Fishing

As a very large lake, there is plenty of room for fish populations to expand and flourish. Fishermen visit Lake Erie for its incredible populations of large game species that offer fun and adventure to even the most seasoned of anglers. The primary game fish in Lake Erie include Walleye, Yellow Perch, Steelhead (Rainbow Trout), Smallmouth Bass, White Bass,White Perch, Sheepshead, Channel Catfish, Lake Whitefish, Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Rock Bass, Northern Pike, Muskie, Largemouth Bass and Bluegill

This large array of game species offers fishermen the opportunity for a fresh adventure everyday on the lake. One of the most frequently targeted species is the walleye. This is a coldwater species that thrives throughout Lake Erie. It is commonly caught at a weight of 10 pounds, but larger ones are known to offer a challenge to lucky fishermen. The walleye can be caught throughout all 12 months of the year using shiners, jigs, crankbaits, and spoons. During the Spring, fishermen should target areas close to the shoreline, as walleyes move into the shallow waters to spawn. This is a perfect opportunity to easily find a high abundance of walleye. During other seasons, fishing from a boat in deep waters using light tackle. Most experienced Lake Erie fishermen will agree that the Western Basin of the lake is an excellent location for walleye.

Due to the cold water of Lake Erie, there is also a large population of trout and salmon. Steelhead, Chinook and Lake Trout are amount the most popular species being fished in Lake Erie. Anglers should target areas in front of rivers and streams that feed into Lake Erie, as the cold, moving water of these locations attract steelhead. When at these locations, it is ideal to use a fly rod. Steelhead can put up a tough fight, but the end result is quite rewarding after a successful catch.  There are many charters who will troll the lake for trout and salmon.

Another favorite among both professional and recreational sport fishermen is the smallmouth bass. Although smaller than its largemouth relative, the smallmouth bass is quick and feisty when it puts up a fight. With light tackle such as artificial worms, spinners, and light colored jigs, fishermen will soon find that Lake Erie's smallmouth bass are worthy opponents. Ashtabula and Conneaut are among the best locations for smallmouth bass fishing in Lake Erie.

Muskie, pike, and salmon can all be caught using trolling techniques in the Western and Eastern Basin using large spoons at speeds of two to six miles per hour.

Facilities

As a body of water that spans across three states, Lake Erie has a large number of facilities and accommodations that will ensure that all visits are enjoyable and easy to plan. These facilities include harbors, marinas, piers, paved boat landings, grocery stores, tackle shops, restaurants, and lodging.

The Lake

Lake Erie covers an area of 9,940 square miles. At its deepest point, Lake Erie is 210 feet. Its average depth is 62 feet. These large measurements allow Lake Erie to support a healthy community of fish as well as provide for the perfect location for sport fishing.

Lake Erie is a must-visit location for all fishermen and adventure seekers.

	Advertise your Guide Service here: We are looking for accomplished guides to list their services on FishAssist.  Please contact us at advertise@fishassist.com
	Advertise your Local Business, Lodging or Marina on FishAssist.  To list please contact us at advertise@fishassist.com