Lake St. Clair Fishing Charter - Smallmouth Bass, Walleye Fishing Guide

Smallmouth Fishing

Lake St. Clair, Detroit River, St. Clair River

Winter Winding Down

Smallmouth Bass Preparing to Spawn

As winter relinquishes its icy grip and the air begins to warm, smallmouth bass eagerly seek out warmer waters and begin to feed in preparation for the upcoming spawn. This season marks a prime opportunity to catch some of the biggest fish of the year. It is important to note that despite the warm air, the water remains chilly during this early season.

The pre-spawn period is a time where a single catch may indicate that more fish are nearby. Using a variety of techniques, anglers can expect to catch healthy and strong smallmouth bass. The air may be warm and inviting, but the water is still cold enough to require extra layers of clothing.

Spring Arrival

Smallmouth begin spawning

From May through June, smallmouth bass can be seen spawning throughout the lake. Lake St. Clair, in particular, is a massive spawning flat with waves of smallmouth bass in various stages of the spawning process. Anglers may employ different techniques depending on the wind direction and water clarity.

During the Spawn, smallmouth bass may be seen in different phases of the process, but each phase offers an opportunity to catch a prized fish. As the water warms up, more smallmouth bass will be visible in shallower waters.

Post-Spawn Summer

Smallmouth school up in deeper waters

As the spawn concludes, smallmouth bass begin to migrate offshore to deeper waters where they will form schools once again. Summer days with schools of smallmouth bass make for excellent fishing. With a variety of lures and techniques, anglers can expect to catch numerous smallmouth bass. It is important to note that schools may change locations depending on the water clarity and wind direction.

The Waning Days Of Summer

Smallmouth bass feast before winter

As summer draws to a close, smallmouth bass migrate towards the banks, searching for easy meals to fatten up before the winter months. Late September until the lake ices over is another great time to catch a trophy smallmouth bass. The later it gets, the bigger the schools get. With the right water clarity, anglers can have an excellent day on the water.

Michigan Fishing Guide 2023 Outdoor Resources

Walleye Fishing

Detroit River Jigging

Catching walleye during spawning season

As winter turns into spring and baseball's spring training comes to a close, another annual event is just beginning in the Detroit and St. Clair rivers - the walleye spawning season. Schools of walleye swim into the rivers, preparing for their annual ritual. Among them are numerous fish that are perfect for the table, and even some of the giants that the Great Lakes are known for.

The predominant method for catching walleye during this season is jigging. With a variety of colors available, finding the right color combination for the day is crucial to filling the livewell with a plentiful catch. Jigging is a technique that requires patience and skill, but can be highly rewarding for anglers who are successful in their efforts.

Summer Casting

As July arrives, summer season is in full swing

During these months, walleye can be found in the weed beds of the lake, waiting for an easy meal to swim by. Anglers can utilize a variety of lures for this approach, but finding the right one is key to landing a successful catch. The fight is sportier than during the spawning season and there may even be a few smallmouth bass mixed in.

It is important to note that even during the summer season, walleye can be just as tasty as long as they are kept on ice. With the right technique and gear, anglers can enjoy a delicious catch throughout the summer months.

Overall, the Detroit River offers exciting opportunities for anglers throughout the year, with different methods and techniques needed for different seasons. Whether it is jigging during the spawning season or casting during the summer, walleye provide anglers with an unforgettable experience. By understanding the unique challenges and techniques required for each season, anglers can prepare their gear and increase their chances of success.