** The 15" walleye minimum size limit remains in effect for the entire
season. Anglers are reminded that the daily bag limit for trout and
salmon on Lake Erie and its tributaries is 2, beginning September 1
through May 15, 2005. The minimum size limit is 12 inches.** Surface temperatures range from 55 to 58 degrees. Western Basin Walleye
Most walleye fishing effort has shifted to the area between Huron and
Lorain. As water temperatures drop shallow nearshore areas and reefs
around the Bass Islands and Kelleys Island will produce walleye. Troll
or cast crankbaits during low light periods for best results. Night
pier fishing is improving at the Lakeside pier and Catawba State park. Yellow Perch
The best fishing has been W of west reef near North Bass Island, E of
Kelleys Island, around Lucy Point of Middle Bass Island, and around Gull
Island shoal. Fish just off the bottom using perch spreaders or crappie
rigs tipped with shiners. Smallmouth Bass
The best smallmouth bass fishing has been on the reefs of the Camp Perry
firing range, around the Bass Islands, Kelleys Island and Sandusky Bay.
Use tube jigs, drop shot rigs with goby imitations, soft craws or
shiners for best results. Central Basin Walleye
The best walleye fishing has been from Huron to Vermilion. Fish have
been caught offshore in 30 to 45 feet of water and also nearshore in
less than 25 feet of water. Trolling spoons or crankbaits have produced
the best catches. Night fishing on Huron area piers is also improving. Yellow Perch
Yellow perch fishing in November is typically best within a few miles of
most central basin harbors. Look for baitfish on your depthfinder and
move around to find active schools of perch. Fish just off the bottom
using perch spreaders or crappie rigs tipped with shiners. Smallmouth Bass
The best smallmouth bass fishing has been around Ruggles reef. Use tube
jigs, drop shot rigs with goby imitations, soft craws or shiners for
best results. Steelhead
The Lake Erie tributaries continue to have low flow. Steelhead fishing
in the tributaries during shallow water requires light tackle and
patience. During low water check the deeper lower stretches of the
rivers and harbors. Piers and breakwalls have produced the best action
on jigs tipped with maggots, spinners, spoons and small crankbaits.
Source: ODNR
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