Saginaw Bay Walleye were caught near Sailboat Buoy B in 20 feet with crawlers. Smallmouth bass were caught and released when using crankbaits at Pinconning Park. On the east side, strong winds had the walleye scattered. Near Quanicassee, a couple walleye were taken in 8 to 10 feet. Shore fishing was slow. Off Sebewaing, walleye were scattered throughout the Slot.
A few boats were fishing in 22 to 24 feet along the Bar with a crawler harness or body baits. Crappie were caught in the Sebewaing River by boat anglers, but the bite was starting to slow. Pike were caught in the Sebewaing Marina when using artificial baits or minnows under a bobber. Those fishing Wildfowl Bay caught and released bass.
- Saginaw River those targeting walleye reported some success since the opener. Yellow perch were caught at Bay Harbor Marina.
- Tittabawassee River White bass are just starting to show up. The walleye bite slowed with very few limits caught downstream of the Dow Dam when casting plugs. Elsewhere, catches were 1-2 per boat.
Au Gres Area fishing has been slow. Anglers managed to catch and release some largemouth bass when using jigs.
Outer Saginaw Bay
Oscoda Strong winds have kept most boat anglers off the water. Pier anglers casting for steelhead had no luck.
- Au Sable River steelhead and walleye were caught upstream and near Foote Dam when drifting spawn and crawlers. Some nice brown trout were caught on the South Branch between Wallace Park and the Steckert Bridge.
Port Austin was slow with only a couple boats trolling crankbaits for walleye west of the harbor.
Tawas Area trollers caught a couple walleye along with the occasional Chinook or lake trout. Walleye and Atlantic salmon were found near the reef in 15 to 25 feet when trolling body baits or jigging spoons. Pier anglers caught some perch on minnows however they did a lot of sorting to get a few keepers.
- Tawas River fishing was slow at Gateway Park with only a few small perch caught.
Fishing Tip: Help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species
Anglers and boaters can do their part to help make sure Michigan’s rivers, lakes and streams are protected against invasive species by following these some simple steps:
- CLEAN boats, trailers and equipment.
- DRAIN live wells, bilges and all water.
- DRY boats and equipment.
- DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.
Want to learn more about how you can help? Visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.