out but no fish were recorded. Smallmouth bass action was slow except for a couple fish caught in 5 to 15 feet of water near the northern drop-off, the mouth of the Intermediate River and near the Grass River outlet. Try artificial worms, tube baits or spinners. A few pike were caught on stick baits tube baits or artificial worms. A few perch were caught on crawlers near the mouth of the Intermediate River however the fish were small. No muskie to report.

Elk River - Salmon fishing continues to pick up. Try spawn bags, yarn or body baits.

Boardman River - The salmon run here is near peak. Try fresh eggs or yarn under a bobber and fish the deeper holes. Pink or red were good colors. Those willing to put in the time will catch a few fish.

Platte River - Continues to provide some good salmon action.

Frankfort - Windy weather has hampered fishing however those able to get out on the better days have caught young chinook and steelhead in 80 to 150 feet of water when fishing along the Shelf. Pier fishing was slow but the occasional steelhead and brown trout have started to make their way in closer to shore. Try spawn in the early morning.

Betsie River - Rain continues to push fish into the river. Anglers have caught salmon, steelhead, and brown trout. Most are fishing between the US-31 Bridge and the Homestead Dam.

Portage Lake - Catch rates for walleye and panfish were slow. Those seeking largemouth and smallmouth bass did well in 7 to 9 feet of water. Anglers trolling for pike found success in the late afternoon. A few perch were caught in deep water.

Manistee - Light numbers of salmon and steelhead have been caught in waters 50 to 150 feet deep however the better steelhead action was out in waters 300 to 400 feet deep. Try the top 40 feet with orange or red spoons. Pier fishing was slow with only an occasional steelhead taken.

Manistee River - Salmon fishing is in full swing with fish actively spawning on the gravel. Light numbers of steelhead have been caught in the lower stretches. No word on pier fishing or surfcasting although that action should begin soon.

Ludington - Boat anglers were still catching a few salmon and steelhead in waters 100 to 200 feet deep. Green and orange were good colors. Pier and shore fishing continues to be slow.

Pere Marquette River - The salmon run is in full swing with good numbers of fish on the gravel. Look for steelhead in the lower stretches. Pier and shore fishing were slow. Look for steelhead fishing to pick up in the next couple of weeks.

UPPER PENINSULA

Keweenaw Bay - Angler participation was down due to rain and windy conditions. Those able to get out did manage to catch a few coho. In Traverse Bay, pier anglers were starting to pick up a few coho along with the occasional lake trout. Try Cleo’s or big spinners.

Falls River - Anglers are catching coho on spawn, crawlers, spinners and Cleo’s.

Marquette - Lake trout have started to move into shallow waters less than 70 feet deep just outside the lower harbor. There was rumor of a few coho caught outside the lower harbor area.

Carp River - Salmon action has picked up.

Chocolay River - Salmon action here picked up in the upper river.

Dead River - Action is still spotty with a few chinook and pink salmon reported.

Menominee - Those trolling spoons north and south of the river have caught a few chinook, steelhead and brown trout. Blue and silver were good colors. Up near the Cedar River, walleye were caught at night off Deadmans’ Point. Some nice walleye along with a few bass were caught as far south as Hayward Bay by those using rapalas, crawler harnesses or stick baits.

Menominee River - Smaller brown trout and steelhead were caught up near the dam by those wading near the rocks in the middle. Anglers are reminded to use extreme caution when wading that close to the gates as the rocks are slippery. A nice brown trout weighing in at 15.5 pounds was caught on spawn near the rocks on the Michigan side. Walleye are being caught from the Cat Walk after dark when using jigs with crawlers, zip lures, or rapalas.

Little Bay De Noc - Walleye were caught by those trolling stick baits in 9 to 15 feet of water around the island that is south of the Ford River. Lots of small walleye were caught between the Escanaba River and the Black Bottom when trolling or drifting crawlers in 10 to 25 feet of water. A few perch were taken in the Narrows when jigging minnows in 18 to 30 feet of water.

Ford River - Salmon are in however high water levels lowered the catch rates.

Big Bay De Noc - Had fair to good catches of smallmouth bass as the fish are congregating along the break between Fayette and Snake Island. Some nice fish were caught when drifting minnows 15 to 30 feet down. Off Fairport, a couple salmon were caught when trolling spoons 40 to 90 feet down in 110 to 130 feet of water.

Munising - Those out for salmon found the action to be hit-or-miss when trolling out from the Anna River. Pier fishing was also slow.

Grand Marais - When they can get out, boats are still trolling in front of the Sucker River but catch rates were slow. Those fishing off the piers also reported slow action with just a few fish taken each day.

Munuscong Bay - Walleye action was slow however a few fish were caught in 35 feet of water near the north bound channel marker when trolling bottom bouncers with red spinner blades and crawler harnesses. A few muskie were caught around Moon Island when jigging artificial baits or crawlers in 6 to 8 feet of water.

De Tour - Had limited fishing pressure however those going out and targeting salmon are trolling the shipping channel to the #3 Green Can and fishing 60 feet down with yellow flies and silver flashers. De Tour Point is producing a few walleye. Try crawler harnesses or stick baits. Upstream, a few walleye were caught on pink and pearl beads when fishing off Swedes Point and the west side of Pipe Island.

Drummond Island - Small schools of perch were found on the south side of Ashman Island. Strong winds have the waters stained in Scott Bay.

Cedarville and Hessel - Pier anglers off Hessel are catching a few smallmouth bass and some small pike. Splake are also present, but the season is closed. A few chinook were harvested by anglers casting spoons. Hessel Bay is producing light numbers of perch in 14 feet of water. In the Snows Channel, anglers are casting spinner baits in shallow waters for smallmouth bass. Musky Bay and the Middle Entrance are producing a few perch. Early morning is best with minnows in 5 to 12 feet of water.

Carp River - Is providing some action with chinook and pink salmon caught by shore anglers at the mouth when casting spawn or blue, silver and orange stick baits. Beds have been spotted in the deeper holes up near McDonald Rapids.

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

St. Ignace - Boat activity was low however shore anglers near the ferry docks have caught a few chinook when casting spoons, small Cleo’s or silver and green J-Plugs.