Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing in and around Lake Michigan, particularly in the Chicago area. As of today, February 8, 2025, here’s what you need to know to make your fishing trip a success.

### Weather and Conditions
The weather today is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from the mid-teens to low twenties Fahrenheit. This cold snap has been ideal for ice fishing, but be sure to dress warmly in layers and follow all ice safety guidelines. The wind is moderate, which might affect ice conditions, so be cautious and check the ice frequently.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:55 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trip, especially if you're targeting species that are more active during these periods.

### Fish Activity
Recently, the fishing on Lake Michigan around Chicago has been quite active, especially for ice fishing. Here are some highlights from the latest reports:

- **Yellow Perch**: These have been a staple catch in many areas. At spots like Long Tail Point and Suamico, anglers have reported catching perch ranging from 5 to 15 inches. Minnows have been working exceptionally well[1].
- **Lake Whitefish**: Anglers on the East Shore of Green Bay have been targeting lake whitefish, though the bite has been challenging. Some success was reported off Bayshore County Park and Red River County Park[1].
- **Walleyes and Whitefish**: In the Fox River area, anglers have had success catching walleyes and whitefish using small jigging raps near the edge of the main river channel[1].

### Best Lures and Bait
For yellow perch, minnows are the way to go. Small jigging raps and tiny spoons tipped with wax worms or maggots can also be very effective. For walleyes and whitefish, those small jigging raps mentioned earlier are a good choice. If you're after lake whitefish, try using small jigs or tiny spoons with a slow presentation.

### Hot Spots
Here are a couple of hot spots you should consider:

- **Montrose Harbor**: Located right on Lake Michigan in the heart of Chicago, this harbor is great for catching perch and pike from the pier. If you're looking to target salmon and steelhead, hop on one of the charter boats docked here[3].
- **Navy Pier**: This spot is perfect for beginners and families. The thriving perch population here makes it an excellent place to introduce kids to fishing. You can fish from the pier and fill your cooler with ease[3].

### Tidal Report
While Lake Michigan is not a tidal body of water, understanding the wind and wave patterns is crucial. Currently, the moderate winds are causing some wave action, which might affect ice conditions in certain areas.

### Safety Reminder
Always remember, there is no such thing as safe ice. Be extremely cautious, carry basic safety gear like ice claws or picks, a cellphone in a waterproof case, a life jacket, and a length of rope. Never go alone and ensure someone knows your whereabouts and expected return time[1].

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