Walleye
Anglers are fishing for walleye on the reef complex north of Camp Perry, the
Bass Islands area, around Marblehead, and the Maumee Bay area. Surface
temperatures are in the lower 40's. Over the past weekend (4/10) limits of
male walleye were caught by jigging the reefs and larger females were caught
trolling near the reefs. Locust point, Toussaint and Niagara reefs produced
the best action. Trollers did well in the area around the "D" can of Camp
Perry Firing Range. This week is historically the peak of reef spawning
activity. Popular spring techniques include jigging shallow reef areas with
shiner-tipped jigs or trolling crankbaits in open water surrounding the
reefs. When fishing the reef complex be aware that ODNR sampling will be
taking place throughout the spring. Nets are clearly marked with yellow
flags and floats. Please stay clear of areas with nets. Yellow Perch
Yellow perch fishing has been very good near the Marblehead lighthouse and
near Vermilion. Fish just off the bottom using perch spreaders tipped with
shiners.
Rivers (report as of 4/12/2004)-
Maumee River- 45°, water is clear, level is very low. Anglers are taking
mostly male walleye (approx. 16"-22"), with occasional limits. Anglers are
using floating jig heads with a 24-inch leader, and bright colored twister
tails. The best areas are from Ft. Meigs to Buttonwood and around Blue Grass
Island. Some white bass are also being taken. Outlook should improve with
rain and warmer temperatures. Sandusky River - 44°, water is clear, level is low. Anglers are taking some
male walleye. Anglers are using two-inch twister tails on floating jig heads
or light jig heads with brightly colored twister tails (orange & pink).
Outlook should improve with rain and warmer temperatures. Steelhead:
There are still plenty of steelhead in Lake Erie's tributaries. As of
4/13/04 the main tributaries are rising and flows are high. Conditions
should improve later in the week. Try fishing the smaller feeder creeks
when the main tributaries are not fishable. Spawn sacs, jigs tipped with
maggots, and flies are popular deep pool presentations. In shallower areas
with gravel substrate and high current sucker spawn or brightly colored
streamers work best.
Source: ODNR
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