As of November 21, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene around Lake Erie and the Detroit River:

First off, let's talk about the weather and tidal conditions. Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit. The winds are moderate, coming in from the northwest at about 10-15 mph. Sunrise was at around 7:30 AM, and sunset will be around 4:50 PM. Tides in the Detroit River are relatively stable, with a low tide at 9:30 AM and a high tide at 3:30 PM.

Fish activity has been moderate, especially with the recent warmer temperatures. Anglers have been reporting catches of smallmouth bass, walleye, and perch. Yesterday saw a decent number of walleye being caught, particularly in the Western and Central basins of Lake Erie. Smallmouth bass are also active, especially near structure like rocks and drop-offs. Perch fishing has been consistent, with many anglers targeting them in the shallower waters.

For walleye, the best lures to use right now include jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers, as well as crankbaits that mimic baitfish. For smallmouth bass, soft plastics like curly tail grubs and crankbaits are working well. Perch are biting on small jigs with maggots or tiny minnows.

Some hot spots to consider include the Detroit River itself, particularly around the Ambassador Bridge and the Trenton Channel. On Lake Erie, the Western Basin near the Ohio-Michigan border has been producing good walleye catches. Another spot is the area around Pelee Island, where the structure and drop-offs are attracting both bass and walleye.

Remember to check your local bait shops for the latest tips and to ensure you have the right gear for the conditions. Good luck out there, and stay warm