Episodes

  • Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan's Chicago Shores

    Fall Fishing Frenzy on Lake Michigan's Chicago Shores
    Nov 7 2024
    As of November 7, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan, particularly around Chicago, is quite active despite the cooler weather. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The water temperature has dropped quickly into the upper 50s, which has made the fish more active. Expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58°F and a low of 45°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 15 mph.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:33 AM, and sunset is at 4:33 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 lake levels are relatively stable.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, especially in the harbors and piers. Anglers reported catching several king salmon, with some weighing up to 16 pounds. Steelhead are also starting to show up, particularly at Diversey Harbor, where they are being caught on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.

    ### Types of Fish and Catch
    - **King Salmon**: Active in the harbors, especially DuSable and Burnham. Several were caught and weighed over the weekend.
    - **Steelhead**: Starting to appear, with catches reported at Diversey Harbor.
    - **Trout**: Still being caught in and around the harbors and piers.
    - **Smallmouth Bass**: Though less active due to cooler waters, they can still be targeted in shallower areas.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For king salmon, spoons, deep diving crankbaits, and egg skein have been effective. For steelhead, hair/marabou jigs and wax worms are working well. For trout, spoons and deep diving crankbaits are good choices.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Great spot for catching steelhead on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.
    - **DuSable and Burnham Harbors**: These areas have been productive for king salmon and trout.
    - **Montrose Harbor**: Another good spot for catching a variety of species, including salmon and trout.

    Overall, the cooler water temperatures have made the fish more active, and with the right lures and bait, you can have a successful day on Lake Michigan. Just remember to check the local bait shops for the most up-to-date information and to always wear your life vest.
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    3 mins
  • Windy Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan - Lure Up for Trout, Steelhead, and Bass

    Windy Fall Fishing on Lake Michigan - Lure Up for Trout, Steelhead, and Bass
    Nov 3 2024
    As of November 3, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area is quite active despite the cooler weather. 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 a high of around 55°F and a low of 45°F. Winds are moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Sunrise is at 6:34 AM, and sunset is at 4:43 PM. Tidal changes are minimal on Lake Michigan, but water levels are slightly lower due to recent winds.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for lake trout, steelhead, and smallmouth bass. Lake trout are still active near breakwalls and structure, such as the Port of Indiana area, Michigan City breakwall, Gary Light, and East Chicago breakwalls. Steelhead are starting to move into the lower parts of tributaries like Trail Creek and Burns Ditch.

    ### Catches
    Anglers reported catching several lake trout using spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits. Steelhead were caught on spinners, flies, beads, and single eggs. Smallmouth bass action has been good, especially in deeper and slower wintering areas, with soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait being effective.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For lake trout, spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits are recommended. For steelhead, spinners, flies, beads, and single eggs are working well. Smallmouth bass are biting on soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Michigan City Breakwall**: A great spot for targeting lake trout and steelhead.
    - **Montrose Harbor**: Known for its smallmouth bass and occasional steelhead catches.
    - **Trail Creek**: Though fishing has been slow, it's a good spot for steelhead and a few salmon.

    Remember to keep an eye on lake temperatures using the buoys and stream temperatures with the USGS stream flow gauges to optimize your fishing experience. Always pack out your trash and wear your life vests. Enjoy your time on the water
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    2 mins
  • "Reel in the Catch: Successful Fishing on Lake Michigan in Windy City"

    "Reel in the Catch: Successful Fishing on Lake Michigan in Windy City"
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in Chicago is quite active, despite the cooler weather. 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 55°F and a low of 45°F. Winds are moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10 mph. Sunrise was at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 4:43 PM. The water temperature has dropped into the upper 50s, which has made the fish more active.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a good number of salmon and trout being caught in and around the harbors and piers. King salmon, in particular, were active, with several reported catches at DuSable and Burnham harbors. Steelhead are also starting to show up, especially at Diversey Harbor, where they are being caught on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    King salmon were the highlight, with some weighing up to 16 pounds. Trout, including brown trout, were also caught in decent numbers. Smallmouth bass are still active, especially in the downtown Chicago area, and can be found near structure like breakwalls and piers.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For king salmon, using egg skein, spoons, and deep diving crankbaits has been effective. Steelhead are biting on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms. For smallmouth bass, soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait are working well.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This area has been producing a mix of salmon, trout, and smallmouth bass. The drop-offs and structure around the harbor are ideal spots.
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Known for its steelhead catches, especially on hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.
    - **DuSable and Burnham Harbors**: These harbors have seen a good number of king salmon catches recently.

    Overall, the cooler water temperatures have made the fish more active, and with the right lures and bait, you should have a productive day on Lake Michigan in Chicago.
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    2 mins
  • Lake Michigan Fishing Report: Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead Abound Near Chicago

    Lake Michigan Fishing Report: Salmon, Trout, and Steelhead Abound Near Chicago
    Nov 1 2024
    As of November 1, 2024, here’s the latest fishing report for Lake Michigan, particularly around the Chicago area.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 15 mph. Sunrise is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:43 PM. The water temperature has dropped significantly, now in the upper 50s, which is ideal for many species.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, especially around the harbors and piers. Salmon and trout are still active, with several kings and cohos caught in the harbors such as DuSable and Burnham. Steelhead are starting to show up, particularly at Diversey Harbor, where anglers have been successful using hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching a few kings, with the largest weighing around 16 pounds. Steelhead and cohos are also being caught, although in smaller numbers. Whitefish have been caught on the bottom using skein and single eggs. Smallmouth bass action has been good, especially in the shallower areas near weed edges, using soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For salmon and trout, spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits have been effective. For steelhead, hair/marabou jigs and wax worms are recommended. Whitefish can be caught using skein and single eggs on the bottom. Smallmouth bass are biting on soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This has been a hot spot for catching salmon, trout, and steelhead. The structure around the harbor provides a good habitat for these species.
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Known for its steelhead catches, especially when using hair/marabou jigs and wax worms.
    - **DuSable and Burnham Harbors**: These areas have seen a lot of salmon activity, making them great spots to try your luck.

    Remember to check the local buoy reports for real-time information on wind, waves, and water temperatures, which can significantly affect fishing conditions. Enjoy your day on the water
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Dynamic Lake Michigan Near Chicago on October 31, 2024

    Fishing the Dynamic Lake Michigan Near Chicago on October 31, 2024
    Oct 31 2024
    As of October 31, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan near Chicago is quite dynamic, given the current weather and water conditions.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 15 mph. The water temperature is in the lower 60s, which is typical for this time of year.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw moderate fishing activity despite the windy conditions. Anglers targeting yellow perch had some success, particularly near Bayshore Park and Vincent’s Point, where they used live nightcrawlers and minnows. Some boating anglers reported catching decent numbers of yellow perch and a few northern pike in areas like Sawyer Harbor.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Yellow perch were the most common catch, with some anglers reporting up to 60 perch in a single outing. Northern pike were also caught, though in smaller numbers. There were some reports of smallmouth bass and freshwater drum/sheepshead, but walleye and musky catches were scarce due to the windy conditions.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For yellow perch, live nightcrawlers and minnows have been the most effective bait. For those targeting smallmouth bass, crankbaits and jigs have shown promise. If you're after northern pike, using spoons or larger minnows could increase your chances.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Bayshore Park**: This area has seen good success for yellow perch fishing, especially just north of the park.
    - **Sawyer Harbor**: Anglers here reported catching yellow perch and northern pike, making it a good spot to try your luck.
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This harbor has been known for its smallmouth bass and yellow perch fishing, especially during the fall season.

    Remember to check the local bait shops or charter captains for the most up-to-date information, as conditions can change quickly on Lake Michigan. Also, ensure you have all the necessary gear and a valid fishing license before you head out.
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    3 mins
  • Autumn Fishing on Lake Michigan: A Promising Catch Near Chicago

    Autumn Fishing on Lake Michigan: A Promising Catch Near Chicago
    Oct 27 2024
    As of October 27, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan near Chicago is looking promising despite the autumn chill. 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 a high of around 55°F and a low of 45°F. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northeast at about 10-15 mph. Lake Michigan's water temperature is dropping, currently in the mid-50s, which is ideal for several species.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset will be at 5:47 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for steelhead, coho salmon, and lake trout. Steelhead have been active near the piers, especially the south pier near the second ladder in Frankfort, where fresh spawn has been working well.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Anglers caught a few steelhead, coho salmon, and the occasional Atlantic salmon. Steelhead were plentiful off the north and south piers, with better numbers and limits coming from the south pier. Coho salmon were also reported, although their run seems to be slowing down.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For steelhead, using fresh spawn, beads, and single eggs on the bottom has been productive. Spinners, Cleos, and still fishing with these baits have also yielded results. For coho and Atlantic salmon, casting spoons, spinners, and using skein and beads while bottom bouncing have been effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This area has been good for coho salmon, especially near the power lines.
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Shore fishing here has produced salmon, and it's a good spot to try your luck.
    - **The Piers**: The south pier near the second ladder in Frankfort is a hot spot for steelhead.

    Overall, the autumn bite on Lake Michigan near Chicago is shaping up to be quite promising. Make sure to dress warmly and take advantage of the morning and evening bites for the best results.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing Lake Michigan: Promising Autumn Bite Near Chicago

    Fishing Lake Michigan: Promising Autumn Bite Near Chicago
    Oct 26 2024
    As of October 26, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan near Chicago is looking promising, despite the autumn chill. 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 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. Winds are moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10 mph. Tides are not a significant factor on Lake Michigan, but the water levels are currently stable.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset is at 5:53 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for lake trout, salmon, and smallmouth bass. Lake trout have been active near deeper waters, while salmon are moving into the harbors and shorelines as part of their fall run. Smallmouth bass are still active in the shallower areas, especially around downtown Chicago.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching a mix of species yesterday. Lake trout were caught in deeper waters, with some anglers reporting up to 5 trout per trip. Salmon, including Chinook and Coho, were caught in the harbors and along the shore, with several anglers reporting multiple catches. Smallmouth bass were plentiful, especially in areas like Montrose Harbor and the Chicago River mouth.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For lake trout, use deep-diving crankbaits or spoons. For salmon, egg sacs and casting spoons are effective, especially in the Milwaukee River and other tributaries. Smallmouth bass are biting well on crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Montrose Harbor**: This spot has been hot for smallmouth bass and occasional salmon catches.
    - **Diversey Harbor**: Known for its shore fishing, this area is good for catching salmon and smallmouth bass.
    - **Chicago River Mouth**: This area is a hotspot for smallmouth bass and can also yield some salmon.

    Overall, the fall bite on Lake Michigan's Chicago shores is in full swing, offering a variety of species and exciting fishing opportunities. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the changing weather conditions. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Fish the Fall Bite on Lake Michigan's Chicago Shores

    Fish the Fall Bite on Lake Michigan's Chicago Shores
    Oct 25 2024
    As of October 25, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan near Chicago is looking promising despite the autumn chill. 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 a high of around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 45 degrees. Winds will be moderate, coming from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Tides are not a significant factor on Lake Michigan, but water levels and wave conditions are important. Expect wave heights of 2-4 feet.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 7:14 AM, and sunset will be at 5:47 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw decent catches across various species. Anglers reported catching a mix of yellow perch, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The salmon run is still active, with some kings and cohos being caught, particularly in the tributaries and near breakwalls.

    **Catches:**
    In the Chicago area, boating anglers caught moderate numbers of yellow perch, often in depths of 15-25 feet using live nightcrawlers and minnows. Northern pike were also common, with some catches reported near the breakwalls and structure areas. Shore anglers had success with smallmouth bass, especially in areas like Montrose Harbor and the Chicago River.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For yellow perch, live nightcrawlers and minnows are highly effective. Northern pike are being caught on spoons, blade baits, and deep diving crankbaits. For salmon, egg sacs and casting spoons are working well in the tributaries. Smallmouth bass are biting on soft plastics, jerkbaits, and live bait.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Montrose Harbor:** Known for its smallmouth bass and yellow perch, this spot is particularly good for shore anglers.
    - **Chicago River:** Offers good catches of smallmouth bass and occasional northern pike.
    - **Breakwalls and Structure Areas:** Places like the Michigan City breakwall and the Gary Light are good for targeting lake trout and northern pike.

    Overall, it's a good time to get out on the water, especially if you're targeting perch, pike, and smallmouth bass. Keep an eye on the weather and adjust your tactics accordingly. Happy fishing
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    3 mins