How to Fish St. Lawrence River: Best Patterns & Techniques

St. Lawrence River

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: Apr 30, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on St. Lawrence River

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Smallmouth bass are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, following the warming trend Fish are becoming more active and feeding opportunistically near current breaks and boulder fields as they prepare for spawn Movement patterns show fish gradually working towards shallow spawning areas, particularly near rock-sand transitions	Current breaks near boulder fields in 15-25 foot depth Rocky points and transition areas leading to spawning flats Deep water access points adjacent to future spawning areas	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Drop Shot with subtle presentations in deeper staging areas Tubes dragged slowly across rock and boulder fields	Gobies holding tight to rocky structure Small perch groups near bottom transitions Emerging crayfish becoming more active with warming trends	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	52-65	Staging in pre-spawn areas near spawning flats, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Moving from winter deep water patterns to shallower transition areas, particularly along points and channel swings Becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise, with feeding activity increasing during stable weather	Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to spawning flats Shallow grass edges in 5-10 foot range near deeper water access Protected coves with emerging vegetation, especially those with docks providing additional cover	Lipless Crankbaits worked along emerging grass edges Bladed Jigs around dock areas and sparse vegetation Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly over transitional areas	Bluegill concentrating in warming shallows Smaller baitfish moving into pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	38-48	Pre-spawn walleyes are actively moving from wintering areas to spawning grounds, following river channels and current breaks Fish are staging near spawning areas but still maintaining active feeding patterns to build energy reserves for spawning Most active during low-light periods, moving shallower in evenings and early mornings	River channel edges and current breaks where channels meet main lake structure Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning areas Transition areas between deep wintering holes and shallow spawning flats	Blade Baits worked vertically along channel edges Live Bait Rigs with minnows near rocky structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') during peak feeding periods	Perch concentrated near rocky structure Alewife schools in open water adjacent to structure Smaller baitfish gathering in pre-spawn areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	38-48	Pike are staging in pre-spawn locations, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are transitioning from deeper winter areas to shallow spawning zones, using river channels as migration routes	River channels and associated flats where pike stage during pre-spawn Shallow weed edges near spawning bays Boulder fields adjacent to spawning areas providing ambush points	Drop Shot with slow presentations as indicated by recent success Spinnerbaits worked along channel edges and through staging areas Bladed Jigs near structure for active fish	Bluegill concentrating in pre-spawn areas Yellow Perch schooling in deeper channel edges	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	52-62	Pre-spawn drum are transitioning from winter deep water areas to warmer, shallower feeding zones, particularly focusing on current areas and river channels Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during warming trends	River channel edges where current concentrates food sources Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range Shell bed areas near deeper wintering holes	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom transitions and shell beds Blade Baits worked vertically in current areas Underspins with soft plastic trailers near structure	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Bottom-dwelling perch	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	45-55	Perch are transitioning from winter holding areas in river channels to warmer, shallower pre-spawn locations near emerging vegetation and sandy flats Fish are becoming more active and schooling, feeding opportunistically as water temperatures rise and metabolism increases	Shallow flats adjacent to river channels with emerging vegetation (8-15 feet) Sand-to-rock transition areas near points and bays (6-12 feet) Protected bays with warming water and early vegetation growth (4-10 feet)	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom transitions Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with steady retrieve Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with subtle movements	Small invertebrates emerging from winter dormancy Juvenile baitfish in warming shallows Aquatic insect larvae	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	61-66	Smallmouth bass actively spawning or preparing to spawn in shallow rocky areas, particularly near boulder fields in 4-11 feet of water Fish transitioning between pre-spawn staging and active spawning, with some cruising shallow looking for bedding areas	Boulder fields and rock piles in 7-11 feet of water Rocky points in 4-6 feet of water Transitions between rock and pebble/shell bottoms	Drop Shot - work slowly near boulder fields and spawning areas Ned Rigs - effective on rocky points and shallow areas Finesse Hair Jigs - ideal for targeting shallow cruising pre-spawn fish	Minnows - primary forage during pre-spawn period Gobies - bottom-oriented prey near rocky structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-68	Fish are transitioning from pre-spawn staging areas to spawning flats, with males creating and guarding nests in protected areas Females move between deeper staging areas and shallow spawning zones, becoming more aggressive as water temperatures rise	Protected back coves with matted grass and stable bottom composition Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow areas near docks with good sun exposure	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow cover and visible beds Soft Jerkbaits worked slowly around staging areas Shakey Heads for finicky pre-spawn fish	Bluegill in shallow vegetation Small baitfish around dock areas Crawfish emerging in warming shallows	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	38-48	Pre-spawn walleye staging near river channels and current breaks, actively feeding before spawning Moving from deeper winter locations to shallower spawning areas, following structural elements like rock-to-gravel transitions Most active during low-light periods, especially around dusk and dawn	River channel mouths with current breaks and rocky substrate Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning areas Transition areas where deep winter holes meet shallow spawning flats	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along rocky transitions Blade Baits worked vertically in current breaks Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with controlled movements	Small perch in transitional areas Alewife schools in current breaks Crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	42-54	Northern Pike are in spawning mode, actively moving into shallow vegetated areas with warming water temperatures Fish are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior, responding well to flash and vibration from moving baits	Shallow submerged vegetation in bays and coves Transition areas where weeds meet rocky structure Protected backwater areas with emerging vegetation	Bladed Jigs worked through vegetation Spinnerbaits parallel to weed edges Inline Spinners in clearings between weed patches	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation Young-of-year perch in weed edges	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	52-65	Moving into shallower rocky areas and river channels (8-15 feet) for spawning activity Males actively defending spawning areas near hard bottom structures Increased feeding activity during pre-spawn as fish prepare for reproduction	Rocky areas and river channels with current in 8-15 foot depth range Shell beds and hard bottom transitions near spawning areas Areas where current meets structure, concentrating food sources	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure Underspins near current breaks and channel edges Live Bait Rigs with crawfish or nightcrawlers	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small perch in rocky areas Mollusks and crustaceans on hard bottoms	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	45-52	Yellow perch moving into shallow bays and vegetated areas (2-8 feet) for spawning, typically gathering in large schools Males arrive first at spawning grounds, followed by egg-laden females, with active feeding occurring pre and post-spawn Most active during early morning and evening hours, especially around vegetation-sand transitions	Shallow bays with mix of sand and submersed vegetation in 2-8 feet of water Sand-weed transitions near river channel entrances Protected areas with mixed bottom composition featuring scattered rock piles	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with small jigs worked slowly near bottom Bobbers with live bait or small jigs suspended just above vegetation Inline Spinners retrieved slowly through spawning areas	Small invertebrates and insects near vegetation Small minnows in shallow bays Aquatic insect larvae near bottom structure	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	64-70	Post-spawn smallmouth bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy after spawning Fish are utilizing current breaks and rocky transitions as primary feeding zones, with reports showing consistent activity in 10-40 foot depth ranges	Rocky ledges and current breaks near river channels in 10-40 feet of water Bottom transitions between weeds, rock, and sand in 14-20 feet Boulder fields with nearby deep water access	Drop Shot with straight tail worms, particularly effective when fish are spotted on electronics Football jigs with Ned worm trailers worked along rocky ledges and current breaks Ned Rigs with 3/16oz heads for working through grass transitions	Crawfish are primary forage based on recent fishing success Minnows around boulder areas	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	70-82	Post-spawn bass actively feeding on bluegill near their spawning beds, showing aggressive feeding behavior Fish transitioning between shallow spawning areas and early summer patterns, with some movement toward deeper structure	Shallow areas with active bluegill beds, especially near submerged vegetation Secondary points with grass and deeper access Protected coves with established weed growth	Neko Rigs worked slowly around bream beds Bladed Jigs when wind creates favorable conditions Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around vegetation	Bluegill on spawning beds Other panfish in shallow vegetation	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	48-58	Post-spawn walleye are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily targeting perch and alewife around transition areas between spawning grounds and summer locations Fish are making daily movements between deeper holding areas (24-32 feet) and shallower feeding zones, particularly active during lower light conditions	Rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to river channels in 15-25 foot depths Current breaks near points and structural elements where spawning areas transition to deeper water Deep ledges (24-32 feet) near complex shoreline areas serving as daily holding spots	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along transition areas between spawning grounds and summer locations Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around rock piles and current breaks Blade Baits worked through current seams near structural elements	Yellow Perch congregating around rock structures Alewife moving into warming shallow bays Small baitfish utilizing current breaks	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	52-65	Post-spawn pike are actively feeding to recover energy, particularly around emerging weed growth and transition areas Fish are making movements from spawning areas in shallow bays towards summer habitat, staging along points and weed edges	Emerging weed beds adjacent to spawning bays Points and rocky areas with developing vegetation Shallow to mid-depth flats with mixed rock and weed structure	Spinnerbaits worked parallel to weed edges and over developing vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow rolled through transition areas Inline Spinners retrieved at varying speeds near structure	Young-of-year panfish emerging in shallow areas Adult bluegill moving into developing weed growth Yellow perch transitioning to shallow feeding areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	55-68	Post-spawn drum are actively feeding to recover energy, focusing on mollusks and crawfish near hard-bottom areas Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper structure, particularly around river channels and rock piles Most active during warmer parts of the day when water temperatures rise	River channel edges with rock and shell beds Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range Transition areas between shell beds and soft bottom	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure Underspins with soft plastic trailers near bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with crawfish or night crawlers	Crawfish emerging in warming waters Small perch in bottom zones Mollusks and aquatic invertebrates	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	52-65	Post-spawn yellow perch are actively feeding and recovering, transitioning from shallow spawning areas to slightly deeper water along structure Fish are forming loose schools and targeting small baitfish and invertebrates near weed edges and rock-to-sand transitions	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 8-15 feet of water Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to sand flats Current breaks near river channel edges where baitfish concentrate	Live Bait Rigs with small minnows or pieces of nightcrawler, worked slowly along structure edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked with a slow, steady retrieve near bottom Inline Spinners cast and retrieved through scattered weeds and around rock piles	Small minnows and juvenile baitfish Aquatic insects and larvae Small crayfish emerging from winter dormancy	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	65-76	Post-spawn smallmouth are actively feeding in current breaks and around boulder fields, transitioning between shallow and deep water depending on time of day Fish are holding on current breaks near boulder fields and rock piles, waiting to ambush prey in 15-30 foot depths Early morning and evening periods see more shallow activity, with fish moving deeper during bright midday periods	Deep boulder fields and rock piles in 15-30 feet near current breaks Rocky humps and points with mixed rock and sand transitions Shallow boulder flats and grass transitions in 5-10 feet for early/late day feeding	Drop Shot with slow drifts in current, maintaining bottom contact Ned Rigs dragged along deep rock piles Finesse Hair Jigs for shallow cruising fish	Gobies Perch Crawfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	72-82	Actively feeding on weed edges and points in 14-20 foot depth range, showing preference for vegetation-based ambush points Moving between deeper main lake areas and protected back coves with matted grass, following daily temperature patterns	Weed edges in 14-20 foot depth range Points with vegetation nearby Isolated grass clumps in back coves	Tubes worked along weed edges with stop-and-go retrieve Ned Rigs cast to points and vegetation edges Texas Rigs worked through matted grass	Minnows around vegetation Bluegill in weed beds	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Walleye	65-78	Walleye are following predictable daily movements, holding in deeper water (24-32 feet) near ledges and rock structures during daylight hours, moving shallower during low light periods to feed Fish are actively feeding on both alewife in open water and perch near structure, with peak activity during dawn and dusk transitions	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 24-32 foot range, especially those adjacent to river channels Ledges and drop-offs near main lake points where current breaks occur Deep weed edges adjacent to rock structure where perch concentrate	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along deep structure breaks and current seams Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs near rock piles and ledges Trolling Deep (20'+) targeting suspended fish following alewife schools	Perch concentrating near deep rock structures and weed edges Alewife schools suspended in open water near structure breaks	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	68-78	Pike are establishing summer patterns around boulder fields and weed edges, showing moderate aggression with preference for ambush feeding Fish are active but not overly aggressive, requiring more subtle presentations as indicated by recent catch reports	Boulder fields with adjacent deep water access Weed edges near points and bays Rock-to-weed transition areas in 8-15 foot depth range	Spinnerbaits worked with subtle action around boulder edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked along structure edges Bladed Jigs worked through scattered vegetation	Perch utilizing boulder areas Bluegill in weed-adjacent areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Summer	Drum	65-78	Actively feeding on crawfish and mollusks near rock piles and river channels, with increased activity during morning and evening hours Utilizing current breaks in river channels to ambush prey while conserving energy Moving between shallow and mid-depth areas depending on time of day and water temperature	River channel edges with current and rocky bottom structure Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range Shell bed transitions near deeper water access	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure Structure Jigs bounced through rocky areas Underspins near dock areas with soft plastic trailers	Crawfish in and around rocky structure Perch relating to bottom structure Mollusks and small crustaceans on shell beds	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Yellow Perch	65-75	Actively schooling in shallow to mid-depth zones near weed edges and rock-sand transitions, with most aggressive feeding during early morning and evening hours Moving between shallow feeding areas and deeper sanctuary areas as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day	Weed edges adjacent to rock piles in 8-15 foot depths Sand flats with scattered vegetation near river channel edges Rocky points with mixed vegetation where current breaks occur	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Live Bait Rigs Small Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Small minnows and juvenile fish Aquatic insects Crayfish	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for St. Lawrence River

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	50-65	Actively feeding and schooling on flats and transition areas, with aggressive feeding during overcast conditions Moving between shallow flats and deeper adjacent areas as water temperatures drop from mid-60s to low-50s Showing increased activity during current-influenced situations, especially when wind opposes current	Rock/sand flats with nearby deep-water access, especially those with scattered boulders Current-swept rock piles in 15-25 foot depth range Points and transition areas leading to flats, particularly those with mixed rock and sand bottom	Umbrella Rigs worked along flat edges and through baitfish schools Drop Shot with slow presentations in deeper rock piles Bladed Jigs worked slowly across flats with current Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses near boulder fields	Minnows and small baitfish schooling for fall migration Perch holding near rock structures Crawfish still active in rocky areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	58-72	Largemouth bass are transitioning to fall feeding patterns, actively pursuing baitfish around dock structures and likely moving between shallow and mid-depth zones Fish are showing increased feeding activity, responding well to bottom-contact presentations as evidenced by recent success with Senko-style baits	Docks, particularly those with deeper water access, as confirmed by recent fishing reports Grass edges and matted vegetation areas, especially in protected coves Points and irregular shoreline features that provide ambush opportunities	Wacky Rigs worked slowly along bottom structure, proven effective in recent reports Texas Rigs (Worming) for working through vegetation and around dock pilings Spinnerbaits for covering water between productive areas	Shad and small baitfish moving in schools Bluegill relating to dock structures and vegetation	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Walleye	48-58	Walleye are following seasonal migration patterns, actively feeding along deeper river channels and boulder-strewn structure Fish are exhibiting aggressive feeding behavior during low-light periods, targeting alewife near current breaks and channel edges	River channels with boulder structure in 24-32 foot depth range Current breaks near deep structural elements Rocky points and ledges adjacent to channel edges	Finesse Hair Jigs slow-rolled along bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) near channel edges Blade Baits worked through current breaks	Alewife congregating in deeper water Yellow Perch relating to rocky structure	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	48-62	Northern Pike transitioning to deeper water, following baitfish schools and actively feeding to build up energy reserves for winter Aggressive feeding behavior near structure transitions, particularly where weeds meet rocky areas More likely to chase fast-moving baits during warmer parts of the day, becoming less active as temperatures cool	Deep weed edges adjacent to boulder fields (8-15 feet) Rocky points with access to deeper water Steep breaks near remaining green vegetation	Spinnerbaits worked along weed edges and through scattered vegetation Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure transitions Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with diving crankbaits parallel to breaks	Bluegill congregating near remaining weed beds Perch schools around rock/boulder transitions Baitfish schools suspending over deeper structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Drum	52-65	Drum are actively feeding on bottom-dwelling forage, particularly in deeper river channels and hard-bottom areas Fish are schooling more heavily and moving between deep structure and feeding zones Increased activity during warmer parts of the day, following baitfish movements	Deep river channels with current, especially near bottom transitions Rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 foot depth range Shell beds and hard-bottom areas adjacent to deeper water	Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with crawlers or cut bait near structure Blade Baits vertically jigged in river channels	Crawfish seeking deeper water refuge Bottom-dwelling mollusks and crustaceans Small perch in deeper structure	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	52-62	Yellow perch are actively schooling and feeding heavily to prepare for winter, following baitfish movements along structural elements Fish are transitioning from shallow to mid-depth areas, especially around rock-weed transitions and river channel edges	Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to deep water River channel edges where current breaks concentrate baitfish Weed-to-rock transition areas in 15-25 foot depths	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Live Bait Rigs	Small baitfish concentrating near structure Juvenile yellow perch in schools Bottom-dwelling invertebrates near rocky areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Walleye	31-35	Walleye are holding in deep water (24-32 feet) on ledges adjacent to main channel structures, actively feeding despite cold water conditions Fish showing a preference for bottom-oriented presentations with subtle lifts, often striking on the fall or during current sweeps	Ledges adjacent to main river channels in 24-32 foot depth range Deep boulder fields and rock piles near channel edges Current breaks and eddies along deep structural elements	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked with controlled drops and subtle lifts in current Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) focusing on bottom contact and slow lifts Blade Baits worked along bottom contours with short hops	Perch holding tight to deep structure Alewife suspended near channel edges	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	34-42	Northern Pike are concentrating near hard structure (boulder fields and rock piles) in deeper water, making controlled feeding movements to nearby flats Fish are exhibiting more methodical, energy-conserving behavior, focusing on larger forage for maximum caloric intake	Deep boulder fields adjacent to flats (15-25 feet) Steep breaks near rock piles where they transition to softer bottom Secondary points with mixed rock and dying weed edges	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with heavy spoons worked with subtle movements Blade Baits worked with controlled lift-drop sequences Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled along structure edges	Large Yellow Perch schooling near structure Concentrated schools of Bluegill near remaining green weeds Winter-stressed baitfish gathering in deeper water	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Drum	45-55	Drum are schooling in deeper water near dock structures and river channels, actively feeding on bottom-dwelling forage Fish are making occasional feeding movements to shallower areas near structure during warmer parts of the day	Deep dock areas with access to river channels River channel edges with rock or shell bottom Bottom transitions near deep water structure	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) with slow, steady retrieve near bottom Underspins paired with soft plastics for deeper presentations Football Jigs worked slowly along bottom structure	Crawfish seeking shelter in deeper water Bottom-dwelling mollusks and crustaceans Small perch in deeper water	Light Neutral Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Yellow Perch	38-45	Yellow perch forming tight schools near current breaks and river channels, moving between structures based on light conditions Feeding activity peaks during early morning and late afternoon, with schools holding tight to bottom during bright conditions	River channels and deeper current breaks (15-25 feet) Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to deeper water Transition areas where rock meets sand, particularly near channel edges	Blade Baits worked vertically with sharp lifts and drops along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with tight movements near bottom structure Spoons worked aggressively to trigger reaction strikes in cold water	Small minnows concentrated in river channels Juvenile perch in schools Bottom-dwelling invertebrates near rock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Walleye	31-34	Walleye concentrate in predictable winter locations near deep structural elements, particularly around boulder-strewn river channels and ledges in 24-32 foot range Fish remain active even in cold water (31°F), suggesting consistent feeding patterns throughout the ice season Movement patterns are minimal but fish will relocate based on forage movements and light conditions	Deep river channels with boulder structure in 24-32 foot range Rock piles and ledges adjacent to deeper basins Transition areas where rock structure meets softer bottom	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements near bottom Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive flutter-fall presentation Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to locate active fish	Yellow Perch concentrating near bottom structure Alewife suspended in deeper water columns Smaller baitfish relating to rock structure	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	33-39	Northern Pike become more lethargic during ice season, congregating in areas near primary forage sources and conserving energy with less aggressive feeding patterns Pike will actively feed during prime periods (dawn/dusk) and respond to slower-moving presentations that stay in the strike zone longer	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly near boulder fields where panfish concentrate Points and inside turns of bays where remaining green weeds provide ambush cover Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 foot range where winter forage concentrates	Ice Fishing Tip-Ups with large live bait positioned at various depths to locate active fish Ice Fishing Spoons worked with aggressive jigging followed by longer pauses to trigger reaction strikes Ice Fishing Jigs tipped with minnows, worked slowly near structure edges	Bluegill concentrating in deeper weed edges and rock piles Yellow Perch schooling near bottom structure and transitional areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	33-38	Yellow perch are schooling in and around river channels, likely suspended near bottom structure in these deeper winter holding areas Fish are typically more active during early morning and late afternoon periods, with feeding becoming more selective during mid-day	River channels with current breaks and structure Rocky areas and boulder piles adjacent to deeper water Transitions where vegetation meets harder bottom structure	Ice Fishing Jigs worked with subtle movements just off bottom Ice Fishing Spoons with aggressive jigging to attract schools Ice Fishing Tip-Ups set at varying depths to locate active fish	Small minnows and juvenile fish Aquatic insects and larvae Smaller perch	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in St. Lawrence River

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Current breaks near boulder fields in 15-25 foot depth	Rocky points and transition areas leading to spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Secondary points and channel swings adjacent to spawning flats	Shallow grass edges in 5-10 foot range near deeper water access
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	River channel edges and current breaks where channels meet main lake structure	Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	River channels and associated flats where pike stage during pre-spawn	Shallow weed edges near spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	River channel edges where current concentrates food sources	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Shallow flats adjacent to river channels with emerging vegetation (8-15 feet)	Sand-to-rock transition areas near points and bays (6-12 feet)
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Boulder fields and rock piles in 7-11 feet of water	Rocky points in 4-6 feet of water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Protected back coves with matted grass and stable bottom composition	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	River channel mouths with current breaks and rocky substrate	Rocky points and boulder fields adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Shallow submerged vegetation in bays and coves	Transition areas where weeds meet rocky structure
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Rocky areas and river channels with current in 8-15 foot depth range	Shell beds and hard bottom transitions near spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Shallow bays with mix of sand and submersed vegetation in 2-8 feet of water	Sand-weed transitions near river channel entrances
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky ledges and current breaks near river channels in 10-40 feet of water	Bottom transitions between weeds, rock, and sand in 14-20 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow areas with active bluegill beds, especially near submerged vegetation	Secondary points with grass and deeper access
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Rock piles and boulder fields adjacent to river channels in 15-25 foot depths	Current breaks near points and structural elements where spawning areas transition to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Emerging weed beds adjacent to spawning bays	Points and rocky areas with developing vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	River channel edges with rock and shell beds	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Weed edges and emerging vegetation in 8-15 feet of water	Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to sand flats
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Deep boulder fields and rock piles in 15-30 feet near current breaks	Rocky humps and points with mixed rock and sand transitions
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Weed edges in 14-20 foot depth range	Points with vegetation nearby
Summer	Walleye	Deep rock piles and boulder fields in 24-32 foot range, especially those adjacent to river channels	Ledges and drop-offs near main lake points where current breaks occur
Summer	Northern Pike	Boulder fields with adjacent deep water access	Weed edges near points and bays
Summer	Drum	River channel edges with current and rocky bottom structure	Rock piles and boulder fields in 8-15 foot depth range
Summer	Yellow Perch	Weed edges adjacent to rock piles in 8-15 foot depths	Sand flats with scattered vegetation near river channel edges
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Rock/sand flats with nearby deep-water access, especially those with scattered boulders	Current-swept rock piles in 15-25 foot depth range
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Docks, particularly those with deeper water access, as confirmed by recent fishing reports	Grass edges and matted vegetation areas, especially in protected coves
Fall	Walleye	River channels with boulder structure in 24-32 foot depth range	Current breaks near deep structural elements
Fall	Northern Pike	Deep weed edges adjacent to boulder fields (8-15 feet)	Rocky points with access to deeper water
Fall	Drum	Deep river channels with current, especially near bottom transitions	Rock piles and boulder fields in 15-25 foot depth range
Fall	Yellow Perch	Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to deep water	River channel edges where current breaks concentrate baitfish
Winter	Walleye	Ledges adjacent to main river channels in 24-32 foot depth range	Deep boulder fields and rock piles near channel edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Deep boulder fields adjacent to flats (15-25 feet)	Steep breaks near rock piles where they transition to softer bottom
Winter	Drum	Deep dock areas with access to river channels	River channel edges with rock or shell bottom
Winter	Yellow Perch	River channels and deeper current breaks (15-25 feet)	Rock piles and boulder areas adjacent to deeper water
Ice	Walleye	Deep river channels with boulder structure in 24-32 foot range	Rock piles and ledges adjacent to deeper basins
Ice	Northern Pike	Weed edges adjacent to deeper water, particularly near boulder fields where panfish concentrate	Points and inside turns of bays where remaining green weeds provide ambush cover
Ice	Yellow Perch	River channels with current breaks and structure	Rocky areas and boulder piles adjacent to deeper water

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Gobies holding tight to rocky structure	Small perch groups near bottom transitions
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill concentrating in warming shallows	Smaller baitfish moving into pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Perch concentrated near rocky structure	Alewife schools in open water adjacent to structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating in pre-spawn areas	Yellow Perch schooling in deeper channel edges
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Bottom-dwelling perch
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small invertebrates emerging from winter dormancy	Juvenile baitfish in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows - primary forage during pre-spawn period	Gobies - bottom-oriented prey near rocky structure
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill in shallow vegetation	Small baitfish around dock areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Small perch in transitional areas	Alewife schools in current breaks
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating in shallow vegetation	Young-of-year perch in weed edges
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small perch in rocky areas
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small invertebrates and insects near vegetation	Small minnows in shallow bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish are primary forage based on recent fishing success	Minnows around boulder areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill on spawning beds	Other panfish in shallow vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Yellow Perch congregating around rock structures	Alewife moving into warming shallow bays
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Young-of-year panfish emerging in shallow areas	Adult bluegill moving into developing weed growth
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Crawfish emerging in warming waters	Small perch in bottom zones
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and juvenile baitfish	Aquatic insects and larvae
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Gobies	Perch
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Minnows around vegetation	Bluegill in weed beds
Summer	Walleye	Perch concentrating near deep rock structures and weed edges	Alewife schools suspended in open water near structure breaks
Summer	Northern Pike	Perch utilizing boulder areas	Bluegill in weed-adjacent areas
Summer	Drum	Crawfish in and around rocky structure	Perch relating to bottom structure
Summer	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and juvenile fish	Aquatic insects
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Minnows and small baitfish schooling for fall migration	Perch holding near rock structures
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad and small baitfish moving in schools	Bluegill relating to dock structures and vegetation
Fall	Walleye	Alewife congregating in deeper water	Yellow Perch relating to rocky structure
Fall	Northern Pike	Bluegill congregating near remaining weed beds	Perch schools around rock/boulder transitions
Fall	Drum	Crawfish seeking deeper water refuge	Bottom-dwelling mollusks and crustaceans
Fall	Yellow Perch	Small baitfish concentrating near structure	Juvenile yellow perch in schools
Winter	Walleye	Perch holding tight to deep structure	Alewife suspended near channel edges
Winter	Northern Pike	Large Yellow Perch schooling near structure	Concentrated schools of Bluegill near remaining green weeds
Winter	Drum	Crawfish seeking shelter in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling mollusks and crustaceans
Winter	Yellow Perch	Small minnows concentrated in river channels	Juvenile perch in schools
Ice	Walleye	Yellow Perch concentrating near bottom structure	Alewife suspended in deeper water columns
Ice	Northern Pike	Bluegill concentrating in deeper weed edges and rock piles	Yellow Perch schooling near bottom structure and transitional areas
Ice	Yellow Perch	Small minnows and juvenile fish	Aquatic insects and larvae

Bait Colors by Season for St. Lawrence River

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Purple Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Northern Pike	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Green Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Summer	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Summer	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Summer	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Chartreuse Colors Natural Craw Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Green Colors
Fall	Walleye	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Drum	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Purple Colors
Fall	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors Metallic Colors
Winter	Drum	Light Neutral Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Yellow Perch	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Dark Neutrals
Ice	Walleye	Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals Metallic Colors
Ice	Northern Pike	Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors Light Neutral Colors
Ice	Yellow Perch	Chartreuse Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Pink Colors