Capt. Dans Fishing Report 01/01/2014

The walleye bite and the safe ice to fish for them on, have both improved. Many decent keepers are being caught in the darker time frames of just before light and then again just after dark on the 5 to 7 inches of hard ice on the entire Saginaw River as of this writing. Although not really desired or targeted, those little walleyes are once again showing back up in the catch mostly in/on the river. While Most of the rivers keeper walleyes seem to be reported coming from the headwaters of the Saginaw near the Old Wicks park areas in Saginaw itself. Blue and Silver #5 and #7 Jigging Rapala’s tipped with a minnow head along with that newer Glow/Tiger Jigging Shad Rap, rigged the same way are having the best results so far this season on the river.

Safe ice and some real nice catches of walleyes are also starting to be reported 2 to 3 miles out on the inner bay. Best Launching sites right now for this action are from either the State Park or Linwood Road. This bite also seems best during those early or late, low-light prime times. Jigging spoons of all types and Rapala’s (again tipped with a shiner) are lures of choice right now on the Bay. If possible always call ahead to Franks or any other contacts you may have after any severe winter weather event. High winds, mid winter thaws or heavy snow fall events can change conditions on both the bay and river quickly. Ice fishing will always be physically tougher and less forgiving then any other kind of fishing. Try to be prepared with both the knowledge and all the right gear for these more severe conditions. Any salesman at Franks has the knowledge and/or can give you an overview of fishing conditions or what essentials you’ll need when heading out. As always be safe, fish smart and tight lines.   Capt. Dan.