Lake St Clair Fishing

Lake St. Clair, a relatively shallow yet expansive lake in the Great Lakes system, lies between Lake Huron and Lake Erie, straddling the border of Michigan (USA) and Ontario (Canada). While often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Lake St. Clair has quietly become one of North America’s premier freshwater fishing destinations, especially prized by anglers for its healthy populations of sport fish and ease of access. From trophy muskies to schools of smallmouth bass, the lake offers a wide range of opportunities for both novice and expert fishers alike.

A Hotspot for Game Fish

1. Muskellunge (Muskie)

Lake St. Clair is globally famous for its muskie fishing. Often referred to as the "fish of 10,000 casts," muskies in Lake St. Clair are more accessible than almost anywhere else, with fish over 50 inches commonly caught. The open water structure, abundant forage, and low angling pressure compared to other muskie lakes make it a top destination for trophy hunters.

2. Smallmouth Bass

This lake ranks among the best smallmouth bass fisheries in the world. With clear water, rocky shoals, and abundant crayfish, it’s ideal for bass to grow large and fight hard. Spring and early summer are particularly good times to target them along shallow flats and near the river mouths.

3. Walleye

While not as dominant as in Lake Erie, walleye fishing is still solid in Lake St. Clair, particularly during spring and fall. These prized fish are often caught trolling in deeper channels or jigging near weed edges.

4. Perch

Yellow perch fishing can be excellent in late summer and early fall, particularly in the southern parts of the lake and near the mouths of rivers. Schools of jumbo perch attract both boaters and ice fishers.

5. Pike and Largemouth Bass

The weedy bays and river mouths, especially on the Canadian side and in the Anchor Bay area, hold strong populations of northern pike and largemouth bass.

Best Fishing Seasons

⦿ Spring (April–June): Excellent for smallmouth bass, walleye, and pike. Muskies are catch-and-release only until the season opens in early June.

⦿ Summer (July–August): Peak season for muskies and bass. Anglers often use trolling techniques in open waters.

⦿ Fall (September–November): Ideal for trophy muskie fishing. Bass and walleye remain active until late fall.

⦿ Winter (December–March): Ice fishing is popular near shorelines, especially for perch and bluegill.

Popular Fishing Spots

On the U.S. Side (Michigan)

Anchor Bay: Great for bass, pike, and panfish. Ice fishing is also popular here.

Mile Roads (9, 10, 11 Mile): Accessible launch points in St. Clair Shores for muskie and bass.

Clinton River Mouth: Excellent spring bass and pike action.

Detroit River Connection: Great for walleye moving between Lake Erie and St. Clair.

On the Canadian Side (Ontario)

Mitchell’s Bay: Known for muskie and perch fishing.

Belle River and Puce River: Local favorites for both muskie and bass.

Thames River Mouth: Productive area for multiple species, especially during spring runs.

Fishing Techniques and Gear

Trolling: The most common technique for targeting muskies and walleye. Anglers use planer boards, large crankbaits, or spinner rigs.

Casting: Ideal for bass fishing, especially around weed lines, drop-offs, and rocky structures.

Vertical Jigging: Effective in deeper channels or during cooler months.

Live Bait Fishing: Minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers work well for perch, bass, and walleye.

Fly Fishing: Gaining popularity for bass in shallow, clear water flats.

Access and Marinas

Lake St. Clair offers excellent public access on both sides of the border:

⦿ Michigan Launch Points: Harley Ensign Marina, Metropark Boat Launch, Brandenburg Park, and several Mile Road launches.

⦿ Ontario Launch Points: Belle River Marina, Mitchell’s Bay Marine Park, and Lighthouse Cove.

Many marinas also offer bait shops, charter services, fuel stations, and fish cleaning stations.

Fishing Regulations

U.S. Side (Michigan)

• Anglers must have a valid Michigan fishing license.
• Muskie season opens the first Saturday in June.
• Bag limits and size regulations vary by species—always check the Michigan DNR website.

Canadian Side (Ontario)

• Requires an Ontario Outdoors Card and a valid fishing license.
• Regulations vary by species and zone (Lake St. Clair is in Fisheries Management Zone 19).
• Live bait restrictions may apply, especially near protected areas.

Note: Since Lake St. Clair is an international water body, boaters and anglers crossing the border by water should be aware of customs and reporting rules.

Fishing Tournaments and Charters

Lake St. Clair hosts several nationally recognized fishing tournaments, especially for bass and muskie. Organizations like B.A.S.S., FLW, and the Professional Musky Tournament Trail (PMTT) often include the lake on their schedules. Numerous professional fishing guides and charter services operate out of both U.S. and Canadian marinas, offering full-day and half-day trips for novices and experienced anglers alike.

Conclusion

Lake St. Clair is not just a gateway between the Great Lakes—it’s a world-class fishing destination in its own right. With its combination of fertile waters, healthy fish populations, modern access points, and stunning scenery, it offers one of the most rewarding freshwater fishing experiences in North America. Whether you’re chasing the elusive muskie, battling feisty smallmouth bass, or ice fishing for perch in winter, Lake St. Clair delivers unforgettable angling adventure year-round.