Chasing Smallies in the Frozen Expanse of Lake St. Clair

As of January 9, 2025, Lake St. Clair is gearing up for another promising fishing season, despite the cold winter conditions. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect.

### Weather and Conditions
Today, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 38°F. This time of year, the lake is mostly frozen, but there are areas where the ice is thinner or where open water can be found, particularly near the rivers and channels.

### Tidal Report
Since Lake St. Clair is not a tidal lake, water levels are more influenced by wind and precipitation. However, the water levels have been relatively stable lately, which can help in locating fish.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at 7:58 AM, and sunset is at 5:04 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trip, as the early morning and late afternoon are often the best times to catch fish.

### Fish Activity
During the winter, smallmouth bass and other species tend to congregate in deeper, warmer areas. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few smallmouth bass in the deeper sections of the lake, particularly around the "Mile Roads" and the Belle River Hump. The fish are less active due to the cold, but using the right lures and bait can still yield results.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
The primary catch this time of year includes smallmouth bass, with some reports of largemouth bass in the backwater areas of St. Clair Metropark. The numbers are not as high as in the warmer months, but the fish that are caught are often larger. Yesterday, a few anglers reported catching smallmouth bass in the 3- to 5-pound range.

### Best Lures and Bait
For winter fishing on Lake St. Clair, it’s best to use lures that can be presented slowly and deeply. Drop-shot rigs, tubes, and spybaits are excellent choices. In the colder water, fish are less likely to chase fast-moving baits, so slower presentations with lures like deep crankbaits or vibrating jigs can be effective.

### Hot Spots
- **St. Clair Metropark**: The backwater areas here are great for largemouth bass, and the channel outside the no-wake zone is excellent for smallmouth.
- **Anchor Bay**: This large bay off the main lake has quality fish and is known for its shallow grass and sandy flats, which can be fished even in the winter if there is open water.
- **The Detroit and St. Clair Rivers**: These areas provide excellent fishing for smallmouth bass in the current, especially near the entrance to the Detroit River and around the St. Clair River's current breaks and seawalls.

Keep in mind that ice fishing may be an option in some areas, but always ensure the ice is safe before venturing out. If you're fishing open water, be prepared for cold conditions and dress accordingly. Good luck on the water