Bay City Area: Until recently, shore anglers outnumbered boat anglers. When the weather allowed, boat anglers were fishing off the State Park, Linwood and out near the Spark Plug. The odd walleye was caught between Sebewaing and Caseville and a couple fish were taken on a crawler harness in the Slot off Quanicassee. Shore anglers on the Quanicassee River caught a mix of channel cats, rock bass, freshwater drum and carp. Bow-fishing for carp is starting.
Saginaw River: Those fishing the lower river took a fair number of walleye between the Liberty Bridge and the mouth. Shore anglers at Essexville caught some freshwater drum.
Tittabawassee River: Die-hard walleye anglers are still taking a few, but the bigger news is the white bass run is in full swing. The best fishing is downstream from Freeland, with the area around the Center Road launch producing well. The river was a bit high after the rain so focus on where the water swirls and current breaks. Small crankbaits, small white jigs & twister tails, small spoons, spinners or minnows under a bobber all work.
Au Gres Area: Boat anglers trolling in 15 to 35 feet off Whitestone Point, Point Lookout, and Pointe Au Gres caught walleye on crankbaits and crawler harnesses. Shore anglers at the mouth of the Pine River near Standish caught some freshwater drum and channel cats.
Au Gres River: Shore anglers fishing the lower river caught a few pike when casting lures or channel cats when still-fishing with crawlers.
Outer Saginaw Bay:
Oscoda pier fishing was slow with the cold water temperatures. Some anglers were able to catch a few lake trout in shallow waters. Those in search of walleye had limited success when casting body baits or drifting crawlers.
Au Sable River steelhead were still moving up into the river in good numbers.
Tawas Area pier fishing was slow. A couple Atlantic salmon were caught on large gray shiners. A few walleye were caught off the pier at night, and also down behind the State Police Post. The few boats that went out were heading south toward Alabaster.
Tawas River shore anglers caught the occasional bass or walleye.
Fishing Tip: Save-the-Date for 2016 Summer Free Fishing Weekend
Don’t miss your chance to fish for FREE this June as part of the 2016 Summer Free Fishing Weekend. On Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12 both residents and visitors can fish without a license. All other fishing rules and regulations still apply.
Events are being planned across the state for this summer’s Free Fishing Weekend to provide fun opportunities for those new to the sport to try their hand at landing a big one. If you’d like to see events in your area, visit Michigan.gov/freefishing. Bookmark this page because the list of events is updated each week!
Don’t miss your chance to enjoy one of Michigan’s premier outdoor activities – fishing – for free this June!