Weekly Traverse City Fishing Report – Warmer Water Producing Fish
Fishing this past week on Lake Michigan near Traverse City provided steady action for anglers, with lake trout making up the majority of the catch along with a mix of steelhead and salmon. The most consistent fishing came in 40–60 feet of water, where lake trout were holding tight to bottom and actively feeding.
Our downrigger program pulling Hammerhead cowbells accounted for most of the trout action, while shallow lead core setups continued to produce fish higher in the water column. The 2, 3, and 5 color lead cores picked up lake trout, steelhead, pink salmon, and smaller king salmon. Bright UV spoons and Yeck Fireball patterns were among the more productive presentations during the week.
One of the biggest keys was locating warmer water. Areas with slightly warmer surface temperatures consistently produced more bait and better fishing activity. Anglers who found warmer water were rewarded with a better mix of species and more consistent action.
Overall, it was a productive week on the water with good conditions and steady fishing. Lake trout continue to provide reliable action, while steelhead and salmon are offering some bonus opportunities for anglers covering water and staying around the warmest temperatures available.