On Lake St. Clair today, December 26, 2024, the fishing conditions are quite unique given the winter season. Here’s what you can expect:
### Weather and Tidal Report
The weather is cold, with temperatures in the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit, typical for this time of year. Since Lake St. Clair is a freshwater lake connected to the Great Lakes system, it does not have tides, but water levels can fluctuate due to wind and ice formation.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise is at around 8:00 AM, and sunset is at approximately 5:00 PM, giving you a relatively short window for daylight fishing.
### Fish Activity
During the winter, ice fishing is the primary method on Lake St. Clair. The lake is dotted with ice huts and anglers using ATVs and snowmobiles to reach their spots. Walleye and yellow perch are the most sought-after species this time of year.
### Fish Caught Yesterday
Reports from yesterday indicate that anglers were successful in catching walleye and yellow perch. The walleye were mostly caught using minnows jigged off the bottom or still fished, while perch were caught using minnows and rattle spoons.
### Best Lures and Bait
For walleye, minnows jigged off the bottom or still fished are highly effective. Rattle spoons and rattle raps also work well. For perch, minnows and small jigs tipped with wax worms or maggots are good choices.
### Hot Spots
- **Anchor Bay**: This large bay off the main lake is known for its quality fish and has been the winning area of many professional tournaments. Even in winter, the shallow areas here can be productive for perch and walleye.
- **The Mile Roads**: This area is popular for smallmouth bass during warmer months but also holds walleye and perch in the deeper channels during winter.
Remember to dress warmly and ensure your ice fishing gear is in good condition to tackle the cold and potentially icy conditions on Lake St. Clair.