Well, I went out of Catawba State Park yesterday with my small 3 wheeler. I stayed inside the 911 crack, about a mile off shore. The ice was around 6" with water clarity about 8 feet. That was better than the clarity 3 weeks ago. There is alot of push ice west of the dock, but there were 4 sleds out past the ice in the same thickness of ice that I was in.  I plan to fish on sunday and I'm sure there will be alot of anglers out on saturday. Yet we might have a chance to fish with another cold blast coming in from the north. I would like to get my rig out before the season is over.

Right now the air temp is around 15 degrees, and it may help the ice but time will tell. The western basin has a very poor ice cover and it's in a condition that it's thin and moving with wind and current, thanks to last weeks weather.  Reports of poor ice conditions are being reported as far north as the U.P. of Michigan. I will update in a couple of days. 

Well we hopefully saved the ice from the wind, rain, and warm temps. Last week we had 5-7 inches which might not be enough to save from Mother Nature.  Poor ice conditions have been reported as far north as the U.P. of Michigan. Reports of 2 anglers being lost in Sainaw bay last week due to thin ice.  Locally, they lost one quad last week here due to an airboat breakthrough. Last sunday I almost went into an airboat breakthrough. These breakthroughs are being caused by privite airboat operators with no concern for the quads, sleds, or walkers that are traveling onto the ice.  You have a chance to miss the holes if they are current, just as I did. But,  if they freeze over during the night, you have a thin ice spot waiting for someone to go through.  The best way to be safe right now is stay off the ice and when you plan to go back out stay off the airboat pads or trails. I will update later this week.

We are booking the spring and summer right now with some very good dates open right now. Please get  in contact with us through the web site.

Good fishin

Capt Bob Hughey

Well I finally got the computer back in operation, which is a good start fot the new year.  The ice is unsafe right now but it is on. East Harbor, Old Bay Bridge, and Whites Landing is producing ice fishing but the catches are spotty.

I will be on the ice as soon as it's ready, all equipment is set. I will only run one extra shanty along with mine this year, so I can take out 3 persons. The rates are $75.00 for the weekday and $100.00 for the weekend based on openings. The trip includes bait, ice, shanty, heat, transportation, equipment if needed, it's for a full day or limit. Walleye fishing is the only ticket for my trips. I will update you on when we start.

Fish are being caught trolling and drifting just west of the island area in 30 foot of water. Nice walleye are being taken suspended in 15 to 25 foot range. Harnesses are the best. Trollers are taking nice walleye east of Kelley's Island in the 40 foot range.

Perch are reported being caught in the 40 foot range just off the Cedar Point area. Remember 25 is the limit, also a large number are walleye are being caught just under the size limit and they are checking boats.

Water temp close to shore is 59 surface and out by the line is 59 surface. The clarity is getting better across the lake.  This week should start turning the catchin' around.  I had a tough day on saturday and we finished getting the other boat ready to put in this week. But we are ready for the season to get into full swing.

The trollers were catching some nice fish around the islands and we are still catching jakes close to shore.  Also the perch are being caught with nice size.

We still have some nice dates available this month and the next two, just give us a call or email us on your dates.

Based on the weather over the past two weeks the water temp and wave action back for the spring spawn.  We are still catching jacks in the shallows and water clarity is starting to improve.

Over the weekend we took some nice jacks at the range cans, but the boat traffic was very bad, which held the action down.  We did not get the limit, but for the ones that got out early they limited. Remember that 4 is the limit until May 1st. The action should start picking up again as soon as the fronts move out again.

We still have some good dates open this spring and summer, just give us a call at 1-877-434-9711 for reservations.  We also have some new accommodations available for your parties at Hi Way Bait and Lodging.

The winds started to pick back up from the north and the forcast is rain on tuesday. The shore from Maumee to Catawba and Sandusky is muddy. There is an area just north of Port Clinton and south of Kelley's that is stained, otherwise the fishing and catchin is slow.

We are putting the 30' in around the 10th of April.  We still have some dates open for the spring  on both boats. The rate is $570.00 includes the discounts and includes bait, ice, equipment, boat, and guide.  Just give us a call at 1-877-434-9711, we can set up some accommodations.

Well with the lake starting to clear of ice and we are receiving warm rain, the lake is starting to muddy up from the river runoffs.  Within a few days the reports should show walleyes being caught in the rivers.

We will be in with one boat by mid April and the other should be in by May.  We still have some prime weekend dates open in the spring and summer.  This year the walleye charters are $570.00 for upto six persons, which includes the special discount.  The trip includes bait, ice, equipment, guide, and boat,  for a full day of fishing.  Accommodations are limited so book early for your trip.  Perch fishing will start during the summer and it looks like another good season.

Well we feel the season came to a very quick stop. Thanks the the Coast Guard cutter for cutting a path to the Detroit River for traffic it created a cut that with high wind pushed the ice and broke it up in the western end.  You can see the progress of the ice breaking on modis on the noaa web. It does look good for recovery on the big lake and bays.

I am making one last ice fishing trip to michigan this weekend and then I am starting to set up for the boat season. If the bookings look good we will be in the water with one boat in April for spring eyes.  We have several good dates open for the spring, just call us or drop a line on the web.

Well the weather and mother nature has taken a toll on the ice in the western basin. High winds, rain, and ice cutters that broke up the locked in ice, even if they cut through the north passage, it still can cause a shift in the ice with high south winds.  At Catawba State Park there is ice pushed uptp 25-30 feet at the dock and the south passage is open water.  It's hard to say if we can get any more ice fishing in before the boat season.  Even if we do the rivers are opening up and draining into the lake with muddy water.   The next week will tell and it was a good ice season this year, thank you mother nature, I enjoyed it.

As of yesterday all the equipment was retreived off the ice at Crane Creek area.   The ice fishermen had to leave their quads and sleds while being rescued on saturday. Reports of an ice cutter cutting a path north of the island area toward  the Detroit River a few days ago for the shipping traffic. If that is true then the ice season on the lake will be short lived along with the warm weather, wind, and rain.  Although the upcoming weekend  outlook is back to cool temps. The ice is still thick enough to fish off of Catawba, but caution is warned because of the currents.  Remember, safety is the key and I am on hold until the weekend.

I'm planning to fish the bay and docks right now, but if I get another chance I will be fishing the big lake before ice out.  At Crane Creek they were doing very well and at Catawba it was spotted, but 19-21 feet was the best.

It was tough today for myself and several other anglers that was out on the ice fishing.  This week has been a hit and mess catch and the warm weather is questionable.  You have to watch the upcoming weather for possible decaying ice on the big lake.  The currents have been strong and possible warm rain will not help.  There is currently 10-14 inches of ice on the lake, but it can change very quickly.  There is a few very good cracks ron the island to Crane Creek, so take caution.

Rickards Bait and Tackle still has a large supply of bait and a new shipment of ice fishing equipment.  I will not take anyone out this weekend until I see how the ice is , otherwise I have some good dates open in the next few weeks for my other shanty.

This is a short version of the report that is posted on: fishlakeerie.com, western basin report.  The shanties are moving north to northwest of Catawba State Park. Watch the current and there is several inches of snow on the ice that can make it hard to travel and insulate the ice, which can be very bad.  The catching has been fair over the week and the game wardens are checking the catches, remember that 15" is the size limit. 

I have some dates open for next month, and I'm hoping for good ice down towards Crane Creek. Two days ago my son and I had 10 walleye that went 50#, with over 16-17 other hookups.  That's the best day so far, remember this is fishing, the day before we had 2 walleyes for three anglers.

Yesterday I went out with one of my best openwater customers. It was tough for us, We lost a big one in the hole and had a throw back.  I know there were fish caught but it wasn't our day.  The ice is about 10" thick and there is a open crack about 1/2 mile off the docks. 

The parking lot filled before dawn and I understand they were parking on the ice!  I will be fishing for the next week and I might be moving towards Crane Creek by mide week. The shanty groups were as far as 8 miles out in all directions. Just remember ice is not safe ice on the lake with those currents. 

Well, I officially started the 2009 season today and brought back 2 nice males back for super.  I missed five more ( being rusty), and released three that were 14".  Remember, the size limit is 15" on the big lake.

The action is 3-4 miles west of Catawba State Park, and the parking lot fills up quick.  I will be fishing in that area for the next few days.

We the action finally started this past weekend just off the Catawba State Park.  The ice is reported to be between 4-7 inches thick with some areas showing current cuts.  As this week goes the ice should get thicker.  I plan to start on thursday at the State Park and move west as the season goes.

Sandusky Bay is producing bullheads and panfish at White's Landing and the old bay bridge, but watch the current cuts of the new bridge.

Rickards Bait and Tackle is open and has all the supplies that you need and a very good supply of minnows.

I have some dates open for my one shanty that accommodates two fishermen. The dates start on Saturday this week.

Well the shanties are starting to show up on the big bay. You can see them as you drive the bridge. Rickards Bait and Tackle opened up on saturday for the ice season. That and a good shot of cold air is starting the season for the great "ICE EYES".  Also the weather plans to work with us for the next 10 days.

"ICE EYES" are by far the best tasting fish there is. I have some dates open for the upcoming weeks that the ice stays in.

I am planning to start fishing this week around thursday and go forward.  Also, don't forget the upcoming boat season that starts in April.

Well, with the very cold weather the ice is going our way. We are shooting for early next week on the main lake. Right now the bay has popped up a few shanties just of the main bridge and a few anglers were fishing the old bay bridge yesterday. It was a little to cold for my liking. I plan to fish around my docks on sunday and then start fishing the main lake next week.

It looks like the water clarity should be very good in the area for first ice, but it can only get better as the season goes. Any question feel free in contacting us, I have a few dates open for the ice.

Right now we are looking for those two clippers to move into our area within the next 48 hours.  There is ice on the lake and bay areas but it's not safe.  This weekend I should be able to fish the docks and bays, but it might be a question on the main lake.  I certainly will not be the first to go out off Catawba until I am surer of good ice.  As soon as we start I will be running a two man shanty along with mind at $200.00 for two person includes bait, heat, shanty, transportation and plenty of ice.  All you need is lures, license, and lunch.   I will be running as long as the ice holds, from Catawba State Park to Crane Creek State Park.

We are starting to fill our books for this upcoming season, starting in April thru October.  We are limited on saturdays, so check your schedules. The rate for this season is $600.00, less the $30.00 special discount.  For up to six persons, includes bait, ice, equipment if needed, guide, and boat for 8 hours at the special rate of $570.00 for the day. Fish cleaning is available at the local fish cleaners.

Over the last few weeks reports of catches has stopped. High winds, snow, rain, and all the bad elements has made fishing and catching poor to imposible.  On the good note, the Sandusky Bay has been frozen a few times and at this typing another cold front is starting to hit us. In fact on saturday I saw 3 fishermen on the ice by the old bridge. Now that's pushing the limit because there was open water within 10 yards of their holes.

The docks and inter bays have ice and by new years I will start to fish at my dock. The main lake is cold enough and there are ice floats in front of Port Clinton.  If we maintain this weather the ice season will be on the main lake by mid-January. I have everything ready for the season, infact they are fishing on the ice in mid-Michigan right now.

We are starting to book for ice fishing and the upcoming boat season. We have prime dates open for seasons right now. Happy Hoildays and Good Fishin-

Well the boats are put up for the winter and the next move for us is to look forward for some quick cold weather for good ice on the lake this winter. I will began reports again when the lake has good safe ice to fish. I will began booking ice charters at the end of this year. I want to wish everyone and their families a happy holiday/.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com for winter updates.

Good fishin,

Capt Bob Hughey

We finally got into some big bass on saturday in the states waters. We only caught a few due to the weather but they averaged 19 plus inches. Capt Carole lost the biggest bass of her career at the boat, I'll take the blame with my knots. Even though she got to fight her and see her before she broke off, that's all we needed.

The winds were getting very bad and sunday a major blow was coming in. We are about to wrap it up for the boating season, but the ice fishing season is just a few months away.

Walleye are still a little slow, but in the rocks and ne  of Kelley's island is a good choice. The perch are still doing very well around the islands, marblehead and the fog horn. Just look for clear water for the best action. Again, great action this weekend for some big smallmouth, and the bait shops have great supplies of bass and perch minnows.

This is just to inform you that this last weekend was one of the best in years for us in perch fishing. Just imagine one perch that could make a sandwich, well we did just that on saturday. We averaged 3 perch per pound, which is a great catch of perch in the western end. I feel the fishing will still stay strong and the water is cooling to very good temps.

There were some nice walleyes that came to the cleaners over the weekend. Most were caught casting in both the deep water and rocks.

We still have some dates open for both walleye and perch before we pull the boats. I will be ice fishing and giving reports with in the next few months. Also, we are booking charters for the 2009 season.

Good fishin and WOW what a catch of perch!

Capt BOB

The weather has been very good and the water clarity is very fishable. Even thou the wind has been out of the northeast or east over the last week, it has been constant.

We are into fall fishing mode now and the east and northeast winds are here to prove it. The forecast for this week says east, north, and northeast winds again, with another fall cold front coming in from the west. But the fish have to eat , right!

Well, fall is here and that means a few northeaster’s in the forecast. The walleye fishing is still in the rock piles around the islands and in Canada . The best deep is from 6-28 foot of water using worm harnesses.

Well the IKE came through yesterday evening and tonight the lake was calm. We a lot of rain over the weekend the walleyes still managed to bite for the hard working rock fishermen. A few walleyes are being caught in the deep water west of the islands and north of Kelley’s Island. But the best fishing is in the rocks around the island area in 5 to 29 foot of water using weight forwards and casting harnesses.

With the two days of northeaster’s last week and the high abundance of bait fish in the lake the walleye fishing has slowed down throughout the week and weekend. Some nice catches were made by the trollers east of Kelley’s Island and west of the sandbar. The drifters are having a tough time in the deep water, but some eyes are being caught in the rocks around the islands.

Well Labor Day weekend is this week and it’s the start of some predicted great fall fish on the lake. Over the last few days fishing has been day to day. Most of the charters are docked but the catching is still going forward with walleye and perch.

The walleye are slowing down , but there is still some limits being caught around the west range cans of Camp Perry and at the Canadian line just west of the islands. A few walleyes are being taken on the reefs early in the day. Further east some walleyes are still being caught northeast of Kelley’s Island and just west of the sandbar off Vermillion. Both the trollers and drifters were taking fish based on the weather conditions. The walleye should pick up later this month as we get closer to fall fishing.

The walleye are slowing down , but there is still some limits being caught around the west range cans of Camp Perry and at the Canadian line just west of the islands. A few walleyes are being taken on the reefs early in the day. Further east some walleyes are still being caught northeast of Kelley’s Island and just west of the sandbar off Vermillion. Both the trollers and drifters were taking fish based on the weather conditions. The walleye should pick up later this month as we get closer to fall fishing.

Well the walleye are still doing well as long as the weather hangs in there. The best place to catch the eyes are just south of the line and east of Middle Sister. Both the trollers and drifters are doing well in that area. Also the rocks are still holding some nice eyes, but the sheep head are still active so bring a lot of bait.

www.lakeeriefishing911,com.

Good fishin

Capt Bob Hughey

Walleye activity is still doing well for the drifters and the trollers west of the island area. As long as there is wind the drifters are catching some limits, but some sorting is needed. Reports of walleyes in the 6-8 inch range are being taken around the western end of the lake. If you catch one please release quickly, that’s our further stock. The trollers are still doing very well west of the islands towards the line. Sheep head activity is still very strong, in fact we have been catching 8 to 1 for every walleye that we take.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com

Good fishin

The lake is still producing walleye and there is very little mayfly activity on the lake. This weekend has been a wet one but it was still fishable. Although the size of the walleye are now running a little smaller from the 2004 hatch, there are still good eyes from the 2003 hatch being caught east of Kelley’s and in the Canadian waters. The rock piles around the island area are producing , but large eyes are coming out of those rocks. Further west a lot of sorting is being made, but that’s a very good sign for the next few years. Reports of this years hatch being caught while perch fishing, please release those with wet hands so they have a chance to grow.

Well another very good week has past and a lot of nice walleye came to the docks to be cleaned. It’s very clear that the walleye was slowed down by the mayflies, but the hatch seems to be slowing up and the eyes are focusing on bait fish, perch, and our lures. Here are a few areas that have been producing walleye to both the trollers and drifters alike.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com.

Good fishing

Capt Bob Hughey

Well the last week has been a very strange one , between storm, mayflies, sheep head, steelhead, 4^th boat traffic, and basic weather. That’s saying a lot about the upcoming week, but this week should be a very good week for both walleye, steelhead, and perch.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com.

Good fishin

Capt Bob Hughey

Well the last week has been a very strange one , between storm, mayflies, sheep head, steelhead, 4^th boat traffic, and basic weather. That’s saying a lot about the upcoming week, but this week should be a very good week for both walleye, steelhead, and perch.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com.

Good fishin

Capt Bob Hughey

The fishing has increased over the last week with records of very nice walleye coming to the docks to be cleaned. The trollers have been catching good and quick catches east of Kelley’s island and just west of the island area in deep water. Short leads have been the trick for the good catches, but hang on the sheep head are in prime form for those lures.

Last week was the week for major mayfly hatch on the south shore. With the north winds and some brisk winds the lights went off along the shoreline of Port Clinton. As in the past fishing years the fishing slowed down to a hand full of walleyes reaching the docks. Although the fishing started to pickup by late week to the weekend but we had major storms move into the area all weekend into early week.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com.

Good fishing

Capt Bob Hughey

Well, the mayflies have started to hatch in the western basin with signs of hatch laying on the surface of the water around the islands. This has been a very good week for fishing walleye with the 2003 and the 2004 spawn being the center of the catch. Although strong storms have slowed the bite down a little, the catch has been very constant.

www.lakeeriefishing911.com

Good fishin

This week we have some very good news and we also have some concerning news about what’s happening on the lake. Well, as of Friday I personally saw the first signs of the mayfly hatch. I was in Toledo early before going to the boats and saw a dozen or better mayflies on the store window. This is about two weeks earlier than normal for the hatch to start. I just hope this hatch doesn’t drag on for a good month. On the other hand it’s good to know how clean the lake has gotten over the years.

This week we have some very good news and we also have some concerning news about what’s happening on the lake. Well, as of Friday I personally saw the first signs of the mayfly hatch. I was in Toledo early before going to the boats and saw a dozen or better mayflies on the store window. This is about two weeks earlier than normal for the hatch to start. I just hope this hatch doesn’t drag on for a good month. On the other hand it’s good to know how clean the lake has gotten over the years.

Well another spring weekend for 2008 has passed on Lake Erie and the catch report for the trollers were very good and fair for the drifters. High winds and two fronts passed through on Saturday causing a slow down on walleye activity, but it should pick back up as the week starts to finally get temperatures in the 70-80 degree range.

Well another spring weekend for 2008 has passed on Lake Erie and the catch report for the trollers were very good and fair for the drifters. High winds and two fronts passed through on Saturday causing a slow down on walleye activity, but it should pick back up as the week starts to finally get temperatures in the 70-80 degree range.

Well another holiday for the 2008 is passing and it seems that the walleye want to cooperate as well as the weather. Over the past few days the weather has been very good and if you work hard enough the fishing has also been great. The water condition is very fishable, with nice stain water from the range buoys to around the island area. Further north in the triangle the water is semi clear which makes your lure presentation a little different.

Well another holiday for the 2008 is passing and it seems that the walleye want to cooperate as well as the weather. Over the past few days the weather has been very good and if you work hard enough the fishing has also been great. The water condition is very fishable, with nice stain water from the range buoys to around the island area. Further north in the triangle the water is semi clear which makes your lure presentation a little different.

Well the weather last week didn’t cooperate with the fisherman and the charters. Cool days, rain, and of course wind helped to keep catches down. Although there were a few times the larger charters were able to catch fish both casting and trolling. The outlook for the upcoming week including the holiday should be good but on the cooler side. The lake has started to muddy up inside and west of the islands this weekend. The stain line as of Saturday was about 5 miles out between the islands. On Sunday very few boats went out and for the ones that did they came in before noon because of high winds. On Saturday we had a very good catch that averaged 4 plus pounds and they were caught on bouncers and long lines. It was very rough but we were using our 35 foot charter for that trip. In fact we did very well on perch around the islands , fishing in 24-27 foot of water.

www.mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com. We still have some prime dates open for this summer and remember the perch limit in the western basin is 25 per angler. Don’t forget to check our web site for current weather conditions.

Good fishin

Capt. Bob Hughey

If mother nature starts to help us the fishing should even get better. Right now we are catching nice walleye and we even catching some nice perch. Remember that this is the time for bass spawning and it’s important to leave them alone during this time. The season starts on the last day of June and we have some nice dates open for some great fun.

Well we started the season off very well last weekend. The weather cooperated very well, in fact it was to good for jig fishing. At some points the lake was just like glass and it was tough to get the fish to bite and the boat to drift. But, we made the adjustment and we still caught some nice jakes and perch. In fact I caught the largest jake in my career and it was around 7#.  If it wasn’t creaming I would have though it was a spawned out female.

This morning I am seeing a lot of small trailer boats around Port Clinton.  The weather is cooperating with us for this weekend.  There is a chance of showers for both days but that shouldn't hurt the lake condition. The last two days the reefs started to get hot, with good catches showing up.

The tourament is still producing a cross section of reef fish and post spawn walleye at the scales.  The big question you  want answered is how is the water clarity?

Well, I have the next two days booked and I'm looking forward to some great reef fishing.  The water is getting better and it is very fishable.  Remember you don't want clear water, you want that stain water with 1-3 foot visablity. The water is still a little cool, but remember we fish for walleye in 33 degrees icecover.

If you don't have a boat, get a some buddies and book a charter with us. When the lake warms up a few degrees, those walleye are going to explode. We still have some prime dates open for the upcoming weeks.

Well it has been a long week and weekend with the weather and winds, even the tournament was not that good.  The winners only had 5 fish @ 16 pounds and it was a tie for first.

This week should be a good one for two reasons, first the weather is getting better and the weekend looks great, and the second we have one of the boats in the water and we start our charters this weekend.

The fish should start on the shore and the reef area.  Based on the water clarity, jigs and blade baits should be the ticket.  If the water warms up alittle we should start seeing post spawn fish just off the reefs between 20 - 30 feet of water starting next week.

Remember, 4 fish until May 1st, then the limit goes up to 6.  We still have dates open for prime spring fishing for weekdays and weekends.

Reports of jacks being caught in the two big rivers since late last week. The water was at the right temperature but the water was fast, high, and muddy. Floating rigs were working best with colors that were good for muddy conditions. The main class has been the 2003 class with the size ranging within the 3 pound range. A few large jacks were reported to the local bait shops ranging up to 7 pounds.

Well, the walleyes started into the rivers last week and reports of some catches were made until the weather changed.  Current rains have raised all rivers in the area to near flood stage, causing high waters and fast currents.  We know the fish are there but it's been unsafe to fish because of the conditions.

Yet, we still have the lake to look forward to.  Currently, the lake is muddy all the way out to the island area.  It should start to move out and settle towards the weekend.  Of course the rocks should clear out first.  I have seen a few charters that have put in along with the bait shops starting to open and there are plenty of minnows available.

This weekend I will setup Carole's boat and it should be in by early next week.  The outlook for the weekend is no rain and 50-60 degrees.  As long as the wind stays down there should be some activity around the shore and rocks..

We start charters next week and if you are interested we still have some prime dates open this month.  We are  offering charters from monday thru thursday only at $470.00, which is a savings of $70.00 off the charter special or it's equal to your gas for your vehcile for a round trip to go fishing.  Feel free to drop us a line about an open date.

Well it’s getting closer to get the boats in for the season. As far as the river update, they are catching walleye in both the main rivers that feed Lake Ere. Yet we had some snow nasty night,, which should be gone by Saturday. The only problem that I have with fishing the rivers is keeping the large females. There are plenty of jacks to take home to eat.

Well, with the warmer rain that is arriving means walleye runs in the Maumee and Sandusky rivers.  Reports were that  the early anglers were in the Maumee over the past few days but, the water is a little high and no action.  The walleyes are staged in the bay waiting for that warmer rain water to send them up the river. Heavy action should start within days.

We are gearing up for one of the boats to be in the water by April 10th. This should give us an opportunity to fish for jacks just as we have for over 20 years. We still have dates open for April with our special throughout the week in April.  Remember, the limit for April on walleye is 4 per person.

Since the ice is gone and the hopes of a great ice fishing season has past, I look forward to get the boats ready for a great upcoming 2008 fishing season.  The outlook is that one of the boats should be in by April 7th, just in time for the spawning run. This will be our 20th year fishing for rock walleye in april.  I remember the days when there were no other charters and privite boats on the lake until may and we were catching walleyes in april by ourselfs, those days have passed.  Yet, we still do very well but with alot of boat traffic now a days.

The outlook for walleye this year is very good.  We are offering a april walleye fishing special.  Remember, your limit is only 4 walleyes a day, so you can have my 4 if we're lucky enough to catch them.  The price of a weekday charter through the month of april is $450.00 for a 8 hour trip.  That includes bait, ice, rod/reels, (lures not included), from monday thru friday.  The weekend is $540.00 a day.

Just contact us thru the e-mail, we still have some prime dates open.

This is the final ice report for Lake Erie this year.  With the warm weather and south winds all but thinned the ice and took out the safe ice from the south shore.  Right now the ice is very unsafe from the bay to Crane  Creek.  A few went out on saturday but I refused to go out because I saw open water just  west of Catawba Island State Park.  I felt it was not worth it since we have just a few weeks to put the boats in.  Overall what days we did get out was poor water condition and very poor catching.

I will update everyone on the river runs and the start of spring lake fishing.  Remember, we are booking April with a weekday special.

Well, this might be the last  week of ice fishing before spring run.  Yesterday I ran the new 4 wheeler out around 2 miles. The ice condition caution, if you go across the rough ice you'll find 0-2 inches of ice.  If you stay on the path towards Port Clinton the ice runs from 3-7 inches.  The water clarity now is 2-3 feet, which is good for this area. As far as the fish catching goes, it's poor. The fish are there and you do get marks, but we know they have to feed sometime. Please use caution when going out on the big lake. This is the only area that is active along the shoreline. The bay is being fished as well as the island area, same reports on the catch.

I will be out on the ice starting saturday and Richards Bait and Tackle is open with fresh shinners and tackle.

We are booking spring walleye with a special weekday rate offer, contact us for details.

Well  as of friday  there was no activity on the lake because of the poor ice.  But on saturday morning a few fool hardy ice fishermen, including  myself ventured onto the ice just off Catawba State Park. Only a few fish were reported, I didnot catch anything, I just wanted to check out the ice conditions. I watched the guys and the airboats move. Here is the situation on the ice. One six wheel buggy went in and there is still open water holes about one mile straight west.  If you stay below the crust ice you should be fine, they have a walking road started. I would not take a vehicle out on the ice, it's walking only. The ice ranges from open water to 8 inches. I watch non local fisherman move across the rouch ice during the day to areas that was open last wednesday.  They told me the water was a little cleaner, but it wasn't thick enough for me.

Over on the islands, the state park on the west side of South Bass Island is were the action is.  Although they are finally fishing the action is slow to spotty.  Along the south shoreline there is no action  on the ice, Crane Creek has two big ice pushes within one mile of shore.

Richards Bait and Tackle is open with bait and tackle.  Remember if you go out be careful, I were a mustang for my protection. I will not run ice charters this year but if you want to fish with me just give me a call.  Lastly, remember we are running a spring special for walleye.

Well, with the past high winds and heavy rainfall that we have had the lake is still holding at 33 degrees and the bay has muddy ice cover.  With the rivers pushing muddy water out into the lake you can picture what the shoreline looks like on the lake.  We are still hoping for a week or two of ice fishing before spring.

The good news is that we are currently having a major artic blast that started on sunday and it helping to ice cover the rivers and the lake should cover again shortly.  We still might get out before March.  Also, being late in the year the fishing should be within one mile of shore because the walleye will start moving in close to prepare to spawn the shoreline and move up the rivers.  I will keep you informed.

Lasty, talking about spring, we are offering a April special ( good thru 4-23-08) for walleye fishing.  This includes 7 hours of fishing for 1-6 person, bait, ice, equipment for only $440.00, which includes all coupons.  That's a savings of $160.00 and is good for only monday thru friday.  We have dates open and you can contact us thru the site or at 1-877-434-9711.  

This is just a quick update on the ice condition on Lake Erie. Unfortuantly the water is open off the Port Clintion shoreline. The ice is still holding around Catawba before the last high wind blow. Although all the ice is very unsafe and maybe with the upcoming cold snap we may still get good ice to fish in feburary. I will contuniue to update the conditions, we are ready to start fishing.

Remember we still have some open dates for early and mid spring dates.

With the current weekend cold front from Canada we have all the rivers, Sandusky Bay, and a fair share of the western section of Lake Erie covered. This is a start to good ice, with forecast of below freezing temp. for the next 8-9 days. I am looking forward to fish this upcoming weekend around the docks for perch and panfish.  Then we should be ready for the next weekend for ice season walleye on the big lake.

Last year we had only three weeks of ice fishing but it was a very good wallleye season, with limits and walleye up to 29" being taken thru the holes. Feel free to contact me for some dates - we have a open dates, since I held off until we had good ice.

Lastly, Richards Bait will be open this weekend for your ice fishing supplies and reports.  Remember we are booking for this boat season.

I am really looking forward to some great walleye fishing this year, starting with next week.

As of this week and due to last weeks warm up, both the lake, rivers, and bay is still open.  With the upcoming forecast for the next ten days we should start getting ice forming and start fishing the bay by the end of next week and on the lake by early February.

Last year we had a short season in February but it was a very good fishing season for walleye. When the ice is safe we'll be fishing from Catawba to Crane Creek. I will be offering a 1-2 man setup to fish with me.  All trips include bait, ice, heated shanty, transportation, and rod/reel.  I will keep you updated on the current ice conditions and fishing.

Well it's the holidays and that means that the ice fishing season in this area is just around the corner.

High winds over the last few weeks have kept shore fisherman at bay and it looks like the next text for walleye fishing will be done on the ice. We are ready and geared up for the ice fishing with an added feature this year of a 2007 Suzuki 4 wheeler  and a trailer. I will be offering a daily 1-2 person charter with a heated portable shanty , rod and reels, bait and all the ice that you want. If you are inerested just e-mail me at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com for rates and availablities.

Right now the upper part of Michigan has good ice and we just need some steady temps since the western end of Lake Eire is ar 33 degrees. Our shooting dates are min-January.

We are currently setting up for the 2008 fishing season which one of the boats will be in the water around early April. There are currently good/prime dates available for both boats.

Again, happy hoildays; I will post the start of the ice fishing season as soon as we get good/safe ice.

This is to update you on the current lake conditions on Lake Erie for the late fall and early winter. Canadian cold air and high winds are starting to cool down Lake Erie's mid 40 degree temp. and started to give a light ice cover on the rivers and streams that feed the lake. If temps continue to stay at and below 32 degrees the lake should be fishable early in January.

Prior to the high winds over the last week, walleye were being taken just off the shoreline near Mouse Island and Marblehead area, just after dark. Panfish were being taken around the now vacant docks in West and East Harbor.

Further reports on Lake Erie ice conditions will continue thru the month.  We are now booking ice charters for the upcoming season at wwwlakeeriefishing911.com.

Well the boats are out of the water for the season and  the fall winds still blow. There has been some fishing being done over the past week for perch and walleye but it has been limited due to the high winds. The water clarity is still good off of the south shore and the water level is low.

Perch action has been good from the firing bouys to Kelley's Island. The good news is some of the best perch action is just 2 miles off of the Portage River in 18-20 foot of water.

Walleye fishing is still good around Kelley and Gull  reefs and just east of Kelley's Island. Also the night fishing is starting to pick up aro;und Huron River area.

I will being to report the ice fishing as soon as it becomes available. I will start fishing and run charters when the ice becomes save. The outlook is very good for the walleye this winter.

Over the last four days we have been have high winds from the south and southwest. This has pulled the water out of the marinas and rough seas for boaters. The upcoming week  looks to be better, but with a little rain. The fishing should pick back up by mid-week with the best locations being the same as the last report. For us, the guide service will come to another end within 10 days, but we're looking forward to a good ice fishing season and I'll be reporting the fishing and catching of those ice walleyes.

I will be running a 1-2 person charter/shanty throughout the ice season. We purchased a new 4 wheeler just for the ice season and we'll be running my shanty and a large portable shanty that accommodates 2 persons very well. This gives us the edge to move easier throughout the day to find fish. The trips will be 6 hours, which includes bait, shanty, transportation, heat, equipment(if needed.   Feel free to call for rates for this winter , remember that we're running just one shanty and we are offering a $50.00 discount for monday thru thursday.                                                                                    

WALLEYE AND SMALLMOUTH

Last weekend was one of the toughest weekend for the year. Two major cold fronts moved thru the area with drolpping tems. and high winds. Very few reports of good catches arrived at the docks. This week the temps and systems should get better and the water should clear up. Your best bet for walleye are still west of north bass, gull and kelley reef, and 8 miles east of Kelley Island. For bass start with 20' - 25', the cold front pushed the bass down.

PERCH

Last weekend if you could find a area to fish that was clear water and no winds you caught nice perch. The perch will contiune to do well until the end of the season. Just west of the islands, the range markers, gull and kelley reef, and east of the airport of Kelley Island arer still your best spots.

WALLEYES

Based on the weather the walleyes should continue throughout this month. Last weekend the best location was in Canadian waters. Limits of very nice walleye came casting harnesses and weight forwards in water of 15-24 feet. Best time was in early morning and mid-afternoon. Back in the states the best areas was north of the firing range bouys and west of North Bass Island. Also, 8 miles east of Kelley's Island was producing nice walleye, both trolling and drifting was working.

PERCH

Some boats were doing very well throughout the weekend on very nice size perch. The best areas were the range bouys and just west of the islands in 30' of water.  Also, around Gull and Kelley reef area, north of Kelley reef and east of the airport in 40' of water. Early morning to mid afternoon was the best time.

For further information or book a charter at our fall special rates, just e-mail me at mrbass@lakeeriefishing911.com

WALLEYES

Walleyes are still being caught north of the range cans to F can. Both the trollers and drifters are catching eyes ar this time. Best are the casting rigs and stinger type spoons. Between the island area the rock piles are holding some nice walleyes, best time is early morning and in the evening.

PERCH

Just north of the firing range markers and west of Green Island are still producing 7-8 inch average perch. Ballast Island, Gull and Kelley Reef, and east of the airport of Kelley's island are your best choices for perch around the island area. There is still a good supply of shinners in the area for perch. Remember, there are alot of young walleye being caught, so put them back with love, it's our future stock.

SMALLMOUTH

The action has been very good for bass around Pelee Island, Gull and Kelley's Reef area. The best water deep has been around 15' with craws and plastics being the top choice. There is still craws available at the bait shops as long as the weather stays mild. Within the next 2 weeks large shinners should be the choice of the bass.  If you are interested in bass, perch or walleye fishing for the balance of the fall, e-mail us or just give us a call we have special fall rates.

PERCH;

Due the the recent cold fronts and high winds both the perch and walleye have slowed down over the past week. The outlook for this upcoming week is very good. The best locations have been west of Green Island, east of Lucy Point, between Gull and Kelley's Reef, and just off the airport of Kelley's Island. Good size perch are coming in and as the water cools the perch should be better in catch and size. Remember since we have had high winds, look for clean water to start. Shinners have been in good supply over the past few weeks. Lastly, we have been catching alot of yearly walleye, so please be careful in releasing them, thank you.

WALLEYE:

Again, high winds and the cold fronts have slowed down the walleye over the past week. This week the fishing should pick up, but look for clean water to start. Both trolling and drifting have produced walleye. Best locations arre west of North Bass Island, north of the firing range cans, and off Gull and Kelley's reef area. As the water cools the night fishing should start around Kelley's Island. We only have a few week to run for the year and we still have some open dates. Also, we are gearing up for the upcoming ice season and we are booking charters.

WALLEYES

Walleyes are becoming very active on both sides of the island area. Both the trollers and drifters are catching nice eyes during the morning hours. Best locations are north of the range cans to west reef in the deep water. And north of Kelley's island just off the reef areas. Further east around the sandbar is producing nice eyes and steelhead. Further information on fishing and chartering a day contact us on our email.

PERCH

Great catches of perch are being caught using shinners and rigs. The big problem is the availablitiy of bait this time of year, get your bait early. Perch are being taken west of Green island and north of the range cans in deep water. Around Kelley's island and the Marblehead area. Further information on fishing and chartering a day at a special rate, contact us on our email.

WALLEYE:

The walleye have started to pick back up on both sides of the island area and the water temp. has started to drop for the upcming fall fishing. Walleye are being caught trolling using spoons on jets and dipsys. The drifters are not doing as well as the trollers on the west sides of the island area. The best areas to catch walleye is north of the range cans and west of North Bass island to G can. Going east of Kelley's Island both the drifters and trollers have been doing very well over the last 10 days. Large walleyes have been coming into the marina, as well as some limits. The best areas are in the 45' areas north of Huron area. The walleye fishing is just going to get better, and we still have some prime dates open.

PERCH:

The perch have been fantastic over the late month as long as mother nature helps. The best areas have been around the firing cans in deep water and west of Green Island and Rattlesnake Island. Spreaders and minnows have been the best bait for the perch. Around Kelley's Island also have been producing good size perch with the best areas are the airport area and the south side of the island. Lastly, the lighthouse and Cedar Point fog horn still are producing good catches of perch.

Perch:

Fishing has been very good for perch around the island area. Locations such as west of Green Island, Rattlesnake Island, the firing range bouys, and Balast Island are producing limits of perch in the deep waters. Using shinners and rigs are the best producers for perch. Around Kelleys Island and the reefs and the Lighthouse area are still giving up limits with size better than normal.

Walleye:

Walleye are still being caught around the reef areas north of Kelleys Island and just west of West Reef area in deep water. Early in the morning walleyes are being taken in the rocks and then just off the edge later in the morning. further west the walleye are being taken north of the firing range bouys. Walleye will start picking up since the water temp. is starting to go down.

WALLEYES:

Over the last week strong storms have slowed down the walleye fish in the western end of lake erie. Walleyes are still being caught between F and G cans on the canadian line and north of the firing lines in 30' of water. Both the drifters using casting rigs and the trollers usings spoons and jet divers were taking walleyes in those areas, but limits were limited to full days of hard fishing. Other areas, like Gull and Kelley shoal were still producing walleye early in the morning in the deep areas around the shoals. Across the line in Canada, walleyes are being taken north and south of the wagon wheel.

PERCH:

Perch are still doing well west of the island area and just east of Ballast Island. Nice perch are starting to be caught north of the Cedar foghorn and north of the Lighthouse. Best bait is shinners and spreaders.

SMALLMOUTH:

Bass fishing was slow last week due to the weather but with stable weather this week dthe fishing should pick up. The best depth has been 22' to 26' of water. Just off the rocks have been good for the bass. Both the U.S. and Canadian shoals are you best bet.

WALLEYE

Best areas this week is around the island area, on both sides of the island; from the Niagra buoy to the line and between the island from American Eage to the line. Using casting rigs and trolling spoons. Best time is early morning and just after 12 noon.

PERCH

Perch fishing has been very good with limits being taken just off Green island, Lighthouse, and Cedar Point foghorn. Best bait are shinners and bait shops have a good supply.

SMALLMOUTH

Bass has been doing very well over the last week, Best areas are the rock piles around the islands between 12' to 25'.  Softcraws and plastics baits are the main choice for the bass. 

WALLEYE:

Over the last week with strong winds and a northern cold front, walleye fishing has slowed up a little in the western end. The best news is that the mayflies may have finally finished and the walleye will again get focus on the fisherman. Walleyes are being taken just north of the range cans to the Canadian line. Both the trollers and drifters are taking the walleyes just off the bottom in 30' of water. Closer to the islands the rock piles are holding good size walleye with the early bite just after daybreak being the best time. Around Kelley's island walleyes are being taken on harnesses from 8' to 30' breaks on both the north and south side of the island.

BASS:

Last week was a great for the bass around the island area. Bass up to 21" were personnally caught in 12' to 16' breaks. Best areas were around Kelley's island and Gull reef. Good reports of bass were taken around the upper bass island areas. Soft craws and plastic baits were the main baits for the smallies.

PERCH:

Very good catches, including limits and size were being taking around the island area despite the cold front late last week. Best areas were just west of rattlesnake island and east of ballast island area. Also, Marblehead and Cedar Point fog horn areas are still producing nice perch. Best bait are shinners which are a little large at this time,so we're cutting them in holves for better effect.  All bait shops in the area have a good supply of bait on hand for bass and perch. If you want some great bass or perch fishin feel free in contacting me , the Canadian fishing is really getting hot for both bass and walleye, the license is $18.00 for one day.

Walleye:

Over the past week walleye fishing has been strong in three major areas of the western basin. Out west around the shipping channel and east towards west sister island, reports of limits of walleye were being taken by trollers using jet divers and stinger type spoons and the drifters were using casting harnesses with gold and purple blades.

Closer to the island area, anglers are taking limits of walleye north of the range cans to the Canadian boarder. Most of the fish are suspended at 20’ to 27’ in 30’ of water. The trollers were using 40 jets with stinger type spoons and dipsy divers with medium leads. The casters were using bottom bouncers and casting harnesses with gold and purple blades. A lot of the fish being caught were the 2003 and 2004 class of walleyes which make for a nice bag at the end of the trip.

Back towards the east around the dumping grounds and just north of Cedar Point, walleye limits have been taken in the 35’ to 40’ of water. Remember to take a lot of bait with you, because the white perch and sheephead are very active..

Perch:

Reports of limits of perch being taken off of Cedar Point and the area between Marblehead and Kelley’s Island. Spreaders and minnows are the ticket for catching this Lake Erie jewel. At this time local bait shops have a good supply of shinners, like Rickard’s Bait and Tackle, located on 269N.

Smallmouth Bass:

Well the season finally opened last Saturday, which means a sign of summer and that I will be in the Canadian waters a lot for the rest of the year. The one-day Canadian license this year is $18 u.s. and remember you need a I-68 and proper I.D. for you and the boat if you cross the line to fish. We still have several dates open to fish for smallmouth bass and we can be reached through our web-sight. The best rule of thumb for the bass is start in 12-15 foot of water, off the shoreline or rock piles. The best bait at this time are soft craws, large minnows, tubes, and drop shot type plastics. Remember, take a camera with you, catch and release is the ticket for these babies.

Lastly, we do offer partials during July and August and don’t forget to contact us for daily fishing updates.

Good Fishin’

Capt. Bob Hughey

Mrbass@lakeeriefishing911

NICE PERCH ARE BEING TAKEN WITH THE WALLEYE TO ADD TO A NICE BOX OF FISH AT THE END OF THE DAY. REPORTS OF LIMITS BEING TAKEN BY PERCH FISHERMEN OFF THE MARBLEHEAD LIGHTHOUSE AND CEDAR POINT FOGHORN. ALSO, THERE WERE COMMERCIAL NETTERS WORKING THEIR NETS FOR PERCH TWO MILES EAST OF THE NIAGRA BUOY. FRESH MINNOWS ARE THE TICKET AND THE LOCAL BAIT SHOPS LIKE RICKARD'S BAIT/TACKLE, LOCATED 269N, MARBLEHEAD HAVE A GOOD SUPPLY IN STOCK.

CLOSED SEASON UNTIL THE LAST WEEKEND IN JUNE IN CANADIAN AND U.S. WATERS ON LAKE ERIE. WE WILL START UPDATING PREPORTS ON BOTH WALLEYE AND BASS OFF OF PELEE ISLAND AS SOON AS THE WATER WARMS UP JUNE AND THE CATCHING STARTS. RIGHT NOW THE FISHING HAS BEEN SO GOOD ON THE U.S. SIDE THAT THERE IS NO REASON TO CROSS THE LINE INTO CANADA.

FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME ON THE DAILY UPDATED ON FISHING INFORMATION AND
OPEN CHARTER DATES AT WWW.MRBASS@LRBCG.COM OR VISIT OUR WEB SIGHT,
WWW.LAKEERIEFISHING911.COM. WE STILL HAVE OPEN DATES IN JUNE AND JULY.
UNTIL NEXT WEEK, HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND AND GOOD FISHIN'.

CAPT BOB HUGHEY
FISHIN FUL CHARTERS

OVER THE LAST WEEK BOATS HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING A LARGE SCHOOL OF WALLEYES FROM   WEST OF GREEN ISLAND INTO THE SOUTH PASSAGE. WALLEYES ARE BEING TAKEN IN THE   SHALLOW WATERS OF THE SHORELINE AND ROCK PILES TO THE DEPTHS OF 30 FEET. THE   WATER IS STAINED BUT GOOD FROM THE REEFS THRU THE PASSAGE. BOTH THE TROLLERS   AND DRIFTERS ARE TAKING NICE LIMITS OF THE 2003 CLASS WALLEYE WITH A FEW OF   THE 1998 CLASS WALLEYE INCLUDED TO MAKE UP A NICE MIXED COOLER. LAST WEEK THE   TROLLERS WERE GETTING QUICK CATCHES USING COPPER AND GOLD COLOR STINGERS AND   LONG SOLID BAITS. WHILE THE DRIFTERS WERE LIMITING OUT ON 2-3 OZ BOTTOM   BOUNCERS WITH SILVER/BLUE AND GOLD BLADES AND 3/4-1 OZ LONG LINES WITH GOLD   BLADE HARNESSES.

 NOW THAT THE WATER IS IN THE 50'S WE ARE STARTING TO   CATCH WHITE PERCH AND SHEEPHEAD, SO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH BAIT ON BOARD   BEFORE YOU GO OUT. FURTHER WEST IN THE REEF AREA THE TOP PRODUCERS ARE CRIB,   NIAGRA, AND LOCUST COMPLEX TO L CAN. THE WATER EAST OF THE REEFS AND NORTH OF   THE FIRING CANS ARE HOLDING ANOTHER LARGE SCHOOL OF WALLEYES. SEVERAL OF   THE PARTY BOATS AND CHARTERS HAVE BEEN LIMITING IN THAT DEEP WATER   USING WEIGHT FORWARDS AND GOLD HARNESSES. THE TROLLERS HAVE BEEN DOING   WELL OUTSIDE THE BOATS, 1-2 MILES NORTH OF THE NIAGRA CAN. REMEMBER,   THAT SCHOOL OF WALLEYES WERE JUST IN THE SHALLOW REEFS LAST MONTH AND THEY   WILL MOVE QUICKLY WITH FISHING PRESSURE.