“ Lake Erie is widely known as being one of the top walleye fishing destinations .”
Lake Erie is widely known as being one of the top walleye fishing destinations . After an excellent hatch in the last few years , walleyes in Lake Erie are now bigger and better than ever . As of last spring , Lake Erie was being mentioned across the walleye informatory board . As the fourth-largest lake of the Great Lakes , Lake Erie is a popular choice for many fishermen , especially in the spring and summer months . Nestled just above Ohio , fishing here is chilly in the early months , so dress warmly and do not expect to be able to go swimming . Fishing for walleye here is all about the sport itself .
Spawning reefs and gravel bottoms make for ideal fishing areas when looking for a trophy walleye . Walleyes are spawning mainly in April , so the shallow beds are going to be your best friend during this season . The jigging technique is favored here , but the fish are biting either way , so reeling a few in before the end of the day will not be a problem . Parts of the lake may still be iced over , so when trolling , proceed with caution . Most fishermen here like to stay along the banks or travel by boat over a slight wave , which will get the fish moving .
Michigan , another Great Lake state , is also praised for its walleye populated waters and easy fishing days . Michigan ’ s Bluewater Bridge and the cityscape near the ports are a favorite hot spot . For some reason , the walleyes here are bigger , as well . Ranging from 10-15 pounds each , catching your trophy walleyes in Michigan is almost a no-brainer . Walleye fishing has grown to be the most popular pastime here , with spikes in the late 80s after several huge hatches . The expansion of walleyes into almost all of the Great Lakes , and their ability to grow to trophy mass , is probably why Michigan is still known today as one of the go-to walleye destinations .
Live bait is preferred over jigs , but if you are using one , go for bright colors . Walleyes like bright reds and yellows , and dragging or jigging across the lake beds along the bottom will get them moving and into feeding mode . Live bait of choice for spring time are minnows and fatheads . Very rarely will walleyes come to the surface , so you want bait , whether live or a lure , to sink to the bottom and drag . Move it back and forth in small motions now and then , and your walleye will bite at every chance he gets .
68 | Spring 2017 | Adventure Outdoors