Saginaw Bay hot weather, very warm water temperatures and a murky inner bay because of windy conditions did slow fishing to almost a standstill. A few walleye were taken on spoons in 25 feet northeast of the Spark Plug. Some were starting to try for perch but the average catch per trip was only five to eight fish per boat. Anglers may want to try the “Black Hole” off Pinconning. One bright spot was the good bass fishing around Spoils Island. Anglers were casting spinners and crank baits. Fishing along the east side was very slow.
- Saginaw River catfish and freshwater drum are still being caught in the lower river.
- Sanford Lake for bass anglers, some were getting limit catches while others were getting skunked. Most of the bass were caught on soft plastic baits. Bluegills were hitting on worms or very small white jigs tipped with wax worms. Crappies were still hitting on pinky jigs with white double twister tails. A few pike were caught.
Au Gres Area walleye fishing was slow. Some fish were caught in 60 feet or more along the weed beds off the Pine River but the action was not hot by any means. Most anglers were working extremely had to get one or two fish per boat.
Outer Saginaw Bay
Grindstone City walleye fishing was good but slowed over the last week. A couple fish were caught early morning or late evening.
Oscoda pier fishing seems to be getting better as anglers were catching walleye, channel cats and smallmouth bass. Catfish are being caught on crawlers and minnows throughout the night. Walleye are hitting throughout the day but evening may be a touch better when drifting crawlers or casting body baits. Lake trout are out deep in 150 to 180 feet and hitting on spoons, body baits, spin-glo’s and wobble glo’s. The fish were suspended about 20 feet from the bottom.
- Au Sable River spinners and body baits are being used to catch bass.
Port Austin a few walleye were taken on crawler harnesses in 20 to 28 feet near the lighthouse.
Tawas Area walleye fishing was slow.
Fishing Tip: Using big bait to lure largemouth bass
Largemouth bass are known to be opportunistic eaters – so don’t be afraid to use larger baits and lures when targeting them.
Particularly if you like to target largemouths while fly fishing you may want to consider using your bulkier flies to appeal to their hungry appetite. Focus your cast on areas close to drop-offs or where great cover is provided. You just might be surprised by the reaction you get!