What an amazing start to the fishing season here in Northern Michigan. The bite on all fronts has been extremely good. We are looking ahead to July and if the start to this season is any indication of what’s to come, you should be ready to grab a rod and reel and have a little fun!
The bass are off the beds now and are moving into their summer patterns. Largemouth will be moving into the grass and weeds looking to ambush bait as it swims by. Senko’s and flipping the grass in 4’-12’ of water will be the best bet for success. Smallmouth will be moving out onto deeper flats adjacent to deep water or weed cover. Drop shoting and cranking 8’-20’ of water will be a good bet to find Mr. Bronzeback. One of my favorite ways to catch summertime bass is topwater fishing. Poppers, walking baits, and prop baits are a sure bet for some exciting action. Early morning or late evening is the best time to fish topwater.
The walleye will start to move into the weed cover, or be suspended over deeper water. The marble eye can be a little finicky as the summertime heat warms the water. Trolling stick baits on leadcore is a good bet for the suspended fish. If they are tight to bottom, bottom bouncers, or lindy rigs with a leech or crawler will be your best bet to put some of these fish in the boat.
The salmon and trout bite has started off with a bang. Good numbers of trout and salmon have been showing up. Trout can be found in 60-90 feet of water. Spoons and cowbells with peanuts or a spin-n-glow combination will work. The salmon bite will vary with temperature and baitfish movement. Flasher/fly or meat rigs seem to work best for the bigger fish. Reports of 25 pound fish have already hit the docks. We should see some real big fish this year! With the colder than normal spring, the offshore steelhead fishery may have new life. Covering water along the temperature breaks until you find fish is the key to success. Trolling spoons and body baits off planer boards will be your best bet for putting fish in the boat.
Before you head out on the lake, make sure you have all of your safety equipment up to date and in working order. Be sure to check with your local bait shop for the most current and up-to-date report. Check with Big Bobs if you are looking for the report in Frankfort. For the Traverse City report, contact MC Sports or Gander Mountain. As always stay safe and good luck out there!
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