(Photo courtesy of Metro Creative)

Little Bay de Noc: Yellow perch anglers reported fair to good fishing. They fished near the narrows, using perch rigs baited with minnows, and were either drifting or using spot lock to hold their position over schools of perch. Walleye anglers were primarily trolling or casting artificial baits. Reports were mixed, with some anglers struggling to find success, while others were able to catch a few. Anglers reported targeting the head of the bay and other deep structures in the upper bay. Those who trolled reported the best success during the dark hours.

Big Bay de Noc: Anglers in the garden area were primarily bass fishing. Anglers fishing along drop offs used a combination of trolling motors and wind to allow the boat to be fished parallel to the drop off. Moving slowly enough to ensure lures were fished near the bottom was key. Some anglers used live bait such as sucker minnows; others were drop shot fishing and using goby or minnow-shaped soft plastics.

Fishing tip: Dropping water temperatures

As water temperatures continue to drop, fish metabolism slows down — meaning they won’t chase baits as aggressively. Try slowing your presentation and using smaller, natural-colored baits to match late-season forage. For walleye and perch, minnows or soft plastics worked slowly near the bottom can be especially effective. On calm days, focus on deeper structure and channel edges, where fish tend to concentrate as they transition to their winter patterns.

— By the Michigan Department of Natural Resources