Winter Fishing on Lake St. Clair: Braving the Cold for Smallmouth and Walleye

As of January 16, 2025, Lake St. Clair is in the midst of its winter season, and the fishing scene is quite different from the bustling spring and summer months.

### Water Conditions
The water levels on Lake St. Clair are currently above their long-term January averages by about 9 inches[2]. However, water levels are expected to decline over the next month.

### Weather and Ice
The weather is cold, with temperatures expected to drop below zero at night. The water temperature is around 32°F, which is just at the freezing point. Ice has formed in some areas, particularly across the Detroit River, but the moving water on Lake St. Clair prevents it from freezing completely[5].

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:55 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 5:05 PM.

### Fish Activity
During this time, fish activity is generally slower due to the cold water. However, for those brave enough to venture out, ice fishing can be productive. Smallmouth bass and walleye are the primary targets, though they are less active in these cold conditions.

### Catch Reports
There are no recent catch reports from yesterday due to the icy conditions, but typically, ice fishing on Lake St. Clair yields catches of smallmouth bass, walleye, and sometimes perch.

### Best Lures and Bait
For ice fishing, the best lures often include small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms. Spoons like the Swedish Pimple or Kastmaster can also be effective. For those targeting smallmouth bass, using a small plastic bait like a tiny tube or a jig with a minnow can work well.

### Hot Spots
- **Anchor Bay**: This large bay off the main lake is known for its quality fish and can be a good spot even in winter, though access might be limited by ice.
- **St. Clair Metropark**: The backwater areas here can provide some protection from the harsh winter conditions and are known for holding fish.

Remember to check the current ice conditions and safety advisories before heading out, as the ice can be unpredictable. Stay warm and safe on the ice.