Upon returning to my home port for the summer in the deeper waters off of the port of Ashtabula, it was like another world. The summers weather for the most part straightened out quickly and the Walleyes came very good there after. Really nice sized fish all summer long as well ! The springs nightmare weather and fishing was soon forgotten and life was good once again ! One of the down sides of last summer however, at least for me was the horrific surge in fuel prices which did not ease till the season was over. For 2012, I have raised all the summers trolling trips rates up by $50 bucks. Hopefully everyone will understand and you will not have to listen to me harp about it again each week in the fishing reports when the prices spike again after Memorial Day as I am sure they will. This increase will only apply to the Ashtabula summer trips where my usage is off the charts with the long offshore fishing runs that we do there. The spring trips and the fall Perch trips will remain the same. At least for one more year...

We have not had a very strong Walleye hatch in a few years now so it’s anybody's guess as to how good the fishing will actually be this year. One thing is for sure though. Even at it’s worst, Lake Erie's world famous Walleye fishing is still the best on earth ! Period ! There will be plenty of fish caught and new memories made. There always is ! What we may lack for in numbers of fish is more then made up for in the shear size of Walleyes. The average size just seems to get bigger every year. We had no problem living up to our name last year, “Trophy Charters” ! WOW ! This year should prove to be the same. Have your local taxidermist on stand by ! Lol ! And the Perch fishing was as good as ever last fall and there certainly should be no change at all with this come fall. The weather was considerably better last fall then the previous year although the gale winds did rear their ugly heads a few weeks there in October. Again, you just never know how it will go.

Steelhead Trout: For the Steelhead fishing report see the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

Walleye- Windy weather and reduced water clarity has slowed Lake Erie walleye fishing. Some fish have been caught at night around Cleveland harbor and nearshore from Huron to Vermilion. Water temperatures are still in the mid to upper 40’s and fishing should improve if conditions allow.

Steelhead Trout: For the Steelhead fishing report see the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

Walleye: The best walleye fishing in the central basin has been 4 to 6 miles N of Vermilion. Fish have been caught mostly on deep diving crankbaits, and also on harnesses behind divers.

Yellow perch: Fair to good fishing was reported in 35-38’ NE of Rocky River, 35-38’ NW of Edgewater State Park, 52-55’ NW of Fairport and 76’ NE of Conneaut. Perch spreaders with shiners fished on the bottom produces the most fish. Anglers have been using golden shiners when emerald shiners are not available. A few fish have been caught by shore anglers off the East 55th St. Pier in Cleveland. Mornings and evenings have been best.

Steelhead Trout: Northeast Ohio Rivers remain high due to rains late last week. Conditions will improve throughout the week.

For the Steelhead fishing report see the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

Walleye: Prior to high winds over the weekend of Oct. 15 fishing was good 8 to 15 miles N-NE of Huron. Some fish were also caught in 35 to 40’ of water between Huron and Vermilion. Fish have been caught on harnesses with inline weights or divers, and also on deep diving crankbaits. A few walleye have been caught in 62-64’ off Cleveland. Anglers are trolling with stick baits.

Yellow perch: Very good fishing was reported in 42-58’ N of Gordon State Park, 60’ NE of Chagrin River, 52-54’ NW of Fairport and 47-49 NE of Geneva. Perch spreaders with shiners fished on the bottom produces the most fish. Anglers have been using golden shiners when emerald shiners are not available. A few fish have been caught off the Mentor Headlands breakwall. Mornings and evenings have been best.

White Bass: Fishing has been slow off the Eastlake CEI breakwall and Mentor Headlands breakwall. For boat anglers, fishing has been good in the Cleveland area, look for gulls feeding on schools of shiners at the surface. The white bass will be below the shiners.

Channel Catfish: Anglers are catching fish off the Mentor Headlands breakwall at night using night crawlers. Fish are also being caught along the Grand River at the St Clair St bridge.

Steelhead Trout: Good fishing reported this past week, see the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

The water temperature is 54 degrees off of Toledo and 59 degrees off of Cleveland according to the nearshore marine forecast.

Last weekend when I did no report I did manage to get a couple of trips in. And just as it has been all of this fall, the Perch fishing was nothing short of fabulous ! Limits have been almost guaranteed and I believe "The Trophy" has had a perfect run this fall with boat limits on each and every chartered Perch outing. The size of the Perch also has been increasing with each passing week as the water cools. The only strange thing has been that the really good Perch fishing has remained well off shore in the super deep water. 72 foot has been really good but that's about 10 miles out at best and more if you put some east into it angling towards Conneaut coming out of Ashtabula Harbor. That's a lot further than the usual 3 to 5 miles that we like to and normally have to run for our Perch. Heck with the 10 to 15 mile runs that I was making, round trip 30+ miles a lot of days for me and running the motor even at anchor to keep the systems all charged and to attract Perch ( yes, it works ! ) , I may as well have been running offshore trolling trips ! It's no wonder I still have ugly gas bills even though we were just Perching !

With the nice weather and no real trips this past week, I finally was able to get out and get a few fish for my freezer for a change. It always kills me when everybody automatically assumes that I must eat tons of fish all the time and that my freezers are over flowing with fillets. Ummmmm, WRONG ! Everything that gets caught on the charters goes HOME WITH THE CHARTERS ! HELLO ! And if I do have a day off here and there during the season, it's because the weather is bad and if not, there is always repairs/ oil changes etc. etc. etc. that needs to be done. It's really the last thing I want to do is go fun fishing when I am really busy anyway. But I do manage to get a few meat runs in at least during the Perch season each year and that's exactly what I did. I gathered up a few friends and we had at it and had a ball. But by the time I solely paid for the fuel, minnows, fish cleaning etc., it would have been a LOT CHEAPER just to go to the fish market and buy the Perch fillets at the going price of $14.99 a pound ! LOL ! But we had a lot of fun doing it and I have the satisfaction of knowing that those fillets are as fresh as they get as opposed to commercially netted fish that have been dead heaven knows how many days. Mine sure will taste good this winter !

Walleye: Fishing has been good 8 to 15 miles N-NE of Huron. Fish have been caught on harnesses with inline weights or divers, and also on deep diving crankbaits. A few walleye have been caught in 62-64’ off Cleveland. Anglers are trolling with stick baits.

Yellow perch: Very good fishing was reported SW of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, 62-72’ NE of Gordon State Park, 62’ NW of Fairport, 40-44 NE and NW of Geneva, 42-52' N of Ashtabula and 40-44’ and 70-76' NE of Conneaut. Perch spreaders with shiners fished on the bottom produces the most fish. Anglers have been using golden shiners when emerald shiners are not available. A few fish have been caught off the Mentor Headlands breakwall. Mornings and evenings have been best.

White Bass: Fishing has been slow off the Eastlake CEI breakwall and Mentor Headlands breakwall. For boat anglers, fishing has been good in the Cleveland area, look for gulls feeding on schools of shiners at the surface. The white bass will be below the shiners.

Channel Catfish: Anglers are catching fish off the Mentor Headlands breakwall at night using night crawlers. Fish are also being caught along the Grand River at the St Clair St bridge.

Steelhead Trout: Good fishing reported this past week, see the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

The water temperature is 59 degrees off of Toledo and 60 degrees off of Cleveland according to the nearshore marine forecast.

Walleye: The walleye have scattered offshore of Ashtabula and Conneaut and there were no reports for walleye this week

Yellow perch: Prior to 3 straight days of high winds and waves, good fishing was reported 42-50’ NW of Chagrin River, 42-60’ NE of Wildwood State Park, 51’ N-NW of Fairport, 60' NE of Ashtabula and 62-64' NW of Conneaut. Perch spreaders with shiners fished on the bottom produces the most fish. Anglers have been using golden shiners when emerald shiners are not available. A few fish have been caught off the Mentor Headlands breakwall. Mornings and evenings have been best.

White Bass: Fishing has been slow off the Eastlake CEI breakwall and Mentor Headlands breakwall. For boat anglers, fishing has been good in the Cleveland area, look for gulls feeding on schools of shiners at the surface. The white bass will be below the shiners.

Channel Catfish: Anglers are catching fish off the Mentor Headlands breakwall at night using night crawlers. Fish are also being caught along the Grand River at the St Clair St bridge.

Steelhead Trout: See the ohiodnr.com web site: Go to - Wildlife - Fishing - Lake Erie - Steelhead trout fishing

The water temperature is 56 degrees off of Toledo and 62 degrees off of Cleveland according to the nearshore marine forecast.

But you wouldn't have known of the impending weather early on in the week. It was just delightful fall like weather with the Perch fishing ON FIRE! Boy, we pulled some ridiculously fast 180 fish limits of super nice sized Perch. I really believe that the Perch knew of the crazy wave action to come and were really putting on the feed right before the storm arrived. It was non stop doubles and triple headers all the days I fished. It literally took longer for the bait to hit the bottom then it did to get a bite. For as long as it lasted, it was as good as it could possibly be. It certainly is not always this good and I'm afraid that after this big blow that it's going to be a bit of a reality check out there for all of us. But for all of those that have Perch fished with me thus far already, no worries. Your freezers are already well stocked! lol !

I did have one crazy experience this week And this is the first time I have ever seen this in 25 years of running many, many Perch Charters. I had just explained to everyone onboard how we do everything and I am standing right next to this guy when he reels up the first Perch of the day. He reels it to the surface and then stops rather then just lifting it straight out. I could not believe my eyes! This huge Steelhead Trout follows this Perch right to the surface! I am watching the whole thing unfold in total dis-believeth. And it's not going away either for a few seconds, staying just below the surface swimming around in circles watching this Perch. Only after the guy lifts the Perch completely out of the water did it shoot away! Incredible! I could have counted every speckle on its sides, the water was so clear and it was so close! Like I said, crazy...

Walleye: The walleye have scattered offshore of Ashtabula and Conneaut and not many boats are targeting walleye. There was one report of anglers catching fish fishing 72-74’ NE of Ashtabula using dipsy divers.

Yellow perch: Fair fishing has been reported 42-60’ NE of Gordon Park, 42-50’ NW of Chagrin River, Good fishing has been reported 51’ N-NW of Fairport, 60-62' NE of Ashtabula and 59-62' NW-NE of Conneaut. Perch spreaders with shiners fished on the bottom produces the most fish. Anglers have been using golden shiners when emerald shiners are not available. A few fish have been caught off the Mentor Headlands breakwall. Mornings and evenings have been best.

White Bass: Fishing has been slow off the Eastlake CEI breakwall and Mentor Headlands breakwall. For boat anglers, fishing has been good in the Cleveland area, look for gulls feeding on schools of shiners at the surface. The white bass will be below the shiners.

Channel Catfish: Anglers are catching fish off the Mentor Headlands breakwall at night using night crawlers. Fish are also being caught along the Grand River at the St Clair St bridge.

Steelhead Trout: Heavy rains on Monday has the Grand River high and muddy. Before the rain event, anglers were catch a fish in the Grand River off the Painesville Township Park, Mentor Headlands and Fairport Harbor breakwalls using small spoons and jigs tipped with maggots. Fish have also been caught in Euclid Creek at Wildwood State Park.

The water temperature is 63 degrees off of Toledo and 66 degrees off of Cleveland according to the nearshore marine forecast.

Anglers are encouraged to always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while boating.

Few walleye fishing have been made due to recent wind, snow and cold temperatures. The best area over the holiday weekend was from Huron to Ruggles in 30 to 35 feet of water. Most anglers are trolling crankbaits. Anticipate breaking ice in marinas and muddy water on the main lake. Walleye fishing has been sporadic on the piers at night, but some fish are being caught by casting shallow diving stickbaits.

Walleye fishing has remained excellent from Vermilion to Cedar Point in 30 to 42 feet of water. The best areas have been west of the Huron dumping grounds and north of Cranberry Creek. Most anglers are trolling crankbaits. Walleye fishing has been sporadic on the piers at night, but some fish are being caught by casting shallow diving stickbaits. As temperatures drop walleye should continue to move inshore providing fall fishing opportunities through ice up when conditions allow.

Yellow Perch

Perch fishing effort is decreasing, but catches continue to be good in all the traditional spots around the islands and off of the central basin harbors. Perch spreaders with shiners near the bottom produce the most fish.

*Weather the week of 10/27 has been extremely windy. Information contained in the report was collected prior to the gale force winds.*

Walleye fishing had been excellent from Huron to Lorain. As water temperatures drop the best fishing will start to move inshore. Trolling or casting minnow imitating stickbaits produces the best fall catches.

Yellow perch fishing has been excellent. The most consistent action has been on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, N of Vermilion, and also off of Lorain near the lighthouse. Fishing has been very good all along ports from Cleveland east to Conneaut. The best spots include NW of Gordon Park in 40 to 45 feet of water, NW of Chagrin River in 47 to 50 feet of water, N-NW of Fairport in 45 to 55 feet of water (the hump), N of Geneva and Ashtabula in 45’ to 55’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom usually produces the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

Steelhead fishing is picking up as fish begin to move up into the rivers. Anglers are catching fish near breakwalls, at the river mouths, and at lower- to mid- stream locations in the Rocky, Chagrin, Grand and Ashtabula Rivers, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park) and Conneaut Creek. Flows in the rivers and streams have risen with the recent rain and sleet and they are slightly to moderately stained. Small tributaries will fish first. Anglers are using small spoons, spinners, or jigs and maggots or spawn rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 49 off of Toledo and 55 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing is improving from Lorain to Huron. The best areas have been the 30 N line west of the sandbar and the Huron dumping grounds. Fishing remained slow again this past week from Cleveland to Conneaut. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits.

Yellow perch fishing has been excellent. The most consistent action has been on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, N of Vermilion, and also off of Lorain near the lighthouse. Fishing has been very good all along ports from Cleveland east to Conneaut. The best spots include NW of Gordon Park in 51 to 55 feet of water, NE and NW of Chagrin River in 51 to 55 feet of water, NW of Fairport in 40 to 50’ of water (the hump), N of Geneva and Ashtabula in 38’ to 48’ of water, and N of Conneaut in 70’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom usually produces the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 20’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs, drop-shot goby imitations and crayfish.

Steelhead fishing is picking up as fish begin to move up into the rivers and anglers are catching fish at the mouth and downstream locations in the Chagrin River, Grand River, Geneva State Park, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park), Conneaut Creek and along the Conneaut west breakwall. Water conditions in the rivers and streams remain low and clear. Best times have been early in the morning. Shore anglers are using small spoons and jigs and maggots rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

We have been spending most of our days in water anywhere from 50 to 70 foot deep with the Perch right on the bottom. Hook up three minnows on your rig, drop the sinker straight down to the bottom and make sure it rests dead on the bottom while holding the line tight between the sinker on the bottom and the rod tip. Pretty soon you feel tap, tap, tap and then you set the hook. Lots of times you can catch a double and if you're really lucky, even a triple!

Even though the marina is closed and I have moved the boat to a different location a couple hundred yards up river, the fish cleaning service is still available thank God. And what a wonderful job they do cleaning all those Perch for just a few bucks. I don't know why anybody would want to screw around and spend all afternoon cleaning fish when these pro's can do it in about 45 minutes for a whole cooler!

We have been spending most of our days in water anywhere from 50 to 70 foot deep with the Perch right on the bottom. Hook up three minnows on your rig, drop the sinker straight down to the bottom and make sure it rests dead on the bottom while holding the line tight between the sinker on the bottom and the rod tip. Pretty soon you feel tap, tap, tap and then you set the hook. Lots of times you can catch a double and if you're really lucky, even a triple !

Even though the marina is closed and I have moved the boat to a different location a couple hundred yards up river, the fish cleaning service is still available thank God. And what a wonderful job they do cleaning all those Perch for just a few bucks. I don't know why anybody would want to screw around and spend all afternoon cleaning fish when these pro's can do it in about 45 minutes for a whole cooler !

Keep in mind that with the marina being closed that you still need to get your licenses ahead of time either online through the links on my website www.trophycharters.com or at the K-Mart here in Ashtabula on Rt. 20 just east of Rt. 11. They are open 24 hours also which helps us out a lot. We have about a month remaining in the season before I pull the boat for the winter. We are scheduled to come out Nov. the 3rd. Don't miss out on your last chance to spend a fun filled day aboard "THE TROPHY" catching jumbo's for the freezer. It's a long, long winter ! We still have plenty of dates available including a few weekend dates. Give me a call at 216-387-2656, my boat/mobile number. I would be glad to hook you up !

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing remained slow west of Cleveland with the best area being the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain. Fishing continues to be slow in the Cleveland area this past week so there are no locations to report. Fishing continues to be good 12-17 miles N of Geneva in 70 to 72’ of water, and 6-10 miles NE-NW of Ashtabula in 69 to 72’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-50 feet down, and the best colors have been watermelon, purple, orange, green, and gold/black or red/silver.

Yellow perch fishing has remained slow from Huron to Avon. The most consistent action has been on the S end of the sandbar. Fishing has been very good offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to fish are NW of Edgewater Park in 45 to 47 feet of water, NW of Wildwood State Park in 41 to 46 feet of water, NW of Fairport in 40 to 50’ of water (the hump), N of Geneva in 40 to 50’ of water, and N-NE of Conneaut in 60 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom usually produces the most fish, however. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

White bass fishing has been spotty off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 16 to 26’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught off Geneva and Ashtabula while fishing for walleye. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 67 off of Toledo and 69 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has slowed west of Cleveland with the best area being the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain. Fishing continues to be slow in the Cleveland area this past week so there are no locations to report. Very good fishing has been reported 7-10 miles N of Ashtabula in 69 to 72’ of water, and 7-12 miles N-NW of Conneaut in 71 to 75’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-50 feet down, and the best colors have been watermelon, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or blue/silver.

Yellow perch fishing has remained slow from Huron to Avon. The most consistent action has been on the S end of the sandbar. Fishing has been very good offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to fish are NW of Gordon Park in 38 to 42 feet of water, NW of Edgewater Park in 40 to 50 feet of water, N of Fairport in 38 to 48’ of water, N of Geneva in 38 to 48’ of water, and N of Conneaut in 60 to 65’ of water. You may try fishing further offshore this week than normal. Fish may also be suspended in the water column until the recent upwelling of low oxygenated water settles back down to the deeper portions of the lake. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom usually produces the most fish, however, this week you may want to fish 5 to 10 feet up from the bottom due to the conditions. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

White bass fishing has been spotty off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 16 to 26’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 69 off of Toledo and 71 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has continued to be excellent thus far right into September. I can't believe how big some of these late season beauties have been. We sure have seen our share of 10 pound fish the last few weeks. They are putting on a lot of fat for the winter months and feeding like crazy. It has not been unusual to net a Walleye and have it spew a bunch of smelt out of their mouths. Literally a feeding frenzy going on out there ! We have finally started to see more Steelhead Trout as well the last couple of weeks, something that has been unusually quiet most all of the summer season. Unfortunately the Sheephead have been attacking us as well on some days. The last couple of days have not been so bad though.

We are still fishing well offshore most everyday now. 15 to 20 miles has been an almost everyday occurrence for about the last month. Ugly fuel bills everyday to say the least. Locked in at charter rates from a few years ago is not quiet getting it at today's high fuel costs. There will be a slight adjustment for next season ... unless O'Bama or McCain solve all of our problems between this November and next spring, LOL ! For now your generous tip money is still offsetting the difference. What was once meant at one time for the wife and I to go out and have dinner on the boy's is now going right into the pockets of the big oil companies. Sucks. Man, I better get back on the right subject. I'm depressing myself !

I've adjusted to my new dock location as much as I am going to I suppose since the collapse of River Marine into the Ashtabula River last month. See my last fishing report if you are not familiar with the story. Very sad. Anyway, I am still meeting most all of my charters at River Marines parking lot and having everyone just follow me down. It's only a couple of hundred yards back up river but it's been easier this way. Looks like this will be my home as well for the next season. Next year it will be up to everyone to find where I am docked. This sitting in the parking lot in the truck waiting for someone to show up is getting old. The good news is that the fish cleaning is still available but keep in mind that you have to get your fishing licenses ahead of time since there is no longer a marina store. You can do it online ahead of time through the links on my website or the K-Mart in Ashtabula which sells them 24 hours a day. Just plan accordingly. We are departing the dock now promptly at 6:00 a.m. Don't forget to book that fall Perch trip as well. We are booking those right now and will be starting to Perch fish very soon !

Walleye fishing has slowed west of Cleveland with the best area being the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain. Fishing continues to be slow in the Cleveland area this past week so there are no locations to report. Very good fishing has been reported 10-20 miles N of Geneva in 72 to 74’ of water, and 8-12 miles N of Ashtabula in 70 to 74’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-50 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or gold/red.

Yellow perch fishing is very good offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to fish are NW of Gordon Park in 35 to 45 feet of water, NW of Edgewater Park in 40 to 45 feet of water, N of Ashtabula in 65 to 70’ of water, and N of Conneaut in 60 to 65’ of water. You may try fishing further offshore this week than normal. Fish may also be suspended in the water column until the recent upwelling of low oxygenated water settles back down to the deeper portions of the lake. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom usually produces the most fish, however, this week you may want to fish 5 to 10 feet up from the bottom due to the conditions. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

White bass fishing has been good off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good prior to the upwelling of low oxygenated waters this past week. We expect fishing to pick back up in the harbor areas around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Anglers have been fishing in 15 to 25 feet of water. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught by anglers while walleye fishing 7 to 15 miles offshore from Geneva and Ashtabula in 65 to 74 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 71 off of Toledo and Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been good E of the southern half of the sandbar NW of Lorain 5 to 7 miles out. Fishing has slowed down in the Cleveland area this past week so there are no locations to report. Very good fishing has been reported 10-15 miles N of Geneva in 70 to 74’ of water, and 7-15 miles NE and NW of Ashtabula in 68 to 74’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-50 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or gold/red.

Yellow perch fishing is good offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to fish are NW of Gordon Park in 53 to 55 feet of water, NW of Chagrin River in 45 to 50 feet of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 38 to 50’ of water, and N of Conneaut in 60 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Don’t forget to try several turns up from the bottom as some fish may be suspended. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

White bass fishing has been very good off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 16 to 26’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught by anglers while walleye fishing 7 to 15 miles offshore from Geneva and Ashtabula in 65 to 74 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 71 off of Toledo and 73 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been good E of the southern half of the sandbar NW of Lorain 5 to 7 miles out. Fishing has slowed down in the Cleveland area with the best areas NW of Edgewater Park in 54 of water and NW of Chagrin River in 72 to 78’ of water. Very good fishing has been reported NW of Geneva in 65 to 74’ of water, and 7-13 miles NE of Ashtabula in 70 to 74’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-50 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, pink, and black with copper or gold.

Yellow perch fishing is good offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to fish are NW of Edgewater Park in 51 to 54 feet of water, NW of Chagrin River in 53 to 54 feet of water, NW of Fairport Harbor (the hump) in 50 to 60’ of water, and N of Conneaut in 55 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Don’t forget to try several turns up from the bottom as some fish may be suspended. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

White bass fishing has been very good off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 16 to 26’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught by anglers while walleye fishing 9 to 13 miles offshore from Geneva and Ashtabula in 65 to 74 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 72 off of Toledo and 74 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been good E of the southern half of the sandbar NW of Lorain 5 to 7 miles out. Fishing has slowed down in the Cleveland area with the best areas NE of Edgewater Park in 63 to 70’ of water, NW of Chagrin River in 70 to 72’ of water. Very good fishing has been reported NE of Geneva in 68 to 72’ of water, and 7-11 miles N of Ashtabula in 68 to 73’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses and spoons continue to be the top baits. The best action has been about 25-52 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or gold.

West of Cleveland the best yellow perch fishing has been off of Sawmill Creek in 33’ of water and from Cranberry Creek to Old Woman’s Creek in 31 to 38’ of water. The fishing is fair offshore in the Cleveland area and also east to Conneaut. The best spots to try are NW of Edgewater Park in 50 to 52 feet of water, NW of Chagrin River in 55 to 62 feet of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 45 to 55’ of water, and N Conneaut in 50 to 60’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Don’t forget to try several turns up from the bottom as some fish may be suspended. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

White bass fishing has been very good off Eastlake CEI power plant in 15-30 feet of water. Anglers are using agitators with blue/silver spoons and jigs tipped with twister tails.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 15 to 35’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught by anglers while walleye fishing 9 to 13 miles offshore from Geneva and Ashtabula in 68 to 74 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

I was able to scramble back onto the twisted wreckage and cut myself loose. Others had already moved their boats. I had looked at other docks that very same morning and was about to move my boat somewhere else when I got the call that it was too late. Man, it went fast ! Many have speculated as to how this could have happened after that property had stood there as is for over a hundred years with a steel company there before it was tore down and then years later the River Marine building put up. All the existing bulk heads were there as well all those years. How could something like this happen ?

Well, I'll tell you what I think. I think it's a combination of factors combined that resulted in the disaster. Many of you that had read some of my previous reports this summer may remember be mentioning that the river was being dredged and that they took it down to a uniform depth of 20 foot, wall to wall across the river. Bingo. What used to be only a few feet deep right by the wall was now dug out to 20 foot ! Now, I'm no Einstein but ... that and the bridge project where they have the huge drawbridge just a few feet away from River Marine standing straight up in the air for over 4 months now day and night shaking and swaying in the wind... I'm not saying anything, I'm just saying ...

The implications to this for everyone is going to be significant. I already have found a new dock location at least for the rest of this year just a few hundred yards back up river right by the Oar House Saloon. Coming from Rt. 11 like you normally come, go all the way north on 11 till it dead ends. Then turn left like you did before to go to River Marine but only go exactly 6/10ths of a mile and at the bottom of the hill you turn left into The Oar House's Parking lot. It is a big square white block building that looks like a ware house. Sadly it is not marked very well. I don't know how this will all play out but most importantly it's not looking good for fishing licenses or fish cleaning services at the end of the day unless they get something temporarily put up in a hurry. I am urging all my upcoming trips to contact me on my cell, 216-387-2656 as soon as possible to discuss other options. There are options but the bottom line is it will not be as convenient as we have all grown accustomed to. Very sad.

Walleye fishing has been good E of the southern half of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain 7 to 10 miles out, NE of Gordon Park in 66 to 70’ of water, NW of Chagrin River in 68 to 72’ of water, NE of Geneva in 68 to 74’ of water, and 9+ miles N of Ashtabula in 68 to 74’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses continue to be the top bait followed closely by spoons, especially east. The best action has been about 25-52 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or gold.

West of Cleveland the best yellow perch fishing has been off of Sawmill Creek in 33’ of water and from Cranberry Creek to Old Woman’s Creek in 31 to 38’ of water. The fishing is fair offshore in the Cleveland area. The best spots to try are NE of Edgewater Park in 50 to 58 feet of water and NW of Gordon Park in 54 to 58 feet of water. To the east, fishing remains good NW of Fairport Harbor in 52 to 65’ of water, and N of Ashtabula in 60 to 68’ and N Conneaut in 50 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Don’t forget to try several turns up from the bottom as some fish may be suspended. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 15 to 35’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught by anglers while walleye fishing 9 to 13 miles offshore from Cleveland, Eastlake, Fairport, Geneva and Ashtabula in 68 to 74 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 75 off of Toledo and Cleveland.

Anglers are encouraged to always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while boating.

The fish have seemed to go no where the last few weeks. They just seem to be hanging out around the 8-9 mile to the 12 -13 mile mark off shore. Most days we are running slightly north west. The fish are just there. Day after day, over and over again. As a charter captain, consistency is the best thing that could happen to us. Figure out what lead lengths are working and stick with it. Most Days the fish are very deep. Get you're stuff down there and hold on ! We have been fishing for the marks that are showing up on the fish finder in the 55 to 65 ft.below the surface. It has just been plain working. I have it pretty much figured out and everyday thus far it has been a slaughter. I am just hoping that we can keep it going for the next month and a half. That's how much longer I have left in my Walleye season. It just seems incredible to me. It seems just like yesterday that we put the boat in for the season. Just like I said before, over and over and over again. That's how this season has been for me thus far. Very good and very fast everyday so far ...

Man, I can't believe how generous you have all been. Fuel prices have been killing me this season and you guys for the most part have been steping up to the plate and taking that into consideration when settling up at the end of the day with generous tip money. While others have been trying to pass on fuel sur-charges, I have just been focusing on filling the box and letting the chips fall where they may. It's been good all the way around. I get the job done everyday and all of you have made sure that the bills get paid. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. After all the years I've been at this, I am very pleased with my clientele and the relationship that we have. It gives me hope for the years to come.

Just as I have been preaching all season long, we still need to get off by 5:00 a.m. We now have some travel time involved and we want to make sure that we get off early enough to where we can get out there and arrive at the hot spots just as day light breaks and start setting lines in time for the feeding frenzy. This has been half of the reason that I have been so successful. I have most all of you convinced as to how important it is to be fishing out there in the wee hours of the morning when the bite is on. It has paid huge dividends for all of us aboard "The Trophy" and it has been the reason we have had the edge on the competition. First out, first back . It's a beautiful thing. Please remember that the drawbridge in the harbor is closed to car traffic and that you must come in by way of Rt. 11 as all of my directions spell out . Also please remember th at the upcoming Perch season will be here in a matter of a few short weeks. NOW IS THE TIME TO BOOK YOUR PERCH TRIPS !!

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing has been good E of the southern half of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, 7 to 10 miles out NE and NW of Edgewater State Park in 62 to 70’ of water, NW of Eastlake in 67 to 70’ of water, NW of Geneva in 68 to 72’ of water, and 8+ miles NE and NW of Ashtabula and Conneaut in 70 to 73’ of water. Trollers are using worm harnesses, spoons or stickbaits off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. Worm harnesses continue to be the top bait followed closely by spoons, especially east. The best action has been about 25-40 feet down, and the best colors have been chartreuse, purple, orange, green, and black with copper or gold.

Yellow perch fishing is good offshore in the Cleveland area. The best spots to try are NW of Edgewater Park in 53 to 60 feet of water and NE of Rocky River in 58 to 62 feet of water. To the east, fishing remains good NW of Fairport Harbor in 52 to 65’ of water, and N of Ashtabula and Conneaut in 50 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Don’t forget to try several turns up from the bottom as some fish may be suspended. Fish have ranged from 8 to 13 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 15 to 35’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs and drop-shot goby imitations.

Steelhead are being caught 7 to 10 miles offshore from Cleveland, Eastlake, Fairport, Geneva and Ashtabula in 62 to 73 feet of water. Anglers are catching steelhead on blue or green with silver spoons while trolling using downriggers, dipsy divers, or jet divers off planer boards.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 74 off of Toledo and Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been good on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, NW of the Chagrin River in 60 to 65’ of water, NW of Edgewater State Park in 58 to 64’ of water, N-NW of Fairport Harbor in 60 to 70’ of water, NW and NE of Ashtabula in 68 to 72’ of water. Trollers are using crankbaits or spoons and worm harnesses off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. The best action has been about 20 feet down and the best colors have been chartreuse, silver, orange, green and pink, and monkey puke.

Yellow perch fishing slowed down in the Cleveland area this past week. The best spots to try are NW of Edgewater Park in 42 to 48 feet of water and NW of Gordon Park in 45 to 50 feet of water. To the east, fishing remains good NW of Fairport Harbor in 40 to 50’ of water, and N of Ashtabula and Conneaut in 50 to 60’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 5 to 20’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs.

Steelhead fishing is picking up and fish are being caught off Fairport, Geneva and Ashtabula. Anglers are catching steelhead on spoons while trolling for walleye.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 72 off of Toledo and Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been very good N of Cranberry Creek marina in 32’ of water, on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, NW of the Chagrin River in 56 to 62’ of water, NW of Wildwood State Park in 60 to 62’ of water, N of Fairport Harbor in 60 to 72’ of water, NW of Geneva in 60 to 72’ of water, and NW of Ashtabula in 60 to 72’ of water. Trollers are using crankbaits or spoons and worm harnesses off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. The best action has been 20’ down and the best spoon colors have been chartreuse, silver, orange, green and pink.

Yellow perch fishing has been good NW of Edgewater State Park in 43 to 47’ of water, NW of Chagrin River in 38 to 44’ of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 45 to 55’ of water, and N of Ashtabula in 50 to 60’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 5 to 20’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs.

Steelhead fishing is picking up and fish are being caught off Chagrin River, Fairport, Geneva and Ashtabula. Anglers are catching steelhead on spoons while trolling for walleye.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 70 off of Toledo and 69 off of Cleveland.

The fish continue to move offshore further and further and drop deeper and deeper down in the water column. Aboard "The Trophy" we have made all of the necessary adjustments and continue to bring consistent catches of beautiful Walleyes back to the bragging board everyday. A few more Steelhead are also appearing in our daily catches as well as we continue to get further offshore with the Walleyes moving out. With this, my daily fuel bill is also starting to get very ugly. Thanks to everyone that is kicking in the extra tip bucks to make sure that fuel is never a determining point for where I am going to fish. I want to take everyone to the very best possible spots no matter how far out this may be. All of you have been very generous and I will continue to take everyone to the best spots that I am aware of, no matter how far out it is.

One thing now needs to be addressed. The game wardens as of July 1st are strictly watching and enforcing the 6 Walleye possession rule. This is nothing new. You are not allowed and never have been allowed to have on your possession more then 6 Walleyes a person as you leave the marina. We have been warned and the fish cleaners now have to keep strict records as well. What that means is you are not allowed to have any extra fish that we may catch as we clear lines or whatever just because I am on board. I have been guilty before of letting a few of you keep a few extra fish on my account if they were coming exceptionally fast. This was never legal and they are now watching us closely. Please do not ask me to break any laws. You are allowed 6 Walleyes each and no more. They are going to make an example of someone and they have the power to pull over cars as they leave the marina and count either fish or fillets. Mark my words, this is going to happen.

We still need to leave early in the morning each day. If you have a upcoming trip, you need to be at the marina at 5:00 a.m. especially now that we have more travel time involved in getting to the schools of fish. Also, the drawbridge is still closed for repairs so make sure you come in by way of Rt.11 like my directions direct you to. Finally, as we start the down ward slide of the 2008 fishing season I want to remind everyone that the fall Perch season will be here before you know it. Some are already Perching because you don't have to burn anywhere near as much gas and they are doing incredibly well considering it is still mid summer. It will only get better this fall. We are already booking Perch dates and you can really never book to early. Remember that the best date always go first so don't wait ! Book your fall Perch trips now !

Walleye fishing has been good S of the Huron dumping grounds in 32’ of water, N of the Vermilion breakwall, N of Beaver Creek, NW of the Chagrin River in 60 to 65’ of water, NW of Gordon Park in 56 to 63’ of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 65 to 74’ of water, NW of Geneva in 60 to 70’ of water, and N of Ashtabula in 60 to 70’ of water. Trollers are using crankbaits or spoons and worm harnesses off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. The best action has been 20’ down and the best spoon colors have been gold, orange, green and pink.

Yellow perch fishing west of Cleveland has been best N of the Vermilion breakwall and off of the Lorain lighthouse. Fishing has been good NW of Gordon Park in 50’ of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 50 to 55’ of water, N of Geneva in 60 to 70’ of water and N of Conneaut in 55 to 65’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7 to 12 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good in 5 to 20’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs.

Steelhead fishing is picking up and fish are being caught off Chagrin River, Fairport, Geneva and Ashtabula. Anglers are catching steelhead on spoons while trolling for walleye.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 70 off of Toledo and 68 off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been good N of Cedar Point, N of Vermilion to Lorain in 35 to 45’ of water, NW of the Chagrin River in 40 to 48’ of water, NW of Edgewater State Park in 42 to 54’ of water, W of Fairport Harbor in 35 to 45’ of water, NE of Geneva in 60 to 70’ of water, and NW of Ashtabula in 60 to 70’ of water. Trollers are using crankbaits or spoons and worm harnesses off jet divers, dipsy divers, planer boards and downriggers. The best action has been 20’ down and the best spoon colors have been gold or silver with green and pink.

Yellow perch fishing west of Cleveland has been best off of the condos east of Vermilion and off of the Lorain lighthouse. Fishing has been good NW of Wildwood State Park in 40 to 45’ of water, NW of Gordon Park in 30 to 40’ of water, NW of Fairport Harbor in 40 to 55’ of water, and N of Ashtabula in 40 to 50’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7.5 to 12.5 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 5 to 20’ of water around Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, Ashtabula and Conneaut harbors. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 68 off of Toledo and 67 off of Cleveland.

The last few days we've been out as far as 10 miles. Even though we will be out even further in the coming months, the pain at the pump is already setting in big time. By the time we run out 10 miles or so, troll all day and run back 10 miles, the daily fuel expense is very trouble some. I still wonder how we will be able to afford to run out the 20 miles or so that we normally do in July and August before we ever even wet a line. We have not adjusted our rates in the last several years to compensate for what is happing at the marine gas docks. I certainly would have this season if I would have known how the prices were going to soar this summer. I am still very dependent on everyone's understanding and generous tips to try and off set this terrible situation. So far everyone has been taking good care of me at the end of the day. I can't thank you enough .

The Walleyes are still only hitting very well in the early morning. The first few hours of daylight has been awesome and then it dies off dramatically. Maybe after the fish drop down to the 50 - 60 foot range they will cooperate a bit better all day but until then, we absolutely have to be off the dock by 5:00 a.m. Especially now since we have even more travel time involved before we even start to set lines. The choice is yours. Show up late and go for a boat ride or show up at day break as I strongly suggest and get in on the blazing hot action that happens just as the sun is coming up. It's my favorite time of day. You have not lived until you've seen a lake Erie sun rise over the water with Walleyes hanging all over the place in total chaotic bliss !

I am reminding everyone that the draw bridge is closed for the summer for vehicular traffic and you must come in by way of route 11 as all my directions clearly spell out. The river dredging project which has been ongoing for the past 3 years is now completed. The last few weeks have been a real pain but now we can now enjoy the deep water that the project has left behind. Most of you will remember how shallow it was behind my boat. We now have 20 foot of water under us and it is right up to the wall. Amazing ! I have seen a lot of changes in the past 22 years of full time chartering out of Ashtabula harbor. This is probably the greatest change I've ever witnessed. Well, let's hope for calm seas and great fishing the rest of the summer. I just love it when I get to say everyday, "just another day on The Trophy!"

Walleye fishing has been excellent on the dumping grounds N of Huron, N of Beaver Creek in 35 to 45’ of water, NW of the Chagrin River in 20 to 30’ of water, NE of Wildwood State Park in 20 to 30’ of water, 4 to 5 miles W of Geneva in 50 to 65’ of water, and 2 to 4 miles W of Fairport Harbor in 20 to 30’ of water. Trollers are using crankbaits or spoons and worm harnesses off jet divers, dipsy divers and downriggers. The best action has been 20’ down and the best spoon colors have been gold or silver with green and pink.

Yellow perch fishing west of Cleveland has been best off of the condos east of Vermilion, in 43’ of water north of Beaver Creek, and off of the Lorain lighthouse. Fishing has been excellent NE of the Chagrin River in 30 to 35’ of water, NE of Edgewater in 30 to 35’ of water, N of Fairport Harbor in 35 to 50’ of water, N of Conneaut in 35 to 50’ of water, and N of Geneva and Ashtabula in 45 to 55’ of water. Perch spreaders or crappie rigs with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 7.5 to 12.5 inches.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 5 to 20’ of water around Ashtabula and Fairport Harbor. Fish are being caught on watermelon, pumpkinseed and green tube jigs.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 70 off of Toledo and 63 off of Cleveland.

Walleye have been caught trolling nearshore from Huron to Lorain in 32 to 45’ of water with Beaver Creek producing some of the largest fish, off Eastlake in 35 to 40’, off Cleveland in 40 to 55’, off Geneva 40 to 55’, and off Ashtabula in 35 to 50’. Trollers are using stick baits, spoons and worm harnesses off planer boards, jet divers and also flatline trolling.

Yellow perch fishing west of Cleveland has been best off of the condos east of Vermilion, in 43’ of water north of Beaver Creek, and off of the Lorain lighthouse. Fishing has been very good off Wildwood State Park and Eastlake in 30 to 35 feet of water, off Fairport in 35 to 45’, and off Geneva, Ashtabula and Conneaut in 35 to 50’. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 8 to 12 inches. Shore anglers are catching fish off the long pier in Grand River and also the short pier in Fairport Harbor.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 15 to 25 feet of water around harbor areas in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish are being caught on jigs tipped with minnows, leeches, tube jigs, and by trolling crankbaits.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 67 off of Toledo and 60 off of Cleveland.

One thing remains the same right now everyday. It is an extreme early morning bite. So far we have been putting the bulk of our fish in the box in the first few hours of daylight. The fish are in very shallow water lots of the mornings and are very high to the surface. I remind and urge all my groups to be at the dock by 5:00 a.m. and certainly no later then 5:30 if you want to catch lots of fish. Its really that simple.

I also want to remind everybody that the lift bridge in the harbor is closed for the entire season for repairs and you must come in by way of Rt. 11 just like my directions direct and not a short cut through town for those staying at some of the local motels. River Marine where I dock is also under new management so I hope everybody understands it's going to take a little while as the new people learn the ropes with licenses etc. Lots of changes everywhere this season.

Walleye have been caught trolling nearshore from Huron to Lorain in 32 to 42’ of water, and in 40 to 50 feet of water off Eastlake to Cleveland, and in 35 to 50 feet of water off Fairport, Ashtabula and Conneaut. Trollers are using stick baits, spoons and worm harnesses off planer boards, jet divers and also flatline trolling. Fishing is picking up on the piers at Eastlake and Cleveland. The best times for shore fishing are in the early morning and evening with anglers using surface rapalas.

Yellow perch fishing west of Cleveland has been best off of the condos east of Vermilion and off of the Lorain lighthouse. Fishing has been very good off Gordon and Edgewater Parks in Cleveland in 30 to 40 feet of water, and off all the major ports from Fairport to Conneaut in 35 to 45 feet of water. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 8 to 12 inches. Shore anglers are catching fish off the long pier in Grand River and also the short pier in Fairport Harbor.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 15 to 25 feet of water around harbor areas in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish are being caught on jigs tipped with minnows, leeches, tube jigs, and by trolling crankbaits.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 62 off of Toledo and 59 off of Cleveland.

The Walleye fishing is not starting out crazy fast like it did the past two Junes here when I first came back but it's not bad either. As in past years, the early Walleyes that we're catching right now are very close to shore and are very high in the water column. We had several good days this past week along the shore lines both east and west of Ashtabula Harbor in water as shallow as 30 ft. The problem we are still having is lots of wind. It is very difficult to work the pods of fish when we run across them when fighting a heavy chop. If we ever get the chance to circle around in tighter loops when we run across these pockets, I think catch rates will soar.

There is a incredible amount of work being performed in the harbor area right now. The final leg of the Ashtabula River dredging project is being finished. Some of you will remember how shallow it was when I backed my boat into my dock at River Marine. Well those days are over. We now have 20 ft. of water under us ! Also the famous draw bridge right next to River Marine is getting a complete make over. Presently it is being sand blasted and will be completely re-painted over the whole summer. All this means that the drawbridge is stuck open and is closed to vehicular traffic for the entire year. Please note that you MUST come in by way of Rt. 11 exactly how my directions tell you to. If you come in the back way like some of you do when staying in town, you will run into a big detour and you will be very late. PLEASE NOTE THIS !

Walleye have been caught trolling nearshore from Huron to Lorain in 28 to 36’ of water, and in 35-45’ off Eastlake to Cleveland. Trollers are using stick baits, spoons and worm harnesses off planer boards and also flatline trolling. Fishing is picking up on the piers at Eastlake and Cleveland. The best times for shore fishing are in the early morning and evening with anglers using surface rapalas.

Yellow perch fishing has been best off of the condos east of Vermilion, off of the Lorain lighthouse, in 40-50’ off Fairport to Conneaut, and 35-40’ off Cleveland. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Fish have ranged from 8 to 12 inches. Shore anglers are catching fish off the long pier in Grand River and also the short pier in Fairport Harbor.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 15 to 25’ around harbor areas in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish are being caught on jigs tipped with minnows, leeches, tube jigs, and by trolling crankbaits.

Based on the nearshore forecast the water temperature is 58 off of Toledo and 56 off of Cleveland.

Walleye have been caught trolling nearshore in 15-25’ off Eastlake, Cleveland and Rocky River. Trollers are using stick baits, spoons and worm harnesses off planer boards and also flatline trolling. Fishing is picking up on the piers at Eastlake and Cleveland. The best times are in the evening and early morning with anglers using surface rapalas.

Yellow perch fishing has been best in 30-40’ off Fairport to Conneaut, and 30-40’ off Cleveland. Perch spreaders with shiners fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in 15 to 25’ around harbor areas in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish are being caught on jigs tipped with minnows, leeches, tube jigs, and by trolling crankbaits.

We had a wonderfully successful season in 07 both business wise and in fishing success. I am very thankful for all of the good things that we experienced aboard "The Trophy" this past season and I am looking forward to doing it all over again.

Thanks to everyone that chose our charter this past year over the hundreds of those available to choose from on Lake Erie. I hope I have the opportunity to serve your needs again this coming fishing season out there on "The Walleye Capitol of The World", beautiful Lake Erie !

We'll have some new stuff up shortly on our website, www.trophycharters.com so keep your eyes out and remember that right now is the time to book all your trips for this coming spring and summer. It will be here before you know it !

Capt. Walt

The Lake Erie surface temperature is 40 degrees off of Toledo and 46 degrees off of Cleveland.

When conditions have allowed the best walleye fishing has been from Cedar Point to Vermilion. The best technique to catch fall trophies is trolling crankbaits around open water baitfish during the day or along rocky shorelines at night. Shore anglers can also catch walleye from piers after dark as walleye move inshore to feed on shiners and gizzard shad.

Steelhead fishing has been very good and are being caught off the Fairport, Ashtabula and Conneaut breakwalls in 10 to 25 feet and also in the Ashtabula and Grand Rivers, and the mouth of Conneaut Creek. Anglers are catching steelhead trolling green/white, red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good off of the Vermilion breakwall in 35 to 38’ of water, off of the Lorain lighthouse, northwest of Gordon State Park (Cleveland) in 42 feet, north of Edgewater State Park (Cleveland) in 40 feet, north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 45 to 60 feet, and north of Conneaut in 35 to 40 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Shore fisherman are catching yellow perch at the Lorain ore dock pier using perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers.

Steelhead fishing has been very good at the mouths of the rivers and major streams. Water levels remain low in the main channels on the rivers and streams. Anglers are catching fish at the Lorain Ore dock, East 72nd St Pier in Cleveland, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park), Chagrin River, Grand River, Arcola Creek, Geneva State Park, Conneaut Creek and along the Conneaut west breakwall. Shore anglers are using small spinners and spoons, and jigs and maggots rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

Wind conditions limited opportunities on the sandbar between Lorain and Vermilion where fishing had been good. With the strong south winds some fish were caught nearshore from Vermilion to Huron. Anglers trolling crankbaits or divers with harnesses and spoons had the best success.

Steelhead fishing has been very good and are being caught off the Fairport, Ashtabula and Conneaut breakwalls in 10 to 25 feet and also in the Ashtabula and Grand Rivers. Anglers are catching steelhead trolling green/white, red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good off of the Vermilion breakwall in 35 to 38’ of water, off of the Lorain lighthouse, northwest of Gordon State Park (Cleveland) in 42 feet, north of Edgewater State Park (Cleveland) in 40 feet, north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 40 to 52 feet, and north of Conneaut in 53 to 58 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Shore fisherman are catching yellow perch at the Lorain ore dock pier using perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

Steelhead fishing has been very good at the mouths of the rivers and major streams and anglers are catching fish at the Lorain Ore dock, East 72nd St Pier in Cleveland, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park), Chagrin River, Grand River, Arcola Creek, Geneva State Park, Conneaut Creek and along the Conneaut west breakwall. Shore anglers are using small spinners and spoons, and jigs and maggots rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

Walleye fishing has been spotty on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north of Edgewater State Park (Cleveland) in 69 to 72 feet and northeast of Ashtabula in 68 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers with spoons and worm harnesses ranging in copper, black/purple, tangerine, watermelon, wonderbread, antifreeze and gold/orange.

Steelhead fishing has been good and is being caught off the Fairport and Ashtabula, Conneaut breakwalls in 10 to 25 feet and also in the Ashtabula and Grand Rivers. Anglers are catching steelhead trolling green/white, red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good off of the Vermilion breakwall in 36’ of water, off of the Lorain lighthouse, north of Gordon State Park (Cleveland) in 42 to 50 feet, north of Edgewater State Park (Cleveland) 40 to 51 feet, north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 30 to 58 feet, and north of Ashtabula and Conneaut in 55 to 60 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs fished near the bottom produce the most fish. Shore fisherman are catching yellow perch at the Lorain ore dock pier using perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye, also inshore near the mouth of the Chagrin River and adjacent to the Eastlake Power Plant.

Steelhead fishing has been good as fish begin to move up into the rivers and creeks and anglers are catching fish in the Lorain Ore dock, Chagrin River, Grand River, Geneva State Park, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park), Arcola Creek, Conneaut Creek and along the Conneaut west breakwall. Shore anglers are using small spinners and spoons, and jigs and maggots rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

The Lake Erie surface temperature is 58 degrees off of Toledo and 64 degrees off of Cleveland.

Walleye fishing has been spotty on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north of Geneva 72 feet, and north-northeast of Conneaut in 70 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers with spoons, stick baits and worm harnesses ranging in copper, black/purple, tangerine, watermelon, wonderbread, antifreeze and gold/orange.

A few steelhead are being caught by walleye anglers trolling off Geneva and Conneaut in 70 to 72 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good off of the condos east of Vermilion, off of the Lorain lighthouse, north-northeast of Gordon Park (Cleveland) in 52 to 54 feet, north-northwest of Euclid in 52 to 56 feet, north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 62 feet, and north of Ashtabula and Conneaut in 55 to 70 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good near Ruggles Reef in the Huron area, in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye, also inshore near the mouth of the Chagrin River and adjacent to the Eastlake Power Plant.

Steelhead fishing has been good as fish begin to move up into the rivers and creeks and anglers are catching fish in the Chagrin River, Grand River, Geneva State Park, Euclid Creek (Wildwood State Park), Arcola Creek, Conneaut Creek and along the Conneaut west breakwall. Shore anglers are using small spinners and spoons, and jigs and maggots rigged with a split shot under a light bobber.

We have had very nice weather for the most part this fall to work with as well. Just like this entire season, long stretches of bad weather have been non existent. Sure, we have had the occasional one day blow here and there but not enough to screw anything up. The lake hasn't even turned over yet, which usually happens in mid September. This is a phenomenon where after a big blow the warm water on the surface mixes with the cold water below the thermocline. It usually screws the fishing up for a few days.

And with this stable weather and the lake not flipping, even the Walleyes are still hanging around ! Although I have only been running Perch trips myself, I have seen very many nice cooler fulls of Walleye still coming in. The word among the Walleye fisherman is that they are super, super deep now. We're talking right on the bottom in 65 to 70 foot of water. Although I would be interested in running a Walleye trip should someone request it, I am perfectly content chasing Perch now that I have started doing so, especially after running Walleye trips day after day for 6 months now !

My October schedule is very light at this point. If anybody is interested in a fun filled day of catching Lake Erie gold, I would be more then happy to welcome you aboard "The Trophy" for a late season day on the water. Remember, old man winter is just around the corner now and the opportunity to do a trip still this year is fast slipping away ! As always, I can be reached directly on my cell phone (216) 387-2656 for a list of what is still available or to secure a day. I have to go now..., I'm going to go back now and have a Perch sandwich. Mmmmmm Mmmmmmmm !!!

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing has been spotty on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, northwest and northeast of Ashtabula in 63 to 72 feet, and northwest and northeast of Fairport in 65 to 72 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers with spoons, stick baits and worm harnesses ranging in copper, black/purple, tangerine, watermelon, wonder bread, antifreeze and gold/orange.

A few steelhead are being caught off Fairport and Ashtabula in 63 to 72 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good west of the Sandbar, off Lorain in 45 feet of water, north-northeast of Euclid in 55 to 62 feet, northwest and northeast of Chagrin River in 55 to 61 feet, northwest of Fairport Harbor in 47 to 57 feet, and north of Conneaut in 57 to 70 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or crappie rigs fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good near Ruggles Reef in the Huron area, in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye, also inshore near the mouth of the Chagrin River and adjacent to the Eastlake Power Plant.

Walleye fishing has been very good on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north-northwest of Gordon Park and Edgewater in 60 to 71 feet, north-northeast of Ashtabula in 60 to 72 feet, and north of Conneaut in 58 to 65 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers, down riggers and wire line with spoons and stick baits ranging in copper, black/purple, tangerine, watermelon, wonder bread, antifreeze and gold/orange.

Steelhead are being caught from Geneva to Ashtabula in 70 to 72 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good just off of the Vermilion breakwall, north-northeast of Gordon Park in 56 feet, north-northwest of Euclid in 54 to 55 feet, northwest of Fairport Harbor in 46 to 55 feet, and north of Conneaut in 61 to 65 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye, also inshore near the mouth of the Chagrin River and adjacent to the Eastlake Power Plant.

This past week we ran our first few Perch trips along with what seemingly may have been my last couple of Walleye trips for the year. At least on the books, I only have Perch trips scheduled from here on out although the Walleye fishing was still so good that I may try to squeeze another Walleye trip or two in the next week or so if anyone would be interested in trying it one more time.

Thursday Sept.13th was the last Walleye trip that I took out. We headed out with not much certainty as to what to expect after loosing Tue.and Wed.to gale force winds and forecasted waves to 14 feet ! And absolutely nothing changed. We killed the Walleyes pretty much where we had left off about 15 miles offshore. It was fast and furious. Nice fish too. The junk fish such as the White Bass and Sheephead weren't bad either. A nice way to end the Walleye season if indeed that turns out to be my last one.

We have a lot of open dates now as we enter the fall season. Perch fishing is already great and will only get better as the water cools and the true Jumbo Perch start to move in and turn on. Walleye was still good this past week but we are dangerously close to that time of year around here where the Walleye fishing seems to go from really good to crap almost overnight. Still though, anyone interested in whatever trip can call me as always directly on my cell 216-387-2656.

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing has been very good on the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north-northwest of Gordon Park in 63 to 71 feet, northeast of Geneva in 70 to 72 feet, and northeast of Ashtabula in 70 to 72 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers, down riggers and wire line with spoons and stick baits ranging in copper, black/purple, gold, boy/girl, superman, wonder bread, antifreeze and chartreuse.

Steelhead are being caught from Geneva to Ashtabula in 70 to 72 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been very good in 35’ of water off of the condos east of Vermilion, 5 miles north-northeast of Gordon Park in 56 feet, 4 to 6 miles north-northwest of Euclid in 54 to 55 feet, 3 to 6 miles northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 58 feet, and 4 to 6 miles north-northeast of Conneaut in 53 to 65 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 15 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye.

Walleye fishing has been very good on the south end of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north-northwest of Euclid in 68 to 76 feet, north-northwest of Chagrin River in 70 to 75 feet, northeast of Geneva in 69 to 74 feet, and north-northeast of Ashtabula in 72 to 75 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers, down riggers and wire line with spoons and stick baits ranging in copper, black/purple, gold, boy/girl, superman, wonder bread, antifreeze and chartreuse.

Steelhead are being caught from Geneva to Ashtabula in 69 to 75 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been good in 35’ of water off of the condos east of Vermilion, 5 to 7 miles north-northwest of Edgewater State Park in 60 feet, 5 to 8 miles north-northeast of Euclid in 47 to 61 feet, 4 to 6 miles north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 58 feet, and 4 to 6 miles north-northeast of Conneaut in 48 to 64 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been good in harbor areas, and in 20 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye.

The last week or so has seen some sanity return to our fishing as a lot of the fish have dramatically moved back north towards the Canadian border making it a lot tougher to get on and stay on the fish, especially if it is rough out. We've also been plagued with nuisance Sheephead and White Bass in incredible amounts on some days. Still, in between whatever the lake throws at us we've been consistently pulling limit after limit of beautiful Walleyes and the occasional Steelhead Trout. I can not remember the last time that we did not "get them all" !

We sure had our share of thunderstorms that we had to navigate around the last couple of weeks of August. I was so thankful that I had all of the Raymarine electronics that I have on board to help me make educated decisions as to whether it was safe to cast off or not or if we were already out, whether to keep fishing or not. It sure impressed a lot of my customers as we tracked heavy bands of thunderstorms almost daily with the state of the art Sirius weather service displayed on my Raymarine E-120. We also would track the closer squalls on the regular Raymarine boat radar. Never a dull moment out on the big lake, especially when you are out 20+ miles offshore.

As I mentioned earlier, Perch season is now just around the corner. Others have already started to Perch and are doing EXCELLENT ! Anyone interested in a Perch trip with me aboard "The Trophy" can call me directly on my boat/cell number: (216) 387-2656. As of this report, we have the following open dates available in September: Sept. 19th or 20th for either a Walleye or Perch trip. Then the last week of Sept. we have Sept. 25th and 27th available for preferably a Perch trip. October still has a lot of open dates left. For a complete up to the minute list of what is available please call me at the above mentioned number or drop me a e-mail at trophy@trophycharters.com

Capt. Walt

The last week or so has seen some sanity return to our fishing as a lot of the fish have dramatically moved back north towards the Canadian border making it a lot tougher to get on and stay on the fish, especially if it is rough out. We've also been plagued with nuisance Sheephead and White Bass in incredible amounts on some days. Still, in between whatever the lake throws at us we've been consistently pulling limit after limit of beautiful Walleyes and the occasional Steelhead Trout. I can not remember the last time that we did not "get them all" !

We sure had our share of thunderstorms that we had to navigate around the last couple of weeks of August. I was so thankful that I had all of the Raymarine electronics that I have on board to help me make educated decisions as to whether it was safe to cast off or not or if we were already out, whether to keep fishing or not. It sure impressed a lot of my customers as we tracked heavy bands of thunderstorms almost daily with the state of the art Sirius weather service displayed on my Raymarine E-120. We also would track the closer squalls on the regular Raymarine boat radar. Never a dull moment out on the big lake, especially when you are out 20+ miles offshore.

As I mentioned earlier, Perch season is now just around the corner. Others have already started to Perch and are doing EXCELLENT ! Anyone interested in a Perch trip with me aboard "The Trophy" can call me directly on my boat/cell number: (216) 387-2656. As of this report, we have the following open dates available in September: Sept. 19th or 20th for either a Walleye or Perch trip. Then the last week of Sept. we have Sept. 25th and 27th available for preferably a Perch trip. October still has a lot of open dates left. For a complete up to the minute list of what is available please call me at the above mentioned number or drop me a e-mail at trophy@trophycharters.com

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing has been very good on the south end of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north-northeast of Cleveland in 63 to 77 feet, north-northeast of Ashtabula in 70 to 76 feet and north-northeast of Geneva in 64 to 74 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers, down riggers and wire line with spoons and stick baits ranging in black/purple, gold, boy/girl, superman, wonder bread, antifreeze and chartreuse. Trolling worm harnesses (same colors) have also been successful.

Steelhead are being caught from Geneva to Ashtabula in 70 to 74 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been good in 35’ of water off of the condos east of Vermilion, 3 to 5 miles northeast and northwest of Eastlake in 55 to 65 feet, 3 to 5 miles north-northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 60 feet, and 5 to 6 miles north-northeast of Conneaut in 58 to 62 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been excellent in harbor areas, and in 20 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye. Shore anglers are catching white bass at the Lorain Ore Dock, Eastlake CEI pier, Fairport Harbor pier, and Conneaut breakwall; early mornings and evenings have been the best. Anglers are using agitators and small yellow or white jigs or small spinners.

Walleye fishing has been very good on the south end of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, northeast of Ashtabula in 65 to 72 feet, and north-northwest of Conneaut in 63 to 72 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers and down riggers with spoons and stick baits ranging in black/purple, gold, silver/silver, superman, wonder bread, antifreeze and chartreuse. Trolling worm harnesses (same colors) have also been successful.

Steelhead are being caught from Geneva to Conneaut in 65 to 72 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been good 3 miles north of Edgewater State Park in 43 to 51 feet, 3 miles north of Eastlake in 47 feet, 3-5 miles northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 55 feet, and 5-6 miles north-northeast of Conneaut in 48 to 65 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been excellent in harbor areas, and in 20 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye. Shore anglers are catching white bass at the Lorain Ore Dock, Eastlake CEI pier, Fairport Harbor pier, and Conneaut breakwall; early mornings and evenings have been the best. Anglers are using agitators and small yellow or white jigs or small spinners.

The Lake Erie surface temperature is 70 degrees off of Toledo and 73 degrees off of Cleveland.

Aboard "The Trophy" we've been going just about as fast and non stop as we can go from the moment we first start to set lines till the last Walleye is netted. I just simply can not even catch my breath. There is always half a dozen or so things that need my immediate attention constantly. And even though I get all my crews heavily involved in running and setting the lines, it really has been overwhelming. There is almost always constantly 2, 3, 4 and sometimes even more fish on at the same time. It's a fine act of juggling people around, netting fish and still be running lines back out so that you are not caught with no lines in the water. I am very happy with how well all my crews have handled all the mass organized chaos. We truly have worked well together.

We are still catching some monster Walleyes but the bulk of the fish are just the nice average sized eaters, maybe 18 to 22 inches. It just doesn't get any better for table fare. And the occasional Steelhead Trout is still showing up almost on a daily basis just to add a twist of excitement to the almost out of control fun. The junk fish such as the Sheephead are also starting to become a bit of a problem. Still though, we deal with it and move on. Most trips we have been back before noon. It has been very nice to be wrapped up and done before the extreme August afternoon heat kicks in. This has been a special year. It will not always be like this so we have to enjoy it while we can. It could all change in a matter of days.

And it don't even seem possible but it's already time to start thinking about and booking your Jumbo Perch trips for late next month and all of October. As good as the Walleye fishing is right now off of Ashtabula, we only have about a month to go before switching over for the last part of our season. And even in past record good years, when it's over around here, it's over. As fast as these fish show up in record numbers, they also disappear. I do not like to book Walleye trips any later then I am confident that we can do well. This usually occurs in late Sept. We just switch over to Perch for about 6 weeks and then call it a year. Anyone interested in a Perch Charter can call me at 216-387-2656. Maybe I'll be able to finally catch my breath ! Naw !!

Capt. Walt

Walleye fishing has been very good on the Huron dumping grounds, on the south end of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, north of Edgewater State Park in 68 to 72 feet, north of Chagrin River in 68 to 72 feet, north northwest of Geneva in 68 to 72 feet, and north-northeast of Ashtabula in 67 to 75 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers or jet divers off planers with spoons and stick baits ranging in black/purple, gold, blue/silver, wonderbread, antifreeze and chartreuse with copper backs. Trolling worm harnesses (same colors) have also been successful.

Steelhead are being caught off Lorain, Vermilion, and Cleveland in 68 to 72 feet, and Geneva to Ashtabula in 67 to 75 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been good in 39’ of water off of the Vermilion breakwall, 4-6 mi north of Cleveland in 40 to 60 feet, north of Eastlake in 50 to 55 feet, 4-6 mi northwest of Fairport Harbor in 48 to 55 feet, and 4-6 mi north-northeast of Conneaut in 48 to 56 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been excellent in harbor areas, and in 20 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye. Shore anglers are catching white bass at the Lorain Ore Dock, Eastlake CEI pier, Fairport Harbor pier, and Conneaut breakwall; early mornings and evenings have been the best. Anglers are using agitators and small yellow or white jigs or small spinners.

Walleye fishing has been very good on the south end of the sandbar between Vermilion and Lorain, northwest of Gordon Park (E 72nd St. in Cleveland) in 60 to 72 feet, 10 mi north of Chagrin River in 68 to 72 feet, west northwest of Fairport in 60 to 72 feet, and north-northeast of Ashtabula in 68 to 72 feet. Anglers are trolling dipsy divers or jet divers off planers with spoons and stick baits ranging in black/purple, gold, wonderbread, antifreeze and chartreuse with copper backs. Trolling worm harnesses (same colors) have also been successful.

Steelhead are being caught off Lorain, Vermilion, and Cleveland in 68 to 70 feet, and Geneva to Ashtabula in 70 to 73 feet. Anglers are catching steelhead on red/white, black/purple, chartreuse, and silver/blue spoons while trolling for walleye.

Yellow perch fishing has been good 3-5 mi north of Cleveland in 30 to 55 feet, north of Eastlake in 50 to 55 feet, 4-6 mi northwest of Fairport Harbor in 50 to 56 feet, and north-northeast of Conneaut in 48 to 65 feet. Perch spreaders with shiners or worm harnesses fished near the bottom produce the most fish.

Smallmouth bass fishing has been excellent in harbor areas, and in 20 to 25 feet along the shoreline in Conneaut, Ashtabula, Geneva and Fairport Harbor. Fish were caught on goby- colored tube jigs, crankbaits, and jigs tipped with minnows, nightcrawlers, or leeches.

White bass are being caught by anglers trolling for walleye. Shore anglers are catching white bass at the Lorain Ore Dock, Eastlake CEI pier, Fairport Harbor pier, and Conneaut breakwall; early mornings and evenings have been the best. Anglers are using agitators and small yellow or white jigs or small spinners.

There is no one spot now that we are relying on as more and more schools of hungry feeding Walleyes are setting up shop in the deeper, cooler waters offshore of Ashtabula for this hot part of summer. Water temp's are now around 75 degrees yet the Walleyes that we are pulling in from 50 to 60 foot level below the surface are nice and cold. Tons of baitfish are showing up now, especially the Smelt and the Walleyes are in a literal feeding frenzy with their metabolism in high gear!

Aboard "The Trophy" we are relying heavily on the old Storm deep diving Jr. Thunderstick. This lure is identical in size and shape to the Lake Erie Smelt. When you hold each in hand, it's easy to see why the Walleyes are so easily fooled. Best colors for us as always seem to me the metallic colors with gold's and silvers seemingly the very best. Copper spoons on the riggers and divers are also doing very well. Everything is now set super deep for these hungry Walleyes and that means a lot of cranking but as I tell all my groups, "more winding and less whining

It is especially vital with this heat to get off the dock bright and early and that means you need to be loaded up and ready to roll no later then 5:30 a.m.if you have a trip booked with us. The fish are a good ways offshore now so there is a considerable amount of travel time. We want to arrive at the fishing grounds just as dawn is breaking so that we can cash in on the early morning heavy bite and try to be off the lake before the heat of the afternoon becomes unbearable. So far, almost all of my groups have been very good about showing up very early all bright eyed and ready to go fishing. That gets us out and fishing when the walleyes are biting like crazy and others are still waiting for their charters to show up! Thanks for helping me look good !!

Capt. Walt

The past couple of weeks we've been bouncing around from one hot spot to another, trying to keep our guests on top of the very best Walleye action that I become aware of. We have been offshore as far as 20 miles and for a few trips we've been working back in some very shallow water after a nice school was discovered in about 40 foot of water. What those fish are doing in such shallow water in the middle of the summer is beyond me but I liked it while it lasted. That particular bite appears to be slowing down although there are still fish in there if you are willing to weed thru all the junk fish.

We took many limits of Walleyes from both the near shore and far off shore waters of Ashtabula Harbor in the past couple of weeks. Steelhead trout are still showing up almost on a daily basis when we work our way further out in the lake but not in the crazy numbers that we were catching back in June. We even boated a very nice Brown Trout recently! The size on the Walleyes has been a pleasant mix of year classes although the "03"s have still been dominant. Even as such, these are nice sized perfect eaters. We even have been seeing numerous throw back under size Walleyes while working the shallower waters a few days. A wonderful sign!

I believe that fishing in the next few weeks weather permitting is going to be an offshore event. I really liked what I saw on the fish finder out there this past week. This may be the mother load that we've all been waiting to set up. Too bad with gas prices as they are that these fish choose to be out there that far. Aboard The Trophy we easily burn 60-70 gallons a day plus depending on lake conditions and other factors when making these runs. At $3.50 plus a gallon that sure cuts into the bottom line! And fuel is only one of the many expenses that the charters incur maintaing their operations. Hopefully everybody that charters any boat appreciates their captains efforts and realizes that we're definitely not getting rich playing this game.

Capt. Walt