Spring/Fall
Every spring the largest and most productive walleye spawn in the world happens on the western basin of Lake Erie. This time of year offers anglers a chance to catch the trophy they're hunting for or large numbers of great eaters for the fryer. Walleye over 10 pounds are common with many surpassing 13 pounds. 50-100 fish days are not unheard of. Most fish are taken by trolling crankbaits, but many are taken by jigging methods. Jigging is always a blast that everyone enjoys, especially when you hook-up! The island complex offers a unique opportunity in the spring as it sits you in between a variety of options and millions of fish! Don't forget about the smallmouth bass fishing as well! Many people, including many pros, consider the Lake Erie islands the best place in the WORLD to fish for these scrappy fighters. Again, 5+ pounders are common as well as 50-100 fish days!
On the flip side, in the Fall millions of Walleye make their way back from the deeper waters of the eastern basin to post up for the pre-spawn. Lots of awesome weather, beautiful colors and gangs of big, hungry fish! There are a few different tactics this time or year, but trolling is definitely #1.
Perch fishing in the fall can be exceptional with quick limits of jumbos on a regular basis. With so many walleye in lake Erie right now the perch move around a lot, so should you to find them. Once you do though, it's game on! Using emerald shiners fished near or on bottom is the most popular method with a perch spreader or a crappie rig.
Smallmouth Bass this time of year is awesome! Big fish and lots of them. Fishing off-shore reefs or all around the islands is very productive. Tactics vary this time of year from angler to angler. Live bait is always good, with bass shiners and soft craws a solid option. Artificial baits shine too, including - crankbaits, tubes, drop shotting plastics, spinnerbaits and even topwater's fished shallow!
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