Épisodes

  • Spring Smallmouth, Walleye Bite along Cleveland's North Coast

    Spring Smallmouth, Walleye Bite along Cleveland's North Coast
    May 11 2025
    Good morning anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your Lake Erie and Cleveland area fishing report for Sunday, May 11, 2025.

    We’re heading into a classic spring day on the north coast. The sunrise lit up the city at 6:09 am and we’re looking at sunset around 8:33 pm. Weather conditions today are mostly stable and mild, with just a slight breeze out of the west and temperatures peaking in the upper 60s to low 70s. There’s no major rain in the forecast for today, so river and lake conditions should be favorable for most anglers, although some of our rivers like the Rocky and Chagrin still have a bit of a muddy stain from earlier showers[1][2].

    The lake-run smallmouth bass fishing remains the highlight across all waters. Smallmouth are active and pushing into rocky shorelines and river mouths. Many are being caught both along the Lake Erie breakwalls and in the deeper pools of the Rocky and Chagrin Rivers. Productive baits include medium-sized minnow or shad-pattern crankbaits, spinners, olive tube jigs (3-inchers have been hot), Ned rigs, and minnow-imitating streamer flies. Goby patterns continue to perform when the water’s clear[1][2].

    Walleye anglers are also reporting some good catches, especially in the evening and after dark near the Cleveland Harbor and E. 72nd Street area. Jigging with blade baits or trolling stickbaits just off the breakwalls remain the go-to techniques. Remember, between May 1 and June 21, you can only keep one bass over 18 inches per day, so remember selective harvest and let the trophies go for the next angler[3].

    Steelhead fishing is winding down but you can still find a few lingering fish in the deeper holes of both the Rocky and Chagrin Rivers, though this window is closing fast. For trout fans, there are still plenty of stocked rainbow trout in Wallace and Shadow Lakes. Try small spoons, spinners, PowerBait, or small jigs tipped with a maggot or waxworm under a bobber[1].

    A couple of hot spots to consider today:
    - The Rocky River mouth and marina area is holding plenty of smallmouth, as well as a few bonus steelhead for those looking for the “silver and bronze” combo.
    - E. 72nd Street pier and the breakwall around Gordon Park Lakefront are producing walleye and smallmouth, especially in the early morning and toward dusk.

    Bait shops are recommending fresh emerald shiners when you can get them, along with waxworms and fathead minnows for multispecies action.

    That’s the report for today. Get out early, target those rocky structures and river mouths, and don’t be shy about mixing up your lure colors if the bite slows down. Good luck and tight lines!
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    3 min
  • "Early May Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth, Walleye, and More"

    "Early May Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth, Walleye, and More"
    May 10 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Saturday, May 10th Lake Erie Cleveland area fishing report. It’s a classic early-May morning on the lakefront. Sunrise today was at 6:08 AM and sunset will be around 8:31 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to get after the fish. Weather is mild with partly cloudy skies, highs in the low 60s, and a light northwest breeze. No tidal action to report on the lake, so focus on wind direction and recent rain when planning your outing.

    The big story right now is the lake-run smallmouth bass. They are running hot in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers, which are still stained from recent rain but clearing up nicely. The best bite has been on medium size minnow or shad crankbaits, spinners, three-inch olive tube jigs, and Ned rigs. If you’re fly fishing, streamer flies that mimic a minnow or goby are producing well. Boat and shore anglers are doing well, and some smallmouth are tipping past four pounds lately. This is peak time—don’t miss it[1][2][4].

    There are still a handful of steelhead lingering in the rivers, but that action is winding down quickly. If you want to chase both smallmouth and steelhead in the same trip, you can still pull off the “silver and bronze” double before the steelhead disappear for good[1][2].

    On the inland lakes, Wallace Lake and Shadow Lake are holding lots of stocked rainbow trout. Anglers are finding success with small spoons, spinners, PowerBait fished on the bottom, and small jigs tipped with maggots or waxworms under a bobber. Limits vary by location, so check before you keep[1].

    Out on the big lake, folks are picking up walleye trolling along the nearshore reefs and breakwalls, especially at dusk. Try stickbaits and shallow diving crankbaits for the best shot. Panfish and perch are starting to show up in the marinas and harbors, responding well to drop shot rigs or a simple jig and bobber combo[3]. Pike are roaming around the edges of the marinas and Presque Isle Bay, hitting soft swimbaits and bigger hard baits[3].

    If you want the hot spots, head to the mouth of the Rocky River by the Emerald Necklace Marina or the E 72nd Street fishing area downtown for mixed action from shore. Boat anglers are scoring on the Cleveland harbor rock piles and the deeper edges just outside the breakwalls.

    To wrap up—smallmouth bass are center stage, walleye are heating up, and plenty of trout and panfish action remains in our lakes and rivers. Get out early, bring your olive tubes and crankbaits, and target those current seams and structure. Good luck and tight lines!
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    3 min
  • Lakefront Lunkers and River Runners - Your Cleveland Area Fishing Report for May 9th, 2025

    Lakefront Lunkers and River Runners - Your Cleveland Area Fishing Report for May 9th, 2025
    May 9 2025
    Good mornin' anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your Lake Erie and Cleveland area fishing report for Friday, May 9th, 2025.

    We're lookin' at some decent fishing conditions this weekend despite the muddy stain in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers. If you've been waiting to get out on the water, now might be your chance before conditions change again.

    The highlight right now is definitely the excellent lake-run smallmouth bass fishing. These bronzebacks are hitting hard on medium-sized minnow or shad crankbaits, spinners, and those 3-inch olive tube jigs that they just can't resist. Ned rigs are working well too if that's your preference. For you fly anglers, streamer patterns mimicking minnows or gobies are getting solid action.

    There are still a few steelhead stragglers around, though that run is tapering off quickly. This is prime time for scoring what we locals call the "silver and bronze" - catching both a steelhead and a smallmouth on the same trip, often from the same spots.

    Along the lakefront, anglers are having luck with a variety of species including walleye and smallmouth bass. For trout enthusiasts, your best bet is heading to the East Branch Rocky River or checking out Wallace and Shadow lakes, where rainbows are still being caught regularly.

    Based on recent reports, you might want to try the mouths of tributaries where smallmouth are gathering. The Presque Isle Bay area has been producing some decent panfish and perch for those willing to move around to find schools.

    Bait-wise, you can't go wrong with minnows for the smallies and walleye. If you're after those remaining steelhead, egg sacs or small jigs tipped with maggots might still do the trick.

    Hot spots worth checking out this weekend include the lower sections of the Rocky River Main Branch and the Chagrin River. The river mouths where they enter Lake Erie are prime smallmouth territory right now.

    Just a heads up - there's significant rain in the forecast, so conditions could change quickly. Best advice is to get out there as soon as you can before the rivers rise and muddy up more.

    For those planning an early morning start, remember to pack extra layers as these spring mornings can still be chilly on the water.

    That's your fishing report for today, May 9th. This is Artificial Lure reminding you to check your licenses, respect catch limits, and as we always say 'round here - tight lines, folks!
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    3 min
  • Bronzebacks, Rainbows, and Walleye - Cleveland Fishing Update for May 7, 2025

    Bronzebacks, Rainbows, and Walleye - Cleveland Fishing Update for May 7, 2025
    May 7 2025
    Fishin' Report for Lake Erie, Cleveland - May 7, 2025

    Hey there, folks! Artificial Lure here with your mid-week fishing update for the Cleveland area.

    We've got some mixed news on the water today. That significant rain the weather folks warned about last week has finally shown up, making river conditions a bit challenging. But don't let that stop you from getting your lines wet!

    The big story continues to be those lake-run smallmouth bass. They're still running strong in the Rocky and Chagrin rivers, though you might want to check the water levels before heading out. These bronzebacks are absolutely hammering medium-sized minnow and shad crankbaits. Olive-colored 3-inch tube jigs have been particularly hot, and don't overlook those Ned rigs if you want consistent action.

    If you're a fly angler, streamer patterns mimicking minnows or gobies are your best bet for these smallies. They've been aggressive, so don't be shy with your retrieves.

    There are still a few steelhead lingering around, though that run is tapering off quickly. Today might be your last good chance at landing the "silver and bronze" combo – that's catching both a steelhead and a smallmouth in the same trip. Now that's a good day on the water!

    For you lake anglers, walleye fishing continues to be productive along the lakefront. The perch bite has been picking up too, with some decent reports coming from Presque Isle Bay. Panfish action is heating up in the shallower, warmer waters.

    Remember that black bass possession is limited to just one fish 18 inches or greater in the Lake Erie zone from May 1 through June 21, so make sure you're measuring those catches.

    As for hot spots, the mouths of tributaries flowing into Lake Erie have been particularly productive for smallmouth. The East Branch of the Rocky River is also worth checking out, especially if you're after those last few steelhead or some of the stocked rainbow trout.

    Wallace Lake and Shadow Lake still have those stocked rainbows, and they're perfect options if the rivers are running too high from the rain.

    Bait-wise, live minnows are always a good choice this time of year, but don't overlook nightcrawlers for those panfish. If you're targeting walleye, crawler harnesses are starting to produce as the water warms up.

    The weather today is on the wet side, but temperatures remain mild, which should keep the fish active. Just remember your rain gear!

    That's all I've got for today, folks. This is Artificial Lure signing off and reminding you that the worst day fishing still beats the best day working! Tight lines!
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    3 min
  • Early May Fishing Report: Smallmouth, Steelhead, and More Biting on Lake Erie and Cleveland Waterways

    Early May Fishing Report: Smallmouth, Steelhead, and More Biting on Lake Erie and Cleveland Waterways
    May 5 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Lake Erie and Cleveland-area fishing report for Monday, May 5, 2025. We’re heading into a classic early May pattern and things are looking up for anglers all around the North Coast. Let’s break it down.

    First off, weather’s typical spring on the lake—expect temps starting in the high 40s early morning, warming up to the low 60s by afternoon. Skies are mostly overcast with a good chance of some light rain and a steady southwest breeze that'll keep things interesting. Layer up and keep the raincoat handy. Sunrise will be about 6:10 AM and sunset around 8:25 PM, giving you a nice long window on the water.

    There’s no real tidal swing in Lake Erie, but water levels are steady. The recent bump in river flow from rain has the Rocky and Chagrin Rivers in good shape, and water clarity has been fair to decent.

    Now onto the action. Lake-run smallmouth bass are stealing the show right now. Folks are hooking into quality fish both in the lower stretches of Rocky and Chagrin rivers and right off the Cleveland shoreline. Reports are steady for good numbers of 2 to 4-pound smallmouth, with a few pushing 5 pounds landed this week. Productive lures have been olive or goby-pattern tube jigs, Ned rigs, and medium crankbaits. Live minnows on a drop-shot or under a bobber are hard to beat for numbers. Fly folks are doing well with streamer patterns that imitate shiners or gobies.

    Steelhead are just about finishing up for the season in the rivers, but you might find a few late runners in the deeper pools. Anglers are also seeing a mixed bag in the bay—perch, bluegill, and crappie are all waking up as the water warms. Yellow perch bite has been fair, though you’ll need to move around to find them. Try emerald shiners or small artificial minnows just off the bottom.

    If you’re after a multi-species day, give Edgewater Park or the E 72nd Street Marina a shot. Both are proven spring hotspots right now. Rocky River mouth is also producing solid numbers, especially around dawn and dusk.

    Right now, your best bets are
    - Tube jigs in olive, pumpkinseed, or natural goby colors
    - Ned rigs with green pumpkin or brown finesse plastics
    - Medium crankbaits for bass and pike along riprap or rocky points
    - Live emerald shiners for perch, either on a simple drop-shot or spreader rig

    Fishing is picking up fast and should only get better as the water continues to warm. Good luck, keep those lines tight, and I’ll see you out on the water!
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    3 min
  • Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth Bass, Steelhead, and Walleye Action Heating Up

    Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth Bass, Steelhead, and Walleye Action Heating Up
    May 4 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Lake Erie Cleveland area fishing report for Sunday, May 4, 2025.

    We kicked off the day with a calm sunrise at 6:14 AM, and anglers are looking at a sunset at 8:29 PM tonight. Weather is shaping up mild this morning, but heads up, there’s significant rain in the forecast, so I recommend getting lines wet early before the water gets muddy and river levels rise.

    The lakeshore and rivers have been producing well lately. Lake-run smallmouth bass are the main attraction right now, with excellent numbers being reported along the lakefront and into the Rocky and Chagrin rivers. A few stubborn steelhead are still hanging around the stream mouths and lower river stretches—this is the time of year when you might just land the classic “silver and bronze,” meaning both a steelhead and a hefty smallmouth on the same outing. Out on the lake itself, folks targeting walleye have seen mixed results, and you can still find perch and a smattering of panfish if you move around and put in the effort.

    Best bets for smallmouth this week are medium-size minnow or shad crankbaits, spinners, 3-inch olive tube jigs, and Ned rigs. Streamer flies that mimic minnows or gobies have also been hot for both smallmouth and the last steelhead. For the remaining steel, smaller spawn sacs and white jigs tipped with a minnow can get their attention.

    Walleye anglers working the lake after dark or in low light are doing best with stickbaits like Bandits and Husky Jerks in clown or purple patterns. The perch bite has picked up in spots, especially near the Cleveland lighthouse and along the breakwalls; live emerald shiners on spreaders are still the gold standard for those.

    If you’re after trout, the East Branch of the Rocky River and Wallace and Shadow lakes still have fish holding from spring stockings, and dough baits or small spinners are reliable choices.

    For hot spots this week, try the Rocky River mouth for a shot at both smallmouth and the last of the steelhead, or work the E 72nd Street access and Gordon Park along the lakefront for big bass and walleye as the sun sets. Don’t overlook the breakwall edges for perch, especially if you can get your hands on some fresh shiners.

    A quick reminder, from May 1 to June 21, bass possession on Lake Erie is limited to one fish over 18 inches, so practice selective harvest and enjoy the action.

    That’s the word from the water for today. Grab your rain gear, get out there, and tight lines to all.
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    3 min
  • Excellent Spring Action on Lake Erie and Local Rivers

    Excellent Spring Action on Lake Erie and Local Rivers
    May 3 2025
    Good morning anglers, this is Artificial Lure bringing you the latest on fishing in and around Lake Erie and the Cleveland area for Saturday, May 3, 2025.

    We’re starting the weekend with solid fishing conditions, but there’s a heads up on the weather. Local rivers like the Rocky and Chagrin are in good shape right now, but significant rain is on the way, so it’s best to hit the water early before levels start to rise and things get murky. Out on the big lake and along the lakefront, anglers are seeing a mixed bag of catches with some real highlights for spring action[1].

    Sunrise today is at 6:14 AM and sunset at 8:28 PM. Winds are steady out of the southwest, and the air is warming up nicely, bringing water temps up into the prime range for smallmouth and walleye activity. Tidal changes are minimal on the Great Lakes, but you can expect slight variations through the day, with peak bite windows around dawn and dusk.

    Right now, lake-run smallmouth bass are lighting up the local rivers and rocky shorelines. Guys and gals fishing the Rocky River, Chagrin River, and lakefront spots like Edgewater Park are seeing excellent numbers of smallmouth. Most are in the two to four pound range, but a few real bruisers have been caught, including a couple pushing five pounds. The top lures have been medium-sized minnow or shad crankbaits, olive tube jigs around three inches, Ned rigs, and spinners. For fly anglers, streamer patterns that mimic shiners or gobies are doing the trick[1].

    Steelhead are still hanging around in smaller numbers, so there’s a shot at a double—hooking both steelhead and smallmouth in the same trip, especially in deeper pools and transition areas near the mouths of the rivers[1]. Along the main lake and piers, folks are also picking up walleye in the evenings, mostly trolling stickbaits and using live minnows.

    From recent reports, panfish are moving in closer to shore in the bays and harbors, with perch, bluegill, and crappie all putting in appearances. A few brown trout and pike have also come out, especially around the Cuyahoga River mouth and the east side harbors[4]. Perch are taking small minnows and jigging spoons, while pike are hitting soft swimbaits and hard baits near the Peninsula and weed edges.

    For bait, live emerald shiners and nightcrawlers are the top picks for perch and panfish. For bass, olive tubes, Ned rigs, and small crankbaits are hot right now. Walleye are responding to stickbaits and minnow-imitating plastics in low light conditions[1][4].

    Two local hot spots to consider today: Edgewater Park for smallmouth and walleye action especially in the evening, and the mouth of the Rocky River for a chance at both smallmouth and late steelhead. If you’re after panfish, head for the marinas around Gordon Park or the sheltered coves near the East 55th Street Marina.

    Get out early while the rivers are still running clear, and tight lines everyone!
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    3 min
  • Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth Bass Bonanza, Steelhead Stragglers, and Changing Conditions

    Lake Erie Fishing Report: Smallmouth Bass Bonanza, Steelhead Stragglers, and Changing Conditions
    May 2 2025
    Good mornin' anglers, Artificial Lure here with your Lake Erie fishing report for this fine Friday, May 2nd, 2025.

    Folks, we're in prime time for smallmouth bass action around Cleveland's waterways! The Rocky and Chagrin rivers have been offering excellent numbers of lake-run smallies this past week, though with the rain that moved in yesterday, conditions might be changing rapidly. If you're heading out today, better get there quick before those rivers muddy up.

    Water temperatures are warming nicely, and those bronze-backed beauties are hitting medium-sized minnow and shad crankbaits consistently. Olive-colored 3-inch tube jigs have been absolutely killer, while Ned rigs and spinners are also producing well. Fly fishermen are having success with streamer patterns that mimic gobies or minnows.

    For you steelhead diehards, there are still a few late-season stragglers in the system, but that run is tapering off mighty quick now. Some lucky anglers have been scoring the coveted "silver and bronze" combo - landing both steelhead and smallmouth in the same spots on the same day.

    Out on the big lake, trollers have been connecting with brown trout and some remaining steelhead. Remember that black bass possession is limited to just one fish 18 inches or greater in the Lake Erie zone from now through June 21st.

    The bay areas are starting to heat up with a mix of panfish, bass and pike. Moving around is crucial for finding active fish right now.

    For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the mouths of the Rocky and Chagrin rivers where those lake-run smallmouth are stacking up. The peninsulas around the bay are holding some nice pike that are smacking soft swimbaits and hard baits. Wallace Lake and East Branch Rocky River also have some rainbow trout if you're looking for a change of pace.

    Sunrise today was at 6:15 AM with sunset expected at 8:25 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours on the water. Weather-wise, we're looking at those significant rains moving through as mentioned in yesterday's forecast, so plan accordingly.

    Bait-wise, minnows are hard to beat right now for your live bait options, especially for those smallmouth. If you're after the remaining steelhead, eggs sacs or small jigs tipped with maggots still work well in the lower, clearer sections of the tributaries.

    That's the word from the water today, folks. This is Artificial Lure reminding you that a bad day fishing still beats a good day working. Tight lines, everyone!
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    3 min