2 weeks ago · Updated 2 weeks ago
Presque Isle Bay, located in northwestern Pennsylvania along the Lake Erie shoreline, is a renowned destination for multi-species angling throughout the fall. Recent weeks have seen a seasonal transition, with cooling water temperatures and shifting fish patterns across the bay.
Weekly Catches
No verified catches in the last 7 days; the catches below cover the last 15 days.
Lake Trout
Anglers in Presque Isle Bay have reported a steady bite for lake trout, with mixed bags coming from deeper water. Productive depths have ranged from 60 to 90 feet, and successful anglers have been running lines throughout the water column. A variety of presentations have worked, including spoons, J-plugs, flasher flies, and spin glows. The most consistent action has been straight out from the harbor between the lighthouses and south toward Stoneport and False Presque Isle.
- Best depths: 60–90 feet
- Effective lures: spoons, J-plugs, flasher flies, spin glows
- Hotspots: between the lighthouses, south toward Stoneport and False Presque Isle
Chinook Salmon
There have been a few Chinook salmon caught in Presque Isle Bay during the past two weeks. The most productive times have been before daylight and after sunset, with fish taken between the lighthouses and south toward Stoneport. Anglers have found success using spoons, J-plugs, and flashers with flies or squids, especially in green, blue, white, black, and glow patterns during low-light periods.
- Best times: before daylight, after sunset
- Effective lures: spoons, J-plugs, flashers with flies or squids
- Productive colors: green, blue, white, black, glow
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon have been part of the mixed catch in Presque Isle Bay, though in lower numbers than lake trout. Anglers have reported catches while trolling or casting in similar areas and depths as for Chinook. Early and late in the day, spoons and spinners in bright or glow colors have been effective.
- Effective lures: spoons, spinners (bright/glow colors)
- Timing: early morning, late evening
Steelhead
The occasional steelhead has been caught in Presque Isle Bay as part of the mixed bag, particularly by anglers running lines higher in the water column. Orange spoons have been noted as especially effective for these fish.
- Effective lure: orange spoons
- Presentation: high in the water column
Weather & Marine Conditions
Recent reports indicate that cooler water temperatures and increased wind have influenced fishing patterns in Presque Isle Bay. Heavy winds have occasionally limited access to deeper, cooler water, but when conditions allow, anglers have found success targeting fish at depth. Water temperatures have been dropping, which is expected to further improve the fall bite as fish move toward their seasonal patterns.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
As fall progresses, baitfish movements are a key factor in locating active fish in Presque Isle Bay. Anglers are advised to adjust their depth and lure selection based on bait presence and changing water temperatures. Early and late in the day remain the most productive times, especially for salmon species. Running lines throughout the water column and experimenting with glow or bright-colored lures can help trigger more strikes, particularly during low-light periods.
Regulations & Notices
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is currently accepting applications for the Erie Access Improvement Program, which supports projects that enhance public fishing access and habitat in Presque Isle Bay and surrounding waters. Anglers are reminded that all individuals aged 17 and older must possess a valid fishing license. For the latest updates on regulations and access, consult official state resources before heading out.
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