Western & Central Basin Lake Erie Fishing Guide
To help in making a decision as to what time of year to book a charter, see the seasonal descriptions below. Keep in mind that both early spring and late fall can bring unpredictable weather. If you don’t mind chilly winds, choppy conditions and possibly light rain, then book a trip in the early and late season as this will increase your odds of catching some of Lake Erie’s world-class sized Walleye. We use all different types of fishing techniques depending on the time of year, weather condition, water temperature and water clarity. If a fair-weather trip with coolers of fish for the freezer is desired, then summer is the season for you to book. Whether this is your first time fishing or you are an experienced angler, we will accomodate all skill levels. Here at JOB Fishing we are committed to making your charter a memorable, educational and, most importantly, a safe experience.
Ice Off - May
During this time millions of walleye travel to the Western Basin of Lake Erie for spawn. Hair jigs on the Reef Complex is a very effective way to target aggressive males. Trolling large crank baits just off the Reef Complex is also a great way to target hungry females after spawn.
June - August
Starting in June the weather becomes more stable and many of the migrating walleye will move up around the Islands to recover from spawn. Water temperatures start to rise and the now-schooling walleye are aggressively hunting for food. Catching limits of walleye during this time using crankbaits, spoons and worm harnesses is typical. Towards August the walleye will move East of the Islands and the Yellow Perch start to move into the area.
September - October
This is considered prime time for Lake Erie Yellow Perch (Lake Erie Gold). These Perch will range in size from 8” to 12”, and we tyically use multiple hook rigs with Emerald Shiners or Goldies as bait. Typically you start to see some of the larger walleye returing from their migration east back into the Island Area. October is also the start of the Walleye Fall Brawl & Walleye Slam.
November - Ice On
Trophy Time!! By this time most of the larger migrating walleye are chasing bait to the southern most part of the lake. This is the area from Cleveland to Marblehead where you find the warmer waters holding large Gizzard Shad. Once the water temperatures start to decrease the walleye feeding frenzy begins. We typically will troll large crankbaits in hope of a trophy, derby winning walleye of a lifetime. The closer we get to ice on the lake, the bigger the walleye get!