Great Lakes Bay Region Fishing Report

January 15th, 2025

1-15-25 Saginaw Bay region ice fishing report. The Saginaw River has good ice, and anglers are taking good numbers of small legal walleye. Jigging raps are the standard bait.
Saginaw Bay has ice, and fishermen are using caution as they move farther offshore. The ice is still unstable to reach offshore locations. Pockets of open water and thin ice are present! The northwest side has blow out and will take a good amount of time to gain ice. (Whites Beach to Point Auges) Those after the perch in the shallows are finding perch. Being mobile is the key to success. Beaded spoons and jigs with minnows are best. As always, ice conditions can change from day to day. Networking with local baitshops and reputable sources online are a good place to get conditions. If you are unfamiliar with Great Lakes ice fishing, it is recommended to hire a guide. Walking to productive walleye locations will be a very long walk. Guides also have tag along trips. This is where you have your own equipment and transportation. Snowmobiles with studs and scrachers are best. Quads with
chains and ramps get it done. Side by sides travel isn't recommended on Saginaw Bay. Cracks open and close by the hour. These vehicles have a history of accidents at the cracks. Leaving shore with a full tank of gas and a complete safety kit is a must. Several means of navigation is also a must. Never use a cell phone as you primarily navigational aid.
Saginaw Bay is Michigans best walleye ice destination. With proper information and safety procedures it can be enjoyed safely. The limit for walleye is 8 fish at 13 inches and above. This is the highest walleye limit in North America! Fish over 10 pounds are also common!

For further information, you can also contact Saginaw Bay charter captain and ice guide.

Captain Andrew Hendrickson
Northstar Fishing Adventures
(616)450-1417