| ODNR Fishing Report for 05/06/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 21:43:00 5/06/08 |
| Walleye fishing has been excellent at times in the past week. As spawning wraps up jig fishing will end, but currently fish are still being caught on jigs. The best jig fishing continues to be in Maumee Bay, nearshore from Crane Creek to Locust Point, around K can of the Camp Perry range, and on the reefs of the Camp Perry firing range. The best jigs have been purple, chartreuse or orange hair jigs tipped with shiners. Drifting with worm harnesses or casting mayfly rigs will be productive as fish move off of spawning grounds and into surrounding open water. Trollers are catching fish around Rattlesnake Island, North Bass Island, on the Canadian border from North Bass Island to Gull Island Shoal, and around Kelleys Island. The best trolling lures have been worm harnesses with inline weights or snap weights, and both shallow and deep diving crankbaits in Pink Lemonade and Wonderbread color patterns.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 55 off of Toledo and 50 off of Cleveland. |
| Fishing report for the week of May 4, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 20:56:13 5/03/08 |
| Still jigging, still good ! Well this past weeks cooler weather did exactly what I figured it would do. It has dragged out the jig bite at least yet another week. After loosing a couple of trips this past week early on into the week because of high winds, cold and rain we got back into the swing of things on Thursday and proceeded to knock out 42 walleyes like nothing ever happened. Actually, a lot had changed. All of the near shore reefs and beaches which have been so hot the last couple of weeks were back to being pure mud and no fish. Aboard "The Trophy" we made the necessary adjustments and started to work way out in the lake and the northern most reefs which were not any where as muddied up as the near shore areas. Although the action wasn't fast and furious, it was very steady. We would do from 3 to 5 Walleyes on every drift across. Baits used were the same old jigs that we've been using the last couple of weeks or so. The Sheephead continue to bother us even out here but as long as we are still weeding through them and getting good Walleyes, I guess it's not the end of the world. I can't believe the amount of Smallmouth Bass that we are handling each day now while fishing for our Walleyes.We have been easily catching around a dozen or so each day with some of the Smallies running well over 4 lbs ! The season for them is now closed and they have all been returned to fight another day. And what a fight and show they have been putting on. With each passing day and degree of water temperature, these Bass are becoming more and more acrobatic. Man, is it neat to see these fish tail walk across the water. If you have never experienced this before, you just don't know what you're missing ! My stay here at the western basin is starting wind down. We have about 3 weeks left now before I run the boat back about a hundred miles east to my home port of Ashtabula,OH. for the remainder of the season. I just can't believe how the time is flying by ! I am sure that the crawler and spinner bite which is way over due now is going to take off this coming week. Also the trollers are doing much better now with each passing day. I hope to do both myself on my upcoming trips this coming week but to tell you the truth, it sure is hard to put the jigging rods away as long as they are working as well as they have! We have the following dates left for a western basin Port Clinton fishing trip before I leave. MAY - 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 20th, 21st, 24th and 25th. Call me as always if interested. (216) 387-2656 boat/mobile number 24/7. Capt. Walt  to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 04/30/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 14:44:28 5/02/08 |
| Walleye fishing has been excellent at times in the past week. The best jig fishing continues to be in Maumee Bay, nearshore from Crane Creek to Locust Point, around K can of the Camp Perry range, and on the reefs of the Camp Perry firing range. The best jigs have been purple, chartreuse or orange hair jigs tipped with shiners. Trollers are catching fish around Rattlesnake Island, North Bass Island, and north of Kelleys Island. The best trolling lures have been worm harnesses with inline weights or snap weights, and both shallow and deep diving crankbaits in Pink Lemonade and Wonderbread color patterns.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 55 off of Toledo and 46 off of Cleveland. |
| Fishing report for the week of April 27, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 19:16:56 4/26/08 |
| A pretty good week. The weather this past week was perfect for drift fishing. We had temperatures in the 70's most every day and the winds were fairly light all week till Saturday when very gusty west, south west winds kicked in making vertical jigging very tough. The jigging bite in general though to me appears to be winding down somewhat. The Walleyes seem to be coming from deeper water now and the junk fish are really starting to come on strong. Along with the junk fish such as the Sheephead and White Perch, the Smallmouth Bass are really firing up as well. We took Smallmouth on every outing this past week aboard "The Trophy". Some of these Bass were well over four lbs.! Nice bonus action in addition to the fine Walleye fishing that we are experiencing. All of these fish are still being caught on the purple jigs that we've been bouncing the last two weeks. Water temps are now pushing the mid 50's and that is reason the Bass are firing up. As the jig bite winds down, other drifting opportunities will begin to present themselves. I believe the night crawler and harness's bite is ready to kick in. I already put a flat of night crawlers on the boat in anticipation of things to come. This coming week I hope to do some bottom bouncing with the spinners and crawlers if the wind is right. And as always, I have all my trolling gear on board should we be forced to go to plan "B". Those that have already been trolling have been having excellent results. We try to stick to drifting as much as possible aboard "The Trophy" in the spring months but I will do what it takes to put fish in the box. Well it looks like we have real crap for weather moving in for the first half of this coming week. Temps Monday are not expected to get out of the 40's. Along with the cooler weather, winds and waves are supposed to kick in with a north, north west fetch. One good thing about the cooler weather. This should drag out the jig bite a bit longer. We will just have to see how this all plays out. I guess it's just a bit of a reality check after the fine weather we have had the last two weeks. We still have a few open dates left for May. Call me at (216) 387-2656 for more info. Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 04/22/2008: Western Basin , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:19:02 4/23/08 |
| Walleye fishing is improving as the temperature increases and the water clears. The best jig fishing continues to be in Maumee Bay, nearshore from Crane Creek to Locust Point, around K can of the Camp Perry range, and on the reefs of the Camp Perry firing range. Trollers are catching fish around Rattlesnake Island and North Bass Island, from North Bass Island to Gull Island Shoal, and from Gull Island Shoal to Kelleys Island. Use extreme caution when boating in low water temperatures.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 51 off of Toledo and 42 off of Cleveland. |
| Walleye spawn update: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 10:23:08 4/21/08 |
| Well we started the season off very well last weekend. The weather cooperated very well, in fact it was to good for jig fishing. At some points the lake was just like glass and it was tough to get the fish to bite and the boat to drift. But, we made the adjustment and we still caught some nice jakes and perch. In fact I caught the largest jake in my career and it was around 7#. If it wasnt creaming I would have though it was a spawned out female. Water clarity is just right, thanks to last weeks weather. Areas around Catawba Island are cleaner than the reef area, but its all very fishable. The water temp. is still cool and there is very little activity on the beach. Most of the charters and head boats are working the reefs. Right now every rock pile has active jakes on them. The best depth ranges from 12 - 23 feet. If you have a lot of boat activity on a rock pile just move to a little deeper water next to the reef or find another rock pile. There is a lot of stupid boats out there right now including some very well known charter captains that are making it tough to catch fish. Remember, this is spring fishing and the fish spook out very quickly, its not like fishing deeper water after spawn. Some fish are being caught in the cleaner and deeper water, but that activity should pickup within the next 10 days. My catches averaged over 3-4 pounds per fish for the weekend, and we did catch a Fish Ohio perch on Sunday. The best news is that this was the first season in a long time that I caught walleyes from the last year hatch, which means we might have a better hatch for 2007 than reported. Best bait for jig fishing were prop jigs w/tails, purple and green colors, and vibe blade baits. We still have dates open for the spring and some great rates: call 1-877-434-9711 Good fishin, |
| Fishing report for the week of April 20, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 18:43:20 4/19/08 |
| On fire! Awesome! As good as it gets! Did I mention great? Wow, what a week we've had here in the western basin and there is no reason to believe that the incredible Walleye fishing that is happening right now won't continue on. Things broke loose this past Wednesday like someone flipped a switch and it's been crazy good everyday since. And all it took is a weeks worth of great weather in the 70's and light winds. The dirty water that we've been fighting all spring is finally clearing up nicely and water temps jumped as well to 50 degrees here in the western basin. With all the ducks in a row, BINGO ! We are still on a drifting and jigging program aboard "The Trophy". The lead head hair jigs are now the weapons of choice if you want to jig up these spring Walleyes. We are using 5/8 oz. jigs in the color purple with great results. Just cast it out, let it settle to the bottom and hop it along the bottom back to the boat. Just a series of lift,drop, lift,drop, lift,drop till all of a sudden DEAD WEIGHT ! Is it a snag ? No, wait it's moving ! FISH ON ! Get the net ! It does not get anymore fun then that. Right now, catching these nice fish on light tackle is my favorite way of fishing for Walleyes Although the fish are cooperating, you still have to be in the right place at the right time. Being in the right place for me means relying on my line of Raymarine sophisticated electronics. These user friendly tools have made me so confident in all of my navigation and fishing decisions that I can not even imagine going out without them. I have seen a lot of fish finders in all of my years of chartering but these Raymarine digital high definition fishfinders are simply stunning. I personally use the E-Series where I can share data between the units. They have other digital models as well. This spring I have been using the 3D chartplotting abilities also that these units also provide and I am blown away with how cool it is to work the reefs when you have a actual visual view of what and where exactly you are on the reef. I could go on and on. These displays have to be seen to be believed. Incredible ! I am booked pretty good right now the next two weeks but I have the next two Wednesdays still available for a fishing charter aboard "The Trophy" That would be Wednesday, April the 23rd and Wednesday, the 30th. I would love to fill these two days especially now that the fishing is so good. Anybody that might be interested can call me as always directly on my boat/mobile number (216) 387-2656. This coming weeks weather looks to be picture perfect again with plenty of temps in the 70 degree plus range and no high winds predicted. It should be a very productive week ! Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| Fishing report for the week of April 14, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 14:24:14 4/13/08 |
| Much better ! Things are finally looking up here at the western basin of Lake Erie. After a warm and windy week, we are getting some good water temperatures and the Walleyes are starting to react accordingly. As of this weekend, we are seeing surface temps right around 45 degrees. The weekend itself was back to cool and raw but we still managed to get some fishing in with good results aboard "The Trophy" This past week the Toussaint and Locust Reefs were fairly productive. The beach areas west of Davis Besse had water clarity issues but still produced some Walleyes. The K can area was fairly good but the fish are still not jumping in the boat like they were the past two springs in this area. With some effort though, some nice catches are finally being caught. All areas could stand some cleaner water but until we get a week of calmer winds, this is not likely to happen any time soon. We are still on a blade bait program aboard "The Trophy". Vertical jigging these vibrating lures seems to work better while the water remains muddy. If we ever get cleaner water I'm sure the lead head hair jigs which were so hot the past few years will start to dominate again. Right now in the stained water I'm focusing on the brighter colors in the blade baits. We had good results with gold Vibee's and Firetiger Heddon Sonars. We did manage to pull a few on the purple jigs but not anywhere near as good as we did on the blades. I still have the following dates open for the remainder of April. The 16th and 17th, the 23rd and the 26th (a SATURDAY!), and the 29th and 30th. All are excellent choices and the way this spring is going, they will be right in the peak of the spawning run that we are fishing presently. I look for the action to be fast and furious once the water temps hit 50 degrees plus. This should happen in the next week for sure. Anybody that wants to hook up for a fun day aboard "The Trophy" can make arrangements with me directly on my mobile/boat number (216) 387-2656 Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 04/09/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:34:03 4/09/08 |
| The western basin of Lake Erie is finally ice-free and spring fishing has started. Walleye fishing has been slow mostly due to reduced water clarity. As the water begins to warm and clear up expect fishing to improve. The best jig fishing has been in Maumee Bay, nearshore from Crane Creek to Locust Point, on the reefs of the Camp Perry firing range and off of Marblehead. Trollers have caught fish along the eastern cans of the Camp Perry firing range and around the Bass Islands. Use extreme caution when boating in 30 and 40 degree water temperatures.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature off of Toledo is 45 and 37 off of Cleveland. |
| Spring walleye update in the rivers and lake: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 02:37:23 4/07/08 |
| Reports of jacks being caught in the two big rivers since late last week. The water was at the right temperature but the water was fast, high, and muddy. Floating rigs were working best with colors that were good for muddy conditions. The main class has been the 2003 class with the size ranging within the 3 pound range. A few large jacks were reported to the local bait shops ranging up to 7 pounds. On the main lake reports were not that good as of Saturday. Some boats reported up to 9 fish for the day, but most had less than a hand full. The water temperature around 38 degrees and very muddy. With the warm temperatures starting on Sunday, the action should start picking up along the shoreline. Best areas to start is the pebble shoreline between Crane Creek to Camp Perry and the rocks around Maumee Bay. Further out in the lake, you might want to fish the shallow reefs just outside the firing range. Remember, this is the time Camp Perry closes the range off. Boats started to show up this weekend as well as the bait shops opening, The local bait shops have a very good supply of tackle and minnows. Both of the Richards bait shops are open and have the current reports to help you. Before long we should start working on the post season walleyes on the main lake and that transition should be around mid April. We will have one of the boats in by 4-8-08 to start the spring walleye season. If you are interested in spring walleye feel free in contacting us, we still have some prime dates open. |
| Fishing report for the week of April 7, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 16:51:44 4/06/08 |
| A tough start. Well we finally got a couple of trips under our belt this weekend but it sure wasn't anything to write home about. We still managed to get a few Walleyes but it was definitely a tough bite. Cold water tempters just below 40 degrees and muddy water conditions were certainly the culprit. We marked plenty of Walleyes most everywhere we tried. With the ice slow to come off this spring and the lack of very many warm spring days thus far we are finding ourselves perhaps as much as two weeks behind where we should be right now. On the bright side, temps are supposed to be in the 60's all of this coming week along with some rain. This should jack the water temps up dramatically. Hopefully we won't get any high winds and the water can start to clear up as well. I sure did my share of running around trying to get something going for the guys but it didn't really seem to matter. We pulled a few fish on the beaches and a few off the reefs wherever we tried. About the only thing that worked for us was 1/4 oz. Heddon Sonar blade baits in a fire tiger pattern. I think the buzzing vibration helped the Walleyes that did bite home in on the lure in the murky water. We also tried working jigs and minnows and although we did have a few fish hooked up on them, we failed to land any of the Walleyes on those. I'm sure things will cut loose in a day or so and it will be crazy good. It always is this time of year. We just need a little cooperation from Mother Nature. We still have a few days left for this month. The best is yet to come so these will all be attractive dates for someone. To secure your spot aboard The Trophy this spring, call me directly on the boat (216) 387-2656 and if I'm not busy fighting a Walleye, I'll gladly book you ! to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 03/31/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 23:12:59 3/31/08 |
| As of Monday 3/31/08 the ice continues to clear off of Lake Erie, but areas of ice still exist from Port Clinton towards Catawba, around the Islands, and from Lorain east. Some anglers have been going out of the Turtle Creek area and jigging the Camp Perry reefs for walleye with limited success. Expect historically good spring areas such as the main lake shoreline around Turtle Creek, the Camp Perry reef complex, the islands, Catawba and Marblehead to produce good early walleye fishing when the ice finally clears off and the water begins to warm. Numbers of fish can be caught by jigging with hair jigs and shiners or vibrating blade baits, and trophies are usually caught by trolling open water areas around the spawning reefs. Use extreme caution when boating in 30 and 40 degree water temperatures.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature off of Toledo is 35 and 33 off of Cleveland. |
| Trophy back in the water for the season! : ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 16:20:42 3/30/08 |
| We are back in the water for the season! The boat went in officially on March 24th, just a few days after the calendar marked spring. It really hasn't felt like spring though with a few late snow showers and the cool weather still lingering. I believe once this weather breaks, we will be good to go. I still managed to get a couple of days in on the water this past week with one my buddies and his charter boat out of Wild Wings Marina. The water clarity was very poor and there was a lot of debris out there not to mention some icebergs and massive ice piles on some of the shallower reefs. We marked heavy amounts of Walleyes in the deeper waters everywhere north of all the reefs. We also managed to pull a few each day using jigs and minnows but the action was slow with the dirtier water and water temps only in the mid thirty's. Things will take off quickly though now with the warm temps predicted all this week. We are only a few days away from some incredible fishing! We are booking April jigging trips right now. These are by far the most fun trips that I offer in my opinion. Light tackle, hands on fishing and huge spring Walleyes ! I invite everyone that has never experienced a early spring trip to join me in all the fun. Grab your warm clothing, a thermos full of hot coffee and lets go fishing ! Call me on the boat at (216) 387-2656 to VIEW PICTURE |
| River running walleye: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 16:11:50 3/28/08 |
| Well its getting closer to get the boats in for the season. As far as the river update, they are catching walleye in both the main rivers that feed Lake Erie. Yet we had some snow last night,, which should be gone by Saturday. The only problem that I have with fishing the rivers is keeping the large females. There are plenty of jacks to take home to eat. Some of the bait shops have opened up over the last few days and I have noticed a few charters putting their boats in for this weekend. We still have some thin moving ice out in front of Port Clinton, so take that into consideration when going out the next few days. The shoreline and the reefs should start picking up within the next week as long as lake doesnt muddy up. We still have some dates open in April for those spring walleye, just give us a call, we are offering a weekday special for the month. Good fishin |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 03/26/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 10:08:32 3/26/08 |
| Floating ice on the main lake still exists as of 3/25/08, but it looks like we are close to having open water in the western basin. Fishing activity has been minimal, but will start picking up in the next few weeks. Expect historically good spring areas such as the main lake shoreline around Turtle Creek, the Camp Perry reef complex, the islands, Catawba and Marblehead to produce good early walleye fishing. Numbers of fish can be caught by jigging with hair jigs and minnows or vibrating blade baits, and trophies are usually caught by trolling open water areas around the spawning reefs. Use extreme caution when boating in 30 and 40 degree water temperatures.
Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature off of Toledo is 38 and 33 off of Cleveland. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 03/19/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 09:30:17 3/20/08 |
| Lake Erie ice quality has been deteriorating ending most ice fishing. It will still most likely take a few weeks for all of the ice to melt and provide open water for early spring boat fishing. Use extreme caution when boating in 30 and 40 degree water temperatures. |
| Fishing report for the week of March 14, 2008.: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 19:28:10 3/14/08 |
| The Walleyes are here and are waiting for you ! I again had the privilege of joining a couple of my buddies that are Lake Erie ice guides for some late winter ice fishing this week around the Lake Erie Islands of the western basin. The ice was pretty shot with lots of open water but using air boats we were able to find some solid ice between Rattle Snake, Green and South Bass Island. We fished three days and the fishing was phenomenal ! We caught limits of Walleyes everywhere we tried with ease. They ranged in size from a couple of pounds to the largest being around nine pounds. Most averaged around four to five pounds. Those are the fish from the incredibly huge hatch that we had back in 2003. These should dominate our catch throughout the upcoming boating season. Although it doesn't seem possible, we are still scheduled to be in the water by the end of this month. I've sweated this in past years with the ice hanging in there but it never fails to be open by April 1st. A few warm, rainy and windy days and the western basin opens up nicely. And just like other years, we would be out in the boat killing the Walleyes in the western basin while further east on Lake Erie the lake is still froze. We still have lots of open dates for our spring season April / May charters at the western basin and the islands area of Lake Erie. And just like ice fishing, we will be jigging them up. This is by far my favorite way of catching Lake Erie Walleyes. I invite everyone to try a early spring fishing charter with me aboard "The Trophy" I can be reached on my cell phone at any time for a booking (216) 387-2656. Like I said, the Walleyes are here and are waiting for you ! Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 03/11/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 09:31:11 3/12/08 |
| Walleye ice fishing was good the week of 3/3 west of South Bass Island. Check with local bait stores or ice guides for current ice conditions before going out. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 02/19/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 23:03:49 2/19/08 |
| There was limited ice fishing west of South Bass Island the weekend of 2/16, but once again rain and wind have deteriorated the quality of the ice. Cold weather has returned, but anglers need to be extremely cautious. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 01/30/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 13:33:06 1/30/08 |
| As of today (1/30/08) all Lake Erie ice should be considered unsafe. By the end of the past week some ice fishing had started, but warm weather and rain followed by wind gusts of over 50 mph have likely done serious damage to any ice that had been fishable. It will take sustained cold, calm weather to re-establish safe ice. |
| ICE IS FORMING ON THE WESTERN BASIN: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 15:00:40 1/21/08 |
| With the current weekend cold front from Canada, we have all the rivers, Sandusky Bay, and a fair share of the western section of Lake Erie covered in ice. This is a start to forming good ice with the help of below freezing temps for the next 8-9 days. I am looking forward to fishing this upcoming weekend around the docks for perch and panfish. Then we'll be ready for the next weekend for ice season walleye on the big lake. Last year we had only three weeks of ice fishing but it was a very good walleye season with limits and walleye up to 29" being taken thru the holes. Feel free to contact my on some dates, since I held off booking dates until we got good ice. Lastly, Richards Bait and Tackle should be open this weekend for your ice fishing supplies and fishing reports. Remember we are booking to this boat season. I am really looking forward to some great walleye fishing this year, starting with next week. Good fishin |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 01/16/2008: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 18:09:40 1/16/08 |
| There has been very little open water fishing activity over the past week. Skim ice has formed in some nearshore and harbor areas, especially in the western basin, limiting lake access. Stable conditions and clear water produce the best results. The best technique to catch winter trophies is trolling crankbaits around open water baitfish during the day or along rocky shorelines at night. Shore anglers can also catch walleye from piers after dark as walleye move inshore to feed on shiners and gizzard shad.
The Lake Erie surface temperature is 35 degrees off of Toledo and 37 degrees off of Cleveland. |
| UPDATE ON ICE FISHING IN THE WESTERN BASIN: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 07:45:55 1/14/08 |
| I just wanted to update you on the ice condition on the western section of the lake and bays. Due to the record warm temps that we had last week the lake and rivers are open and muddy. The forcast for the next 10 days are good and it should start the lake with a ice coating. I predict the first of next month we should already be fishing the bay and then start fishing the main part of the lake. Last year we started around early February and had around three weeks of great fishing. I am currently ready to run as soon as we have the ice. We will be running from Catawba to Crane Creek, based on the fishing. If interested fishing you can contact me on my web site or at www.mrbass@lakererie911.com., I'll be fishing everyday possible and I have a 1-2 man operation available everyday that I go out. The fishing outlook is even better than last year, with record populations of three great walleye hatches. I will continue to update you on the ice conditions thru this report and our fishing report on our web site. The water temp in the western basin is in the low 30's. good fishin |
| Fishing Report for January 1, 2008: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 22:17:57 1/01/08 |
| Happy New Year! Wow, we just rolled in another new year and that means our spring trips are only a few short months away. I've really enjoyed my time off thus far, especially the holidays but in a few more weeks I'll be getting serious about preparing for the new season. We had a wonderfully successful season in 07 both business wise and in fishing success. I am very thankful for all of the good things that we experienced aboard "The Trophy" this past season and I am looking forward to doing it all over again. Thanks to everyone that chose our charter this past year over the hundreds of those available to choose from on Lake Erie. I hope I have the opportunity to serve your needs again this coming fishing season out there on "The Walleye Capitol of The World", beautiful Lake Erie ! We'll have some new stuff up shortly on our website, www.trophycharters.com so keep your eyes out and remember that right now is the time to book all your trips for this coming spring and summer. It will be here before you know it ! Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 12/12/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 11:18:53 12/12/07 |
| When the weather has allowed the best walleye fishing has been nearshore from Huron to Vermilion and also off of Cleveland. There has been little open water fishing activity over the past week. Continued poor weather has left most of the popular fall areas very muddy. Stable conditions and clear water produce the best results. The best technique to catch fall trophies is trolling crankbaits around open water baitfish during the day or along rocky shorelines at night. Shore anglers can also catch walleye from piers after dark as walleye move inshore to feed on shiners and gizzard shad.
The Lake Erie surface temperature is 33 degrees off of Toledo and 40 degrees off of Cleveland. |
| LAST CALL FOR FALL : ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 15:00:52 11/03/07 |
| Over the last week, high winds continue to create problems for fishermen in the western basin. The forecast for the upcoming week is still more winds and cold rain. The good news is that the water clarity is still good off the south shore. This will be my last report until ice fishing starts in the western basin. A few reports of walleye being caught around the island area and Gull/Kelley reefs, if you can get out to those areas. The night fishing is starting to heat up at Huron River and the shoreline. This will continue until the Lake Erie has ice out. Perch fishing is still very good from Crane Creek to the island area. The best news is the perch fishing around Port Clinton. Since most of the winds have been from the south, perch fisherman are taking very good size perch just 1-2 miles off the shore in 18' of water. Some of the bait shops are still open with good quanities of shinners and the headboats are still in the water. As soon as we start our ice fishing charters I will being reporting walleye fishing and ice conditions in the western basin. For further information on our ice charters go to www.lakeeeriefishing911.com or email me at mrbass@lakeeriefishig911.com. Have a great holiday and good fishin |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 10/30/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 21:34:53 10/30/07 |
| Western Basin Recent strong winds greatly limited fishing opportunities. Heading into the late fall season the Bass Islands, Kelleys Island and nearshore from Port Clinton to Marblehead will all produce walleye. Stable conditions and clear water produce the best results. The best technique to catch fall trophies is trolling crankbaits around open water baitfish during the day or along rocky shorelines at night. Shore anglers can also catch walleye from western basin piers after dark as walleye move inshore to feed on shiners and gizzard shad. Muddy water resulting from the strong winds has slowed perch fishing in the western basin. The best yellow perch fishing had been around the northern cans (A, B, and C) of the Camp Perry range, north of the Toledo water intake, at the Toledo Harbor Light, north of West Sister Island, off of Kelleys Island shoal, and north of the Marblehead lighthouse. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with several catches averaging in the 9-10 inch range. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 10/23/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 10:48:30 10/24/07 |
| Western Basin Starting Thursday 10/18 strong winds greatly limited fishing opportunities. Before the winds the best areas were similar to the prior weeks report. Walleye fishing had been best off of Crane Creek in 18 to 20 of water and also from Green Island to Niagara Reef and Northwest Reef. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing had been around the northern cans (A, B, and C) of the Camp Perry range, north of the Toledo water intake, at the Toledo Harbor Light, north of West Sister Island, off of Kelleys Island shoal, and north of the Marblehead lighthouse. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with several catches averaging in the 9-10 inch range. |
| HIGH WIND ON LAKE ERIE: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 22:29:00 10/21/07 |
| Over the past four days the western basin has experienced southern high winds which has pulled water out of the marinas and created tough water conditions with SCA's. The good news is that with the south winds the water clarity is still in good condition. It should take until mid-week to pick up on the great fall fishing for perch and walleye. Those areas that have produced both perch and walleye around the island area (see my previous report), should get hot for the end of the week and weekend. The shinners are still in good supply for perch and if you're looking for bass minnows I suggest calling a local bait shop prior to your trip. Alot of charters are starting to pull their boats for the season, in fact we will be done after next weekend. I will continue to report the fishing for late fall, including the great ice fishing off the shoreline. In fact I will be running ice charters as soon as we have safe ice; e-mail me at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com for further details, availablities, and rates. Remember, we still have alot of good fishing left this fall as long as the weather is good. Good fishin Capt Bob Hughey www.lakeeriefishing911.com |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 10/16/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 09:01:32 10/17/07 |
| Western Basin Fishing had been good in the western basin until winds the week of 10/8 slowed fishing. Expect walleye and perch fishing to improve as conditions stabilize. Before the winds walleye fishing had been best off of Crane Creek in 18 to 20 of water and also from Green Island to Niagara Reef and Northwest Reef. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing before the winds had been around the northern cans (A, B, and C) of the Camp Perry range, north of the Toledo water intake, at the Toledo Harbor Light, near the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel, off of Kelleys Island shoal, and north of the Marblehead lighthouse. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with several catches averaging in the 9-10 inch range. |
| COLD FRONT BLUES: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 13:16:16 10/15/07 |
| WALLEYE AND BASS Last weekend was one of the toughest weekends for the year. Two major cold fronts moved thru the area, creating dropping temps. and high winds. Very few reports of good catches arrived at the docks. We managed to boat a few nice smallmouth in canadian waters that two of them went 5.25 and 6.80, all released. This week the temps. and systems should get better and the water should clear up. Your best bet for walleye are still west of North Bass Island, Gull and Kelley reef, and 8 miles east of Kelley Island. For the bass start with 20' to 25', the cold front pushed the bass down. PERCH: Last weekend, if you could find a area to fish that was clear and no winds you caught nice perch. The perch will continue to do well untill the end of the season. Just west of the islands, the firing range markers, gull and kelley reef, and east of the airport of Kelley Island are still your best spots. Minnows are in good supply and get in early to get your fish cleaned, long lines start around noon. We still have some good dates open for perch until the end of October and good rates. Goog Fishin Capt Bob Hughey |
| October Walleye and Perch: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 10:24:34 10/08/07 |
| WALLEYE: Based on the weather, the walleyes should continue throughout this month in style. Last weekend the best location was in Canadian waters. Limits of very nice walleyes came from casting harnesses and weight forwards in waters of 15-24 feet. Best time was in early morning and mid-afternoon. Remember, you have to have license and check-in on both side with customs. Back in the states the best areas was north of the firing range bouys and west of North Bass island. Also, 8 miles east of Kelley island was producing nice walleyes. Both the trollers and drifters have been producing in all those areas. PERCH: Some boats were doing very well throughtout the weekend on very nice size perch. The best areas were the range bouys and just west of the islands in 30' of water. Also, around Gull and Kelley reef area, northeast of Kelley reef, east of the airport in 40' of water, Cedar Point area and the Marblehead Lighthouse area were the hot spots. Early morning to mid-afternoon was the best time with reports of limits at the cleaners. Remember, this time of year the fish cleaners get long lines early in the day and waiting list could run up to 4 hours. Also, there are good supplies of shinners at the local bait shops. For further information or book a charter at our fall special rates, just e-mail us at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com. Good fishin Capt Bob Hughey |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 10/02/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 09:25:14 10/03/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island and Niagara Reef to F can on the Canadian border, and on Lucys Point of Middle Bass Island. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around the northern cans (A, B, and C) of the Camp Perry range, north of the Toledo water intake, at the Toledo Harbor Light, near the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel, off Gull Island Shoal, off of Kelleys Island shoal, north of the Marblehead lighthouse and north of Cedar Point. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with several catches averaging in the 9-10 inch range. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 09/25/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:20:05 9/27/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island and Niagara Reef to F can on the Canadian border and near Starve Island. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around C can of the Camp Perry range, north of the Toledo water intake, near Northwest Reef, off Gull Island Shoal, off of Kelleys Island shoal and Kelleys Island airport reef in 40-50 of water. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with several catches averaging in the 9-10 inch range. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 09/18/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:11:55 9/19/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island and Niagara Reef to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around B and C cans of the Camp Perry range, around the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel, north of the Toledo water intake, between Green Island and Rattlesnake Island, and off of Kelleys Island shoal and Kelleys Island airport reef in 41 of water. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| LAST WEEK OF SUMMER: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 04:41:42 9/17/07 |
| PERCH: Due to the recent cold fronts and high winds, both the perch and walleye have slowed down over the past week. The outlook for the upcoming week is very good. The best locations have been west of Green Island, east of Lucy Point, between Gull and Kelley's Reef, and just off the airport of Kelley's Island. Good size perch are coming in and as the water cools the perch should pick up and the size increase. Remember since we have had high winds so look for clean water to start. Shinners have been in good supply over the past few weeks and plan to come in early with your perch, since the waiting time are long at the fish cleaners. Lastly, we have been catching a lot of yearly walleye, so please be careful in releasing them, thank you. WALLEYE: Again, high winds and the cold fronts have slowed down the walleye over the past week. This week the fishing should pick up, but look for clean water to start. Both trolling and drifting have produced walleye. Best locations are west of North Bass, north of the firing range cans, and off Gull and Kelley's Reef areas. As the water cools, the night fishing should start around Kelley's Island. We only have a few weeks to run for the year and we still have some open dates. Also, we are gearing up for the upcoming ice season and we are booking dates. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 09/11/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:14:47 9/12/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island and Niagara Reef to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around B and C cans of the Camp Perry range, around the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel, between Green Island and Rattlesnake Island, and off of Kelleys Island shoal and Kelleys Island airport reef in 41 of water. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 09/04/2007: Western Basin , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 21:37:51 9/04/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around B and C cans of the Camp Perry range, around the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel, and between Green Island and Rattlesnake Island. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 08/28/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:31:13 8/28/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been good in the western basin recently. The best walleye fishing has been from the Gravel Pit to A can of the Camp Perry range, and from North Bass Island to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around B can of the Camp Perry range, Niagara Reef, between Green Island and Rattlesnake Island, and west of Rattlesnake Island. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| Labor Day Weekend Fishing: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 18:32:34 8/28/07 |
| Walleye: The walleye have started to pick back up on both sides fo the island area and the water temp. has started to drop for the upcoming fall fishing. Walleye are being caught trolling using spoons on jets and dipsys. The drifters are not doing as well as the trollers on the west side of the islands, but they are still boating a few in the early mornings. The best areas to catch walleye is north of the range cans and west of North Bass Island to G can. Areas such as Gull and Kelley reefs are still holding walleye and good size perch. Going east of Kelley's Island both the drifters and trollers have been doing very well over the past 10 days. Large walleyes have been coming into the marina, as well as some limits. The best areas are in the 45' areas north of Huron area and this area should hold throughout the fall. The walleye fishing is just going to get better, and we still have some prime dates open. PERCH: The perch have been very good over the late month and will continue as long as mother nature helps. The best areas have been around the firing cans in deep water and west of Green and Rattlesnake Islands. Spreaders and minnows have been the best bait for the perch. Around Kelley's Island, good size perch have been caught with the best areas being the airport and the south side of the island. Lastly, the Lighthouse and Cedar Point fog horn are still producing good catches of perch. Any questions you can contact me at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com. |
| LABOR DAY WEEKEND OUTLOOK: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 09:48:57 8/28/07 |
| WALLEYE: The walleye have started to pick back up on both sides of the island area and the water temp. has started to drop for the upcoming fall fishing. Walleye are being caught trolling spoons on jets and dipsys. The drifters are not doing as well as the trollers on the west side of the island area. The best areas to catch walleye is north of the range cans and west of North Bass Island to G can. Between the island area, the Gull Reef and Kelley Island Reef are still holding nice walleye and perch. Going east of Kelley's Island, both drifters and trollers have been doing very well over the last 10 days. Large walleyes have been coming into the marina, as well as some limits. The best areas are in the 45' areas north of the Huron area, which are the fall holding areas for large schools of walleye. We still have some prime dates open to get into some great fall walleye. PERCH: The perch have been fantastic over the late month as long as mother nature helps. The best areas have been around the firing cans in deep water and west of Green Island and Rattlesnake Island. Spreaders and minnows have been the best bait for the perch. Around Kelley's Island also have been producing good size perch with the best areas are the airport area and the south side of the island. Lastly the Lighthouse and Cedar Point fog horn still are producing good catches of perch. For further information and open dates, you can contact me at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com Good Fishin' Capt. Bob Hughey |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 08/21/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:54:51 8/21/07 |
| Western Basin The best walleye fishing has been from North Bass Island to G can on the Canadian border, and around Gull Island Shoal. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around Niagara Reef, Green Island, off of the airport reef on the E side of Kelleys Island, and SE of Kelleys Island. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 08/14/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:32:19 8/14/07 |
| Western Basin High temperatures and storms over the past week (8/6 - 8/11) limited fishing effort in the western basin. The best walleye fishing has been off of Crane Creek in 18 of water, near C can of the Camp Perry range, and from Rattlesnake Island to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. The best yellow perch fishing has been around A and B cans of the Camp Perry range, between Rattlesnake and Green Islands, and W of Kelleys Island. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| DOG DAYS WALLEYES: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 15:35:55 8/13/07 |
| WALLEYE; Over the last week strong storms and winds have slowed down the walleye fishing in the western end of Lake Erie. Walleyes are still being caught between F and G cans on the canadian line and north of the firing line in 30' of water. Both the drifters using casting rigs and the trollers using spoons and jet divers were taking walleyes in those areas, but limits were taking a full day of hard fishing. Other areas, like Gull and Kelley shoal were still producing walleyes early in the morning in the deep areas around those shoals. Across the line in Canada, walleyes are being taken north and south of the wagon wheel in 30' of water. PERCH: Perch are still doing well west of the island area and just east of Ballast Island. Nice perch are staring to be caught north of the Cedar foghorn and north of the Lighthouse. Best bait is shinners and spreaders. SMALLMOUTH BASS: Bass fishing was slow last week due to the weather, but with stable weather coming in this week the fishing should pick up. The best depth has been 22' to 26' of water. Just off the rocks have been good for the bass. Both the U.S. and Canadian shoals are your best bet. For further reports contact us on www.lakeeriefishing911.com. Good Fishin' Capt. Bob Hughey |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 08/07/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:32:48 8/07/07 |
| Western Basin Even though walleye fishing in the western basin has somewhat slowed down there are still plenty of fish being caught. The best fishing has been near the Toledo lighthouse in 18 to 22 of water, near B can of the Camp Perry range, and from Rattlesnake Island to F can on the Canadian border. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. Yellow perch fishing is quickly improving in the western basin. The best fishing has been around the Toledo water intake, in the Gravel Pit, around the Toledo lighthouse, between Rattlesnake and Green Islands, off the Catawba green buoy, and around Kelleys Island. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish that have averaged around 8 inches with a few up to 10 and 11 inches. |
| AUGUST WALLEYES: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 18:25:21 8/03/07 |
| WALLEYE: For the second year in a row the walleye should be hot and active throughout this month. Right now good catches of walleye are being taken around the island area in deep water. West of the islands from the Niagra buoy to the line. Walleyes are being taken early in the morning with casting rigs and trolling spoons. The trollers are doing better on this side of the islands because there is less floating grass to deal with on the rigs. Between the islands walleyes are being taken from American Eagle to the line. Deep water is the key to this area, also just of the rock piles in deep water are working early in the morning using weight forwards and casting rigs. The waters in Canada have been doing very well north and south of the wagon wheel and around the chicks. Remember to check into customs to get a number and report to our customs when you return. It's very important that if you go to Canada you need a I-68 and a canada fishing license. PERCH: Fishing has been very hot and early this year. Limits of perch have been taken around Green Island, Lighthouse, Kelley Island south shore, and Cedar Point foghorn. Best baits are shinners and supplies are starting to be limited. Rickard's Bait on 269N has a good supply of bait on a daily bases. Also, if you want your fish clean, get to the cleaners early to avoid long waits. SMALLMOUTH: Good catches of nice bass are being taken are Pelee Island from 12' to 25' using softcraws and plastic baits. Best areas were the wagon wheel, chicks, and the long points on the east side of the island. We do have some great dates open for fishing the rest of the summer and into fall. We can be contacted on www.lakeeriefishing911.com. Have a great fishing week and drink alot of water, it's been hot on the lake. Good fishin' Capt. Bob Hughey |
| LATE JULY WALLEYE: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 14:03:18 7/25/07 |
| WALLEYE: Over the last week with strong winds and a northern cold front, walleye fishing has slowed up a little in the western end. The best news is that the mayflies may have finally finished and the walleye will again get focus on the fisherman. Walleyes are being taken just north of the range cans to the Canadian line. Both the trollers and drifters are taking the walleye just off the bottom in 30' of water. Closer to the islands the rock piles are holding good size walleyes with early bite just after daybreak being the best time. Around Kelley Island walleyes are being taken on harnesses from 8' to 30' breaks on both the north and south side of the island. BASS: Last week was a great week for the bass around the island area. Bass up to 21' were personally caught in 12' to 16' breaks. Best areas were around Kelley's Island and Gull Reef. Good reports of bass were taken around the upper bass island areas. Soft craws and plastic baits were the main baits for the smallies. PERCH: Very good catches, including limits and size were being taking around the island area despite the cold front late last week. Best areas were just west of Rattlesnake Island and east of Ballast Island in 40' of water. Also, Marblehead and Cedar Point fog horn areas are still producing nice perch. Best bait are shinners which are a little large at this time, so we're cutting them in halves for better effect. All bait shop in the area have a good dupply of bait on hand for bass and perch. If you want some great bass or perch fishing, feel free in contacting me, the Canadian fishing is really getting hot for both bass and walleye and the license is $18.00 for one days. Good fishin' Capt. Bob Hughey mrbass@lakeerie911.c0m |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 07/17/2007: Western Basin , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 23:04:06 7/17/07 |
| Western Basin Even though walleye fishing in the western basin has somewhat slowed down there are still plenty of fish being caught. The best fishing has been from the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel to West Sister Island, along the Canadian border from Middle Sister Island to North Bass Island, and SW of Kelleys Island around American Eagle shoal. Fish have been caught by casting worm harnesses or weight forward spinners, and trollers have had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. Although July is not typically a prime yellow perch month in the western basin fish are being caught by the anglers that target them. The best areas have been off of Lakeside, E of the South Bass Island monument, and SE of Kelleys Island. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 07/10/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:08:54 7/10/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing continues to be good in the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been northeast of the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel near the corner of Michigan, Ohio and Ontario, along the Canadian border from Middle Sister Island to North Bass Island, and north of Niagara Reef and C can of the Camp Perry range. Around the islands the best area for walleye has been from Gull Island Shoal to Lucys Point of Middle Bass Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. With the recent hot weather yellow perch fishing in the western basin has been sporadic. Two of the best areas have been off of Lakeside and Ballast Island, but limits have been few and far between recently. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 07/03/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:53:42 7/05/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing continues to be good in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been north of the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel and along the Canadian border from Middle Sister Island to North Bass Island. Walleye have also been caught around Gull Island Shoal. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jet divers or dipsys. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Perch limits have been caught off of Lakeside west of Marblehead and also just off of the Cedar Point breakwall. |
| SUMMERTIME WALLEYES: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 14:11:18 7/02/07 |
| Walleye: Over the past week walleye fishing has been strong in three major areas of the western basin. Out west around the shipping channel and east towards west sister island, reports of limits of walleye were being taken by troller using jet divers and stinger type spoons and the casters were using casting harnesses with gold and purple blades. Closer to the island area, anglers are taking limits of walleye north of the range cans to the Canadian boarder. Most of the fish are suspended at 20' to 27' in 30' of water. The trollers were using 40 jets with stinger type spoons and dipsy divers with medium leads. The casters were using bottom bouncers and casting harnesses with gold and purple blades. A lot of the fish being caught were the 2003 and 2004 class of walleyes shich make up for a nice bag at the end of the day. Back towards the east around the dumping grounds and just north of Cedar Point, walleye limits have been taken in the 35' to 40' of water. Remember to take a lot of bait with you, because the white perch and sheephead are very active. Perch: Reports of limits of perch being taken off of Cedar Point and the area between Marblehead and Kelley's Island. Spreaders and minnows are the ticket for catching this Lake Erie jewel. At this time local bait shops have a good supply of shinners, like Rickard"a Bait and Tackle, located on 269N. Smallmouth Bass: Well the season finally opened last Saturday, which means a sign of summer and that I will be in the Canadian waters a lot for the rest of the year. The one-day Canadian license this year is $18 u.s. and remember that you need a I-68 and proper I.D. with you and your boat if you cross the line to fish. We still have serveral dates open to fish for smallmouth bass and we can be reached through our web-sight. The best rule of thumb for the bass is to start in 12-15 foot of water, off the shoreline or rock piles. The best bait at this time are soft craws, large minnows, tubes, and drop shot type plastics. Remember, take a camera with you, catch and release is the ticket for these babies and you cannot transport live bass back to the Ohio waters. Lastly, we do offer partials during July and August and don't forget to contact us for daily fishing updates. Good Fishin' |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 06/26/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 23:02:46 6/27/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been north of the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel. The islands area has also been excellent. Fish have been caught west of Rattlesnake Island, west of North Bass Island around West Reef and Northwest Reef, and on Gull Island Shoal. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Perch limits have been caught off of Lakeside west of Marblehead and also just off of the Cedar Point breakwall. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 06/19/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:16:49 6/19/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been from the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel to the gravel pit and West Sister Island. The firing range and the islands area have also been excellent. Fish have been caught near A and B cans of the Camp Perry firing range, west of Green Island, west of North Bass Island around West Reef, on Gull Island Shoal, and the west side of Kelleys Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Remember that we are currently in the catch and release only season for smallmouth bass and the yellow perch daily bag limit has been reduced to 30 for the entire season. |
| MAYFLIES ARRIVE IN THE WESTERN BASIN: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 09:16:59 6/18/07 |
| WALLEYE Throughout the past week signs of the yearly mayfly hatch has shown up along the south shore of Lake Erie. Everyday the hatch becomes stronger and of course the fishing has slowed down a little. Due to the soft winds and the hatch, the boats have moved out to the flats just below F Can. The water is very clear and limits are being taken during the morning hours. Most of the active walleye are located between 20' to 26' in the 32' water area. Due to the glass like water conditions the trollers are taking the walleye on 40 jets and dipsys, using stinger like spoons. The casters are taking the walleyes with 1/2 to 3/4 oz worm harnesses with gold or purple blades. Just remember if you're not casting you're not catching and take a lot of bait with you on your trip, the sheephead and white perch are in high gear and the bait goes fast. Around the island area, walleyes are being caught at Kelly Island and American Eagle Reefs, and just west of Green and Rattlesnake islands. The water is clearing up around the reef area and it's holding alot of walleye, but the more active ones are north of the range cans in 30' of water. Further west, the walleyes are being taken between Anchor Point and West Sister. Both the trollers and casters are getting limits on a daily bases, remember to fish the clear water if possible and the pockets of fish are small. PERCH A few boats are taking perch around Green island and between Kelly's island and Marblehead using shiners. Bait is still in good supply at the local bait shops like Rickards Bait & Tackle located on 269N/163. SMALLMOUTH BASS just two weekends until the bass season opens in the Canadian and U.S. waters on Lake Erie. The outlook is very good for the summer and fall months. For further/daily information, you can contact me at mrbass@lrbcg.com Good Fishin' and Safe Boating |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 06/12/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:44:58 6/14/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been from the turnaround buoy of the Toledo shipping channel to the gravel pit and West Sister Island. The firing range and the islands area have also been excellent. Fish have been caught near A and B cans of the Camp Perry firing range, west of Green Island and Rattlesnake Island to Niagara Reef, and from the west side of Kelleys Island to Mouse Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Remember that we are currently in the catch and release only season for smallmouth bass and the yellow perch daily bag limit has been reduced to 30 for the entire season. |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 06/05/2007: Western Basin , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 22:24:39 6/05/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been from the Toledo water intake to the Gravel Pit and west to the Toledo Harbor light. The firing range and the islands area have also been excellent. Fish have been caught near A and B cans of the firing range, west of Green Island to Niagara Reef, from the west side of Kelleys Island to Mouse Island, and along the east shoreline of Kelleys Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys, and with crankbaits. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Remember that we are currently in the catch and release only season for smallmouth bass and the yellow perch daily bag limit has been reduced to 30 for the entire season. |
| MID-SPRING LAKE ERIE WALLEYES: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 08:19:34 5/31/07 |
| The walleye continue to heat up as the waters warm up on the lake. At the time of this newsletter the waters off Toledo was at 62 degrees. During the last week the trollers have been waxing the walleye within 2 miles of Catawba Island to the Canadian boarder. Reports of limits being caught within 2-3 hours both trolling and drifting. Two of the best areas were American Eagle Shoal and the deep water west of Green Island. The trollers were using stingers on 40 jets and short leads, while the drifters were using 3/4-1 oz long lines and 2-3- oz bottom bouncers with purple or gold blades. Further west the deep water around Niagra to the B can area have produced very well all week. While around H can to D can were producing walleye limits and creating short runs for those anglers coming out of Port Clinton. This area will stay good as long as the water stays clean. Limits of yellow perch were being reported just off the Niagra reef area as well as the Marblehead Lighthouse area. Minnows and spreaders are the ticket and there are plenty available at the local bait shops. Smallmouth bass season will open on June 30th in both the Canadian and Ohio waters. If you enjoy fishing for smallies make sure you mark your calendar, the outlook is very good. Feel free to e-mail me for updates on the lake fishing and weather conditions. We still have some prime dates open for June and July. Good fishin' |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 05/30/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 11:10:30 5/30/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been from 1 mile north of the Toledo water intake to the Gravel Pit. The islands area has also been excellent. Fish have been caught west of Green Island to Niagara Reef, from the west side of Kelleys Island to Mouse Island, and along the east shoreline of Kelleys Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys, and with crankbaits. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Remember that we are currently in the catch and release only season for smallmouth bass and the yellow perch daily bag limit has been reduced to 30 for the entire season. |
| Fishing report for the week of May 29, 2007: ,
Posted by: Capt. Walt Ermansons Date Posted: 21:57:50 5/29/07 |
| We are back home in Ashtabula, OH and we are catching fish! Big fish! I wrapped up my stay at Port Clinton for the spring season on Sunday by doing what we have been doing all spring, limiting out in near record time. We took a boat limit of 36 Walleyes in about 4 hours time trolling up by D can. I was hoping for an earlier quit because after getting the guys squared away and on the road, it was time for me to jump back in the boat and head east. About 5 hours later and 106 gallons lighter on gasoline (at $3.89 OUCH!), we pulled in to Ashtabula about 114 miles east of Port Clinton. Ashtabula is my home port and where we will remain the rest of the season. Normally I leave a couple day window between trips just for traveling should we have any problems with weather but not this year. I ran my last trip in Port Clinton on Sunday and my first trip out of Ashtabula the next morning, Monday, Memorial Day. Conditions were ideal for my first trip out east where the waves can be challenging with no islands to hide behind. With the flat lake Monday morning, I decided even with the high gas prices to run about 20 miles back west toward Perry for my first troll of the summer season. We were not disappointed. It wasn't long after we set lines we started hitting the Walleyes. Best depths turned out to be 51 - 54 ft. of water with #40 Jets about 120 ft. back working well. We took back to back 29 and 29 1/2 inchers on a 3 1/2 setting Dipsy about 115 ft. back. Wow! Can you tell we're back in the Central Basin? Although we did not limit out, we did end up with around 20 Walleyes for the day. Not too bad for not having anything figured out yet! Fishing will only get better with each passing day now. Water temps are pushing 60 degrees already, the magic number for us here in the east. I have several days open for a charter that I would like to fill coming up if anybody would be interested in catching some trophy sized Walleyes. These early trips back home here seem to produce the biggest fish of the year. I have this Thursday, May 31st available as well as Sunday, June 3rd, and Monday, June 4th open because of a last minute two day cancellation (very frustrating). Anyone interested can call me any time of the day or night on my cell 216-387-2656. We are also available for afternoon trips for those that may be a bit more local.
Capt. Walt to VIEW PICTURE |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 05/22/2007: , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 08:15:28 5/23/07 |
| Western Basin Walleye fishing has been excellent in many areas of the western basin. In the far west the best fishing has been west of the Toledo shipping channel turnaround buoy and around K and L cans of the Camp Perry range. The islands area has also been excellent. Fish have been caught west of Green and Rattlesnake Islands, on Kelleys Island shoal and Gull Island shoal, from the west side of Kelleys Island to Mouse Island, and along the east shore of Kelleys Island. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys, and with crankbaits. Although most of the angling effort has been directed towards walleye plenty of opportunities exist to catch yellow perch and smallmouth bass. Remember that we are currently in the catch and release only season for smallmouth bass and the yellow perch daily bag limit has been reduced to 30 for the entire season. Surface temperatures range from 57 degrees off of Toledo to 55 degrees off of Cleveland. |
| WALLEYES MOVING THROUGH THE SOUTH PASSAGE: ,
Posted by: Capt. Bob Hughley Date Posted: 16:35:15 5/21/07 |
| WALLEYE: OVER THE LAST WEEK BOATS HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING A LARGE SCHOOL OF WALLEYES FROM WEST OF GREEN ISLAND INTO THE SOUTH PASSAGE. WALLEYES ARE BEING TAKEN IN THE SHALLOW WATERS OF THE SHORELINE AND ROCK PILES TO THE DEPTHS OF 30 FEET. THE WATER IS STAINED BUT GOOD FROM THE REEFS THRU THE PASSAGE. BOTH THE TROLLERS AND DRIFTERS ARE TAKING NICE LIMITS OF THE 2003 CLASS WALLEYE WITH A FEW OF THE 1998 CLASS WALLEYE INCLUDED TO MAKE UP A NICE MIXED COOLER. LAST WEEK THE TROLLERS WERE GETTING QUICK CATCHES USING COPPER AND GOLD COLOR STINGERS AND LONG SOLID BAITS. WHILE THE DRIFTERS WERE LIMITING OUT ON 2-3 OZ BOTTOM BOUNCERS WITH SILVER/BLUE AND GOLD BLADES AND 3/4-1 OZ LONG LINES WITH GOLD BLADE HARNESSES. NOW THAT THE WATER IS IN THE 50'S WE ARE STARTING TO CATCH WHITE PERCH AND SHEEPHEAD, SO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH BAIT ON BOARD BEFORE YOU GO OUT. FURTHER WEST IN THE REEF AREA THE TOP PRODUCERS ARE CRIB, NIAGRA, AND LOCUST COMPLEX TO L CAN. THE WATER EAST OF THE REEFS AND NORTH OF THE FIRING CANS ARE HOLDING ANOTHER LARGE SCHOOL OF WALLEYES. SEVERAL OF THE PARTY BOATS AND CHARTERS HAVE BEEN LIMITING IN THAT DEEP WATER USING WEIGHT FORWARDS AND GOLD HARNESSES. THE TROLLERS HAVE BEEN DOING WELL OUTSIDE THE BOATS, 1-2 MILES NORTH OF THE NIAGRA CAN. REMEMBER, THAT SCHOOL OF WALLEYES WERE JUST IN THE SHALLOW REEFS LAST MONTH AND THEY WILL MOVE QUICKLY WITH FISHING PRESSURE. YELLOW PERCH: NICE PERCH ARE BEING TAKEN WITH THE WALLEYE TO ADD TO A NICE BOX OF FISH AT THE END OF THE DAY. REPORTS OF LIMITS BEING TAKEN BY PERCH FISHERMEN OFF THE MARBLEHEAD LIGHTHOUSE AND CEDAR POINT FOGHORN. ALSO, THERE WERE COMMERCIAL NETTERS WORKING THEIR NETS FOR PERCH TWO MILES EAST OF THE NIAGRA BUOY. FRESH MINNOWS ARE THE TICKET AND THE LOCAL BAIT SHOPS LIKE RICKARD'S BAIT/TACKLE, LOCATED 269N, MARBLEHEAD HAVE A GOOD SUPPLY IN STOCK. SMALLMOUTH: CLOSED SEASON UNTIL THE LAST WEEKEND IN JUNE IN CANADIAN AND U.S. WATERS ON LAKE ERIE. WE WILL START UPDATING PREPORTS ON BOTH WALLEYE AND BASS OFF OF PELEE ISLAND AS SOON AS THE WATER WARMS UP JUNE AND THE CATCHING STARTS. RIGHT NOW THE FISHING HAS BEEN SO GOOD ON THE U.S. SIDE THAT THERE IS NO REASON TO CROSS THE LINE INTO CANADA. FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME ON THE DAILY UPDATED ON FISHING INFORMATION AND OPEN CHARTER DATES AT WWW.MRBASS@LRBCG.COM OR VISIT OUR WEB SIGHT, WWW.LAKEERIEFISHING911.COM. WE STILL HAVE OPEN DATES IN JUNE AND JULY. UNTIL NEXT WEEK, HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND AND GOOD FISHIN'. CAPT BOB HUGHEY |
| ODNR Fishing Report for 05/15/2007: Western Basin , OH
Posted by: ODNR Date Posted: 10:09:47 5/16/07 |
| As walleye begin to migrate post-spawn they can be caught in many areas around the western basin. The best areas have been the Toledo Harbor Light outside of Maumee Bay, from Niagara Reef to Rattlesnake Island, and around Green, South Bass and Starve Islands. Worm harnesses have been very effective drifted behind bottom bouncers or trolled with inline weights or jet divers. Trollers have also had success with spoons on jets or dipsys, and with crankbaits. Surface temperatures range from 57 degrees off of Toledo to 48 degrees off of Cleveland. |