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, 2026
Northwest Michigan Flash ReportThis is a week for the books, and unfortunately, not for the usual reasons. Between historic rainfall and emergency dam reinforcements, the Northwest Michigan landscape has changed overnight. Here is the ground-truth report from Ludington up to Traverse City.
Lake Michigan: The Big Water GrindThe big lake is currently the only viable option for boaters, though the "mud lines" at the river mouths are massive.
Guide Note: Safety FirstWe’ve had over 6 inches of rain in some spots, causing road washouts on Grace Rd, River Rd, and North Manistee County Line Rd. If you see water over the road--Turn around, don't drown. We are keeping the 2022 Hewescraft ready for the big water and will get the StealthCraft Aftermath back on the gravel the second the rivers recede to safe levels.
Stay dry and stay safe,
Captain Dan Stewart 248-229-7226
The 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 and StealthCraft 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 Chromeseekers Sportfishing
Northwest Michigan Flash ReportThis is a week for the books, and unfortunately, not for the usual reasons. Between historic rainfall and emergency dam reinforcements, the Northwest Michigan landscape has changed overnight. Here is the ground-truth report from Ludington up to Traverse City.
Lake Michigan: The Big Water GrindThe big lake is currently the only viable option for boaters, though the "mud lines" at the river mouths are massive.
- Ludington & Manistee: Trolling has been slow but technical. The best action is found by tracking the warmest water near the harbor mouths (Lincoln and Manistee Rivers). High-vis spoons and body baits in the "stain" have tricked a few browns and steelhead.
- Frankfort: Pier anglers are seeing moderate numbers of steelhead, with the occasional brown trout hitting on fresh spawn. Boat traffic is low, but those trolling the shoreline between the pier heads are picking up a few fish.
- Leland: The harbor docks are in, but the weather has kept most boats at the slip. Early-season lake trout are there, but finding a window between the blows is the real challenge.
- Grand Traverse Bay:
- West Arm: The dock is in at the west arm. Steelhead are still being caught near the mouth of the Boardman, though water temps are hovering in the chilly 35–37°F range.
- East Arm: Shore ice has finally cleared the launches, but the bite remains lethargic. Focus on deeper water for lake trout until the bays warm up a few more degrees.
- West Arm: The dock is in at the west arm. Steelhead are still being caught near the mouth of the Boardman, though water temps are hovering in the chilly 35–37°F range.
- Betsie River: The Homestead Dam Emergency Action Plan is in full effect. Crews have been sandbagging to prevent a total breach. The river is over its banks and extremely dangerous. Stay off the water.
- Boardman River: Under a Local State of Emergency. The river is high, muddy, and full of debris. Streamer fishing might be an option next week, but right now, it's a safety hazard.
- Big Manistee: Major flooding is occurring near Sherman, with water levels exceeding the 2014 record crest. The current is far too strong for safe drifting or wading.
- Crystal Lake (Beulah): The water is high, but the lake is stable. The lake trout are active and steelhead. Casting from the beach or the pier in Beulah is the most productive (and safest) way to fish right now.
- Platte Lake & Long Lake: Perch are starting to school up in 20–30 FOW. Use wigglers or small minnows. The high water has pushed some fish into shallower submerged brush—look for cover.
Guide Note: Safety FirstWe’ve had over 6 inches of rain in some spots, causing road washouts on Grace Rd, River Rd, and North Manistee County Line Rd. If you see water over the road--Turn around, don't drown. We are keeping the 2022 Hewescraft ready for the big water and will get the StealthCraft Aftermath back on the gravel the second the rivers recede to safe levels.
Stay dry and stay safe,
Captain Dan Stewart 248-229-7226
The 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.
- 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 and StealthCraft 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 Chromeseekers Sportfishing
Date: March 29, 2026
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.
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.
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
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.
🎣 SE Michigan Walleye Report: ChromeSeekers Edition
Date: March 14, 2026
Target Species: Trophy Walleye (Pre-Spawn)
System Status: 🔥 PEAK RIVER RUN | 🔱 STAGING ON THE REEFS
1. The Detroit River: "The Walleye Capital"
The river is currently seeing a massive push of 4–8 lb males and 10 lb+ "hog" females.
• The Action: The vertical jigging bite is electric. Water temps are between 38°F and 42°F, which has the fish aggressive and concentrated.
• Hotspots: * Trenton Channel: Focus on the deep holes and current seams near the power plant.
• Wyandotte/Ecorse: The "Steel Mill" stretch is producing heavy limits.
• Peche Island: Numbers are increasing daily as Lake St. Clair fish move in.
• Tactics: Use 3/4 to 1 oz jigs to maintain verticality in the heavy current. Purple/Gold, Anti-Freeze, and Black/Chartreuseare the top producers. Tip your jig with a large minnow and use a stinger hook for those short-striking trophy hens.
2. Lake Erie: Western Basin
• The Action: For those who prefer trolling over jigging, the Western Basin is the place to be.
• Hotspots: Brest Bay, Luna Pier, and Bolles Harbor are producing limits in 12–22 FOW.
• Tactics: Trolling Bandits or Husky Jerks at 1.0–1.2 mph. Stick to gold, purple, and "Firetiger" patterns to cut through the slightly stained spring water.
3. Lake St. Clair & St. Clair River
• The Action: The St. Clair River is slightly behind the Detroit River but is picking up fast.
• Hotspots: The St. Clair Cut reefs (15 FOW) and the Belle Isle Flats (GPS: 42.35N, 82.95W) for drifters.
• Tactics: Jigging snap-style glide baits or drifting emerald shiners on Lindy rigs.
4. Saginaw Bay & River
• The Action: The Saginaw River is flowing fast with snowmelt.
• Hotspots: The convergence of the Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers is holding fish. In the Bay, fish are being caught 5 miles out from Finn Road in 14 FOW.
• Tactics: Jig heads with twister tails or paddle tails. Bright colors are mandatory due to the turbid river water.
Date: March 14, 2026
Target Species: Trophy Walleye (Pre-Spawn)
System Status: 🔥 PEAK RIVER RUN | 🔱 STAGING ON THE REEFS
1. The Detroit River: "The Walleye Capital"
The river is currently seeing a massive push of 4–8 lb males and 10 lb+ "hog" females.
• The Action: The vertical jigging bite is electric. Water temps are between 38°F and 42°F, which has the fish aggressive and concentrated.
• Hotspots: * Trenton Channel: Focus on the deep holes and current seams near the power plant.
• Wyandotte/Ecorse: The "Steel Mill" stretch is producing heavy limits.
• Peche Island: Numbers are increasing daily as Lake St. Clair fish move in.
• Tactics: Use 3/4 to 1 oz jigs to maintain verticality in the heavy current. Purple/Gold, Anti-Freeze, and Black/Chartreuseare the top producers. Tip your jig with a large minnow and use a stinger hook for those short-striking trophy hens.
2. Lake Erie: Western Basin
• The Action: For those who prefer trolling over jigging, the Western Basin is the place to be.
• Hotspots: Brest Bay, Luna Pier, and Bolles Harbor are producing limits in 12–22 FOW.
• Tactics: Trolling Bandits or Husky Jerks at 1.0–1.2 mph. Stick to gold, purple, and "Firetiger" patterns to cut through the slightly stained spring water.
3. Lake St. Clair & St. Clair River
• The Action: The St. Clair River is slightly behind the Detroit River but is picking up fast.
• Hotspots: The St. Clair Cut reefs (15 FOW) and the Belle Isle Flats (GPS: 42.35N, 82.95W) for drifters.
• Tactics: Jigging snap-style glide baits or drifting emerald shiners on Lindy rigs.
4. Saginaw Bay & River
• The Action: The Saginaw River is flowing fast with snowmelt.
• Hotspots: The convergence of the Tittabawassee and Saginaw Rivers is holding fish. In the Bay, fish are being caught 5 miles out from Finn Road in 14 FOW.
• Tactics: Jig heads with twister tails or paddle tails. Bright colors are mandatory due to the turbid river water.
🎣 ChromeSeekers Northwest Michigan Report: March 14, 2026
Current Status: 🔥 PEAK STEELHEAD RUN | 🔱 BROWN TROUT NEARSHORE
1. The Big Manistee River (Tippy Dam)
The "Holy Water" of Michigan steelhead is officially on fire.
• The Action: The "Big Thaw" has pushed fresh, bright chrome fish into the system. Flows are currently around 2,900 CFS and slightly stained—perfect for hiding your line from weary fish.
• Hotspots: The stretch from Tippy Dam down to Suicide Bend. Fish are holding in the "slower woody winter stuff" (5–7 feet deep) but are beginning to move toward the gravel as temps hit 38°F.
• Tactics: Float fishing with 10mm–12mm beads in "Creamsicle," Mottled Orange, or "Dead Egg." Fresh spawn bags in peach mesh are also taking fish.
• Pro Tip: As the alevins (salmon fry) begin to hatch, switch to small fry imitations or "Alevin" beads to trigger aggressive strikes from resident browns and steelhead.
2. Frankfort: Betsie & Platte Rivers
• The Betsie: The river is high but clearing. Fresh steelhead are stacking up below Homestead Dam. This is a "bead game" right now—natural colors are outperforming brights in the clearer stretches.
• The Platte: Very clear water. Stealth is key. Use lighter fluorocarbon leaders (6lb or 8lb) and smaller 8mm beads.
• Nearshore (Lake Michigan): The "Brown Trout Bite" is starting near the Frankfort pier heads. Trolling Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "Clown" in 10–15 FOW is the ticket.
3. Grand Traverse & Inland Waters
• The Bays (East & West): Lake Trout are active in the deep holes (80–140 feet). If you aren't on the river, jigging 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs is producing solid Lakers.
• Crystal Lake: The ice is gone, and the Yellow Perch and Rock Bass adventures are beginning. Look for fish on the drop-offs in 30–50 FOW.
• Boardman River: Staging steelhead are being reported in the lower river near the Traverse City mouth.
Current Status: 🔥 PEAK STEELHEAD RUN | 🔱 BROWN TROUT NEARSHORE
1. The Big Manistee River (Tippy Dam)
The "Holy Water" of Michigan steelhead is officially on fire.
• The Action: The "Big Thaw" has pushed fresh, bright chrome fish into the system. Flows are currently around 2,900 CFS and slightly stained—perfect for hiding your line from weary fish.
• Hotspots: The stretch from Tippy Dam down to Suicide Bend. Fish are holding in the "slower woody winter stuff" (5–7 feet deep) but are beginning to move toward the gravel as temps hit 38°F.
• Tactics: Float fishing with 10mm–12mm beads in "Creamsicle," Mottled Orange, or "Dead Egg." Fresh spawn bags in peach mesh are also taking fish.
• Pro Tip: As the alevins (salmon fry) begin to hatch, switch to small fry imitations or "Alevin" beads to trigger aggressive strikes from resident browns and steelhead.
2. Frankfort: Betsie & Platte Rivers
• The Betsie: The river is high but clearing. Fresh steelhead are stacking up below Homestead Dam. This is a "bead game" right now—natural colors are outperforming brights in the clearer stretches.
• The Platte: Very clear water. Stealth is key. Use lighter fluorocarbon leaders (6lb or 8lb) and smaller 8mm beads.
• Nearshore (Lake Michigan): The "Brown Trout Bite" is starting near the Frankfort pier heads. Trolling Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10/HJ12) in silver/blue or "Clown" in 10–15 FOW is the ticket.
3. Grand Traverse & Inland Waters
• The Bays (East & West): Lake Trout are active in the deep holes (80–140 feet). If you aren't on the river, jigging 1.5 oz Bondy Baits or heavy white/glow jigs is producing solid Lakers.
• Crystal Lake: The ice is gone, and the Yellow Perch and Rock Bass adventures are beginning. Look for fish on the drop-offs in 30–50 FOW.
• Boardman River: Staging steelhead are being reported in the lower river near the Traverse City mouth.
Northwest Michigan Spring Fishing Report: March 1, 2026
The "Big Thaw" is currently transforming the Northwest Lower Peninsula. With the recent warming trends and rain, river levels are rising, and the Great Lakes' nearshore waters are finally shedding their ice. This is a premier window for steelhead in the tributaries and brown trout along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
1. The Rivers: Benzie & Manistee Counties
The Report: We are in the "Waking Up" phase. The Big Manistee is flowing at approximately 2200 CFS and 35°F. While the water is slightly stained from snowmelt, it’s a "good" stain that gives the fish confidence to move into shallower runs. The Betsieand Boardman are warming faster than the big water, pushing fresh spring chrome toward the staging areas below the dams.
• Target: Steelhead (Spring Run) and Resident Brown Trout.
• Hotspots: * Manistee: Below Tippy Dam to Suicide Bend.
• Betsie: Homestead Dam area (be prepared for crowds) and the lower "woodsy" sections.
• Tackle Box:
• Beads: 8mm to 10mm in "Mottled Orange," "Creamsicle," and "Dead Egg."
• Flies: Black Stoneflies (size 8–10) are becoming active. Alevin (Salmon Fry) imitations are a secret weapon right now as the fall spawn starts to hatch.
• Hardware: Small silver or gold Blue Fox spinners (size 3) or Steelie Stix in high-vis colors for triggered strikes in stained water.
2. Lake Michigan Nearshore: Frankfort & Leland
The Report: The "Mud Line" is your best friend. As the rivers dump warm, stained water into the cold, clear Lake Michigan, Brown Trout and Steelhead congregate right at that temperature break.
• Target: Brown Trout and Steelhead.
• Strategy: Trolling shallow (8–20 feet) parallel to the shoreline or the pier heads.
• Tackle Box:
• Body Baits: Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10) in "Silver/Blue" or Smithwick Perfect 10s in "Clown" or "Table Rock Shad."
• Spoons: Small Stinger Spoons in "Lemon Ice" or "Orange Crush" run behind planer boards.
• Pier Fishing: Fresh spawn bags (peach mesh) or heavy cleos (blue/silver) cast from the Frankfort North Pier.
3. Grand Traverse Bay: East & West
The Report: The Bays are transitioning from ice to open water. While some protected pockets still have shelf ice, the main basins are open. Lake Trout are the most consistent bite, though Yellow Perch are starting to group up in staging areas.
• Target: Lake Trout and Yellow Perch.
• Strategy: Deep-water vertical jigging for Lakers; shallow weed-edge searching for Perch.
• Tackle Box:
• Lake Trout: 1.5 oz to 2 oz Bondy Baits or heavy Swedish Pimples (white/glow) worked in 80–130 feet of water.
• Perch: Tungsten jigs tipped with a wax worm or minnow head in 15–25 feet of water near drop-offs.
4. Inland Lakes: Crystal & Long Lake
The Report: "First Ice-Off" is a magical time. Panfish are moving toward the northern, sun-soaked shorelines where the water is 2–4 degrees warmer than the rest of the lake.
• Target: Crappie, Bluegill, and Northern Pike.
• Tackle Box:
• Panfish: 1/64 oz jig heads under a sensitive slip bobber.
• Pike: Large suspending jerkbaits (Lucky Craft Pointer 100) worked slowly over emerging weed beds.
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.
The "Big Thaw" is currently transforming the Northwest Lower Peninsula. With the recent warming trends and rain, river levels are rising, and the Great Lakes' nearshore waters are finally shedding their ice. This is a premier window for steelhead in the tributaries and brown trout along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
1. The Rivers: Benzie & Manistee Counties
The Report: We are in the "Waking Up" phase. The Big Manistee is flowing at approximately 2200 CFS and 35°F. While the water is slightly stained from snowmelt, it’s a "good" stain that gives the fish confidence to move into shallower runs. The Betsieand Boardman are warming faster than the big water, pushing fresh spring chrome toward the staging areas below the dams.
• Target: Steelhead (Spring Run) and Resident Brown Trout.
• Hotspots: * Manistee: Below Tippy Dam to Suicide Bend.
• Betsie: Homestead Dam area (be prepared for crowds) and the lower "woodsy" sections.
• Tackle Box:
• Beads: 8mm to 10mm in "Mottled Orange," "Creamsicle," and "Dead Egg."
• Flies: Black Stoneflies (size 8–10) are becoming active. Alevin (Salmon Fry) imitations are a secret weapon right now as the fall spawn starts to hatch.
• Hardware: Small silver or gold Blue Fox spinners (size 3) or Steelie Stix in high-vis colors for triggered strikes in stained water.
2. Lake Michigan Nearshore: Frankfort & Leland
The Report: The "Mud Line" is your best friend. As the rivers dump warm, stained water into the cold, clear Lake Michigan, Brown Trout and Steelhead congregate right at that temperature break.
• Target: Brown Trout and Steelhead.
• Strategy: Trolling shallow (8–20 feet) parallel to the shoreline or the pier heads.
• Tackle Box:
• Body Baits: Rapala Husky Jerks (HJ10) in "Silver/Blue" or Smithwick Perfect 10s in "Clown" or "Table Rock Shad."
• Spoons: Small Stinger Spoons in "Lemon Ice" or "Orange Crush" run behind planer boards.
• Pier Fishing: Fresh spawn bags (peach mesh) or heavy cleos (blue/silver) cast from the Frankfort North Pier.
3. Grand Traverse Bay: East & West
The Report: The Bays are transitioning from ice to open water. While some protected pockets still have shelf ice, the main basins are open. Lake Trout are the most consistent bite, though Yellow Perch are starting to group up in staging areas.
• Target: Lake Trout and Yellow Perch.
• Strategy: Deep-water vertical jigging for Lakers; shallow weed-edge searching for Perch.
• Tackle Box:
• Lake Trout: 1.5 oz to 2 oz Bondy Baits or heavy Swedish Pimples (white/glow) worked in 80–130 feet of water.
• Perch: Tungsten jigs tipped with a wax worm or minnow head in 15–25 feet of water near drop-offs.
4. Inland Lakes: Crystal & Long Lake
The Report: "First Ice-Off" is a magical time. Panfish are moving toward the northern, sun-soaked shorelines where the water is 2–4 degrees warmer than the rest of the lake.
• Target: Crappie, Bluegill, and Northern Pike.
• Tackle Box:
• Panfish: 1/64 oz jig heads under a sensitive slip bobber.
• Pike: Large suspending jerkbaits (Lucky Craft Pointer 100) worked slowly over emerging weed beds.
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.
Tight lines,
Captain Dan Stewart
Chromeseeekers Sportfishing Charters
(248) 229-7226
Captain Dan Stewart
Chromeseeekers Sportfishing Charters
(248) 229-7226
