Fishing Report
Covering Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, Saginaw Bay & Southern Lake Huron. Also, covering Northern Lake Michigan, Benzie Inland Lakes, Manistee Inland Lake and Grand Traverse Inland Lakes
Michigan Spring Fishing Roundup: April 16, 2026The spring run is in high gear across all our major waterways. Whether you’re vertical jigging the rivers or trolling the bays, the "banger" start to April has held steady. Here is the breakdown for the week:
Detroit River & St. Clair RiverThe Detroit River remains the epicenter of the walleye world right now.
Booking & AvailabilityOur 2022 Hewescraft are dialed in and seeing action daily. The calendar is filling up fast as we move into the peak of the spring season.
Tight lines,
Captain Dan Stewart
Detroit River & St. Clair RiverThe Detroit River remains the epicenter of the walleye world right now.
- The Bite: We are in the thick of the post-spawn transition. While the early April flurry was legendary, we are now settling into a consistent daily "grind" that rewards technical anglers.
- Technique: Stick to the 1-ounce jigs to stay vertical in the heavy current. The "Trenton Thump" is still the most effective way to trigger those aggressive reactionary strikes.
- St. Clair River: The upper river is starting to heat up as fish move in from Lake Huron. Visibility has improved, and the jigging bite near the ship canals is producing solid 18–20 inch eaters with the occasional 10lb "donkey" mixed in.
- The Bay: Walleye are scattered but active. The best reports are coming from 14–17 feet of water near the shipping channels and out from Finn Road. Trolling crankbaits is starting to pick up, but jigging the structure is still the most consistent bet.
- The River: The river is mostly wide open now with the ice long gone. Anglers at the convergence are finding success using jig heads with twister tails tipped with minnows.
- Conditions: Water temps are hovering around 50°F. While recent high winds and rain have made for some "here today, gone tomorrow" fishing, the fish are definitely on the chomp when you can get to them.
- Tactics: Trolling Bandits and Reef Runner 900s at about 2.1 mph has been the ticket in the deeper waters east of KI. For the jigging crowd, the reef complexes are holding plenty of fish—just be prepared to move frequently to stay on the schools.
- Activity: It’s "go time" for salmon and steelhead on the big lake. While walleye are being taken in shallower water near Standish, the acrobatic steelhead action in the nearshore waters of Lake Huron is the highlight this week.
Booking & AvailabilityOur 2022 Hewescraft are dialed in and seeing action daily. The calendar is filling up fast as we move into the peak of the spring season.
Tight lines,
Captain Dan Stewart
Southeast Michigan Walleye Report: April 7, 2026
The wait is officially over. After a March that tested our patience with muddy water and lingering cold, the Detroit River and Western Lake Erie have finally "cleaned up," and we are seeing the aggressive spring bite we’ve been waiting for. Whether you are vertical jigging the river or pulling boards on the lake, the window for trophy walleye is wide open.
Detroit River: The Main Event
The river has transformed over the last 48 hours. Visibility is reaching that "sweet spot" of 3–5 feet on the Michigan side, and the fish are responding.
• The Bite: We are currently in the peak of the pre-spawn staging phase. While 18-20 inch "eaters" are plentiful, the heavy females are moving in thick. We’ve already seen several 10lb "donkeys" boated this week.
• Hot Spots: Focus your efforts on the channel edges near the Ambassador Bridge and downriver toward Fighting Island.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging is the only way to go. With water temps still hovering in the mid-30s to low 40s, a slow, controlled drift is key.
• Gear: High-vibration plastics are a must in the river current. Wyandotte Worms in darker colors like purple/black or bruised cardinal have been the top producers for us.
Western Lake Erie: Trolling Success
For those who prefer the big water, the Western Basin is starting to fire up as fish move off the reefs and toward the river mouths.
• The Status: It’s a "slow pick" but a "high grade." You might have to work a bit harder for your limit, but the average size is significantly larger than mid-summer.
• Hot Spots: Look to the waters west of the Bass Islands and out in front of Luna Pier.
• Tactics: Trolling Bandits (20–35 ft back) and Top 20s (40 ft back) has been the ticket.
• Speed: Keep it slow--1.5 to 1.7 mph is the sweet spot right now. Purple and RC Crush patterns are outperforming everything else.
Lake St. Clair: Numbers Game
If you’re looking for high-action days, St. Clair is beginning to wake up.
• The Report: Water temps are slightly warmer here, reaching into the low 50s in the shallows.
• Hot Spots: The Anchor Bay shallows (under 10 feet) and the Shipping Channel off Selfridge are holding active schools.
• Tactics: Vibrating jigs tipped with minnows or Rapala Shad Raps in perch patterns are producing 20–30 fish days for those willing to hunt for them.
Captain’s Logistics Note
As we kick off the season, remember that the Michigan DNR is active. Ensure your 2026 licenses are squared away and your safety gear is accessible. The river current is moving at a moderate clip, so heavy jigs (5/8 oz to 1 oz) are recommended to stay vertical.
The wait is officially over. After a March that tested our patience with muddy water and lingering cold, the Detroit River and Western Lake Erie have finally "cleaned up," and we are seeing the aggressive spring bite we’ve been waiting for. Whether you are vertical jigging the river or pulling boards on the lake, the window for trophy walleye is wide open.
Detroit River: The Main Event
The river has transformed over the last 48 hours. Visibility is reaching that "sweet spot" of 3–5 feet on the Michigan side, and the fish are responding.
• The Bite: We are currently in the peak of the pre-spawn staging phase. While 18-20 inch "eaters" are plentiful, the heavy females are moving in thick. We’ve already seen several 10lb "donkeys" boated this week.
• Hot Spots: Focus your efforts on the channel edges near the Ambassador Bridge and downriver toward Fighting Island.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging is the only way to go. With water temps still hovering in the mid-30s to low 40s, a slow, controlled drift is key.
• Gear: High-vibration plastics are a must in the river current. Wyandotte Worms in darker colors like purple/black or bruised cardinal have been the top producers for us.
Western Lake Erie: Trolling Success
For those who prefer the big water, the Western Basin is starting to fire up as fish move off the reefs and toward the river mouths.
• The Status: It’s a "slow pick" but a "high grade." You might have to work a bit harder for your limit, but the average size is significantly larger than mid-summer.
• Hot Spots: Look to the waters west of the Bass Islands and out in front of Luna Pier.
• Tactics: Trolling Bandits (20–35 ft back) and Top 20s (40 ft back) has been the ticket.
• Speed: Keep it slow--1.5 to 1.7 mph is the sweet spot right now. Purple and RC Crush patterns are outperforming everything else.
Lake St. Clair: Numbers Game
If you’re looking for high-action days, St. Clair is beginning to wake up.
• The Report: Water temps are slightly warmer here, reaching into the low 50s in the shallows.
• Hot Spots: The Anchor Bay shallows (under 10 feet) and the Shipping Channel off Selfridge are holding active schools.
• Tactics: Vibrating jigs tipped with minnows or Rapala Shad Raps in perch patterns are producing 20–30 fish days for those willing to hunt for them.
Captain’s Logistics Note
As we kick off the season, remember that the Michigan DNR is active. Ensure your 2026 licenses are squared away and your safety gear is accessible. The river current is moving at a moderate clip, so heavy jigs (5/8 oz to 1 oz) are recommended to stay vertical.
Date: March 29, 2026
The Great Lakes are waking up! We’ve dealt with some "chocolate milk" water conditions over the last week due to heavy rains and runoff, but as the systems stabilize, the fishing is primed to explode. Here is the breakdown for our primary spring runs:
Detroit River
We are currently in the Pre-Spawn Staging phase.
• Current Status: Water temperatures are hovering between 35°F and 38°F. Visibility has been tough (3-5 feet) due to recent storms, but it is clearing daily.
• The Bite: Jigging is the name of the game. Early "scout" walleyes are moving into the ship canals. We are seeing limits of 18-20 inch fish, with some 10lb "donkeys" already showing up in the deeper current seams near the Ambassador Bridge and Fighting Island.
• Pro Tip: Use high-vibration plastics like Wyandotte worms in darker colors (purple/black) to help fish find the bait in stained water.
Lake St. Clair
The ice is gone, and the Open Water Season has officially begun.
• Current Status: Water is sitting around 38°F.
• The Bite: The walleye bite is heating up near the St. Clair River mouth and the Belle Isle flats. Anglers are also starting to find perch stacking up in the shallow bays.
• Tactics: Slow trolling is king right now. Target 20-30 feet of water with Husky Jerks or deep-diving Rapalas at 1.5 - 2.0 mph.
Lake Erie (Western Basin)
The "Big Girls" are on the move toward the reef complexes.
• Current Status: Trolling in the western basin is Fire.
• The Bite: Massive trophy walleyes are being caught near the Camp Perry Firing Range and ESE of Kellys Island. Several fish over 10 lbs (and one 13-pounder!) were reported this week.
• Lures: Bandits set 20-25 feet down in the water column are doing the heavy lifting. Blue Chrome and Chartreuse patterns are the hot colors.
Saginaw Bay & Saginaw River
A week of major transition as the ice completely exits the system.
• Saginaw River: The river is running fast and dirty after recent snowmelt. While it’s been a "grind" out of Wickes Park and the Lee Street launch, anglers are picking up walleye at the convergence using jig heads tipped with minnows.
• Saginaw Bay: Most shore ice has vanished. Perch fishing has been "hit or miss" near Sebewaing and Wildfowl Bay, but those putting in the time with beaded spoons and minnows are finding some decent numbers.
• Note: Keep an eye on the Tittabawassee River—it is currently closed for walleye harvest until April 25, though catch-and-release activity remains high.
Upcoming Schedule & Availability
• Detroit River Walleye: April 2 – May 18 (Prime Dates Filling Fast!)
• Lake St. Clair: May 18 – June 9
• Frankfort/Crystal Lake: Summer Salmon & Trout
Northwest Michigan Fishing Report: March 29, 2026
The "Big Thaw" is officially here. While the rivers are running high and stained from recent snowmelt, the warming water temperatures are triggering the primary spring runs we've been waiting for.
Manistee Area
Big Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam):
• The Outlook: Flows are currently high (around 2,500–2,900 CFS) and heavily stained. However, this high water has pulled in a fresh wave of chrome steelhead from Lake Michigan.
• Tactics: Focus on the "slower woody winter stuff" in 5–7 feet of water. With the turbidity, bright colors are essential. 10mm–12mm beads in chartreuse, bright orange, and "grapefruit" patterns are the top producers.
• Lake Michigan: Pier anglers are finding a "hit or miss" bite for Brown Trout and Steelhead using spawn bags. A few Coho have also been reported in the mix as they follow the bait closer to shore.
Frankfort Area
The Bays & Lake Michigan:
• Status: The ice is officially off the bay and break walls. While the docks aren't in yet at the municipal launch, the ramp is clear for smaller boats.
• The Bite: Nearshore trolling for Brown Trout is the highlight right now. Anglers are picking up fish in the harbor mouths and along the shoreline in 8–15 feet of water.
• Betsie River: Steelhead are staging in the deeper runs close to spawning gravel. The river is waking up faster than the larger systems due to its lower volume. Look for fish to be aggressive as temps creep toward the 40-degree mark.
Grand Traverse Area
East & West Bays:
• Lake Trout: This remains the most consistent game in town. Lakers are active in the deep holes (80–140 feet). Jigging with 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs is producing solid numbers.
• Smallmouth Bass: Water temps are still in the mid-to-upper 30s, keeping the bass in their deep winter holding patterns (30–50 feet). We need a few more consistent 50-degree days to push them toward the pre-spawn staging areas.
• Boardman River: Staging steelhead are being reported in the lower river near the Traverse City mouth. Expect the "drop-back" bite to improve significantly over the next two weeks as fish wrap up spawning and head back to the bay.
Captain’s Tip of the Week
With the water being as stained as it is, don't be afraid to upsize your presentation. Larger beads or "glow" series spoons will help these fish track your bait in low-visibility conditions.
March 22nd
Detroit River
We are currently in the Pre-Spawn Staging phase.
• Current Status: Water temperatures are hovering between 35°F and 38°F. Visibility has been tough (3-5 feet) due to recent storms, but it is clearing daily.
• The Bite: Jigging is the name of the game. Early "scout" walleyes are moving into the ship canals. We are seeing limits of 18-20 inch fish, with some 10lb "donkeys" already showing up in the deeper current seams near the Ambassador Bridge and Fighting Island.
• Pro Tip: Use high-vibration plastics like Wyandotte worms in darker colors (purple/black) to help fish find the bait in stained water.
Lake St. Clair
The ice is gone, and the Open Water Season has officially begun.
• Current Status: Water is sitting around 38°F.
The Great Lakes are waking up! We’ve dealt with some "chocolate milk" water conditions over the last week due to heavy rains and runoff, but as the systems stabilize, the fishing is primed to explode. Here is the breakdown for our primary spring runs:
Detroit River
We are currently in the Pre-Spawn Staging phase.
• Current Status: Water temperatures are hovering between 35°F and 38°F. Visibility has been tough (3-5 feet) due to recent storms, but it is clearing daily.
• The Bite: Jigging is the name of the game. Early "scout" walleyes are moving into the ship canals. We are seeing limits of 18-20 inch fish, with some 10lb "donkeys" already showing up in the deeper current seams near the Ambassador Bridge and Fighting Island.
• Pro Tip: Use high-vibration plastics like Wyandotte worms in darker colors (purple/black) to help fish find the bait in stained water.
Lake St. Clair
The ice is gone, and the Open Water Season has officially begun.
• Current Status: Water is sitting around 38°F.
• The Bite: The walleye bite is heating up near the St. Clair River mouth and the Belle Isle flats. Anglers are also starting to find perch stacking up in the shallow bays.
• Tactics: Slow trolling is king right now. Target 20-30 feet of water with Husky Jerks or deep-diving Rapalas at 1.5 - 2.0 mph.
Lake Erie (Western Basin)
The "Big Girls" are on the move toward the reef complexes.
• Current Status: Trolling in the western basin is Fire.
• The Bite: Massive trophy walleyes are being caught near the Camp Perry Firing Range and ESE of Kellys Island. Several fish over 10 lbs (and one 13-pounder!) were reported this week.
• Lures: Bandits set 20-25 feet down in the water column are doing the heavy lifting. Blue Chrome and Chartreuse patterns are the hot colors.
Saginaw Bay & Saginaw River
A week of major transition as the ice completely exits the system.
• Saginaw River: The river is running fast and dirty after recent snowmelt. While it’s been a "grind" out of Wickes Park and the Lee Street launch, anglers are picking up walleye at the convergence using jig heads tipped with minnows.
• Saginaw Bay: Most shore ice has vanished. Perch fishing has been "hit or miss" near Sebewaing and Wildfowl Bay, but those putting in the time with beaded spoons and minnows are finding some decent numbers.
• Note: Keep an eye on the Tittabawassee River—it is currently closed for walleye harvest until April 25, though catch-and-release activity remains high.
Upcoming Schedule & Availability
• Detroit River Walleye: April 2 – May 18 (Prime Dates Filling Fast!)
• Lake St. Clair: May 18 – June 9
• Frankfort/Crystal Lake: Summer Salmon & Trout
Northwest Michigan Fishing Report: March 29, 2026
The "Big Thaw" is officially here. While the rivers are running high and stained from recent snowmelt, the warming water temperatures are triggering the primary spring runs we've been waiting for.
Manistee Area
Big Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam):
• The Outlook: Flows are currently high (around 2,500–2,900 CFS) and heavily stained. However, this high water has pulled in a fresh wave of chrome steelhead from Lake Michigan.
• Tactics: Focus on the "slower woody winter stuff" in 5–7 feet of water. With the turbidity, bright colors are essential. 10mm–12mm beads in chartreuse, bright orange, and "grapefruit" patterns are the top producers.
• Lake Michigan: Pier anglers are finding a "hit or miss" bite for Brown Trout and Steelhead using spawn bags. A few Coho have also been reported in the mix as they follow the bait closer to shore.
Frankfort Area
The Bays & Lake Michigan:
• Status: The ice is officially off the bay and break walls. While the docks aren't in yet at the municipal launch, the ramp is clear for smaller boats.
• The Bite: Nearshore trolling for Brown Trout is the highlight right now. Anglers are picking up fish in the harbor mouths and along the shoreline in 8–15 feet of water.
• Betsie River: Steelhead are staging in the deeper runs close to spawning gravel. The river is waking up faster than the larger systems due to its lower volume. Look for fish to be aggressive as temps creep toward the 40-degree mark.
Grand Traverse Area
East & West Bays:
• Lake Trout: This remains the most consistent game in town. Lakers are active in the deep holes (80–140 feet). Jigging with 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs is producing solid numbers.
• Smallmouth Bass: Water temps are still in the mid-to-upper 30s, keeping the bass in their deep winter holding patterns (30–50 feet). We need a few more consistent 50-degree days to push them toward the pre-spawn staging areas.
• Boardman River: Staging steelhead are being reported in the lower river near the Traverse City mouth. Expect the "drop-back" bite to improve significantly over the next two weeks as fish wrap up spawning and head back to the bay.
Captain’s Tip of the Week
With the water being as stained as it is, don't be afraid to upsize your presentation. Larger beads or "glow" series spoons will help these fish track your bait in low-visibility conditions.
March 22nd
Detroit River
We are currently in the Pre-Spawn Staging phase.
• Current Status: Water temperatures are hovering between 35°F and 38°F. Visibility has been tough (3-5 feet) due to recent storms, but it is clearing daily.
• The Bite: Jigging is the name of the game. Early "scout" walleyes are moving into the ship canals. We are seeing limits of 18-20 inch fish, with some 10lb "donkeys" already showing up in the deeper current seams near the Ambassador Bridge and Fighting Island.
• Pro Tip: Use high-vibration plastics like Wyandotte worms in darker colors (purple/black) to help fish find the bait in stained water.
Lake St. Clair
The ice is gone, and the Open Water Season has officially begun.
• Current Status: Water is sitting around 38°F.
March is the ultimate transition month in Michigan. We are seeing the "Big Thaw" in full effect, with river systems shedding their winter shells and the largest walleye migration on the planet starting to push into the Detroit and Saginaw systems.
Here is the current breakdown for your key areas as of March 22, 2026:
🎣 Detroit River: Spring Walleye "Kickoff"
The river is currently in the early stages of the spring run, but the "big girls" are already being caught.
• Status: Excellent / Improving Daily. Large numbers of Lake Erie fish are staging from the Ambassador Bridge down to Wyandotte.
• Hotspots: The Trenton Channel (near the power plant) and the "Steel Mill" stretch in Wyandotte. Peche Island is also picking up as Lake St. Clair fish move in.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging in current seams. Use 3/4 oz to 1 oz lead heads.
• Colors: Purple, chartreuse, black, and "anti-freeze." Tip your jig with a large emerald shiner for extra vibration in the turbid water.
🌊 Lake Erie: Western Basin Waking Up
Trolling is the name of the game right now as fish stage before entering the river systems.
• Status: Fair to Good. Floating pack ice is still a concern in some areas, but the "warm water" near the Raisin River and Detroit River Light is active.
• Tactics: Slow trolling with deep-diving stickbaits (Bandits or Flicker Shads) run 30–50 feet back.
• Colors: Purple/Gold or Chrome/Blue. If you're jigging, Swedish Pimples or Jigging Raps (Glow or Blue/Chrome) are the top producers.
🛶 Saginaw Bay & River: Dirty Water, Good Fish
Recent rain and snowmelt have made the rivers high and fast, but the walleye are there if you can handle the current.
• Status: Peak River Run. The Saginaw River is running "fast and dirty," making heavy jigs a requirement.
• Hotspots: The convergence of the Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers. In the Bay, fish are being caught 5 miles out from Finn Road in about 14 feet of water.
• Tactics: Use bright-colored jig heads with 4" paddle tails or twister tails. Bright colors are mandatory due to the low visibility.
⚓ Frankfort & Benzie County: Peak Steelhead & Nearshore Browns
The "Big Thaw" has officially hit the Northwest, and the rivers are on fire.
• Betsie & Platte Rivers: Peak Steelhead Run. The Betsie is high but clearing; fish are stacking up below the Homestead Dam. Use 8mm–10mm beads in natural colors. On the Platte, stealth is key—drop down to 6lb fluorocarbon.
• Frankfort Nearshore: The Brown Trout bite is starting near the pier heads. Trolling Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "Clown" in 10–15 feet of water is the ticket.
• Crystal Lake: The ice is gone. Yellow Perch are being found on the drop-offs in 30–50 feet of water.
The Big Manistee is currently in "Spring Mode," with a significant mix of fresh chrome and winter-holdover steelhead. Recent rain and snowmelt have the river running higher than average, which is exactly what we want to see to pull those fresh lake fish into the system.
Here is the breakdown for March 22, 2026:
🎣 Big Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam)
• Current Status: Good to Excellent. The spring run is officially here. We are seeing multiple age classes of fish, including some absolute "monsters" and smaller, feisty 3–6 lb chrome.
• Water Conditions:
• Flow: Running around 2,880 cfs (slightly above the median of 1,940 cfs).
• Temp: Hovering between 36°F and 37°F.
• Clarity: Stained due to runoff, which actually helps hide your boat and leader.
• Tactics:
• The "Wood" Rule: Fish are still tucked into deeper, slower water (5–7 feet) near woody debris.
• Float Fishing: 10mm–12mm beads are the top producer. While pink and chartreuse worked all winter, the "Spring Color Wheel" is shifting to Orange and "Bloop" patterns.
• Fly/Gear Mix: If the bead bite slows, switch to Black Stoneflies or Alevin (Salmon fry) patterns, as the natural hatch is starting to trigger.
⚓ Manistee Harbor & Pier Heads
• Status: Slow but Waking Up. Floating ice has been a problem recently, but the melt is clearing the piers.
• Target: There have been a few reports of Brown Trout and the odd steelhead being caught on spawn or minnows, but the river is currently the much better bet for consistent action.
🛶 Upper Manistee (Above Hodenpyle)
• Status: Trout Only. Streamer fishing is picking up on warmer afternoons.
• Note: Remember that some sections are No Kill/Artificial Fly Only—be sure to check your 2025-2026 license (valid through March 31) and local regs before wading.
🚤 Pro Strategy for this Week:
With the river running high and stained, don't be afraid to use heavier jigs (1/4 to 3/8 oz) to get down into the strike zone. The fish aren't moving far to chase bait in this cold water, so you have to put it right on their nose.
Here is the current breakdown for your key areas as of March 22, 2026:
🎣 Detroit River: Spring Walleye "Kickoff"
The river is currently in the early stages of the spring run, but the "big girls" are already being caught.
• Status: Excellent / Improving Daily. Large numbers of Lake Erie fish are staging from the Ambassador Bridge down to Wyandotte.
• Hotspots: The Trenton Channel (near the power plant) and the "Steel Mill" stretch in Wyandotte. Peche Island is also picking up as Lake St. Clair fish move in.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging in current seams. Use 3/4 oz to 1 oz lead heads.
• Colors: Purple, chartreuse, black, and "anti-freeze." Tip your jig with a large emerald shiner for extra vibration in the turbid water.
🌊 Lake Erie: Western Basin Waking Up
Trolling is the name of the game right now as fish stage before entering the river systems.
• Status: Fair to Good. Floating pack ice is still a concern in some areas, but the "warm water" near the Raisin River and Detroit River Light is active.
• Tactics: Slow trolling with deep-diving stickbaits (Bandits or Flicker Shads) run 30–50 feet back.
• Colors: Purple/Gold or Chrome/Blue. If you're jigging, Swedish Pimples or Jigging Raps (Glow or Blue/Chrome) are the top producers.
🛶 Saginaw Bay & River: Dirty Water, Good Fish
Recent rain and snowmelt have made the rivers high and fast, but the walleye are there if you can handle the current.
• Status: Peak River Run. The Saginaw River is running "fast and dirty," making heavy jigs a requirement.
• Hotspots: The convergence of the Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers. In the Bay, fish are being caught 5 miles out from Finn Road in about 14 feet of water.
• Tactics: Use bright-colored jig heads with 4" paddle tails or twister tails. Bright colors are mandatory due to the low visibility.
⚓ Frankfort & Benzie County: Peak Steelhead & Nearshore Browns
The "Big Thaw" has officially hit the Northwest, and the rivers are on fire.
• Betsie & Platte Rivers: Peak Steelhead Run. The Betsie is high but clearing; fish are stacking up below the Homestead Dam. Use 8mm–10mm beads in natural colors. On the Platte, stealth is key—drop down to 6lb fluorocarbon.
• Frankfort Nearshore: The Brown Trout bite is starting near the pier heads. Trolling Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "Clown" in 10–15 feet of water is the ticket.
• Crystal Lake: The ice is gone. Yellow Perch are being found on the drop-offs in 30–50 feet of water.
The Big Manistee is currently in "Spring Mode," with a significant mix of fresh chrome and winter-holdover steelhead. Recent rain and snowmelt have the river running higher than average, which is exactly what we want to see to pull those fresh lake fish into the system.
Here is the breakdown for March 22, 2026:
🎣 Big Manistee River (Below Tippy Dam)
• Current Status: Good to Excellent. The spring run is officially here. We are seeing multiple age classes of fish, including some absolute "monsters" and smaller, feisty 3–6 lb chrome.
• Water Conditions:
• Flow: Running around 2,880 cfs (slightly above the median of 1,940 cfs).
• Temp: Hovering between 36°F and 37°F.
• Clarity: Stained due to runoff, which actually helps hide your boat and leader.
• Tactics:
• The "Wood" Rule: Fish are still tucked into deeper, slower water (5–7 feet) near woody debris.
• Float Fishing: 10mm–12mm beads are the top producer. While pink and chartreuse worked all winter, the "Spring Color Wheel" is shifting to Orange and "Bloop" patterns.
• Fly/Gear Mix: If the bead bite slows, switch to Black Stoneflies or Alevin (Salmon fry) patterns, as the natural hatch is starting to trigger.
⚓ Manistee Harbor & Pier Heads
• Status: Slow but Waking Up. Floating ice has been a problem recently, but the melt is clearing the piers.
• Target: There have been a few reports of Brown Trout and the odd steelhead being caught on spawn or minnows, but the river is currently the much better bet for consistent action.
🛶 Upper Manistee (Above Hodenpyle)
• Status: Trout Only. Streamer fishing is picking up on warmer afternoons.
• Note: Remember that some sections are No Kill/Artificial Fly Only—be sure to check your 2025-2026 license (valid through March 31) and local regs before wading.
🚤 Pro Strategy for this Week:
With the river running high and stained, don't be afraid to use heavier jigs (1/4 to 3/8 oz) to get down into the strike zone. The fish aren't moving far to chase bait in this cold water, so you have to put it right on their nose.
This report is specifically tailored for michiganwalleyefishing.com based on live data for Saturday, March 14, 2026.
🎣 Michigan Walleye Report: The Spring Run Awakening
Date: March 14, 2026
Water Temps: 38°F – 42°F
Conditions: Early "Trophy Phase" with heavy river flows and melting shore ice.
🚤 Detroit River: Trophy Season is LIVE
The Detroit River is currently the place to be for a double-digit "hog." While the total volume of fish will peak in mid-April, the biggest females of the year are pushing up from Lake Erie right now.
• The Action: Limits are being taken, but it requires patience to find the cleaner water away from snowmelt debris.
• Hotspots: Trenton Channel and the Wyandotte stretch are holding stacks of fish. Focus on "current seams" where fast water meets slower eddies near the mid-river islands.
• Top Lures: 3/4 oz to 1 oz jigs in "Anti-Freeze" (neon yellow/green), Purple/Gold, and Black.
• Pro Tip: Early season bites are often "short." Use a stinger hook attached to your main jig to double your hook-up rate on finicky eaters.
🌊 Lake Erie (Western Basin): Pre-Spawn Staging
The Western Basin is alive as fish stage before entering the river systems.
• The Action: Trolling activity is high near the Raisin River and the Detroit River Light.
• Hotspots: Brest Bay, Luna Pier, and Bolles Harbor are producing limits in 12–22 feet of water.
• Tactics: Slow trolling Bandits or Husky Jerks at 1.0–1.3 mph. Chrome and purple patterns are the current favorites.
⚓ Saginaw Bay & River: Transition Mode
The ice has officially left the shorelines, and the rivers are flowing hard.
• The Action: The Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers are running high and fast. Fishing has been tough due to debris, but those finding clear pockets are doing well.
• Hotspots: Near the "Sparkplug" and shipping channels in the lower bay (23 FOW). In the river, look for fish near the Lee Street and Wickes Park launches.
• Tactics: 1/2 oz to 5/8 oz jigs with paddle tails. If you’re on the Bay, trolling Flicker Shads is the way to go.
📍 St. Clair River & Lake St. Clair
• The Action: Walleye are moving toward the mouths of the north and south channels.
• Hotspots: Peche Island is starting to see numbers increase daily. In the river, the Blue Water Bridge area is holding fish in deep holes.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging with heavy 1 oz lead heads to stay vertical in the 4+ mph current.
⚠️ Safety & Regulation Reminder
• PFDs Required: The water is dangerously cold (sub-40°F). Wear your life jacket at all times.
• License Check: 2025 Michigan fishing licenses are valid through March 31, 2026. Make sure yours is current!
🌊 Northwest Michigan: The Steelhead & Brown Trout Surge
Date: March 14, 2026
Conditions: Rivers are high but receding; Lake Michigan nearshore is waking up.
1. Frankfort & Benzie County
Frankfort is the gateway to some of the most scenic fishing in the state.
• The Rivers (Betsie & Platte): The Betsie River is seeing a fresh push of "chrome" steelhead. Fish are staging below the Homestead Dam. The Platte River is also producing fish, though it remains clearer and requires a stealthier approach.
• Inland Waters (Crystal Lake): The ice is deteriorating rapidly. Anglers are transitionining to boat fishing for Lake Trout and Yellow Perch.
• Lake Michigan: Nearshore trolling for Brown Trout has begun. Run small spoons or silver/clown-patterned Husky Jerks behind planer boards in 10–15 feet of water.
2. Manistee: Steelhead Ground Zero
Manistee is currently the "hot zone" for migratory rainbow trout.
• The Big Manistee River: Flows are high (approx. 2900 CFS) but clearing. Steelhead are holding in "slower, woody winter stuff" about 5–7 feet deep. The area below Tippy Dam is the most productive for wade anglers.
• Little Manistee River: Famous for its early runs, the "Little River" is currently holding thousands of spawning fish. Focus on the deep holes behind gravel beds where trout are gorging on eggs.
• Pere Marquette River: This "Wild & Scenic" river is fishing exceptionally well. The "fly-only" water is producing on black stoneflies and egg-sucking leeches, while the lower river is a bead game (10mm–12mm in peach or mottled orange).
3. Grand Traverse Region
The focus here is shifting from the ice to the "big bays" and deeper inland lakes.
• Grand Traverse Bay (East & West): Lake Trout are the primary target in deep water (80–140 feet). Cisco (Lake Herring) are also starting to school up. Jigging with heavy 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or white/glow jigs is the winning tactic.
• Inland Lakes (Long Lake, Lake Leelanau, Green Lake): Walleye and Perch are the main draw. On Lake Leelanau, focus on the drop-offs near the narrows. Green Lake is a top spot for smelt and night-time burbot.
• Boardman River: This river "wakes up" faster than the Manistee. Steelhead are staging in the lower sections close to the Traverse City mouth.
Michigan Walleye In-Depth Report: The Spring Push (March 2026)
March 2026 has arrived with a classic "mixed bag" start. While Lake Erie still holds some floating pack ice, the major river systems—the Detroit, St. Clair, and Saginaw—are shedding their winter shells and inviting the largest walleye migration on the planet. This is the time for "verticality" in the rivers and "breadth" in the bays.
1. The Detroit River: World-Class Verticality
The Current State: The run is currently in its early "Trophy Phase." Millions of walleye are pushing up from Lake Erie. While the total volume of fish will peak in mid-April, the largest females (10+ lbs) are being caught right now.
• Hotspots: Focus on the Wyandotte and Trenton channels. Look for "current seams" where fast water meets slower eddies near the mid-river islands.
• Technique: Vertical Jigging. You must keep your line perfectly vertical to feel the "tick" of a bottom-hugging walleye. If your line is at an angle, you are out of the strike zone.
• Tackle Selection:
• Jigs: 5/8 oz (shallow/low flow) to 1 oz (deep/fast flow) round-head jigs.
• Colors: "Anti-freeze" (neon yellow/green), Purple/Gold, and Black.
• Plastics: 4" Wyandotte Worms or Finn-S Fish.
• Pro Tip: Use a stinger hook (a small #8 or #10 treble on a 2" leader) attached to the main jig hook. Early season bites are often "short," and the stinger will double your hook-up rate.
2. Saginaw Bay & Saginaw River
The Current State: The ice is rapidly deteriorating. In the lower river (near the YMCA in Saginaw), boats are already finding success. In the Bay, fish are staging in the "Slot" (10–14 feet) and out by the Sparkplug (22–24 feet).
• Technique: A mix of jigging and slow trolling. If the water is muddy from runoff, vibration is more important than color.
• Tackle Selection:
• Trolling: Flicker Shads (#5 or #7) or Bandits run 30–50 feet back behind planer boards. Target speeds of 1.1–1.4 mph.
• Jigging: Jigging Raps (Blue/Chrome) or Moonshine Spoons (the "shiver" action triggers lethargic fish).
• Plastics: Split-tail minnows in "Firetiger" or chartreuse.
3. Lake St. Clair & St. Clair River
The Current State: Lake St. Clair is offering a fantastic "Pre-Spawn Trolling" window along the Michigan shoreline. The St. Clair River is seeing a steady push of fish near Algonac and Marine City.
• Technique: Trolling shallow flats (6–10 feet) on the lake, or "slipping the current" (drifting at the same speed as the water) in the river.
• Tackle Selection:
• Trolling (Lake): Deep Husky Jerks (DHJ12) in "Glass Minnow" or Deep Walleye Bandits. No weights are needed; just run them straight back.
• Jigging (River): Heavy jigs are mandatory here--1 oz to 1.25 oz to stay pinned to the bottom in the 4–6 mph current.
• Rigging: 6'6" to 7'0" Medium-Heavy rod with 10 lb high-vis braided line.
4. Western Basin: Lake Erie (Monroe/Luna Pier)
The Report: The "pre-spawn staging" is occurring on the reef complexes. Fish are schooling heavily before they make their final move into the Raisin and Detroit Rivers.
• Strategy: Find the "Stained Water." Walleye love the edge where murky river water meets clear lake water.
• Tackle Selection:
• Blade Baits: SteelShads or Silver Buddies in silver or gold. Rip them up 2 feet and let them flutter back down.
• Hair Jigs: Old-school purple hair jigs tipped with a minnow are a secret weapon for Erie's early spring "cold-water" walleye.
Northwest Lake Michigan: Frankfort to Leland & Grand Traverse Bay
The Report: Nearshore trolling is the highlight. Brown Trout and Steelhead are patroling the harbor mouths and river plumes. In the Bays, Lake Trout remain active in the deep holes.
• Target: Brown Trout, Steelhead, and Lake Trout.
• Tackle Box:
• Nearshore Trolling: Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "clown." Small Stinger Spoons in orange or UV patterns.
• Deep Jigging (Crystal Lake/Bays): 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs in 80–140 feet of water.
5. The Steelhead Rivers: Big Manistee, Muskegon, & Pere Marquette
The Report: "Chrome" is pushing in. Recent snowmelt has elevated flows (Big Manistee is approx. 2200 CFS), but the water is clearing. Fresh spring steelhead are moving into the "slower woody winter stuff" (5–7 feet deep).
• Target: Steelhead and resident Brown Trout.
• Tackle Box:
• Float Fishing: 8mm–10mm Trout Beads (Mottled Orange, "Creamsicle," or Dead Egg colors). Fresh spawn bags in peach or chartreuse mesh.
• Fly Selection: Black Stoneflies (size 8–12) and Balanced Leeches.
• The "Secret" Bait: Alevin (baby salmon) imitations—as the fry begin to hatch, steelhead key in on these heavily.
6. Smaller Rivers: Betsie, Boardman & Muskegon
The Report: These rivers are "waking up" faster than the larger systems due to lower volume. Steelhead are staging in the deeper runs close to spawning gravel.
• Target: Steelhead.
• Tackle Box:
• Muskegon: 10mm–12mm beads are standard here.
• Betsie/Boardman: Use smaller presentations. Size 10-12 Egg patterns or 8mm beads in natural colors. Small silver spinners (Mepps #3) can trigger aggressive strikes on warmer afternoons.
🎣 Michigan Walleye Report: The Spring Run Awakening
Date: March 14, 2026
Water Temps: 38°F – 42°F
Conditions: Early "Trophy Phase" with heavy river flows and melting shore ice.
🚤 Detroit River: Trophy Season is LIVE
The Detroit River is currently the place to be for a double-digit "hog." While the total volume of fish will peak in mid-April, the biggest females of the year are pushing up from Lake Erie right now.
• The Action: Limits are being taken, but it requires patience to find the cleaner water away from snowmelt debris.
• Hotspots: Trenton Channel and the Wyandotte stretch are holding stacks of fish. Focus on "current seams" where fast water meets slower eddies near the mid-river islands.
• Top Lures: 3/4 oz to 1 oz jigs in "Anti-Freeze" (neon yellow/green), Purple/Gold, and Black.
• Pro Tip: Early season bites are often "short." Use a stinger hook attached to your main jig to double your hook-up rate on finicky eaters.
🌊 Lake Erie (Western Basin): Pre-Spawn Staging
The Western Basin is alive as fish stage before entering the river systems.
• The Action: Trolling activity is high near the Raisin River and the Detroit River Light.
• Hotspots: Brest Bay, Luna Pier, and Bolles Harbor are producing limits in 12–22 feet of water.
• Tactics: Slow trolling Bandits or Husky Jerks at 1.0–1.3 mph. Chrome and purple patterns are the current favorites.
⚓ Saginaw Bay & River: Transition Mode
The ice has officially left the shorelines, and the rivers are flowing hard.
• The Action: The Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers are running high and fast. Fishing has been tough due to debris, but those finding clear pockets are doing well.
• Hotspots: Near the "Sparkplug" and shipping channels in the lower bay (23 FOW). In the river, look for fish near the Lee Street and Wickes Park launches.
• Tactics: 1/2 oz to 5/8 oz jigs with paddle tails. If you’re on the Bay, trolling Flicker Shads is the way to go.
📍 St. Clair River & Lake St. Clair
• The Action: Walleye are moving toward the mouths of the north and south channels.
• Hotspots: Peche Island is starting to see numbers increase daily. In the river, the Blue Water Bridge area is holding fish in deep holes.
• Tactics: Vertical jigging with heavy 1 oz lead heads to stay vertical in the 4+ mph current.
⚠️ Safety & Regulation Reminder
• PFDs Required: The water is dangerously cold (sub-40°F). Wear your life jacket at all times.
• License Check: 2025 Michigan fishing licenses are valid through March 31, 2026. Make sure yours is current!
🌊 Northwest Michigan: The Steelhead & Brown Trout Surge
Date: March 14, 2026
Conditions: Rivers are high but receding; Lake Michigan nearshore is waking up.
1. Frankfort & Benzie County
Frankfort is the gateway to some of the most scenic fishing in the state.
• The Rivers (Betsie & Platte): The Betsie River is seeing a fresh push of "chrome" steelhead. Fish are staging below the Homestead Dam. The Platte River is also producing fish, though it remains clearer and requires a stealthier approach.
• Inland Waters (Crystal Lake): The ice is deteriorating rapidly. Anglers are transitionining to boat fishing for Lake Trout and Yellow Perch.
• Lake Michigan: Nearshore trolling for Brown Trout has begun. Run small spoons or silver/clown-patterned Husky Jerks behind planer boards in 10–15 feet of water.
2. Manistee: Steelhead Ground Zero
Manistee is currently the "hot zone" for migratory rainbow trout.
• The Big Manistee River: Flows are high (approx. 2900 CFS) but clearing. Steelhead are holding in "slower, woody winter stuff" about 5–7 feet deep. The area below Tippy Dam is the most productive for wade anglers.
• Little Manistee River: Famous for its early runs, the "Little River" is currently holding thousands of spawning fish. Focus on the deep holes behind gravel beds where trout are gorging on eggs.
• Pere Marquette River: This "Wild & Scenic" river is fishing exceptionally well. The "fly-only" water is producing on black stoneflies and egg-sucking leeches, while the lower river is a bead game (10mm–12mm in peach or mottled orange).
3. Grand Traverse Region
The focus here is shifting from the ice to the "big bays" and deeper inland lakes.
• Grand Traverse Bay (East & West): Lake Trout are the primary target in deep water (80–140 feet). Cisco (Lake Herring) are also starting to school up. Jigging with heavy 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or white/glow jigs is the winning tactic.
• Inland Lakes (Long Lake, Lake Leelanau, Green Lake): Walleye and Perch are the main draw. On Lake Leelanau, focus on the drop-offs near the narrows. Green Lake is a top spot for smelt and night-time burbot.
• Boardman River: This river "wakes up" faster than the Manistee. Steelhead are staging in the lower sections close to the Traverse City mouth.
Michigan Walleye In-Depth Report: The Spring Push (March 2026)
March 2026 has arrived with a classic "mixed bag" start. While Lake Erie still holds some floating pack ice, the major river systems—the Detroit, St. Clair, and Saginaw—are shedding their winter shells and inviting the largest walleye migration on the planet. This is the time for "verticality" in the rivers and "breadth" in the bays.
1. The Detroit River: World-Class Verticality
The Current State: The run is currently in its early "Trophy Phase." Millions of walleye are pushing up from Lake Erie. While the total volume of fish will peak in mid-April, the largest females (10+ lbs) are being caught right now.
• Hotspots: Focus on the Wyandotte and Trenton channels. Look for "current seams" where fast water meets slower eddies near the mid-river islands.
• Technique: Vertical Jigging. You must keep your line perfectly vertical to feel the "tick" of a bottom-hugging walleye. If your line is at an angle, you are out of the strike zone.
• Tackle Selection:
• Jigs: 5/8 oz (shallow/low flow) to 1 oz (deep/fast flow) round-head jigs.
• Colors: "Anti-freeze" (neon yellow/green), Purple/Gold, and Black.
• Plastics: 4" Wyandotte Worms or Finn-S Fish.
• Pro Tip: Use a stinger hook (a small #8 or #10 treble on a 2" leader) attached to the main jig hook. Early season bites are often "short," and the stinger will double your hook-up rate.
2. Saginaw Bay & Saginaw River
The Current State: The ice is rapidly deteriorating. In the lower river (near the YMCA in Saginaw), boats are already finding success. In the Bay, fish are staging in the "Slot" (10–14 feet) and out by the Sparkplug (22–24 feet).
• Technique: A mix of jigging and slow trolling. If the water is muddy from runoff, vibration is more important than color.
• Tackle Selection:
• Trolling: Flicker Shads (#5 or #7) or Bandits run 30–50 feet back behind planer boards. Target speeds of 1.1–1.4 mph.
• Jigging: Jigging Raps (Blue/Chrome) or Moonshine Spoons (the "shiver" action triggers lethargic fish).
• Plastics: Split-tail minnows in "Firetiger" or chartreuse.
3. Lake St. Clair & St. Clair River
The Current State: Lake St. Clair is offering a fantastic "Pre-Spawn Trolling" window along the Michigan shoreline. The St. Clair River is seeing a steady push of fish near Algonac and Marine City.
• Technique: Trolling shallow flats (6–10 feet) on the lake, or "slipping the current" (drifting at the same speed as the water) in the river.
• Tackle Selection:
• Trolling (Lake): Deep Husky Jerks (DHJ12) in "Glass Minnow" or Deep Walleye Bandits. No weights are needed; just run them straight back.
• Jigging (River): Heavy jigs are mandatory here--1 oz to 1.25 oz to stay pinned to the bottom in the 4–6 mph current.
• Rigging: 6'6" to 7'0" Medium-Heavy rod with 10 lb high-vis braided line.
4. Western Basin: Lake Erie (Monroe/Luna Pier)
The Report: The "pre-spawn staging" is occurring on the reef complexes. Fish are schooling heavily before they make their final move into the Raisin and Detroit Rivers.
• Strategy: Find the "Stained Water." Walleye love the edge where murky river water meets clear lake water.
• Tackle Selection:
• Blade Baits: SteelShads or Silver Buddies in silver or gold. Rip them up 2 feet and let them flutter back down.
• Hair Jigs: Old-school purple hair jigs tipped with a minnow are a secret weapon for Erie's early spring "cold-water" walleye.
Northwest Lake Michigan: Frankfort to Leland & Grand Traverse Bay
The Report: Nearshore trolling is the highlight. Brown Trout and Steelhead are patroling the harbor mouths and river plumes. In the Bays, Lake Trout remain active in the deep holes.
• Target: Brown Trout, Steelhead, and Lake Trout.
• Tackle Box:
• Nearshore Trolling: Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "clown." Small Stinger Spoons in orange or UV patterns.
• Deep Jigging (Crystal Lake/Bays): 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs in 80–140 feet of water.
5. The Steelhead Rivers: Big Manistee, Muskegon, & Pere Marquette
The Report: "Chrome" is pushing in. Recent snowmelt has elevated flows (Big Manistee is approx. 2200 CFS), but the water is clearing. Fresh spring steelhead are moving into the "slower woody winter stuff" (5–7 feet deep).
• Target: Steelhead and resident Brown Trout.
• Tackle Box:
• Float Fishing: 8mm–10mm Trout Beads (Mottled Orange, "Creamsicle," or Dead Egg colors). Fresh spawn bags in peach or chartreuse mesh.
• Fly Selection: Black Stoneflies (size 8–12) and Balanced Leeches.
• The "Secret" Bait: Alevin (baby salmon) imitations—as the fry begin to hatch, steelhead key in on these heavily.
6. Smaller Rivers: Betsie, Boardman & Muskegon
The Report: These rivers are "waking up" faster than the larger systems due to lower volume. Steelhead are staging in the deeper runs close to spawning gravel.
• Target: Steelhead.
• Tackle Box:
• Muskegon: 10mm–12mm beads are standard here.
• Betsie/Boardman: Use smaller presentations. Size 10-12 Egg patterns or 8mm beads in natural colors. Small silver spinners (Mepps #3) can trigger aggressive strikes on warmer afternoons.
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