Hey Guys.
I've been getting a ton of E-mails asking about the Bay. I have not posted any new reports simply because I have not been out. Firstly because of the shifting ice on the Bay, and lately because of the severely cold temps and wind. Getting old I guess. But I have heard reliable info about both the river and the bay, that I've both been privy to and observed myself from some of the river launching areas. You all know my policy for posting here. I'd prefer to have pictures and fresh info you could reliably count on. So please take this report with a grain of salt, until I can get out and get serious myself.
The river for all practical purposes, is on fire. The most productive spots are near all the bridges in Bay City. I watched the guys catch maybe 70 walleyes the last 30 minutes before dark last Thursday near the Independence bridge. Of course I watched them throw all but a few of those 70 right back in as well. Most looking to be between 9 and 13 inches. Jigging Raps in all colors were the ticket. Now, the more recent reports are saying the size is creeping up, with a few nicer fish starting to show up.
The Bay ice is (from reports) getting thicker every day. But again, I have not personally been out on the bay yet. But lets face it, it's been freezing 24 hours a day now for the last 2 weeks. People are out 2 miles from Linwood road and 3 to 4 miles out on the east side roads, starting from Callahan road to Vanderbilt Park in Quanicassee. The catches are varying, pretty much like they always do on the east side during the winter. The perch that people are seeing on the west side are real spooky for some reason. One jig and there gone. That can change, and hopefully will. Well, that's it for now. If you go, please be very careful, fish smart and tight lines. Capt. Dan.