The fishing scene at Lake St. Clair is heating up as we step further into spring. Today, April 4, 2025, anglers can expect a mix of challenges and rewards on the water. The sunrise hit at 7:01 AM and will set at 8:03 PM, offering plenty of daylight for a full day of action. Air temperatures are in the mid-40s, warming to the low 50s by peak afternoon, and light winds make for favorable fishing conditions.
Currently, water temperatures hover between 40-45°F, which means smallmouth bass and largemouth bass are transitioning toward pre-spawn stages. Anglers should focus on shallow areas, particularly around 8-10 feet of water, where fish are beginning to move closer to spawning grounds. Recent reports mention hot bites in areas like Anchor Bay and Lake St. Clair Metropark’s marshes. These spots have been productive for working the shallower waters using soft swimbaits, spinnerbaits, and bladed jigs.
Smallmouth bass are the highlight of the lake right now. On a good day, anglers have been catching upwards of 30-40 bass, with some trophies exceeding 5 pounds. A drop-shot rig, tubes, and medium-sized soft swimbaits (like the Hazedong Megabass) are excellent choices for targeting these bass. Slow, steady retrieves across rocky bottoms or sandy flats have been very effective. Spinnerbaits in white or chartreuse hues are delivering solid largemouth action in the reeds and marshy areas, especially at Harsens Island and the Metropark.
For multi-species anglers, the walleye are still in their post-spawn transition phase, particularly in the nearby Detroit and St. Clair Rivers. Vertical jigging with dark plastics or live emerald shiners near deep breaks and spawning flats has proven successful when water clarity is decent. The bite has been reported as a bit sluggish due to weather changes, but larger individuals up to 24 inches are being caught.
If you're chasing predators like musky, trolling has been less common this early in the season. However, for those venturing out, smaller bucktails or slow crankbaits are recommended.
Local anglers suggest the Mile Roads and Anchor Bay as must-hit locations for smallmouth bass, while the marsh at Lake St. Clair Metropark provides excellent largemouth bass opportunities. The clear water also makes areas around Belle River Hump worth exploring, especially with drop-shot setups or Ned rigs.
Overall, prepare for an active day on the water. Pack soft body swimbaits, jerkbaits, and spinnerbaits for bass, and ensure you have jigging rigs ready if targeting walleye. Enjoy the day and tight lines!