Saginaw Bay fishing was a little better however the action is clearly in “August Mode”. Walleye fishing has slowed, but persistent anglers can still find a fish west of the Spark Red Plug (Buoys 11 & 12), in the southern end of the Slot from Quanicassee to Fish Point, over the Bar and out near Spark Green Plug (Buoys 1 & 2). The average was 3 to 5 fish per boat. Fall perch fishing has yet to begin, and pier fishing is slow. Smallmouth bass were caught off the Charity Islands. Channel cats were taken from the Hot Pond and shore anglers at Essexville continue to catch a mix of bass, catfish and freshwater drum.
Au Gres Area those trolling for walleye were averaging two to three fish per boat and pressure has dropped considerably. The few out for perch did not have much luck.
Au Gres River dredging continues to hamper fishing efforts.
Outer Saginaw Bay:
Grindstone City a few walleye were caught in 40 to 50 feet here and at Port Austin. Catch rates have slowed. Those trolling found steelhead, lake trout, pink salmon and a couple Chinook in 135 feet.
Oscoda pier fishing has started to pick up and should not be long before the early salmon start to show up. Boat anglers are catching steelhead, lake trout and salmon in 60 to 80 feet and are moving in closer. Those fishing in the evening reported fish close to shore and around the piers. Try dark spoons, body baits and cut bait when trolling. Pier anglers are using spoons such as Little Cleo’s, glow spoons, body baits and twister tails.
- Au Sable River walleye are in the river and the numbers seem to be increasing.
Tawas Area pier angling is slow with a few smallmouth bass, rock bass and small perch taken. Those out trolling caught a few walleye out near Buoy #2 and near Alabaster in 25 to 35 feet.
Weekly Fishing Tip: Catching big pike in the summer
Most anglers consider winter the best time to catch a trophy-sized pike, but following a few key pointers can make summer pike fishing worthwhile.
When it’s very warm out think about where pike will hide – places with cooler water. These spots include along the thermocline, where coldwater streams/rivers flow into lakes, or around springs.
Look for water bodies that aren’t densely populated with pike so those present may have a chance to grow fairly large. Also consider locations that have special regulations (size limits).
Lastly, focus on water bodies that have a good pike forage base – particularly other species that prefer cooler water.
Want to learn even more about fishing for northern pike? Check out their page on the Michigan Fish and How to Catch Them website.