Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing around Lake Michigan, particularly in and around Chicago. As of today, February 9, 2025, here’s what you need to know to make your fishing trip a success.

### Weather and Ice Conditions
The recent cold snap has continued to solidify the ice on many of Lake Michigan's harbors and piers. However, it's crucial to be cautious as ice conditions can change rapidly. Areas like Geano Beach and Long Tail Point in Wisconsin have seen increased ice thickness, allowing anglers to venture further offshore with ATVs and UTVs. Always check the ice thickness before heading out.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Today, sunrise is at around 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:52 PM. These times are vital for planning your fishing trip, especially if you're targeting species that are more active during these periods.

### Fish Activity
In the Chicago area, Montrose Harbor and Navy Pier remain some of the best spots despite the cold weather. At Montrose Harbor, anglers have been catching perch and pike from the pier. For those venturing out on the ice, yellow perch have been the main target. In areas like Suamico and Hook Road in Wisconsin, perch fishing has been good, especially during the week when temperatures stabilize. Anglers are reporting catches of 5 to 15 inches in size.

### Best Lures and Bait
For perch, minnows are the way to go. Small jigging raps have also been effective for catching walleyes and whitefish in the Fox River area. If you're targeting pike, tip-ups with minnows are a good choice. At Navy Pier, beginners have been having success with simple bait setups for perch.

### Hot Spots
- **Montrose Harbor**: This is a must-visit for any angler in Chicago. The harbor offers a variety of catches, including perch, pike, and even salmon and trout if you hop on a charter boat. The pier fishing here is excellent, and the backdrop of the Chicago skyline makes it a unique experience.
- **Navy Pier**: Perfect for beginners and families, Navy Pier is thriving with perch. You can fish on foot here and fill your cooler with a day's catch. It's an ideal spot to introduce kids to fishing.

### Additional Tips
Always check the local bait shops and marinas for the latest information on ice conditions and fishing activity. Be respectful of private property and other anglers, especially in areas like the Lake Michigan tributaries which are partially iced over.

Stay safe, and tight lines If you have any more questions or need further tips, feel free to reach out. Happy fishing