Seeing it on a map, you may think that the Detroit River only serves to connect Lake St Clair to Lake Erie. Be that as it may, it’s also home to some of the most productive freshwater fishing not just in Michigan, but in the United States. Stretching for almost 30 miles, this diverse fishery has an outstanding number of opportunities for both novice and veteran anglers alike.
Top Catches
Its fortunate location has resulted in the Detroit River becoming a great place to find a variety of fish. This includes species like Walleye, several Bass species, Crappie, Catfish, Pike, and more besides. No matter the time of year, there’s bound to be good fishing somewhere on the river. Below you’ll find out more about the most popular species found in the river.
Walleye
There can be no doubt that the Detroit River Walleye fishing is what reels in the biggest number of anglers year after year. The number of boats will measure in the hundreds when things get really going. If you’re looking to increase your chances of catching Walleye, you should be looking at current and contour breaks, channel edges, and clearer water in general. Clear waters may not hold as many fish, but the ones there will be easier to catch.
Muskellunge
Fall fishing for Muskie is a big thing in these parts and has been so for quite a while. There are quite a few current breaks here that make for great Muskie hotspots. One spot in particular is known for its great Muskie bite, and it’s known as the “Sturgeon Hole.” You can find it just to the south of Peche Island, at the far east end of the river. You’ll definitely be in the market for a trophy catch, with fish sometimes going over 45 inches in size.
Bass
The Bass run in the Detroit River is a short-lived affair, but one definitely worth your time during the spring months. Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Silver bass all draw the attention of local anglers, especially those from the south side of the river. Windsor anglers mostly fish from docks and piers when the Bass bite kicks in, usually using heavier jigs to avoid tangling each other up. If you’re fishing from a boat, be sure to check out the cuts near Grosse Ile as well as the eastern part of Sugar Island.
Detroit River Fishing Tips
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Anglers hoping to catch trophy-sized Walleye should seriously consider night fishing for that purpose. Of course, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the terrain during the day so you have an easier time of it at night when navigation is more difficult.
- A lot of local anglers will list pulling wire among their favorite techniques. Pulling wire is local slang for handlining, and people from these parts are very good at it.
Need to Know
During the summertime, a lot of fish will make their way to the two lakes but don’t let that stop you. Fishing the deeper parts of the river is still a good plan, and a lot of charter captain can take you close to the lakes themselves where the fishing is at its best.
Regulations
No matter if you’re fishing from the US or Canadian side, solo or with a guide, you will still need a freshwater fishing license. Most popular fish species have both a size and possession limit, so be sure to read up on the latest regulations online or hire a guide who’ll take care of that for you.
Budget
One of many good things about fishing in the Detroit River is the competitive charter prices. Usually cheaper than in the adjoining lakes, you can get a half a day’s worth of fishing starting from US$300. If you decide to stay for a full-day adventure, that will set you back for US$400–$450.
Getting There
Both Detroit and Windsor are very easily accessible via car, plane, and train so you won’t be wasting any time on actually getting there. After all, the real prize is in the water and the sooner you get out there the sooner you can have a shot at making your angling dreams come true!
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)
Bass (White)
Catfish
Muskellunge (Musky)
Perch (Yellow)
Pike (Northern)
Sturgeon
Walleye
