Podcast Episode Details
Back to Podcast Episodes
Lake Erie Fishing Report: Gales, Walleye Abundance, and Catching Smallies in the Detroit River
As of December 12, 2024, here’s your local fishing report for Lake Erie and the Detroit River.
**Weather and Tidal Conditions:**
A GALE WARNING was in effect until Thursday afternoon, but for today, expect southwest winds at 15 to 25 knots, with waves building to 3 to 6 feet and occasionally around 9 feet. High pressure is moving off to the east, and a low-pressure system brought a cold front by Wednesday night. The Detroit River, not being a tidal waterbody, has water levels that can fluctuate due to wind, and recently, a seiche has lowered the water level, exposing parts of the riverbed.
**Sunrise and Sunset:**
Sunrise today is at around 7:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:45 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing.
**Fish Activity:**
Fish activity has been moderate. Yesterday saw a decent number of smallmouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch being caught. Walleye, the go-to fish in Lake Erie, are abundant and can be targeted year-round. Yellow perch are also plentiful, especially in the eastern basin.
**Catches:**
Anglers reported catching quality walleyes, particularly in the deeper waters of Lake Erie. Smallmouth bass are active in the rocky areas of the Detroit River, and perch are biting well in the shallower waters near the shoreline.
**Best Lures and Bait:**
For walleye, using crankbaits and jigs has been effective, especially in the Detroit River. For smallmouth bass, focus on the rocky areas with soft plastics or jigs. Yellow perch are biting well on minnows and small jigs.
**Hot Spots:**
- **Detroit River:** The rocky areas along the river are great for smallmouth bass, and the riverwalk in William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor is a good spot to catch a variety of fish.
- **Sterling State Park on Lake Erie:** About 38 miles from Detroit, this park offers excellent fishing in the lake and its three lagoons, with a high chance of catching jumbo yellow perch and walleye.
Remember to check the water levels and be cautious due to the recent seiche, which has altered the river's depth temporarily. Happy fishing
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Published on 1 year ago