Saginaw Bay few anglers were out as fishing was almost at a stand-still with the wind and rain. There were rumors of perch caught off Standish and Pinconning. Boats were launching at Eagle Bay Marina. Perch were also caught off Bay Port. The occasional smallmouth bass were taken off the wall at Port Austin.
- Saginaw River: Shore anglers at Essexville picked up a few catfish and some freshwater drum, some walleye are being caught up in Saginaw.
Au Gres: Those heading out for perch did not have much luck. They were marking large numbers of fish along with plenty of baitfish.
Outer Saginaw Bay:
Oscoda: Fishing was slow. The boats heading out had limited success.
- Au Sable River: Fish are moving up into the river system. Those fishing in the flies only section between Burtons Landing and the Wakeley Bridge have caught brook and brown trout.
Tawas: A few salmon were seen inside the harbor but none were caught. Pier anglers took a limited number of small perch, a few rock bass and catfish.
- Tawas River: Is producing a few salmon.
Weekly Fishing Tip: Catching pan fish in the fall
Fall can be an ideal time to target pan fish as cooler temperatures arrive and aquatic vegetation starts to decline. As a result, these species can be found in much shallower water than usual and will be perfect for targeting.
When choosing your bait for fall panfish don’t be afraid to go with something a little more substantial, such as small plugs and spinners. And of course, the standard hook and worm never hurts!
Be sure to target pan fish in their favorite fall locations as well, including by deep weed beds or near drop-off points.