Fishing Tips

Father, daughter, and 4.5 pound northern pike from Trade Lake, Wisconsin.

Beware of Exotic Species

Weather and Physical Characteristics

For current weather conditions on Lakes Superior and Michigan, as reported by regional stations, see NOAA's Interactive Marine Observations site.

For current weather conditions on Lakes Huron, Erie, and Ontario, as reported by regional stations, see NOAA's Interactive Marine Observations site.

Surface temperature contour maps for Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Ontario.

Lakebed contour maps (bathymetry) for Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Ontario.

You can lure fish to your area using their sense of smell and sound, but most of the fish in the Great Lakes make their final attack by sight. If they can't see your lure, you won't catch them.  Here's how to pick the best Lure Colors.

Catch and Release  Do you know how to do it right?

Avoiding Commercial Fishing Nets  Don't get caught!

Fishing Regulations and Restrictions