Best approaches for Lake Erie Western Basin action

As we ease into August, we begin to think about the end of the hot summer days and fall being just around the corner. The fishing on the west end of Lake Erie can hit some of its toughest days in August, but don’t let that frighten you too much, great fishing opportunities still exist if you know where and how to focus your efforts. With the high amount of walleye in the system, anglers should be pleasantly surprised with the walleye fishing. As the bug hatches finish up in the deeper mud flats, the “eyes” will be scattered deep as well as on top of many of the reefs and shoals. Trolling fisherman should be in some of the same areas as earlier in the year. North of West Sister Island and near the “gravel pit” west of the island should have some eater walleye hanging around. Spoons and Tru-Trip 40 divers are a standby set up out there, be sure to use your electronics to dial in a good depth to set your lures above the fish. Don’t overlook the shallow reef bite as well. It takes a bit of work but setting up on a good “rock bite” is a popular technique this time of year. Casting worm harnesses in the shallow offshore reefs in 15ft. or less can often yield some nice fish. Once you find what side or area of a reef the fish are hanging on, be careful not to spook them, idle around and “be gentle” on these fish that are feeding shallow. The Perch bite is coming on strong this year. The west end of the lake seems to be holding the best population. Areas along the Camp Perry firing range such as near the A, B, D, G cans are popular spots to try, as well as the “Catawaba green can,” north of West Sister, and the Toledo Harbor light area to the west. I have noticed the inline 3 hook perch rigs with beads becoming a reliable fish catcher over the spreader, it may be worth a try if you pick one up. Smallmouth will be on the offshore rockpiles and will often be targeted with soft craws. The largemouth will be in their usual haunts but are getting very pressured by this time of year, so looking for an out of the way spot could improve your odds. Catfish in Sandusky bay and along the lake shoreline will provide great action from dusk to dawn. So, as always, cast a line in the western end of Lake Erie and you can expect some type of bite!