Great Lakes Forecast
Weekly fishing intelligence for Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio
Water Temp
44°F
Air Temp
46°F
Report Date
2026-04-07
This Week's Outlook
Water temps are sitting at 44F across the Great Lakes region this spring, creating cold conditions. Smallmouth Bass and Walleye fishing looks strong this week with air temps around 46F. Focus on early morning and late evening windows for the best action.
Species Breakdown
Smallmouth Bass
HighSmallmouth Bass are responding well to Finesse Worm fished with a moderate to fast. Target transitional banks between shallow and deep
Walleye
HighWalleye are responding well to Jig + Minnow fished with a moderate to fast. Target shallow cover near spawning areas
Northern Pike
HighNorthern Pike are responding well to Large Spinnerbait fished with a moderate to fast. Slow-roll near shallow cover in warming water
Yellow Perch
HighYellow Perch are responding well to Small Jig + Minnow fished with a moderate to fast. Target shallow cover near spawning areas
What's Working Now
- Smallmouth Bass: Drop Shot with Finesse Worm
- Walleye: Jigging with Jig + Minnow
- Northern Pike: Spinnerbait Fishing with Large Spinnerbait
- Yellow Perch: Jigging with Small Jig + Minnow
Tip of the Week
Match your presentation speed to the water temperature. Colder water means slower retrieves, warmer water lets you cover water faster.
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