Fishing Report
Michigan Waters Fishing Report – April 29, 2025
Covering Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, Saginaw Bay & Southern Lake Huron
Lake Erie
The walleye bite is heating up with post-spawn fish now actively feeding. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses in 10–18 feet of water near Brest Bay and Turtle Island is producing limits, especially early in the morning and late afternoon. Jigging with hair jigs tipped with minnows near the reefs is also productive. Water clarity is improving, and stable conditions should continue to boost action.
Detroit River
Peak walleye season is underway, and anglers are enjoying excellent action throughout the river. Most fish are being caught vertical jigging with ¾ oz to 1 oz jigs, tipped with soft plastics or live minnows. Hot colors include purple, black, and chartreuse. Focus on deeper channels and current seams from the Ambassador Bridge down to Wyandotte. Expect to see fish in the 3–7 lb range, with some double-digit trophies in the mix.
Lake St. Clair
Water temps are climbing into the high 40s to low 50s, and the smallmouth bass are starting to move shallow in preparation for the spawn. While catch-and-release only, bass fishing has been strong along the Mile Roads and near the mouth of the Clinton River. Perch reports have been scattered but improving, especially around canals and shallow weed beds. Pike and musky activity is also increasing along the shoreline breaks.
St. Clair River
The spring walleye run is in full swing, especially in the North and Middle Channels. Jigging and bottom-bouncing have both been productive. Water clarity is variable depending on wind, but the bite remains steady with fish averaging 16–22 inches. A few steelhead and Atlantic salmon have been caught near Port Huron, mostly by anglers drifting spawn or trolling spoons in the upper river.
Saginaw Bay
Walleye fishing continues to improve as water warms and fish move toward traditional spring feeding grounds. The east side (Quanicassee to Sebewaing) is seeing the most consistent action. Trollers running shallow-diving crankbaits in 6–10 feet of water are finding fish. On calm days, casting jigs or blade baits around structure is also effective. Look for activity to peak over the next two weeks.
Southern Lake Huron
Trout and salmon action is picking up along the nearshore waters from Lexington to Port Sanilac. Trollers running spoons behind planer boards and divers are finding coho, steelhead, and a few kings in 15–40 feet of water. Look for warmer surface temps and stained water to hold more fish. Pier anglers are catching the occasional brown trout and steelhead using spawn bags or spoons.
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Looking Ahead:
Warmer weather and stable conditions will continue to push baitfish shallow and increase predator activity. Now is a great time to get out and take advantage of the spring bite across all systems.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
Northern Michigan Fishing Report – April 29, 2025
Covering Northern Lake Michigan, Frankfort Inland Lakes, Manistee Inland Lakes, and the Grand Traverse Area
Northern Lake Michigan (Frankfort to Grand Traverse)
The open water trolling season is starting to take shape along the northern shoreline of Lake Michigan. Anglers targeting the waters out of Frankfort, Platte Bay, and the Grand Traverse Bays are beginning to pick up a mix of lake trout, coho salmon, and the occasional king. Most action is occurring in 20–60 feet of water, with trolling speeds in the 2.0–2.4 mph range. Spoons in blue/silver, orange, and UV patterns are producing best, especially near temperature breaks and stained water lines. The baitfish are beginning to school along the shoreline, bringing predators closer to the harbor mouths and river plumes.
Frankfort Inland Lakes (e.g., Crystal Lake, Upper/Lower Herring)
Cold water conditions still dominate most inland lakes, but things are beginning to transition. Perch fishing is steady on Crystal Lake in 15–25 feet using minnows and small plastics. Lake trout anglers are also finding success jigging near drop-offs. Smelt activity has been spotty, but night anglers dipping off docks have reported moderate success. As temperatures rise, expect smallmouth and walleye to begin pushing shallower for pre-spawn staging.
Manistee Inland Lakes (e.g., Portage Lake, Bear Lake)
Walleye season is just around the corner (May 15 inland opener), but early scouting has shown good numbers of fish holding near the river mouths and weed lines. Perch action has been fair, with better numbers coming in from the east side of Portage Lake. Crappie and bluegill are beginning to move into staging areas—look for them around wood and shallow cuts on sunny days. Trout fishing on Bear Lake has been productive using live bait near the deeper holes.
Grand Traverse Area (East & West Bay + Surrounding Inland Lakes)
East and West Grand Traverse Bays are showing good early spring action. Lake trout are being caught consistently in 60–120 feet by anglers jigging or trolling with spoons and spin-n-glows behind dodgers. Whitefish are also showing up for those vertical jigging with small jigs tipped with wax worms. Inland lakes such as Long Lake and Green Lake are warming steadily; anglers are catching perch and panfish near the shallows, with some pre-spawn smallmouth activity picking up on sunny afternoons.
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Outlook:
As water temps slowly rise, expect more consistent nearshore trolling for salmon and lake trout on Lake Michigan, and a ramp-up in warmwater species action across the inland lakes. This is the time to start scouting key transitions—fish are staging and the spring bite is just beginning to ignite.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
Covering Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, Saginaw Bay & Southern Lake Huron
Lake Erie
The walleye bite is heating up with post-spawn fish now actively feeding. Trolling crankbaits and crawler harnesses in 10–18 feet of water near Brest Bay and Turtle Island is producing limits, especially early in the morning and late afternoon. Jigging with hair jigs tipped with minnows near the reefs is also productive. Water clarity is improving, and stable conditions should continue to boost action.
Detroit River
Peak walleye season is underway, and anglers are enjoying excellent action throughout the river. Most fish are being caught vertical jigging with ¾ oz to 1 oz jigs, tipped with soft plastics or live minnows. Hot colors include purple, black, and chartreuse. Focus on deeper channels and current seams from the Ambassador Bridge down to Wyandotte. Expect to see fish in the 3–7 lb range, with some double-digit trophies in the mix.
Lake St. Clair
Water temps are climbing into the high 40s to low 50s, and the smallmouth bass are starting to move shallow in preparation for the spawn. While catch-and-release only, bass fishing has been strong along the Mile Roads and near the mouth of the Clinton River. Perch reports have been scattered but improving, especially around canals and shallow weed beds. Pike and musky activity is also increasing along the shoreline breaks.
St. Clair River
The spring walleye run is in full swing, especially in the North and Middle Channels. Jigging and bottom-bouncing have both been productive. Water clarity is variable depending on wind, but the bite remains steady with fish averaging 16–22 inches. A few steelhead and Atlantic salmon have been caught near Port Huron, mostly by anglers drifting spawn or trolling spoons in the upper river.
Saginaw Bay
Walleye fishing continues to improve as water warms and fish move toward traditional spring feeding grounds. The east side (Quanicassee to Sebewaing) is seeing the most consistent action. Trollers running shallow-diving crankbaits in 6–10 feet of water are finding fish. On calm days, casting jigs or blade baits around structure is also effective. Look for activity to peak over the next two weeks.
Southern Lake Huron
Trout and salmon action is picking up along the nearshore waters from Lexington to Port Sanilac. Trollers running spoons behind planer boards and divers are finding coho, steelhead, and a few kings in 15–40 feet of water. Look for warmer surface temps and stained water to hold more fish. Pier anglers are catching the occasional brown trout and steelhead using spawn bags or spoons.
⸻
Looking Ahead:
Warmer weather and stable conditions will continue to push baitfish shallow and increase predator activity. Now is a great time to get out and take advantage of the spring bite across all systems.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
Northern Michigan Fishing Report – April 29, 2025
Covering Northern Lake Michigan, Frankfort Inland Lakes, Manistee Inland Lakes, and the Grand Traverse Area
Northern Lake Michigan (Frankfort to Grand Traverse)
The open water trolling season is starting to take shape along the northern shoreline of Lake Michigan. Anglers targeting the waters out of Frankfort, Platte Bay, and the Grand Traverse Bays are beginning to pick up a mix of lake trout, coho salmon, and the occasional king. Most action is occurring in 20–60 feet of water, with trolling speeds in the 2.0–2.4 mph range. Spoons in blue/silver, orange, and UV patterns are producing best, especially near temperature breaks and stained water lines. The baitfish are beginning to school along the shoreline, bringing predators closer to the harbor mouths and river plumes.
Frankfort Inland Lakes (e.g., Crystal Lake, Upper/Lower Herring)
Cold water conditions still dominate most inland lakes, but things are beginning to transition. Perch fishing is steady on Crystal Lake in 15–25 feet using minnows and small plastics. Lake trout anglers are also finding success jigging near drop-offs. Smelt activity has been spotty, but night anglers dipping off docks have reported moderate success. As temperatures rise, expect smallmouth and walleye to begin pushing shallower for pre-spawn staging.
Manistee Inland Lakes (e.g., Portage Lake, Bear Lake)
Walleye season is just around the corner (May 15 inland opener), but early scouting has shown good numbers of fish holding near the river mouths and weed lines. Perch action has been fair, with better numbers coming in from the east side of Portage Lake. Crappie and bluegill are beginning to move into staging areas—look for them around wood and shallow cuts on sunny days. Trout fishing on Bear Lake has been productive using live bait near the deeper holes.
Grand Traverse Area (East & West Bay + Surrounding Inland Lakes)
East and West Grand Traverse Bays are showing good early spring action. Lake trout are being caught consistently in 60–120 feet by anglers jigging or trolling with spoons and spin-n-glows behind dodgers. Whitefish are also showing up for those vertical jigging with small jigs tipped with wax worms. Inland lakes such as Long Lake and Green Lake are warming steadily; anglers are catching perch and panfish near the shallows, with some pre-spawn smallmouth activity picking up on sunny afternoons.
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Outlook:
As water temps slowly rise, expect more consistent nearshore trolling for salmon and lake trout on Lake Michigan, and a ramp-up in warmwater species action across the inland lakes. This is the time to start scouting key transitions—fish are staging and the spring bite is just beginning to ignite.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
Southeast Michigan & Eastern Great Lakes Fishing Report – April 22, 2025
Covers: Detroit River, Lake Erie (Western Basin), Lake St. Clair, Saginaw Bay, and Lower Lake Huron
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Detroit River – Walleye Hot Bite
The Detroit River is delivering some of the best walleye action of the season. The annual spring migration is in full swing, with fish stacked from Trenton Channel to the Ambassador Bridge. Vertical jigging remains the top technique. Most anglers are using 3/4 oz jig heads tipped with plastics (paddletails, flukes, and finesse minnows) or live minnows.
• Hot Colors: Black, purple, motor oil, and chartreuse are producing best, especially in stained water.
• Depths: Fish are holding in 18–32 feet, but keep moving to locate active pods.
• Water Clarity: Murky conditions from runoff continue to be a challenge but are slowly improving.
• Tactics: Slow your jigging cadence in cold water and hug bottom structure. Key areas include Mud Island, Fighting Island, and the Wyandotte stretch.
Limit catches are being reported daily, with many fish in the 18–24” range. This fishery will remain hot for the next 2–3 weeks.
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Lake Erie (Michigan Waters – Western Basin)
Post-ice breakup fishing has kicked off, and the Western Basin of Lake Erie is offering fantastic walleye opportunities. Trolling is the go-to method as water clarity improves.
• Best Techniques: Shallow trolling with Bandits, Husky Jerks, and P10s, 1.2–1.5 mph, 30–80 ft back depending on depth.
• Hot Spots: Brest Bay, Bolles Harbor, and out near Luna Pier.
• Depths: 12–22 feet has been the sweet spot, with fish suspended in the upper third of the water column.
• Colors: Clown, purple demon, and firetiger crankbaits have been consistent.
Anglers are finding pre-spawn and post-spawn fish. Expect an epic bite to continue into May as water temps stabilize in the mid-40s to low 50s.
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Lake St. Clair – Mixed Bag
Lake St. Clair is waking up fast, especially in the shallow flats and cuts. Water clarity has improved significantly this past week.
• Walleye: The St. Clair River and the mouth of the Detroit River are productive zones for jigging and trolling.
• Smallmouth Bass (catch & release): Pre-spawn smallmouth are active in the channels and shallow rocky flats. Jerkbaits, tubes, and Ned rigs are working well.
• Panfish: Crappie and perch are moving into canals and marinas. Small jigs tipped with wax worms are hot.
Water levels are normal for this time of year, and water temps are creeping into the high 40s to low 50s. Winds can impact clarity quickly, so check conditions before heading out.
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Saginaw Bay – Early Walleye Bite Heating Up
Saginaw Bay is seeing a solid pre-spawn walleye bite developing, especially in the southern and western arms.
• Hot Zones: Linwood to Quanicassee, and near the mouth of the Saginaw River.
• Technique: Long-lining or trolling with crankbaits—Flicker Shads, P10s, and Bandits—at 1.0–1.4 mph.
• Depths: 6–14 feet, with fish spreading out across flats as water temps climb.
Water clarity has been variable due to wind, but when the water clears, the bite has been excellent. As April progresses, expect post-spawn fish to become more aggressive.
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Lower Lake Huron – Transition Time
Fishing in lower Lake Huron is slowly coming to life, especially along the shorelines from Port Huron to Harbor Beach.
• Brown Trout & Lake Trout: Nearshore trolling in 10–25 feet with body baits and spoons is producing browns and some coho.
• Hot Lures: Smithwick Rogues, Thundersticks, and small spoons in orange/gold, black/silver.
• Harbor Action: Lexington and Port Sanilac piers are producing some steelhead and browns on spawn bags and minnows.
Water temps remain cool (low-mid 40s), but the nearshore bite will continue to improve as we move toward May. Target warmwater plumes after sunny days for best success.
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Summary:
This is one of the best times of year to fish Southeast Michigan and the Eastern Great Lakes. The Detroit River is in peak form for trophy walleye, and Lake Erie is right behind it. Lake St. Clair and Saginaw Bay are transitioning fast into spring patterns, and Lower Lake Huron offers great trout opportunities for anglers looking for a more relaxed bite. No matter your target species, this week offers excellent fishing across the board.
Greater Frankfort Area – Lake Michigan & Betsie River
Offshore conditions are improving in the Frankfort area as Lake Michigan temperatures slowly climb. Anglers trolling just outside the harbor are reporting good numbers of brown trout and lake trout, with a few early coho salmon showing up. Stickbaits in natural and firetiger patterns, trolled close to shore, have produced well. On the Betsie River, steelhead are still present but beginning to taper off as the spawn winds down. Spawn sacs, beads, and jigs under floats are still effective, especially in the early morning. Water levels are moderate, and clarity has remained favorable.
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Greater Traverse City Area – Inland Lakes & Boardman River
The Traverse City area is transitioning into spring patterns. On East and West Grand Traverse Bays, lake trout are staging in 60–120 feet of water and responding well to jigging and trolling spoons. The inland lakes are warming quickly, with perch and crappie moving into the shallows. Small jigs tipped with minnows or wax worms have worked well. On the Boardman River, the tail end of the steelhead run continues, and some fresh fish are still being caught below the Union Street Dam. Anglers targeting resident trout upstream are seeing more activity as water temps rise.
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Greater Manistee Area – Pier, River & Nearshore
In the Manistee area, spring fishing is firing up. Pier anglers are catching brown trout and steelhead using spawn sacs, spoons, and crankbaits. Boat anglers trolling just outside the harbor have found success with stickbaits in shallow water (10–25 ft). On the Big Manistee River, steelhead remain in decent numbers, with fresh fish still trickling in. Anglers drifting beads, spawn, or wax worms under floats are producing consistent hookups. With warming temps, expect the bite to shift upstream in the coming weeks.
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Big Manistee River – Steelhead
The Big Manistee River remains a top destination for spring steelhead. Water flows are favorable, and clarity is good in most sections. The bulk of the fish are actively spawning, though a number of dropbacks and late arrivals are still being hooked. Productive methods include float fishing with beads, spawn, or pink worms. Early morning bites have been strongest, with fishing pressure moderate on weekdays and higher during weekends. As temperatures rise, expect steelhead activity to taper while resident trout begin to feed more aggressively.
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Betsie River – Steelhead
The Betsie is entering the late stages of its steelhead season. Fish are still present in deeper pools and behind gravel, but the main push is winding down. Anglers are finding success with a stealthy approach, especially during lower light conditions. Small, natural-colored beads and spawn sacs are still producing. With the river’s short length and sensitive flows, conditions can change quickly, so keep an eye on precipitation forecasts.
Covers: Detroit River, Lake Erie (Western Basin), Lake St. Clair, Saginaw Bay, and Lower Lake Huron
⸻
Detroit River – Walleye Hot Bite
The Detroit River is delivering some of the best walleye action of the season. The annual spring migration is in full swing, with fish stacked from Trenton Channel to the Ambassador Bridge. Vertical jigging remains the top technique. Most anglers are using 3/4 oz jig heads tipped with plastics (paddletails, flukes, and finesse minnows) or live minnows.
• Hot Colors: Black, purple, motor oil, and chartreuse are producing best, especially in stained water.
• Depths: Fish are holding in 18–32 feet, but keep moving to locate active pods.
• Water Clarity: Murky conditions from runoff continue to be a challenge but are slowly improving.
• Tactics: Slow your jigging cadence in cold water and hug bottom structure. Key areas include Mud Island, Fighting Island, and the Wyandotte stretch.
Limit catches are being reported daily, with many fish in the 18–24” range. This fishery will remain hot for the next 2–3 weeks.
⸻
Lake Erie (Michigan Waters – Western Basin)
Post-ice breakup fishing has kicked off, and the Western Basin of Lake Erie is offering fantastic walleye opportunities. Trolling is the go-to method as water clarity improves.
• Best Techniques: Shallow trolling with Bandits, Husky Jerks, and P10s, 1.2–1.5 mph, 30–80 ft back depending on depth.
• Hot Spots: Brest Bay, Bolles Harbor, and out near Luna Pier.
• Depths: 12–22 feet has been the sweet spot, with fish suspended in the upper third of the water column.
• Colors: Clown, purple demon, and firetiger crankbaits have been consistent.
Anglers are finding pre-spawn and post-spawn fish. Expect an epic bite to continue into May as water temps stabilize in the mid-40s to low 50s.
⸻
Lake St. Clair – Mixed Bag
Lake St. Clair is waking up fast, especially in the shallow flats and cuts. Water clarity has improved significantly this past week.
• Walleye: The St. Clair River and the mouth of the Detroit River are productive zones for jigging and trolling.
• Smallmouth Bass (catch & release): Pre-spawn smallmouth are active in the channels and shallow rocky flats. Jerkbaits, tubes, and Ned rigs are working well.
• Panfish: Crappie and perch are moving into canals and marinas. Small jigs tipped with wax worms are hot.
Water levels are normal for this time of year, and water temps are creeping into the high 40s to low 50s. Winds can impact clarity quickly, so check conditions before heading out.
⸻
Saginaw Bay – Early Walleye Bite Heating Up
Saginaw Bay is seeing a solid pre-spawn walleye bite developing, especially in the southern and western arms.
• Hot Zones: Linwood to Quanicassee, and near the mouth of the Saginaw River.
• Technique: Long-lining or trolling with crankbaits—Flicker Shads, P10s, and Bandits—at 1.0–1.4 mph.
• Depths: 6–14 feet, with fish spreading out across flats as water temps climb.
Water clarity has been variable due to wind, but when the water clears, the bite has been excellent. As April progresses, expect post-spawn fish to become more aggressive.
⸻
Lower Lake Huron – Transition Time
Fishing in lower Lake Huron is slowly coming to life, especially along the shorelines from Port Huron to Harbor Beach.
• Brown Trout & Lake Trout: Nearshore trolling in 10–25 feet with body baits and spoons is producing browns and some coho.
• Hot Lures: Smithwick Rogues, Thundersticks, and small spoons in orange/gold, black/silver.
• Harbor Action: Lexington and Port Sanilac piers are producing some steelhead and browns on spawn bags and minnows.
Water temps remain cool (low-mid 40s), but the nearshore bite will continue to improve as we move toward May. Target warmwater plumes after sunny days for best success.
⸻
Summary:
This is one of the best times of year to fish Southeast Michigan and the Eastern Great Lakes. The Detroit River is in peak form for trophy walleye, and Lake Erie is right behind it. Lake St. Clair and Saginaw Bay are transitioning fast into spring patterns, and Lower Lake Huron offers great trout opportunities for anglers looking for a more relaxed bite. No matter your target species, this week offers excellent fishing across the board.
Greater Frankfort Area – Lake Michigan & Betsie River
Offshore conditions are improving in the Frankfort area as Lake Michigan temperatures slowly climb. Anglers trolling just outside the harbor are reporting good numbers of brown trout and lake trout, with a few early coho salmon showing up. Stickbaits in natural and firetiger patterns, trolled close to shore, have produced well. On the Betsie River, steelhead are still present but beginning to taper off as the spawn winds down. Spawn sacs, beads, and jigs under floats are still effective, especially in the early morning. Water levels are moderate, and clarity has remained favorable.
⸻
Greater Traverse City Area – Inland Lakes & Boardman River
The Traverse City area is transitioning into spring patterns. On East and West Grand Traverse Bays, lake trout are staging in 60–120 feet of water and responding well to jigging and trolling spoons. The inland lakes are warming quickly, with perch and crappie moving into the shallows. Small jigs tipped with minnows or wax worms have worked well. On the Boardman River, the tail end of the steelhead run continues, and some fresh fish are still being caught below the Union Street Dam. Anglers targeting resident trout upstream are seeing more activity as water temps rise.
⸻
Greater Manistee Area – Pier, River & Nearshore
In the Manistee area, spring fishing is firing up. Pier anglers are catching brown trout and steelhead using spawn sacs, spoons, and crankbaits. Boat anglers trolling just outside the harbor have found success with stickbaits in shallow water (10–25 ft). On the Big Manistee River, steelhead remain in decent numbers, with fresh fish still trickling in. Anglers drifting beads, spawn, or wax worms under floats are producing consistent hookups. With warming temps, expect the bite to shift upstream in the coming weeks.
⸻
Big Manistee River – Steelhead
The Big Manistee River remains a top destination for spring steelhead. Water flows are favorable, and clarity is good in most sections. The bulk of the fish are actively spawning, though a number of dropbacks and late arrivals are still being hooked. Productive methods include float fishing with beads, spawn, or pink worms. Early morning bites have been strongest, with fishing pressure moderate on weekdays and higher during weekends. As temperatures rise, expect steelhead activity to taper while resident trout begin to feed more aggressively.
⸻
Betsie River – Steelhead
The Betsie is entering the late stages of its steelhead season. Fish are still present in deeper pools and behind gravel, but the main push is winding down. Anglers are finding success with a stealthy approach, especially during lower light conditions. Small, natural-colored beads and spawn sacs are still producing. With the river’s short length and sensitive flows, conditions can change quickly, so keep an eye on precipitation forecasts.
Report for April 16, 2025
Detroit river:
Walleye Fishing:
The Detroit River continues to produce excellent spring walleye action. The recent push of warmer weather and consistent water temps have fish active throughout the day. We’re seeing solid numbers of both resident and migrating fish, with many quality eaters and a good number of 8–10 lb females still in the system.
Best action has come from the deeper main river channels and breaks, particularly near Fighting Island and downstream toward the Ambassador Bridge. Jigging has been the ticket — 5/8 to 3/4 oz jig heads paired with plastics or live minnows are producing consistently. Purple, chartreuse, and black continue to be hot colors, with scented plastics (like Gulp! or minnow-style baits) giving an edge on tougher bites.
Boat pressure is moderate for this time of year, so there’s plenty of room to find your own drift and get on fish. As always, staying vertical and adjusting your jig weight to match the current makes all the difference.
Other Notes:
• Canadian waters are fishing well, but make sure you’re licensed and carrying proper ID (passport or enhanced license) to avoid issues.
• We’re seeing occasional bonus catches like white bass and the odd pike starting to show up in shallower zones.
What’s Working:
• Technique: Vertical jigging with soft plastics or minnows
• Hot Baits: Purple fluke-style plastics, chartreuse finesse minnows, Gulp! Alive
• Best Depths: 18–32 feet
Outlook:
The next 2–3 weeks should remain prime time as the bulk of the spawn wraps up and post-spawn fish continue feeding hard. If you’re looking to put some meat in the freezer or just enjoy world-class river fishing, now’s the time to book.
Fishing Report – Lake Michigan & Inland Waters
Region: Frankfort • Manistee • Grand Traverse
Date: April 16, 2025
By Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Lake Michigan – Frankfort to Manistee
Surface Temps: 38–42°F
Water Clarity: Clear to lightly stained depending on wind direction
Conditions: Calm mornings with light south winds. Warmer afternoons are triggering bait movement and fish activity.
Brown Trout:
The nearshore brown trout bite is picking up across the region. From the Frankfort pier heads down to Onekama and into Manistee, fish are stacked in 5–15 feet of water and hitting long-lined stickbaits with aggression.
• Best Baits: Bay Rats, Rapalas (F11/F13), Smithwick Rogues
• Hot Colors: Chrome/blue, black/gold, clown, and orange belly variations
• Key Areas: Elberta beach, Portage Lake outlet, Manistee Harbor mouth
Lake Trout:
Consistent laker action is being reported just off the first break in 25–40 FOW. Trolling close to bottom with spin-n-glos behind dodgers or UV spoons has produced well, especially mid-morning.
Coho & Kings:
Scattered coho are showing from 50–100 FOW, especially off Platte Bay and between Frankfort and Manistee. A few early kings have been caught deeper (120–150 FOW) on downriggers with mag spoons or flasher/flies.
Manistee River & Betsie River
With steady temps and runoff, the steelhead run is hanging on. There are still good numbers of fish in both systems, especially in the deeper holes and gravel transitions.
• Best Methods: Float fishing with beads and spawn, backtrolling plugs
• Water Conditions: Slight stain, ideal levels
• Hot Zones: Tippy Dam (Manistee), Homestead Dam (Betsie)
Expect fresh fish to be mixed with some dark holdovers. Early mornings and overcast days are producing best.
Grand Traverse Bay
Both East and West Bay are starting to show life as the shallows warm.
Lake Trout:
Active fish are being marked in 60–100 FOW, with good catches coming from slow-trolled spoons and vertical jigging on calm days. Key zones include the deep breaks off Elk Rapids and Old Mission Peninsula.
Cisco/Whitefish:
Anglers targeting cisco are finding some success on jigging spoons in 40–60 feet near drop-offs. Activity is expected to spike in the next 1–2 weeks.
Inland Lakes – Platte, Crystal, Green, & Long Lakes
Perch & Panfish:
Platte and Crystal lakes are producing good perch catches in 15–25 feet with small jigs and minnows. Look for fish to move shallower as water warms. Long Lake (Grand Traverse) is also giving up nice crappie and bluegill catches near warmwater flats.
Bass (Catch & Release):
Smallmouth are starting to stage on Grand Traverse inland lakes. Warmer bays with structure are holding fish. Finesse plastics and jerkbaits are drawing early attention.
Outlook:
With stable conditions and rising temps on the horizon, expect fishing to steadily improve across the board. Now is a fantastic time to get out ahead of the summer crowds and take advantage of active fish in both big water and local lakes.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
⸻
Book Your Trip:
Call or text Captain Dan at 248-229-7226
www.chromeseekers.com | [email protected]
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates and catches!
https://www.facebook.com/michiganfishingcharter/
Repot for July 10th, 2024
Frankfort, Michigan - Lake Michigan: The Lake Trout Fishing is very good right now dragging cow bells and spin doctors when we can get out. The King fishing can be good but it's day to day. Some days you find the 4 year olds and someday it's just one year old salmon. It will be interesting to see what happens the next two weeks as we approach the dogs days of summer.
Crystal Lake: It's been a little tough for the rock bass this year. However, I think we are back on them. Doesn't seem like the fish are holding in the same spots this year and moving around is a must.
The Lake Trout and steelhead fishing has been very good. Small spoons is key. Everyday the fish are in different areas so don't be afraid to check out new areas. Top 5o fow for steelhead and Bottom 50 feet for trout.
Betsie River: Not much happening right now on the Betsie. Pike are pretty much the name of the game right now. Ranging from 12 - 28 inches, Try spinner and thundersticks.
Big Manistee River below Tippy: Not much to talk about now on the river. Skamania steelhead have shown up. Walleye, Bass and Pike are the name of the game right now. Some salmon are moving through the little Manistee. Don't be afraid to put the miles on looking for fish.
Platte Bay Jigging - Lake Trout have shown up and are biting well. Dragging cowbells along bottom and spoons near bottom are getting bit.
Detroit river: Fishing is still hot on the Detroit regardless of what everyone thinks. Try crawler harnesses on the bottom. The key is to be moving enough to get your blades turning but slow enough that they are ticking on the bottom. Think physics.
For current status see my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/michiganfishingcharter/
Detroit river:
Walleye Fishing:
The Detroit River continues to produce excellent spring walleye action. The recent push of warmer weather and consistent water temps have fish active throughout the day. We’re seeing solid numbers of both resident and migrating fish, with many quality eaters and a good number of 8–10 lb females still in the system.
Best action has come from the deeper main river channels and breaks, particularly near Fighting Island and downstream toward the Ambassador Bridge. Jigging has been the ticket — 5/8 to 3/4 oz jig heads paired with plastics or live minnows are producing consistently. Purple, chartreuse, and black continue to be hot colors, with scented plastics (like Gulp! or minnow-style baits) giving an edge on tougher bites.
Boat pressure is moderate for this time of year, so there’s plenty of room to find your own drift and get on fish. As always, staying vertical and adjusting your jig weight to match the current makes all the difference.
Other Notes:
• Canadian waters are fishing well, but make sure you’re licensed and carrying proper ID (passport or enhanced license) to avoid issues.
• We’re seeing occasional bonus catches like white bass and the odd pike starting to show up in shallower zones.
What’s Working:
• Technique: Vertical jigging with soft plastics or minnows
• Hot Baits: Purple fluke-style plastics, chartreuse finesse minnows, Gulp! Alive
• Best Depths: 18–32 feet
Outlook:
The next 2–3 weeks should remain prime time as the bulk of the spawn wraps up and post-spawn fish continue feeding hard. If you’re looking to put some meat in the freezer or just enjoy world-class river fishing, now’s the time to book.
Fishing Report – Lake Michigan & Inland Waters
Region: Frankfort • Manistee • Grand Traverse
Date: April 16, 2025
By Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Lake Michigan – Frankfort to Manistee
Surface Temps: 38–42°F
Water Clarity: Clear to lightly stained depending on wind direction
Conditions: Calm mornings with light south winds. Warmer afternoons are triggering bait movement and fish activity.
Brown Trout:
The nearshore brown trout bite is picking up across the region. From the Frankfort pier heads down to Onekama and into Manistee, fish are stacked in 5–15 feet of water and hitting long-lined stickbaits with aggression.
• Best Baits: Bay Rats, Rapalas (F11/F13), Smithwick Rogues
• Hot Colors: Chrome/blue, black/gold, clown, and orange belly variations
• Key Areas: Elberta beach, Portage Lake outlet, Manistee Harbor mouth
Lake Trout:
Consistent laker action is being reported just off the first break in 25–40 FOW. Trolling close to bottom with spin-n-glos behind dodgers or UV spoons has produced well, especially mid-morning.
Coho & Kings:
Scattered coho are showing from 50–100 FOW, especially off Platte Bay and between Frankfort and Manistee. A few early kings have been caught deeper (120–150 FOW) on downriggers with mag spoons or flasher/flies.
Manistee River & Betsie River
With steady temps and runoff, the steelhead run is hanging on. There are still good numbers of fish in both systems, especially in the deeper holes and gravel transitions.
• Best Methods: Float fishing with beads and spawn, backtrolling plugs
• Water Conditions: Slight stain, ideal levels
• Hot Zones: Tippy Dam (Manistee), Homestead Dam (Betsie)
Expect fresh fish to be mixed with some dark holdovers. Early mornings and overcast days are producing best.
Grand Traverse Bay
Both East and West Bay are starting to show life as the shallows warm.
Lake Trout:
Active fish are being marked in 60–100 FOW, with good catches coming from slow-trolled spoons and vertical jigging on calm days. Key zones include the deep breaks off Elk Rapids and Old Mission Peninsula.
Cisco/Whitefish:
Anglers targeting cisco are finding some success on jigging spoons in 40–60 feet near drop-offs. Activity is expected to spike in the next 1–2 weeks.
Inland Lakes – Platte, Crystal, Green, & Long Lakes
Perch & Panfish:
Platte and Crystal lakes are producing good perch catches in 15–25 feet with small jigs and minnows. Look for fish to move shallower as water warms. Long Lake (Grand Traverse) is also giving up nice crappie and bluegill catches near warmwater flats.
Bass (Catch & Release):
Smallmouth are starting to stage on Grand Traverse inland lakes. Warmer bays with structure are holding fish. Finesse plastics and jerkbaits are drawing early attention.
Outlook:
With stable conditions and rising temps on the horizon, expect fishing to steadily improve across the board. Now is a fantastic time to get out ahead of the summer crowds and take advantage of active fish in both big water and local lakes.
Book Your Spring Trip Now:
Captain Dan Stewart – ChromeSeekers Sportfishing
Phone: 248-229-7226
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chromeseekers.com
Follow us on social for real-time reports and daily catch photos!
⸻
Book Your Trip:
Call or text Captain Dan at 248-229-7226
www.chromeseekers.com | [email protected]
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates and catches!
https://www.facebook.com/michiganfishingcharter/
Repot for July 10th, 2024
Frankfort, Michigan - Lake Michigan: The Lake Trout Fishing is very good right now dragging cow bells and spin doctors when we can get out. The King fishing can be good but it's day to day. Some days you find the 4 year olds and someday it's just one year old salmon. It will be interesting to see what happens the next two weeks as we approach the dogs days of summer.
Crystal Lake: It's been a little tough for the rock bass this year. However, I think we are back on them. Doesn't seem like the fish are holding in the same spots this year and moving around is a must.
The Lake Trout and steelhead fishing has been very good. Small spoons is key. Everyday the fish are in different areas so don't be afraid to check out new areas. Top 5o fow for steelhead and Bottom 50 feet for trout.
Betsie River: Not much happening right now on the Betsie. Pike are pretty much the name of the game right now. Ranging from 12 - 28 inches, Try spinner and thundersticks.
Big Manistee River below Tippy: Not much to talk about now on the river. Skamania steelhead have shown up. Walleye, Bass and Pike are the name of the game right now. Some salmon are moving through the little Manistee. Don't be afraid to put the miles on looking for fish.
Platte Bay Jigging - Lake Trout have shown up and are biting well. Dragging cowbells along bottom and spoons near bottom are getting bit.
Detroit river: Fishing is still hot on the Detroit regardless of what everyone thinks. Try crawler harnesses on the bottom. The key is to be moving enough to get your blades turning but slow enough that they are ticking on the bottom. Think physics.
For current status see my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/michiganfishingcharter/
