The following is the Lake Erie Fishing Report filed by the ODNR-Division of Wildlife on 11/25/2024.
Fishing on Lake Erie is winding down as winter approaches, and with the end of the Division’s seasonal creel surveys that provide angling information, this will be the final fishing report until spring walleye fishing picks up. Fishing can still be productive during winter months when conditions allow, so here are a few things to consider if you are making a late-season, open-water trip to Erie.
Walleye fishing will remain good in areas from Port Clinton to Lorain as walleye move to these areas to overwinter. Trolling shallow- or deep-diving stickbaits at slow speeds will be the most common tactic, although some will find success vertical jigging once fish are located. Fishing after dark can be a fun and successful tactic, but ensuring safety should be a primary concern. Shore anglers will find success on piers and breakwalls casting shallow-diving stickbaits, especially after sunset. Locations with overhead lighting can attract baitfish and increase your odds of catching active walleye. Remember the daily limit is 6 fish with a minimum size of 15 inches.
Yellow Perch fishing may be good in the Lake and harbors from Toledo to Cleveland, with a good chance of catching large fish. Spreaders or crappie rigs baited with emerald shiners are best. Remember the daily limit is 30 fish in the West and East Zones, and 10 in the Central Zone.
Steelhead trout will be good in nearshore areas and harbor mouths around tributaries. Trolling or casting stickbaits and spoons, as well as drifting spawn or maggots under a float are common tactics. Don’t be surprised to catch a lake trout while steelhead fishing, especially from Fairport Harbor to Conneaut. Remember the trout/salmon daily limit is 2 fish with a minimum size of 12 inches.
- The daily limit for walleye in Ohio waters of Lake Erie is 6 fish per angler. The minimum size limit for walleye is 15 inches.
- The daily limit for yellow perch is 30 in the West and East Zones of Ohio waters of Lake Erie. The daily limit is 10 in the Central Zone of Ohio waters of Lake Erie.
- The trout and salmon daily limit is 2 fish per angler and the minimum size limit is 12 inches.
- Black bass (largemouth and smallmouth bass): The daily limit is 5 fish per angler with a 14-inch minimum size limit.
Anglers are encouraged to always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while on the water.
Local Information
Marblehead Lighthouse
The Marblehead Lighthouse is the second smallest, but one of the most popular state parks in Ohio. It is said that the lighthouse is the most frequently photographed building in the state. About 25,000 visitors climb the tower each summer, but it's estimated that over 1 million visit the park each year.
On Site Dining
Crabby Joe's
Just steps away from the Chelsea Dock offering Indoor and outdoor seating. Fun seafood dining with local favorites and regionally famous crab leg buckets. Crabby Joe’s is sure to have the coldest drinks and hottest plates along the shoreline.
A great place to have them cook your catch!
Crows nest
Also walking distance from the Chelsea Docks Savor our appealing menu start with Captain Jo's favorite loaded tots and move on to there entrees, like the the lobster tails or Captain Josh's favorite the smoked Meatloaf. Enjoy the Patio, the food, and the amazing cocktails! Crows nest offers Live entertainment on the weekends.
A great place to have them cook your catch!
The Purple Parrot
The Purple Parrot
Stop in for a Treat! We serve Toft's Soft Serve and Hand Dipped Ice Cream, Dole Whip, Milkshakes, Malts, Sundaes and Unique Specialty Sundaes. Check us out for lunch, dinner or a snack, we have Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Sandwiches, French Fries and more!