Episodes

  • Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan: Smallmouth, Perch, and Salmon Bite Continues

    Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan: Smallmouth, Perch, and Salmon Bite Continues
    Nov 30 2024
    As of November 30, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area is still vibrant despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    **Weather and Tidal Conditions:**
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 35°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Tidal movements are minimal on Lake Michigan, but wave heights could be around 2-4 feet due to the wind.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:20 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw decent activity for various species. Anglers reported catching a mix of smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and some late-season salmon. The smallmouth bass were particularly active in the shallower waters near harbors and structure.

    **Fish Caught:**
    Reports from yesterday indicate that smallmouth bass were the most common catch, with several anglers landing fish in the 2-4 pound range. Yellow perch were also plentiful, especially around the Montrose and Belmont harbors. A few Chinook salmon were caught by those targeting them near Waukegan Harbor and other shore fishing spots.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For smallmouth bass, crankbaits and soft plastics like curly tail grubs have been effective. Jigging with 4lb test line and small jigs tipped with minnows or plastics has also produced results. For yellow perch, small jigs with maggots or tiny crankbaits are working well. For salmon, spoons and plugs like Rapalas have been successful.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Montrose Harbor:** Known for its smallmouth bass and yellow perch, this spot has been consistent lately.
    - **Belmont Harbor:** Another good spot for smallmouth bass and perch, with some reports of salmon catches.
    - **Waukegan Harbor:** A prime location for shore fishing salmon, especially during the late fall run.

    Overall, it's a good day to get out on the water, especially if you're targeting smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Be prepared for the cooler weather and moderate winds, and adjust your tackle accordingly. Good luck out there
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    3 mins
  • Chilly Fishing on Lake Michigan: A Guide to Catching Trout, Whitefish, and Smallmouth Bass

    Chilly Fishing on Lake Michigan: A Guide to Catching Trout, Whitefish, and Smallmouth Bass
    Nov 29 2024
    As of November 29, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan, particularly around the Chicago area, is quite active despite the chilly weather. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

    **Weather and Tidal Conditions:**
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit. Winds are moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Lake Michigan's water temperature is around 50-54 degrees Fahrenheit, which is typical for this time of year. Tides are not a significant factor on Lake Michigan, but water levels and wave conditions can affect fishing. Currently, wave heights are around 2-4 feet.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at approximately 6:55 AM, and sunset is around 4:20 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a mix of fish activity, particularly around the breakwalls and structures. Lake trout are still active near the breakwalls in Hammond, East Chicago, and the Port of Indiana. Shore anglers in Michigan City reported catching lake trout using spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits. Whitefish were also caught on skein and single eggs on the bottom.

    **Types and Amounts of Fish Caught:**
    - Lake trout: Several were caught near the breakwalls and structures.
    - Whitefish: A few were reported caught by shore anglers.
    - Steelhead: Some were caught in the lower parts of the tributaries like Trail Creek and Burns Ditch.
    - Brown trout: There were decent catches of brown trout, especially when trolling off areas like Kosan and Racine in 30-40 feet of water.
    - Smallmouth bass: Good action was reported in the Chicago harbors, particularly on soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For lake trout, use spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits. For whitefish, skein and single eggs on the bottom are effective. For steelhead, spinners, beads, and single eggs work well. For brown trout, trolling with crankbaits and using nightcrawlers or minnows near the bottom can be productive. For smallmouth bass, soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait are recommended.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Michigan City Breakwall:** A good spot for catching lake trout and whitefish.
    - **Port of Indiana:** Known for its structure, it's a prime area for lake trout.
    - **Chicago Harbors (e.g., Montrose Harbor, Belmont Harbor):** Great for smallmouth bass and occasional steelhead and brown trout.

    Overall, the fishing conditions are favorable, and with the right gear and knowledge of the hot spots, you should have a productive day on the water. Always keep an eye on the weather and water temperatures to adjust your tactics accordingly.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing on Lake Michigan: Late Fall Action in Chicago

    Fishing on Lake Michigan: Late Fall Action in Chicago
    Nov 28 2024
    As of November 28, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area remains vibrant despite the late fall season.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 35°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Tidal movements are minimal on Lake Michigan, but water levels are currently at their average marks.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:21 PM, giving you a decent window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been steady, with anglers reporting catches of salmon, trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Yesterday saw a good number of coho salmon and brown trout being caught, particularly in the harbor areas.

    ### Catches
    Anglers at Montrose Harbor and Diversey Harbor reported catching several coho salmon, with some weighing up to 8 pounds. Smallmouth bass were also active, especially around the downtown Chicago area, with catches ranging from 2 to 4 pounds. Yellow perch were abundant near Navy Pier, with many anglers filling their limits.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For salmon, the best lures have been spoons, particularly those in orange and silver patterns. Trolling with downriggers at depths of 20-40 feet has been effective. For smallmouth bass, crankbaits and soft plastics have been working well. For yellow perch, small jigs tipped with minnows or crickets have been the go-to choice.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This has been a hotspot for coho salmon and brown trout. Try trolling near the power lines or casting spoons from the shore.
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Known for its smallmouth bass and yellow perch, this area is great for shore fishing and jigging.
    - **Navy Pier**: This is a good spot for yellow perch, especially when using small jigs and minnows.

    Overall, the conditions are favorable for a productive day of fishing on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area. Make sure to dress warmly and adjust your tactics according to the changing weather and fish behavior.
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    3 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing Bounty on Lake Michigan Around Chicago

    Late Fall Fishing Bounty on Lake Michigan Around Chicago
    Nov 24 2024
    As of November 24, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area is still vibrant despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    **Weather and Conditions:**
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 15 mph. These conditions are typical for late fall and can make for some excellent fishing.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:21 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing.

    **Tidal Report:**
    Lake Michigan does not have tides like ocean waters, but water levels can fluctuate due to wind and other factors. Currently, the water level is relatively stable.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of activity, particularly for smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and some late-season salmon. The smallmouth bass were active in the shallower waters, especially around dawn and dusk. Yellow perch were biting well in the deeper areas near structures like piers and harbors.

    **Types and Amounts of Fish Caught:**
    Anglers reported catching several smallmouth bass, with some reaching up to 4 pounds. Yellow perch were plentiful, with many catches in the 10-12 inch range. There were also some reports of Chinook salmon, though these are becoming less common as the season winds down.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For smallmouth bass, crankbaits and soft plastics like curly tail grubs worked well. For yellow perch, small jigs tipped with minnows or crickets were effective. If you're targeting the remaining salmon, try using spoons or plugs that mimic baitfish.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Montrose Harbor:** This area has been producing some great smallmouth bass catches, especially around the rocky structures.
    - **Diversey Harbor:** Known for its yellow perch fishing, this spot continues to yield good results, especially near the harbor's deeper areas.
    - **Waukegan Harbor:** For those still chasing salmon, Waukegan Harbor has been one of the better spots, particularly near the power lines and other structural elements.

    Overall, it's a great time to get out on Lake Michigan, even in the late fall. Dress warmly, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Good luck on the water
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    3 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan: Chilly Catches and Hot Spots

    Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan: Chilly Catches and Hot Spots
    Nov 23 2024
    As of November 23, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area remains vibrant despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s, making it a bit chilly but ideal for late fall fishing. Sunrise is at around 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:20 PM. Tidal movements are not a significant factor on Lake Michigan, but water temperatures have dropped into the upper 50s, which has made fish more active.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of activity, especially in the harbors such as DuSable and Burnham. Anglers reported catching several king salmon, with some notable weights recorded. Steelhead are also starting to show up, particularly at Diversey Harbor, where they are being caught on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms. Smallmouth bass are very active, and the Riverwalk area has been real active for all species.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    While there were no reports of perch catches yet, the dropping water temperatures suggest they might start showing up soon. Big northern pike have also been spotted around the area. The king salmon and steelhead catches are the highlights, with multiple reports of successful catches in the harbors.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For steelhead, hair/marabou jigs and wax worms are working well. For smallmouth bass, crankbaits and other small lures are effective. King salmon are being caught using traditional salmon lures and bait.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Diversey Harbor**: This spot is hot for steelhead, with many catches reported using hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.
    - **DuSable and Burnham Harbors**: These harbors are seeing a lot of king salmon activity, making them great spots to try your luck.
    - **Riverwalk**: This area is active for all species, including smallmouth bass and northern pike.

    Get out there and take advantage of the active fishing scene on Lake Michigan in Chicago. The cooler weather and dropping water temperatures are making for some exciting catches.
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    3 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan

    Late Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan
    Nov 22 2024
    As of November 22, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area is still quite active despite the late fall season.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 45°F and a low of 35°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 15 mph. Sunrise is at 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at 4:23 PM. Tidal changes are minimal on Lake Michigan, but water levels and temperatures can fluctuate; currently, the water temperature is in the mid-40s.

    ### Fish Activity
    Steelhead and Rainbow Trout are the main attractions right now. Most harbors, including Montrose Harbor and the Chicago River mouth, are active with these species. Some Brown Trout have been spotted, though catches are fewer. You might also encounter a few old King Salmon and Northern Pike.

    ### Catches
    Yesterday saw a good number of Steelhead caught, particularly in the harbors. Anglers reported success using spawn sacs, hair jigs with wax worms, night crawlers, shrimp, and large minnows. Artificial lures like crankbaits are also effective. Perch are starting to show up in some areas, but their numbers are still sparse.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Steelhead and Rainbow Trout, use spawn sacs, hair jigs with wax worms, night crawlers, and large minnows. Shrimp and artificial lures such as crankbaits are also working well. For Brown Trout, jigging with 4lb test line and small spoons or blade baits can be effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: Known for its active Steelhead and Rainbow Trout fishing, especially near the pier and breakwalls.
    - **Michigan City Breakwall**: A good spot for Lake Trout, which are sticking around near structures all winter long.
    - **Chicago River Mouth**: This area is seeing a mix of Steelhead, Brown Trout, and some old King Salmon.

    Remember to check the real-time buoy data for wind, waves, and water temperatures to optimize your fishing trip. Pack your gear and get out there – the fish are biting
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    2 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan Still Thriving in Chicago

    Late Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan Still Thriving in Chicago
    Nov 21 2024
    As of November 21, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in Chicago is still active despite the late fall season.

    **Weather and Tidal Conditions:**
    Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Tidal movements are not a significant factor in Lake Michigan, but water temperatures are crucial; they are currently in the low 50s, around 52-54°F.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 4:21 PM.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a mix of fish activity. Salmon and trout are still being caught in and around the harbors and piers. Anglers have been successful with spoons, crankbaits, and some starting to use spawn sacs on a slip float[2].

    **Types and Amounts of Fish Caught:**
    Salmon, particularly coho and chinook, continue to be caught. Trout, including brown trout, are also active. Yellow perch are biting well in certain areas, especially when using live minnows or nightcrawlers. Smallmouth bass, though less reported recently, can still be found in the harbors and nearshore areas[2][3].

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For salmon and trout, spoons and crankbaits are highly effective. Some anglers are starting to use spawn sacs on a slip float. For yellow perch, live minnows and nightcrawlers are the go-to baits. For smallmouth bass, jigging with soft plastics and casting crankbaits can yield good results[1][2].

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Montrose Harbor:** Known for its consistent salmon and trout catches, especially near the power lines.
    - **Diversey Harbor:** A good spot for shore fishing, particularly for salmon and perch.
    - **Navy Pier:** While it can be crowded, it's a reliable spot for catching a variety of species, including perch and smallmouth bass[2][3].

    Overall, the late fall season in Lake Michigan's Chicago waters offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, and with the right gear and tactics, you can have a successful day on the water.
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    2 mins
  • Late Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan in Chicago

    Late Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan in Chicago
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in Chicago is buzzing with activity, despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 38 degrees. Winds are moderate, coming in from the northeast at about 10 mph. Tides are not a significant factor on Lake Michigan, but water levels are currently stable.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:30 AM, and sunset is at 4:30 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a lot of action, particularly with brown trout and steelhead. Anglers reported catching several brown trout, with some weighing up to 10 pounds. Steelhead were also active, especially in the deeper waters near the harbor areas.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Brown trout were the stars of the show, with multiple catches reported near Montrose Harbor and Belmont Harbor. Steelhead were also plentiful, especially when using jigging techniques. Yellow perch were active as well, particularly around Navy Pier and the North Slip by Steelworkers Park.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For brown trout, using crankbaits and spoons has been highly effective. Steelhead are biting well on jigging lures with minnows or small jigs. For yellow perch, small jigs tipped with minnows or crickets are working well.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This area has been hot for brown trout and steelhead. Try jigging near the structure or using crankbaits in the open water.
    - **Belmont Harbor**: Another great spot for brown trout, especially in the early morning hours. Use spoons or crankbaits to attract these fish.
    - **Navy Pier**: This is a good spot for yellow perch. Fish the pier’s structure with small jigs and minnows.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on Lake Michigan in Chicago, with plenty of fish to be caught. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the changing weather conditions. Good luck on the water
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    3 mins