How to Fish Lake St Clair: Best Patterns & Techniques

Lake St Clair

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 12, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Lake St Clair

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	38-59	Staging near deep-to-shallow transitions, actively feeding as water temperatures rise from 38-55°F Moving into shallower areas (6-12 feet) during warming trends, particularly around hard structure Feeding more aggressively during midday when water temperatures peak	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-12 feet of water Mile roads with shallow wood and laydowns in 6-9 feet Marina rip rap and steel barriers where bait is present	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses in deeper water Tubes dragged slowly through rock fields Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked near bottom Blade Baits around steel barriers and structure	Perch Shad Alewife	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	38-55	Bass are transitioning from winter areas to pre-spawn staging areas, becoming increasingly active as water temperatures rise from high 30s to mid-50s Fish are showing more aggressive feeding behavior but remain somewhat lethargic, hitting baits on pause or with slower retrieves Movement patterns indicate fish utilizing shallow protected areas like marshes and canals for warmth while maintaining access to deeper water	Protected marsh areas and canals with 2-4 feet of water depth Docks and seawalls in 3-4 feet of water Brush piles in protected areas Reed lines along shorelines	Hard Jerkbaits worked with long pauses Spinnerbaits with tandem blades retrieved slowly Structure Jigs skipped under docks Bladed Jigs with varied retrieve speeds	Bluegill in shallow protected areas Minnows along shoreline areas Crawfish becoming active near structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	37-40	Pre-spawn walleye are actively staging in mid-depth areas (14-16 FOW) and beginning their migration towards spawning areas as water temperatures rise through the upper 30s Fish are showing increased feeding activity but maintaining slower movements, as evidenced by successful trolling speeds of 1.1-1.3 SOG	Mid-depth basin areas in 14-16 feet of water River channels and river mouths serving as migration routes Protected bays with slightly warmer water temperatures	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with deep diving bandits at 1.1-1.3 SOG Structure Jigs worked slowly along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in areas where fish are concentrated	Perch - multiple reports indicate perch as primary forage Minnows - mentioned in river system reports	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	42-52	Perch are actively schooling in pre-spawn patterns, congregating near Mitchell's Bay and following baitfish schools Fish are showing typical pre-spawn transitional behavior, moving between deeper basin areas and shallower spawning zones	Open water basin areas near XE2 marker in Mitchell's Bay Sand flats with patchy vegetation in 20' depth Transitional areas between deep basin and shallow spawning bays	Live Bait Rigs with minnows, worked slowly along bottom Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with small jigs tipped with minnows Ice Fishing Jigs (still effective in early spring for suspended perch)	Minnows (primary forage confirmed by reports) Small invertebrates in sandy bottom areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	45-58	Pre-spawn muskies are beginning to move from winter deep-water haunts to transitional areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are starting to feed more aggressively to build energy reserves for spawning, often targeting congregating baitfish in predictable locations	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation adjacent to deep-water access River channel edges where pre-spawn staging occurs Points and inside turns near spawning bays where baitfish concentrate	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along transition areas Hard Jerkbaits with extended pauses near structure Inline Spinners retrieved steadily in warmer shallow areas	Yellow Perch congregating in pre-spawn areas Suckers moving into spawning areas Shad schools in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	48-62	Pre-spawn crappie actively moving from deeper wintering areas to staging areas near shallow spawning flats, particularly around bay mouths Fish becoming more active with warming temperatures, feeding opportunistically on small prey while preparing for spawn	Mouths of bays with access to large shallow flats Areas with submerged vegetation near spawning flats Protected coves with brush piles in 8-15 feet of water	Bobbers with suspended jigs (1/8 or 3/16 oz) and small plastics Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) to locate active fish Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) once fish are located	Small insects and emerging larvae Small minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Pre-spawn pike are actively moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning grounds, following warming water temperatures and increasing daylight Fish are aggressive and feeding heavily to prepare for spawning, targeting larger prey items in transition areas	Protected bays and canals with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning grounds Areas near river channels and inlets where warmer water first enters the system	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly through transition areas Spinnerbaits retrieved with varied speeds near emerging vegetation Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses in slightly deeper water	Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas Winter-stressed baitfish in warming shallows Smaller pike and other gamefish in transition areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-55	Pre-spawn sturgeon are actively moving from deeper wintering areas to staging areas near spawning sites, particularly around river mouths and current-swept areas Fish are becoming more active with warming water temperatures, feeding heavily on bottom-dwelling organisms to build energy reserves for spawning	River mouths and channel areas with current flow Transition areas between grass and sand in 12-17ft Rock piles and boulder fields near spawning routes	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) along migration routes Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in staging areas	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bottom-dwelling invertebrates Small perch and minnows near bottom structure	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	38-52	Lake Trout actively moving to shallow, rocky areas (15-30 feet) as water temperatures warm, feeding aggressively pre-spawn Fish transitioning between winter deep water refuges and spawning areas, following baitfish schools and utilizing structure	Rocky points and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range Transitional areas between deep basins and shallow structure Submerged vegetation edges in 12-17 foot range where baitfish gather	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent speed along structure edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over marked fish Spoons worked through baitfish schools	Perch schools gathering near structure Various baitfish (minnows, shad, alewife) in transitional areas Smaller Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	53-68	Transitioning through spawn phases with fish moving from pre-spawn to post-spawn, actively feeding in 3-8 feet of water near hard bottom areas Most aggressive during stable weather, becoming more selective during cold fronts and preferring slower presentations	Rock piles and boulder fields in 4-8 feet of water Protected basins with grass patches and sandy transitions Hard bottom areas near shallow flats with emerging vegetation	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with varied retrieve speeds Tubes dragged along bottom on hard structure Drop Shot with finesse presentations in clear water	Minnows schooling in shallow water Crawfish active on hard bottom areas Alewife moving through staging areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-65	Fish are actively spawning and protecting beds in shallow protected areas, especially in warmer pockets of back channels and coves Males guarding nests while females stage on nearby deeper structure between spawning phases Most active during stable weather periods with feeding increasing around shoreline structure	Protected back channels and coves with warmer water Seawalls and dock pilings in 8-10 foot depth range Shallow matted grass areas near spawning flats	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around visible beds and structure Ned Rigs cast to seawalls and dock pilings Soft Jerkbaits with slow retrieve parallel to shoreline structure	Shad moving into spawning areas Bluegill beginning to stage in shallow areas Young of year perch in protected bays	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	37-48	Pre-spawn to spawning walleye are transitioning from deep wintering areas to shallow spawning grounds, actively feeding during low light periods Fish are staging on mid-depth structural elements like humps before moving shallow, particularly active in 14-16 foot depth range	Mid-depth humps in 14-16 foot range serving as pre-spawn staging areas River channel edges and migration routes leading to spawning areas Shallow gravel or rock areas near deeper water for active spawners	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Trolling Mid Depth (10-19')	Minnows Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	42-52	Perch are moving from deeper wintering areas to shallow spawning zones, staging in pre-spawn locations around sand flats with vegetation Schools are becoming more concentrated as fish gather for spawning, with frequent movement between staging and spawning areas	Sand flats with small weed tufts in 8-12 feet of water for staging areas Protected shallow bays with sandy bottom in 3-5 feet for spawning Transition areas between deeper flats and spawning bays	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows worked slowly along sand-weed transitions Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with light jigs tipped with soft plastics Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to depth changes	Small minnows concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas Aquatic insects emerging in warming shallows Young of year baitfish in protected bays	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	48-65	During spring spawn, muskie are transitioning from winter patterns to shallow spawning locations, becoming more active but not yet in peak feeding mode Fish are moving into warmer bays and shallow flats where water temperatures warm first, particularly around emerging vegetation	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water Protected spawning flats adjacent to deeper water River channel mouths and incoming creek areas with warmer water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly near spawning areas Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses around emerging vegetation Spinnerbaits worked just above developing weed growth	Yellow Perch gathering in spawning areas Smaller panfish in warming shallow bays Suckers moving into spawning areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Warm Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	52-68	Crappie are moving from winter depths to shallow spawning areas, staging in pre-spawn locations near the mouths of bays Fish are becoming increasingly active, feeding heavily on insects and small baitfish to prepare for spawning Males will begin creating and guarding nests in protected shallow areas, while females stage slightly deeper	Protected shallow bays with brush piles and submerged vegetation Mouths of bays with transitional depth changes Boat dock areas in 6-12 feet of water	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Dock Shooting Bobbers	Insects, particularly early spring hatches Small minnows and young-of-year perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-52	Staging in shallow bays and connected waterways (2-8 feet) for spawning, particularly active during early morning and evening hours Post-spawn females moving to adjacent deeper structures to recover while males guard nests Aggressive territorial behavior, especially around spawning areas and structure	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation Canal entrances and river channel connections Secondary points adjacent to spawning bays	Spinnerbaits worked slowly through shallow spawning areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) with steady retrieves parallel to spawning areas Inline Spinners for aggressive reaction strikes	Perch gathering in shallow spawning areas Small pike and suckers in canals and protected areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	42-55	Sturgeon are congregating in river mouths and current areas for spawning, making repetitive movements between staging and spawning areas Fish are more active during daylight hours, focusing on hard-bottom areas with good current flow for spawning activity	River mouths and channels with current influence from St. Clair River Rocky areas and boulder fields in 12-17 foot transitions Hard-bottom flats adjacent to deeper staging areas	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with heavy jigs in current seams	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small fish in current areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	42-52	Lake Trout actively moving into shallower rocky areas and points for spawning, typically most active during early morning and late evening Fish are transitioning from winter deep-water patterns to spawning locations, following temperature-dependent movements	Rocky points and boulder areas in 8-15 foot depth range Transition areas near deep basins with access to spawning structure Submerged vegetation edges in 12-17 foot range serving as staging areas	Trolling Shallow (0-9') with consistent speed along spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') when fish are spotted on structure Spoons worked slowly through transition areas	Perch in the 3-5 inch range Various minnow species near rocky structure Shad and alewife in open water areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	61-68	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively transitioning to deeper summer patterns, dispersing from spawning areas to feeding locations along weedlines and rock piles Fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior but may be scattered, requiring thorough coverage of likely areas	Rock piles and isolated boulders in 12-14 feet of water Weedlines adjacent to deeper water Transition areas between grass and sand in moderate depths	Drop Shot targeting isolated rock piles and submerged structure Tubes dragged slowly along bottom structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) slow rolled in deeper water	Crawfish actively moving on rocky structure Perch relating to grass beds	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	60-68	Post-spawn largemouth are actively feeding to recover energy, especially during early morning and around mayfly hatches as evidenced by recent reports Fish are holding tight to cover (docks, pilings, weedlines) in 2-4 foot depths, moving between feeding stations during prime periods	Docks and seawalls in protected areas, especially in canals during windy conditions Weedline edges adjacent to hard structure like pilings Protected shallow bays where mayfly hatches are concentrated	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around visible structure Ned Rigs between weedlines and along hard structure Soft Jerkbaits during active feeding periods	Insects (particularly mayflies during hatches) Minnows in and around structure Bluegill and perch holding in similar areas	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-58	Post-spawn walleye are transitioning to main lake feeding patterns, actively pursuing baitfish in open water areas like the reported '240 hole' Fish are showing preference for slow-moving presentations (1.2 mph trolling speed) indicating they're still recovering from spawn but actively feeding	Mid-lake basins and deep holes (like the '240 hole' mentioned in reports) Transition areas between spawning bays and main lake points Open water areas with suspended baitfish schools	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent 1.2 mph speed Inline Spinners worked through suspended fish Live Bait Rigs with minnows for more neutral fish	Minnows as indicated in recent fishing reports Perch (noted as frequent forage in lake profile) Other small baitfish in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	48-62	Post-spawn perch actively feeding and beginning to form loose schools, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer locations Fish moving between shallow flats (3-5') and moderate depths (15-20') following optimal temperature zones and baitfish schools	Sand flats with patchy vegetation in 15-20' of water Transition areas between shallow bays and deeper flats Mitchell's Bay area with optimal depth transitions	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Drop Shot	Small minnows Emerging aquatic insects	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	58-68	Post-spawn muskies are beginning to actively feed again, but still recovering energy. They're moving from spawning areas to early-season feeding locations, often relating to emerging weed growth and concentrations of yellow perch. Fish are establishing predictable patrol routes along weed edges and points, making multiple passes throughout the day as they hunt	Emerging weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range, especially those adjacent to spawning bays Points and secondary points with developing vegetation Shallow flats with scattered vegetation patches where perch gather	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along weed edges Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses to trigger reaction strikes Spinnerbaits worked through and over emerging vegetation	Yellow Perch congregating around new weed growth Suckers recovering from their own spawn Small panfish beginning to move shallow	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappies are transitioning to deeper water and suspending near structure, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are schooling and following baitfish movements, with peak feeding during early morning and evening hours	Boat docks in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water Brush piles and submerged vegetation on secondary points Suspended over deeper water near the mouths of bays	Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Small minnows and shad Insects, particularly emerging aquatic insects Young-of-year perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	58-68	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on abundant forage near river channels and vegetation edges Fish are holding in moderate depths with access to both shallow and deep water, showing increased activity in 64-66°F range	River channel mouths and connected waterways where pike stage post-spawn Emerging weed edges in 14-22 feet of water Protected bays with developing vegetation near deeper water access	Bladed Jigs worked along channel edges and through emerging vegetation Spinnerbaits retrieved at moderate speeds parallel to structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through transitional areas	Crappie schooling in post-spawn areas Perch relating to emerging vegetation Various baitfish utilizing river channels	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	48-62	Post-spawn sturgeon are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on bottom-dwelling organisms in areas with current Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to deeper summer feeding grounds, often following channel edges and bottom contours	River mouth areas and channels with current where depth transitions occur Rocky areas and boulder fields in 15-25 feet of water Transition zones between grass and sand in 12-17 feet	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near channel edges and deep structure Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) worked slowly along bottom in feeding areas	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas Bottom-dwelling minnows and small fish Aquatic invertebrates in weed edges	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	42-58	Lake Trout becoming more active in shallow to mid-depth zones (15-30 feet) due to post-spawn recovery and warming water temperatures Actively feeding on perch and baitfish near rock piles and weed edge transitions as they replenish energy	Rock piles and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range Weed edges and transition zones in 12-17 foot depth range Points and irregular shoreline structures where shallow meets deep water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent speed along structure edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over rock piles Spoons worked methodically through identified feeding zones	Perch congregating near rocky structure and weed edges Various baitfish (minnows, shad, alewife) in transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	66-76	Actively feeding on perch and minnows in and around submerged vegetation, with fish moving between deep grass beds (15-22ft) and shallow flats (4-8ft) depending on time of day Schooling behavior evident, particularly around bait concentrations, with fish following perch schools and relating to grass-to-sand transitions	Deep grass beds in 15-22 feet of water, especially where grass meets sand transitions Shallow grass flats in 4-8 feet during lower light periods Isolated grass patches and humps in 12-17 foot range	Drop Shot with soft plastics, working edges of grass beds Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with 1/4oz heads for covering water Spybaits for pressured fish in clear water conditions	Perch concentrating in and around grass beds Minnows congregating near vegetation edges and transitions	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	68-72	Largemouth bass are actively feeding during early morning hours, ambushing baitfish around docks and seawalls Fish become less active during midday heat, retreating to shaded areas and deeper structure Bass are primarily targeting minnows and perch, with focused feeding in areas where bait gets cornered	Docks and seawalls, especially corners and shadow lines Submerged weed edges in 8-12 foot range Protected areas where river enters the lake	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around dock corners and shadows Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) over submerged weed tops Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for precise presentations in tight cover	Minnows Perch Bluegill	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	65-78	Actively feeding on perch along structural elements, with increased activity during low-light periods due to moderate water clarity Transitioning between structure and open water following bait movements, utilizing points as primary feeding stations	Main lake points with access to deeper water Open water areas adjacent to structural elements Mid-depth flats near points with perch activity	Live Bait Rigs worked along point breaks and structure edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with crawler harnesses or crankbaits Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') during prime feeding periods	Perch - primary forage based on recent reports Baitfish schools in open water areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	65-78	Schools actively feeding in early morning and evening, relating to sand flats with vegetation patches in 15-25' range Moving between deeper water during midday heat and shallower areas during low light periods	Sand flats with scattered weed tufts in 20' of water Mitchell's Bay area transitions and vegetation edges Offshore structure near deep-to-shallow transitions	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Drop Shot Live Bait Rigs	Minnows Small invertebrates near weed growth	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Muskie	71-76	Muskies are actively feeding around vegetation edges and open water areas, often ambushing prey fish like perch and alewives in 15-20ft depth ranges Showing opportunistic feeding behavior, striking smaller presentations meant for other species, indicating aggressive summer feeding patterns	Weed patches in 15-20ft of water, particularly edges and isolated patches Open water areas with brush piles where baitfish concentrate Irregular shoreline features like points and bays with submerged vegetation	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along weed edges and through open water Hard Body Swimbaits targeting suspended fish following bait schools Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and over brush piles	Yellow Perch concentrated around weed patches and brush piles Alewife schools in open water areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Crappie	65-74	Crappies are actively feeding but seeking thermal refuge during peak summer heat, suspending near deeper structure and moving shallower during morning/evening Fish are relating strongly to dock areas and submerged vegetation, moving between depths to follow baitfish schools	Boat docks with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access Deeper weed edges adjacent to flats, particularly in 12-18 foot depth range Brush piles in 15-20 foot depths that provide cooler water refuge	Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Hover/Mid-Strolling	Small minnows and young-of-year baitfish Aquatic insects, particularly during morning/evening periods Young perch in and around weed edges	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	62-68	Pike are actively feeding around structure, particularly using docks and pilings as ambush points to target perch and other baitfish Fish are showing preference for areas with good water movement, especially around river channels and canals, likely due to higher oxygen content and baitfish concentration	Docks and pilings with access to deeper water Middle channel edges and protected canal areas Deep weed edges in 14-22 feet of water	Spinnerbaits worked along dock edges and through channels Bladed Jigs worked near structure and weed edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled through baitfish schools	Perch concentrating around vegetation and structure Various baitfish species in and around river channels	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	65-75	Sturgeon are actively feeding along bottom structure and transition areas in 17-25 feet of water, particularly during dawn and dusk periods Fish are following current seams near river mouths and channels, utilizing these areas as feeding zones During midday heat, sturgeon move to deeper, cooler water near grass edges and rock piles	Deep grass edge transitions in 17-22 feet of water River mouth areas with current influence Rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to deeper water Channels and transition areas between grass and sand in 12-17 feet	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near structure and current breaks Trolling Deep (20'+) along grass edges and transition areas	Crawfish in rocky areas and grass edges Bottom-dwelling minnows Various invertebrates in deep grass beds	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	48-55	Lake Trout moving to deeper, cooler water as summer progresses, seeking temperatures below 55°F Early morning and late evening feeding patterns in shallower zones, retreating to deeper water during bright midday periods Utilizing deep structure and thermocline edges as primary holding areas	Deep basins and open water areas near thermocline Rocky structure and boulder areas in 30-50 foot range Transitional areas between deep basins and mid-depth structure	Trolling Deep (20'+) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Spoons	Minnows Perch Ciscoes	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Lake St Clair

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	41-71	Smallmouth bass are actively feeding on baitfish around weed patches and rock piles, showing aggressive chase behavior as they bulk up for winter Fish are making vertical movements throughout the day, suspending to feed on bait schools and relating to bottom structure	Submerged weed patches adjacent to deeper water, especially where baitfish are present Rock piles in 10-13 foot depth range Grass to sand transition areas where baitfish are congregating	Bladed Jigs worked through and around weed patches Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along depth transitions Spinnerbaits with gold blades around rock structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for targeting actively feeding fish	Minnows/Baitfish schools Shad Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	52-68	Fish transitioning to slower, more methodical feeding patterns as water temperatures drop from 68°F to low 50s. Showing preference for slower presentations near cover. Actively feeding during stable weather periods, targeting baitfish and perch around structure. Less aggressive strikes requiring finesse presentations.	Dock areas with pilings, especially those near deeper water access Rock piles adjacent to heavy vegetation in 8-12 foot depth range Protected coves and bays where baitfish congregate	Wacky Rigs worked slowly with pauses around structure Football Jigs dragged near rock and vegetation transitions Drop Shot with smaller profile baits for pressured fish	Perch - primary forage evidenced in recent catches Minnows - consistently present in shallow areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Walleye	45-65	Walleye actively feeding on perch and other baitfish, following forage movements between structure and open water Fish transitioning to deeper water areas as water temperatures cool, congregating near deep structure and basin areas	Deep basin areas adjacent to structural elements, particularly in 20-30 foot range Points and breaks leading into deeper water River channel edges where they meet the main lake basin	Trolling Deep (20'+) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Perch Shad Small Baitfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	52-65	Yellow perch begin schooling more tightly in fall, moving between sand flats and deeper basins while following baitfish schools Fish become increasingly active in feeding during fall as they prepare for winter, but schools remain mobile and spooky due to predator pressure	Sand flats with scattered weed tufts in 15-20 foot depths Deep basin areas adjacent to large bays, especially where walleye are present Transitional areas between shallow bays and main lake points	Drop Shot with light line and finesse presentations for spooky fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are actively feeding Live Bait Rigs with minnows when fish are less aggressive	Small minnows in large schools Young-of-year perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Muskie	58-68	Muskie are actively following baitfish schools (shad and perch) into river channels and deeper water, showing aggressive feeding behavior to build up energy reserves for winter Fish are more likely to chase fast-moving baits in the moderate water temperatures, taking advantage of the 63°F water that's still in their active feeding range	River channels where baitfish are congregating, particularly areas with depth changes or structure Deep weed edges adjacent to river channel areas Points and breaks leading into deeper water where bait schools are transitioning	Hard Jerkbaits worked with aggressive twitches to trigger reaction strikes Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along channel edges and through bait schools Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges and prominent structure	Perch concentrating in deeper structure Shad schools moving through river channels Other baitfish following similar deep-water migration patterns	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Fall	Crappie	52-65	Crappie are actively schooling and following baitfish, transitioning from shallow to deeper water as temperatures cool Fish are suspending near structure and actively feeding during dawn and dusk periods	Deep brush piles adjacent to primary points Suspended around dock structures in 12-20 feet of water Creek channel edges near the mouths of bays	Crappie Spider Rigging Crappie Dock Shooting Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19')	Small baitfish (primarily perch and minnows) Late-season insects Young-of-year fish moving to deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	48-62	Pike are actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter, targeting larger prey fish around deep weed edges and structure Fish are following baitfish schools, particularly perch, making longer moves between feeding areas as water cools Becoming more aggressive in their feeding habits, willing to chase faster-moving baits in the moderate clarity water	Deep weed edges in 14-22 feet of water, especially where they intersect with points or river channels Protected bays and canal entrances where baitfish schools congregate Dock areas with access to deeper water, particularly those near vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked along deep weed edges and through baitfish schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) mimicking perch near structure Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along weed edges and channel breaks	Perch concentrating in schools around structure Crappie moving into protected areas Various baitfish species schooling in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Sturgeon	48-62	Sturgeon are transitioning to deeper wintering areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for winter. They're particularly active during low-light periods. Fish are concentrating near river mouths and deep channels, taking advantage of current breaks to ambush prey with minimal energy expenditure.	Deep channels and river mouths with current breaks in 20-30 feet of water Transition areas between grass and sand in 12-17 feet Rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to deeper water	Live Bait Rigs with heavy sinkers to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near channel edges and current breaks Trolling Deep (20'+) along channel edges with bottom bouncing rigs	Crawfish seeking deeper water sanctuary Bottom-dwelling perch schools Various benthic invertebrates	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Lake Trout	45-55	Lake Trout becoming more active in cooling waters, moving to shallower structures to feed aggressively and prepare for spawning Fish transitioning between deep summer haunts and spawning areas, following baitfish schools	Rocky points and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range Deep-to-shallow transitions near submerged vegetation in 12-17 foot range Main lake points with access to deep water basins	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with consistent speed along structure edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') over marked fish Spoons worked vertically through baitfish schools	Perch schooling near structure Baitfish (minnows/shad) in transitional areas Juvenile ciscos in open water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	34-39	Walleye are congregating in deeper basin areas and near structural elements like ledges, exhibiting typical winter deep-water patterns Fish are showing selective feeding periods, with early morning being most active based on recent reports	Deep basin areas over 20 feet Ledges adjacent to deep water River channel edges where present	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Ice Fishing Spoons	Perch Minnows	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	33-39	Perch are schooling in pre-winter locations near deep flats adjacent to bays, actively feeding on minnows in preparation for ice formation Fish are showing preference for moderate depths around 14 feet, likely relating to optimal temperature zones and forage availability	Deep flats near Mitchell's Bay in 14 foot depths Sand flats with small weed tufts in transitional areas Protected bay areas with consistent depth ranges of 12-15 feet	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Live Bait Rigs Ice Fishing Jigs	Minnows Small baitfish schools	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Muskie	38-45	Muskie transition to deeper water (15-25ft) following primary forage (perch and shad) into river channels and deep structure Feeding windows become more concentrated during winter, with most active periods during stable weather and around sunrise/sunset	Deep river channels where baitfish schools concentrate Steep breaks adjacent to remaining vegetation edges Deep structural elements like points and humps in 15-25ft range	Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked slowly along channel edges and breaks Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with large profile baits near bait schools Trolling Deep (20'+) along channel edges and structural transitions	Yellow Perch concentrating in deeper water Shad schools in river channels	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	38-45	Suspended crappie are relating to deep brush piles and dock structures, typically holding in loose schools at consistent depths Feeding patterns are more concentrated during prime low-light periods, with fish becoming more selective during bright conditions	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel bends Suspended areas under and between dock structures in deeper bays Deep water transitions near the mouths of major bays	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Damiki Rig Crappie Spider Rigging	Small perch in deeper water Winter-pattern minnows suspended near structure Dormant but available insects near brush piles	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	38-52	Pike are actively feeding in the late winter open water period, often concentrating near congregations of baitfish in canals and protected areas Fish position themselves near deep-water access points but make frequent moves to shallow feeding zones during prime periods	Protected canals and channel areas with deep-water access River channel intersections with submerged vegetation in 14-22 FOW Dock areas adjacent to deeper water	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Spoons	Perch schools concentrated in deeper vegetation Crappie in protected areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Sturgeon	38-45	Sturgeon concentrate in deep, oxygenated channels and river mouths where current provides oxygen and maintains warmer water temperatures Fish are less active but still feed opportunistically on bottom-dwelling organisms, especially near rock-to-sand transitions	Deep river mouth areas and channels with current, especially where the St. Clair River influences the lake Rock pile to sand transitions in 17-22 feet of water Deep holes near structural elements that provide current breaks	Live Bait Rigs with heavy weights to maintain bottom contact in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs tipped with live bait Structure Jigs worked slowly along bottom transitions	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small organisms Small bottom-hugging fish like gobies and small perch Crawfish seeking shelter in rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	34-42	Lake Trout are actively feeding in winter, staying in the mid-depth ranges (20-35 feet) where water temperatures are optimal Fish are following schools of perch and baitfish, making periodic movements between deep basins and rocky structure	Rocky points and boulder areas adjacent to deep basins Deep water structural transitions in 20-35 foot range Deep basin edges where baitfish schools congregate	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Ice Fishing Spoons Trolling Deep (20'+)	Perch Minnows and small baitfish Ciscoes	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Walleye	33-39	Walleye congregate in deep basin areas, typically moving less but feeding opportunistically on schools of perch and other baitfish Most active during dawn and dusk periods, with feeding windows potentially extending longer in the dark conditions under ice	Deep basin areas, particularly where winter reports mention successful vertical jigging River channel edges where they meet the main basin Deep structural transitions near primary forage concentrations	Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging followed by pause periods Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows for a more subtle presentation Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to locate active fish	Perch, as indicated by frequent mentions in fishing reports Various Minnow Species that school in winter months	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	33-35	Perch are actively schooling in both shallow (3-5ft) and deeper (14-20ft) water, with feeding windows becoming more pronounced due to fishing pressure Schools are mobile and following baitfish, with most active feeding during lower traffic periods, especially on weekdays Fish are showing preference for areas with sand patches near vegetation, particularly in protected bays	Protected bay areas with 3-5 foot depths featuring grass and sand patches Deep basin areas around 14-20 feet, particularly near baitfish schools Transition areas between shallow bays and deeper water	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements, particularly effective when tipped with live bait Ice Fishing Spoons with red beads, worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to locate active schools	Minnows (primary forage based on multiple reports) Small aquatic invertebrates near vegetation Juvenile baitfish in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	34-39	Suspending near brush piles in deeper water, actively feeding on insects and small prey Schooling behavior becomes more concentrated, with fish gathering in predictable winter locations Feeding periods are shorter but more intense during stable weather conditions	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range Basin areas adjacent to shallow flats Deep creek channel bends with woody cover	Ice Fishing Jigs worked slowly with subtle movements Ice Fishing Spoons for aggressive reaction strikes Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to locate active fish	Insects, particularly small aquatic larvae Small minnows Young of year perch	Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	34-38	Pike concentrate near deep weed edges adjacent to shallow flats, using these areas as ambush points for winter forage Most active during early morning and late afternoon, with reduced activity during bright midday periods Primarily feeding on suspended perch schools that gather around structure and deep vegetation	Deep weed edges in 14-22 feet of water, especially near channels Protected bays with access to deeper water Areas around submerged structure like dock pilings that concentrate baitfish	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at varying depths Ice Fishing Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with large profile baits during prime feeding windows	Perch schools concentrated around structure Crappie suspended in deeper water columns Small baitfish utilizing canals and protected areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	34-42	Lake Trout become more active in cold water conditions, typically suspending near bottom structure and making frequent movements to feed on winter-concentrated baitfish Fish tend to school more tightly during ice season, often relating to deep basin edges where they can access both deep water sanctuary and feeding zones	Deep basin edges adjacent to rock piles in 30-50 foot range Offshore humps and rock piles near deep water access Transition areas between deep basins and mid-depth structural elements	Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging followed by pauses Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths with live bait Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows or minnow heads	Perch schooling in mid-depth ranges Concentrated schools of baitfish (cisco, alewife) in deep water Small groups of whitefish near bottom structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Lake St Clair

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-12 feet of water	Mile roads with shallow wood and laydowns in 6-9 feet
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected marsh areas and canals with 2-4 feet of water depth	Docks and seawalls in 3-4 feet of water
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Mid-depth basin areas in 14-16 feet of water	River channels and river mouths serving as migration routes
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Open water basin areas near XE2 marker in Mitchell's Bay	Sand flats with patchy vegetation in 20' depth
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation adjacent to deep-water access	River channel edges where pre-spawn staging occurs
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Mouths of bays with access to large shallow flats	Areas with submerged vegetation near spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Protected bays and canals with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water	Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning grounds
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	River mouths and channel areas with current flow	Transition areas between grass and sand in 12-17ft
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rocky points and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range	Transitional areas between deep basins and shallow structure
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and boulder fields in 4-8 feet of water	Protected basins with grass patches and sandy transitions
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected back channels and coves with warmer water	Seawalls and dock pilings in 8-10 foot depth range
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Mid-depth humps in 14-16 foot range serving as pre-spawn staging areas	River channel edges and migration routes leading to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Sand flats with small weed tufts in 8-12 feet of water for staging areas	Protected shallow bays with sandy bottom in 3-5 feet for spawning
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Shallow bays with emerging vegetation in 3-8 feet of water	Protected spawning flats adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow bays with brush piles and submerged vegetation	Mouths of bays with transitional depth changes
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Protected shallow bays with emerging vegetation	Canal entrances and river channel connections
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	River mouths and channels with current influence from St. Clair River	Rocky areas and boulder fields in 12-17 foot transitions
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rocky points and boulder areas in 8-15 foot depth range	Transition areas near deep basins with access to spawning structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rock piles and isolated boulders in 12-14 feet of water	Weedlines adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks and seawalls in protected areas, especially in canals during windy conditions	Weedline edges adjacent to hard structure like pilings
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Mid-lake basins and deep holes (like the '240 hole' mentioned in reports)	Transition areas between spawning bays and main lake points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Sand flats with patchy vegetation in 15-20' of water	Transition areas between shallow bays and deeper flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Emerging weed edges in 8-15 foot depth range, especially those adjacent to spawning bays	Points and secondary points with developing vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Boat docks in 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water	Brush piles and submerged vegetation on secondary points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	River channel mouths and connected waterways where pike stage post-spawn	Emerging weed edges in 14-22 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	River mouth areas and channels with current where depth transitions occur	Rocky areas and boulder fields in 15-25 feet of water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Rock piles and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range	Weed edges and transition zones in 12-17 foot depth range
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Deep grass beds in 15-22 feet of water, especially where grass meets sand transitions	Shallow grass flats in 4-8 feet during lower light periods
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Docks and seawalls, especially corners and shadow lines	Submerged weed edges in 8-12 foot range
Summer	Walleye	Main lake points with access to deeper water	Open water areas adjacent to structural elements
Summer	Yellow Perch	Sand flats with scattered weed tufts in 20' of water	Mitchell's Bay area transitions and vegetation edges
Summer	Muskie	Weed patches in 15-20ft of water, particularly edges and isolated patches	Open water areas with brush piles where baitfish concentrate
Summer	Crappie	Boat docks with 8-15 feet of water, especially those near deeper water access	Deeper weed edges adjacent to flats, particularly in 12-18 foot depth range
Summer	Northern Pike	Docks and pilings with access to deeper water	Middle channel edges and protected canal areas
Summer	Sturgeon	Deep grass edge transitions in 17-22 feet of water	River mouth areas with current influence
Summer	Lake Trout	Deep basins and open water areas near thermocline	Rocky structure and boulder areas in 30-50 foot range
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Submerged weed patches adjacent to deeper water, especially where baitfish are present	Rock piles in 10-13 foot depth range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Dock areas with pilings, especially those near deeper water access	Rock piles adjacent to heavy vegetation in 8-12 foot depth range
Fall	Walleye	Deep basin areas adjacent to structural elements, particularly in 20-30 foot range	Points and breaks leading into deeper water
Fall	Yellow Perch	Sand flats with scattered weed tufts in 15-20 foot depths	Deep basin areas adjacent to large bays, especially where walleye are present
Fall	Muskie	River channels where baitfish are congregating, particularly areas with depth changes or structure	Deep weed edges adjacent to river channel areas
Fall	Crappie	Deep brush piles adjacent to primary points	Suspended around dock structures in 12-20 feet of water
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 14-22 feet of water, especially where they intersect with points or river channels	Protected bays and canal entrances where baitfish schools congregate
Fall	Sturgeon	Deep channels and river mouths with current breaks in 20-30 feet of water	Transition areas between grass and sand in 12-17 feet
Fall	Lake Trout	Rocky points and boulder areas in 15-30 foot depth range	Deep-to-shallow transitions near submerged vegetation in 12-17 foot range
Winter	Walleye	Deep basin areas over 20 feet	Ledges adjacent to deep water
Winter	Yellow Perch	Deep flats near Mitchell's Bay in 14 foot depths	Sand flats with small weed tufts in transitional areas
Winter	Muskie	Deep river channels where baitfish schools concentrate	Steep breaks adjacent to remaining vegetation edges
Winter	Crappie	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range near channel bends	Suspended areas under and between dock structures in deeper bays
Winter	Northern Pike	Protected canals and channel areas with deep-water access	River channel intersections with submerged vegetation in 14-22 FOW
Winter	Sturgeon	Deep river mouth areas and channels with current, especially where the St. Clair River influences the lake	Rock pile to sand transitions in 17-22 feet of water
Winter	Lake Trout	Rocky points and boulder areas adjacent to deep basins	Deep water structural transitions in 20-35 foot range
Ice	Walleye	Deep basin areas, particularly where winter reports mention successful vertical jigging	River channel edges where they meet the main basin
Ice	Yellow Perch	Protected bay areas with 3-5 foot depths featuring grass and sand patches	Deep basin areas around 14-20 feet, particularly near baitfish schools
Ice	Crappie	Deep brush piles in 15-25 foot range	Basin areas adjacent to shallow flats
Ice	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges in 14-22 feet of water, especially near channels	Protected bays with access to deeper water
Ice	Lake Trout	Deep basin edges adjacent to rock piles in 30-50 foot range	Offshore humps and rock piles near deep water access

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Perch	Shad
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow protected areas	Minnows along shoreline areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Perch - multiple reports indicate perch as primary forage	Minnows - mentioned in river system reports
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Minnows (primary forage confirmed by reports)	Small invertebrates in sandy bottom areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Yellow Perch congregating in pre-spawn areas	Suckers moving into spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Small insects and emerging larvae	Small minnows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Perch gathering in pre-spawn areas	Winter-stressed baitfish in warming shallows
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Perch schools gathering near structure	Various baitfish (minnows, shad, alewife) in transitional areas
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows schooling in shallow water	Crawfish active on hard bottom areas
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad moving into spawning areas	Bluegill beginning to stage in shallow areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows	Perch
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas	Aquatic insects emerging in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Yellow Perch gathering in spawning areas	Smaller panfish in warming shallow bays
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Insects, particularly early spring hatches	Small minnows and young-of-year perch
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Perch gathering in shallow spawning areas	Small pike and suckers in canals and protected areas
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small fish in current areas
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Perch in the 3-5 inch range	Various minnow species near rocky structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish actively moving on rocky structure	Perch relating to grass beds
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Insects (particularly mayflies during hatches)	Minnows in and around structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Minnows as indicated in recent fishing reports	Perch (noted as frequent forage in lake profile)
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows	Emerging aquatic insects
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Yellow Perch congregating around new weed growth	Suckers recovering from their own spawn
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small minnows and shad	Insects, particularly emerging aquatic insects
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Crappie schooling in post-spawn areas	Perch relating to emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Crawfish emerging in rocky areas	Bottom-dwelling minnows and small fish
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Perch congregating near rocky structure and weed edges	Various baitfish (minnows, shad, alewife) in transitional areas
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Perch concentrating in and around grass beds	Minnows congregating near vegetation edges and transitions
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Minnows	Perch
Summer	Walleye	Perch - primary forage based on recent reports	Baitfish schools in open water areas
Summer	Yellow Perch	Minnows	Small invertebrates near weed growth
Summer	Muskie	Yellow Perch concentrated around weed patches and brush piles	Alewife schools in open water areas
Summer	Crappie	Small minnows and young-of-year baitfish	Aquatic insects, particularly during morning/evening periods
Summer	Northern Pike	Perch concentrating around vegetation and structure	Various baitfish species in and around river channels
Summer	Sturgeon	Crawfish in rocky areas and grass edges	Bottom-dwelling minnows
Summer	Lake Trout	Minnows	Perch
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows/Baitfish schools	Shad
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Perch - primary forage evidenced in recent catches	Minnows - consistently present in shallow areas
Fall	Walleye	Perch	Shad
Fall	Yellow Perch	Small minnows in large schools	Young-of-year perch
Fall	Muskie	Perch concentrating in deeper structure	Shad schools moving through river channels
Fall	Crappie	Small baitfish (primarily perch and minnows)	Late-season insects
Fall	Northern Pike	Perch concentrating in schools around structure	Crappie moving into protected areas
Fall	Sturgeon	Crawfish seeking deeper water sanctuary	Bottom-dwelling perch schools
Fall	Lake Trout	Perch schooling near structure	Baitfish (minnows/shad) in transitional areas
Winter	Walleye	Perch	Minnows
Winter	Yellow Perch	Minnows	Small baitfish schools
Winter	Muskie	Yellow Perch concentrating in deeper water	Shad schools in river channels
Winter	Crappie	Small perch in deeper water	Winter-pattern minnows suspended near structure
Winter	Northern Pike	Perch schools concentrated in deeper vegetation	Crappie in protected areas
Winter	Sturgeon	Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small organisms	Small bottom-hugging fish like gobies and small perch
Winter	Lake Trout	Perch	Minnows and small baitfish
Ice	Walleye	Perch, as indicated by frequent mentions in fishing reports	Various Minnow Species that school in winter months
Ice	Yellow Perch	Minnows (primary forage based on multiple reports)	Small aquatic invertebrates near vegetation
Ice	Crappie	Insects, particularly small aquatic larvae	Small minnows
Ice	Northern Pike	Perch schools concentrated around structure	Crappie suspended in deeper water columns
Ice	Lake Trout	Perch schooling in mid-depth ranges	Concentrated schools of baitfish (cisco, alewife) in deep water

Bait Colors by Season for Lake St Clair

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Warm Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Sturgeon	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Sturgeon	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Sturgeon	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Warm Colors
Fall	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Sturgeon	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Winter	Muskie	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Crappie	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Sturgeon	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors
Ice	Crappie	Light Neutral Colors Purple Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Chartreuse Colors
Ice	Lake Trout	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Purple Colors