best walleye fishing in southwest michigan

Additionally, be sure to have the proper safety equipment and follow best boating practices. Walleyes in the wind can and does produce walleyes and sometimes the best walleye fishing comes when it is windy. Walleye fishing is among the most popular activities on the lake in spring, summer, and fall. If youre angling at night, try shallow sandy bottoms where the Walleyes are looking for food. If you choose to fish after dark, you might want to try trolling crankbait along break lines by shallow flats. Although its shallower than most lakes in Michigan, Portage Lake produces one of the largest and heaviest Walleye fish in the State. Cass Lake Michigan. While Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Michigan are all at your disposal, the list of potential spots doesnt end here. Most are good-sized bodies of water, but are very fishable in a small boat if you use common sense. "It was cheap, but it doesn't work in all situations," he said. For one of these trips, you have to book EARLY! In the spring, before there are many weeds, trolling the shallows withcrankbaitsprovides the most bang for your buck. Walleyes from 5 to 9 pounds are very common, with several reaching 11 and 12 pounds. Here, you can ride in a miniature train pulled by a 100 -year-old steam engine. Light feet create big bites! A glam, elusive fish, caught for bragging rights and its exquisite taste. Beat the boaters out in the morning and hit bigdropoffs, like those around Murphys andHastingsPoints, near the middle of the lake. Use trolling crankbaits during Summer and drift using slip bobbers with leeches at night. There are several humps, which rise to within 10 feet of the surface, that walleyes consistently relate to. West Michigan is an angler's paradise! Use a depth finder to locate outside bends in the current, and drop a minnow-tipped jig ( oz jigs,1/8 oz jigs,1/16 oz jigs). At 60 miles long and 30 miles wide, it's one of the largest lakes in the whole of the United States. If the walleye are not aggressive, a worm or leech on asplit shotrig, placed in the reef, can draw a strike. Its hard to picture a fishing trip to Lake Erie without targeting its superstar catch. Best Spinner: Northland Baitfish Float'n Spin. As water temps warm into the low 40s and stay there, the steelhead run will begin in earnest and fishing will pick up. Top 10 Michigan Walleye Lakes. On a nice day, youll find locals crowded all the way from the walkway to the dam. The Arboretum features a walkway along the river and railings which are convenient for resting your rods against. If you have a cold-water pond, you can stock trout. For example, Walleye tend to be more aggressive and much hungrier during spawning season, so you can experiment with various types of bait. It is not as large as some of the others mentioned but it makes up for that with its wide variety of fish. 7. February 9, 2023. Although this lake occasionally receives small plants, the Walleye population in the lake is sustained through natural reproduction. Brown Reservoir (Clark County) - Stocked annually since 1975 with fingerling walleye, C.J. But what if you don't live near one of the Great Lakes or you don't have a vessel that will handle the big water? Conditions can change daily, so you might want to check the weather in advance and head out with a local guide. Located along Lake Michigan, Southwest Michigan is a prime fishing destination. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. For more information, visit michigan.gov/dnr. And they won't have to tackle the big water to do it. Winchester's new Big Bore ammo, available in 10 mm, .44 Mag., .357 Mag., and .45 Colt, is specifically designed for big bears in bear country. The Walleye fish in this lake are sustained through natural reproduction and can grow up to 18 inches in length. Gun Lake is relatively smaller than other lakes and covers 2680 acres. Major waterways aside, there are various other spots where you can target Walleye. Catfish, largemouth, bluegill and even a turtle may grace your line if youre using live bait. CX Outfitter, 180 gr. Brightonhas awell-known spot for dock fishing inMill Pond, rightdowntown. Look for spring walleyes to cluster in the shallow confines of Maple Bay and Bullhead Bay where the Maple River and Crooked River enter the lake. Thats because Michigans rich waters dont disappoint even during the winter months, with 11,000 lakes in Michigan waiting to be explored. Two great fishing spots in Hubbard Lake are Churchill Point or Doctor Point. We pulled together more than a dozen itineraries to kickstart your planning. Marble Lake Located in Quincy, Michigan, Marble Lake is known for its shallow water that's perfect to catch . Spring fishing in Lake Michigan is good between the middle of April and May. The lake holds a healthy population of non-stocked walleye that maintains itself. The search for Michigan's Best Inland Lake was a whirlwind, with over 140 different lakes nominated, and thousands of votes for Michiganders special picks. 7. Eagle Lake is famous for high numbers of good eating size Walleye and also big trophy Walleye. This reservoir is over 1800 acres big and is found on the Flambeau River. 5. The spring spawning runs in April and May is considered to be the best time to go jigging for Walleye in the Bay. Thats why some of the regions finest artists, writers, musicians, history-makers and performers call this home. When stocking trout do not stock any other . Here, youll need heavier jigs. Washtenaw and Wayne counties' 1,270-acre Belleville Lake is an impoundment of the Huron River that's more noted for it black crappies and largemouth bass, but it a sleeper for walleyes according to Braunscheidel. The spring spawning runs in April and May is considered to be the best time to go jigging for Walleye in the Bay. You also can reel in walleye, smallmouth bass, pan fish and pike. Advertisement. Even so, the fish can be found almost anywhere in the lake. Walley fish species are insatiable predators and always put up a fight when caught. Contact the Alpena Convention & Visitors Bureau at alpenacvb.com or at (989) 354-4181 for information on bait shops, lodging and amenities in the area. This fish also has relatively fewer bones than most fish and offers a satisfactory amount of meat. Because both are now sustained by natural reproduction, VHS has not had an effect on the fisheries. There are other options. This site has a launch fee but season passes are available. The Model 336 is expected to be launched soon; the Model 1894 should launch this spring. Let us know in the comments! However, make sure you book a trip on a suitable charter boat and check whether your captain offers children-friendly charters. Both lakes also have a healthy zooplankton population, which is what the fry feed on, and good spawning habitat once they reach adulthood.". If youre after quality Walleye jigging, this river is arguably the best place in the region. | However, anglers can catch them pretty much throughout the year, even during winter. Due to minimal pressure, this lake has become a great place for walleye fishing. If you are looking for a public boat launch, the Benton Harbor Public Boat Launch is also on Riverview Drive along the St. Joseph River, right by Pier 1000. Nate Torres, 13, sent the . So, I have been studying the DNR fish stocking reports for the past 5 years. From early September until freeze-up in late December, the fishing just gets better and better. As a result, the Walleyes in this lake multiply more and are larger. The Buffalo River is in northwest Arkansas . Once the weeds get taller and thicker you should change to pitching and jigging hooks with leeches using a slip-bobber. Ohio offers many fantastic locations for the public to fish, including 124,000 acres of inland water, 7,000 miles of streams, 2.25 million acres of Lake Erie water, and 481 miles of the Ohio River. Make sure to use a planner board to take the lures from the boat. The weekly fishing report is intended to give you an idea of fishing conditions around the state. St. Clair River Walleye anglers use one-ounce jigs, along with and jigs to maintain contact with the bottom due to quick currents. The SW Michigan walleye topic is a great one. While Michigan has enough lakes to accommodate nearly any sizeboat, fishing isnt just for those out on the open water. Springtime and summer months are the best time to fish for Walleye on the Great Lakes in Michigan. Leelanaumight be one of the best areas in Michigan to go walleye fishing. This year, the rifle will be chambered in 7mm PRC, the hot new load that was a hit at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. Using different fishing techniques during different seasons will help you with your catch. Although this lake doesn't offer the greatest number of Walleyes, anglers will never miss making a catch. It is right across the street from the New Buffalo City Beach and has multiple ramps and docks as well as plenty of trailer parking. What an amazing place! Jigging is an effective method for river fishing, although lake Walleye also respond well to that technique. Saginaw Bay Walleye Club (MWT) Lake Erie - Wayne County Lake Erie Metro Park Walleye . Normally, youll need jigs in the 1/2, 5/8, and 3/4 oz sizes. Keep twitching it, on and off, for a few minutes before moving on. Like any sport worth its name, fishing for Walleyes requires a tactful approach. For information on inland lake walleye opportunities in southeast Michigan, contact the MDNR Lake Erie Management Unit at (248) 359-9040. Located along the sunset coast of southern Lake Michigan, it is a Midwest paradise. 1) Union Lake. When you launch your boat from the New Buffalo City Boat Launch, back straight out of the dock area and make a right to head up the river. Find 150 species of fish in the lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the region. Brown is a destination walleye fishery. In 2020, more than 400 young yellow perch were caught per 10 minute tow compared to less than 50 mature yellow perch caught. Spring fishing. This,combined with structures well-suited for trolling, make it easy to locate and catch big walleye. Visit hotel website. All Game & Fish subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Some places simply make you happy. Want to fish southeast Michigan's Great Lakes areas (St. Clair System and Lake Erie), Lake Huron, Lake Michigan or Lake Superior . Trolling along the 30- to 50-foot contours with crawler harnesses or crankbaits can be productive too. For more information on bait shops, lodging and amenities in the area contact the Indian River Chamber of Commerce at irchamber.com or by calling (231) 238-9325. For one of these trips, you have to book EARLY! LAKE ERIE. It covers 2000 acres and is located northwest of Lapeer County and northeast of Genesee County. Michiganders will find lots of great walleye action this year. This will help prevent spooking the Walleye fish. This guide will cover all you need to know about Walleye fishing in Michigan. Whats your favorite lake or river in the state? Lake Gogebic. The fish from the 2005 plant should provide great fishing this year. ELD-X Precision Hunter). Michigan anglers jig minnows while drifting downriver, ice jigs, and spoons in deep waters along the dropoffs and ledges. Fishing Reports and Forecasts. Let us know in the comments below. Ice fishing in Michigan is a time-honored tradition, and anglers from all over the [], For hundreds of years, Walleye have been a staple of freshwater fishing all across the Upper Midwest and Canada. Those fish should grow quickly and begin contributing to the fishery in 2013. You can find Walleyes in plenty along the edges of weedy deep holes and rocky drop-offs in Summer. You do not need a fishing license under the age of 17 in the state of Michigan to dock or boat fish. The suspended Walleyes tend to be less aggressive and larger as they feed on alewives, smelt, and ciscoes. This Lake is located between Alpena and Harrisville in Alcona County. Theres a table ready for you. Post-spawn activity is high earlier on in the season in these two fishing spots. April 15, 2023 to April 15, 2023 . Walleye fish can also be found in open water in Summer. Nearby. The docks andshoreline off ofLake Shore Drive,along the areaof Lake Leelanau called The Narrows, has been a hot bed for walleye following the implanting back in 2012. Walleyes are a popular choice for anglers in this lake as they are both numerous and large. Southwest Michigan is one of them. Everyone thinks steelhead or salmon in the St. Joe, but in Martin's mind, the river's . 6. Lets dive right in. Top 5 Best Rock Fishing Rod and Reel Combos for Every Angler, Finding the Best Bait for Spanish Mackerel. Choose an appropriate time of the day and season to fish for Walleyes. A change of only 5 feet in depth or of bottom composition is likely to hold fish. This, therefore, makes them a popular game fish. More Good Fishing. These are just a handful of amazing locations within our great state where you can test your skills. Try oz jigswith minnows early in the year, and leeches later in the year. From traditional favorites, to hidden . On Lake Michigan, you'll get to target Steelhead and Lake Trout, as well as Coho and even Chinook Salmon. By silversailor370. There are plenty of fish to catch along the way. It is also frequented by kayakers and canoers, and you'll find great locations for hiking and camping along the river. You can also find Walleyes near the Sturgeon and Indian Rivers and the Colonial Point. Marlin is back in the game with the re-introduction of the classic 336 and 1894 lever-action hunting rifles. Theres a reason that Walleye ice fishing is such a popular activity when the [], Ice Fishing in Michigan: The Complete Guide. "We've had issues with cormorants in the past, but what it all goes back to is natural reproduction.". Since Walleye move a lot, trolling is one of the most productive ways to catch them. Coldwater Lake Catfish is one of the most common fish caught on Coldwater Lake, along with walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike. The Grand Blanc angler hauled in 65 pounds of the prized game fish this month to snag a big prize: $83,259. This is a reservoir lake that covers 1200 acres and is located in mostly Oakland County and partly in Livingston County. Dairyland Reservoir. Also known as the Great Manistique, this lake covers 10,130 acres and among the largest lakes in the Upper Peninsula. This is attributed to the fact that the lake has abundant forage and vegetation cover that supplies the fish with plenty of food. Pier 1000 Marina, Tiscornia Park, Silver Beach County Park, Sea Hawk Charters, New Buffalo Beach, Southwest Michigans Empty Nesters Freedom Tour, proper safety equipment and follow best boating practices. "Upper Belleville Lake can be very good right after the opener," he said. They are usually in shallow water during the post-spawn period and move towards the edge of deep holes as the water warms. In the video above, Leopold's Shawn Skipper highlights the features of the exciting new optics with Game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. The vegetation in this lake also makes it hard to navigate and fish with ease. * * *. The Thunder Bay River, which cuts right through the city, offers unique shoreline fishing for trout and other species as you wade farther from downtown. Even so, this lake continues to have a surplus supply of Walleye fish. The combination of being very clear and the fact that the lake is a favorite of power boaters means that the best walleye fishing on Coldwater Lake takes place early and late in the day, at night or when weather forces the water zealots to stay home. This lake covers 2110 acres and is found in Onekama Township, Manistee County. Note that there might be minimum size and bag limits for Walleye in different waterways. In peak season, you'll find big walleye hiding out in the 30-38 inch range. Guides drastically increase your chances of having a fun day catching fish. Tackle Test 2022: Top Bass Rods & Reels Reviewed, How to Add Casting Distance to Reach Bigger Fish, Spin to Win: Panfish Secrets for Catching Limits on Spinners, 7 Things to Ponder Before Buying a Fishing Kayak, Go Big or Go Home to Hook Lunker Summer Bass, Winchester Big Bore: Backcountry Bear Protection, Classic Marlin: 336 and 1894 Lever-Action Hunting Rifles, NWTF's Passion for Wild Turkey Conservation Still Burns After 50 Years, First Look: Leupold's BX-4 Range HD Rangefinding Binos, Browning's Max Point, Silver Series Rifle Ammunition, New Hunting Ammo from Remington: 360 Buckhammer, New from Browning: X-Bolt Pro LR McMillan, Hornady's Hot New 7mm PRC Cartridge: SHOT 2023, Hawke Optics' Frontier LRF Laser Range Finding Binoculars, New from LaRue Tactical: Siete Chassis Rifle. September 12, 2022 by Brent Pollock. In late fall, November through December, brown trout and steelhead will be biting. Make sure the weather cooperates, and check the ice thickness before you drill a hole. What a welcome youll receive at each stop along the way in Berrien County as we pop wine corks, tap beer kegs and whiskey barrels, and pour flights for you and your friends. Meaning anglers still have an awesome shot at a 15 from the best walleye fishery in the world. Public use of the North and South Pier is allowed at your own risk. Observing the declining rate of mature yellow perch in Saginaw Bay, the state's fisheries department expanded the walleye daily bag limit from five to eight fish in 2015. Houghtonis home to Otter Lake Dam, which offerssome great bank fishing. "The inland lakes down here really took a step back because of VHS," stated Southern Lake Michigan Management Unit fisheries supervisor Jay Wesley. You can also use jigging spoons and teardrops. Anglers will find good access in Maple Bay and at Burt Lake State Park on the south end of the lake. This page directs you to hours of fun. Information on amenities and bait shops near Coldwater Lake can be obtained by contacting the Branch County Tourism Bureau, 28 W. Chicago St. Suite 1C, Coldwater, MI 49036; (800) 968-9333, or (517) 278-0241; or online at www.discover-michigan.com. Theres not one but four Great Lakes in the state, hence its iconic shape. Walleye in this lake characteristically hold close toweedbeds,dropoffs, and especially in areas with both features. Burt Lake is another popular walleye lake, but not necessarily for ones that are large in size. We handle all kinds of live bait in season and we are WHOLESALE ONLY. Start at the bottom and work your way up for suspended Walleyes. Here at Eat That Fish, we help every angler find the right tackle for their fishing trips. Which lakes and rivers contain the fish species you are interested in. The south end of 5,370-acre South Lake Leelanau can be counted on to produce good catches of walleyes throughout the year. Burt Lake. Among the accomplishments includes the recently concluded Save the Habitat, Save the Hunt initiative, which in 10 years conserved or enhanced 5.3 million acres of critical wildlife habitat, recruited 1.5 million new or lapsed hunters, and opened new access to 750,000 acres for hunting and recreation. These lakes represent some of the most robust Walleye populations and inland Walleye fisheries in Michigan and they occur primarily in the western Upper Peninsula and a few in the northern Lower Peninsula such as Houghton Lake, Burt Lake, Elk Lake, Lake Charlevoix, and Lake Leelanau. Although its known as a recreational lake, its still possible to catch a lot of walleye if you adjust for the activity of non-anglers. This lake covers 17,120 acres and is located in Cheboygan County, Michigan. A great area to find Walleyes in this lake is drop-offs with gravel bottoms during the post-spawning season. Tell us about your favorite fishing hole in the comments below! Try the weed pockets close to M-18 and M-55 in Prudenville at this point in the year. "The walleyes migrate up to the dam and concentrate there for a few weeks.". Below are a list of lakes that have been stocked in Southwest Michigan in the last couple weeks: Gun Lake (Barry Co) Sessions Lake (Ionia Co) Lincoln Lake (Kent Co) St. Joseph River (Berrien Co) Coldwater Lake (Branch Co) White Lake (Muskegon Co) Klinger Lake (St . These two fish species can also be stocked together. Facebook. "We've been fishing Lake Namakagon for quite a few years now and this was our 3rd consecutive year staying at the Four Seasons Resort.". I KNOW WHERE THE FISH ARE BITING IN MICHIGAN. 97 reviews. For maps, bait and tackle, contact Fish & Hunt Shop at (877) 586-9531, or online at fishandhuntshop.com. The warmer the water gets, the deeper the fish go, holding to reef areas across the lake. In addition to being locations to purchase live bait, gear and licenses, area tackle shops can provide you with a wealth of helpful information such as: Time flies during an enjoyable day of fishing. One of the top ice fishing destinations in Ohio is Portage Lakes, near Akron. For information on lodging and amenities in the area contact: Leelanau County Chamber of Commerce at leelanauchamber.com or by calling (231) 271-9895. 2023 Copyright SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN TOURIST COUNCIL. Burt Lake has never been planted. Despite being one ofMichigans most heavily fished lakes, it continues to produce considerable numbers of walleye, partially because a speed limit for boats helps keep walleye calm and relaxed. The rifle has five caliber offerings, two barrel choices and three different riser stocks. Southwest Michigan grows a cornucopia of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. They'll help you map out what routes to take, what stops to make and where to call ahead for reservations. Both South Lake Leelanau and Long Lake received megaplants of between 5 million and 6 million walleye fry for several consecutive years back in the 1980s to see if they (the DNR) could jumpstart the walleye fisheries. Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay is 60 miles long and 30 miles wide, offering excellent Walleye fishing in Michigan. Have you ever been Walleye fishing in Michigan? Walleye are known to patrol Saginaw Bay all summer long. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Inthis location,using crankbaits and stickbaits onsummer evenings almost guarantees a catch. Baitfish areattracted to the water movement, which draws large, aggressive walleye. Walleye hang out by the bottom, so your captain might slow troll at a variety of depths. Author Topic: SW Michigan Walleye lakes (Read 4798 times) oboy110. Drink in our makers art and bring home your favorites. These lures are all versatile baits that I've personally tested to cover the most common walleye fishing conditions. Salmon were hitting on a variety of spoons, flies and meat rigs while lake trout were hitting yellow spin-glo's on the . "Both are sustained by natural reproduction. At night, drifting with aslip bobberand leeches can be effective. Instead, this fish has a lightly sweet taste when cooked. Located along Lake Michigan, Southwest Michigan is a prime fishing destination. During these times, use a slip bobber with a leech on the hook and pitch it in the weedy pockets where Walleye fish look for food. You should try fishing in the eastern side of the lake during the early season and in the drop-offs or weedy areas during Summer. Print; Pages: [1] | Go Down. The tri-county area of Southwest Michigan is home to hundreds of inland lakes as well as hundreds of miles of additional rivers and streams. IceShanty Rookie; Posts: 8; SW Michigan Walleye lakes on: Jan 10, 2013, 04:05 PM What lakes in southwest michigan are best for walleye fishing? Fish feel vibrations and can be scared away if you are haveloud equipment or footsteps. Even so, this lake is a great inland lake for Walleye fishing and only requires you to adjust to the recreational activities. This is the same Lake Erie that is considered the best walleye lake in the world, and one of the top smallmouth waters in the country. From that time, the lake has not been planted again, and the Walleye population is sustained through natural reproduction. 09 of 10. From $325 to $425. Also look for walleyes to congregate near the outflows of the Indian and Sturgeon rivers. Just follow the Makers Trail. Michigan captains know the area better than anyone! Walleye schools patrol a well-defined weed edge in 10 to 20 feet of water in both Perrin's and Weisler bays. Growing up in the backwoods of Hell, Michigan I have always been a lover of the outdoors. Other lakes require regular plants to maintain walleye populations. Clareis one of the most inland options, but what it may lack in Great Lakes access is made up for with great shore and dock fishing. In no particular order, here is Fish'n C