Chilly Walleyes and Smallmouth in Lake Erie and Detroit River - December 22, 2024 Fishing Report

For December 22, 2024, here’s your local fishing report for Lake Erie and the Detroit River: First off, let's talk about the conditions. The water temperature in the Detroit River is currently at 36.5°F, which is quite chilly but still manageable for some hardy fish species[2]. Weather-wise, expect partly cloudy skies with winds that could make the day a bit challenging. Sunrise is at around 7:54 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:54 PM. Tides are relatively mild, with minimal fluctuations, but you can expect some movement around the 12-15 hour mark with water levels changing by about 0.05 meters[2]. Yesterday, anglers had a good day catching quality walleyes, especially in the deeper waters of Lake Erie. Many of these walleyes were in the 18-22 inch range, which is a great size for this time of year[1]. For fish activity, walleyes and smallmouth bass are your best bets. Walleyes are active in the deeper waters, while smallmouth bass can be found in various spots along the Detroit River and Lake Erie. Yellow perch are also a common catch, especially in the shallower areas[1][4]. When it comes to lures and bait, for walleyes, try using jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers. For smallmouth bass, crankbaits, swimbaits, and blade baits work well. Drifting bait and jigging bucktails can also yield good results[1][5]. If you're looking for hot spots, consider the Detroit River, particularly around William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, and Belle Isle Park. These areas offer good access and a variety of fish species. For Lake Erie, Sterling State Park in Monroe is a great spot, offering both lake and lagoon fishing opportunities[4]. Overall, it's a good day to bundle up and hit the water, as the fish are biting despite the cold conditions. Stay warm and tight lines This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.