As we inch closer to my favorite time of year on Lake Erie—the true fall bite—the fishing is only getting better. Whether it’s bass, walleye, perch, or trout, they’re all beginning to group up, move toward their wintering areas, and feed heavier each day.
Water temps have been holding in the high 60s, but with shorter days and cooler nights, I expect we’ll see that number drop soon. While I’m not a fan of winter, I’ll gladly trade a little warmth for the best fishing conditions of the year.
September Transition: A Fun Puzzle
September is always a month of transition. This year, we had another turnover event, mixing cooler deep water with warmer surface layers. Add in shifting winds and rain, and you’ve got baitfish (and gamefish) on the move. Wind direction alone can reposition schools of fish and flip a bite completely. For me, this time of year feels like solving a fun puzzle—finding the pattern and piecing together the day.
Bass Fishing Report
Our recent bass trips have produced some quality fish, with encouraging girth that signals the fall feedbag is starting. The bite changes daily, so mobility is key. We’re mixing deep and shallow until we find concentrations of fish.
Power fishing techniques are firing up with A-rigs, swimbaits, crankbaits, chatterbaits, and spinnerbaits. On the finesse side, drop shots, Ned rigs, tubes, and jighead minnows remain effective. Right now, I’m targeting anywhere from 2 to 60 feet of water.
Walleye Report
Most walleye are still holding in summer areas, but some are sliding shallower as water temps cool. I’ve been catching fish casting and jigging, while trollers and worm harness anglers are also having success. Don’t overlook water less than 20 feet, though many fish remain in the 60–80 foot range. Trophy-class fish will be showing soon—just in time for the Fall Brawl (contact us about these opportunities!).
Perch Report
Perch schools are grouping up nicely. I’ve found strong pods in 50 feet of water away from the crowds, though many are still out in 60–80 feet mixed with walleye. Sabiki rigs, crappie rigs, and plastics worked on bottom are all producing. A bonus: perch makes for a tasty freezer-filler. My daughter is already begging for more after last week’s catch!
Trout & Steelhead Report
Steelhead are beginning to stage around creek mouths, though low water has delayed their push. Expect better runs with the next stretch of rain. Meanwhile, lake trout will soon be sliding in from deep water. Casting and jigging for these giants is a blast, and we’ve got a few trips on the books this fall to target them. Multi-species days are also possible in the right areas, making for exciting variety trips.
On the Road: St. Lawrence River Tournament
Later this week, I’ll be fishing the Doc’s Tackle Rumble on the River in Clayton, NY, alongside my friend and fellow smallmouth guide, Dean Meckes. The St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario are world-class smallmouth fisheries, and I always enjoy the change of scenery and fresh perspective before coming back to Lake Erie.
Book Your Fall Trip
This is hands-down my favorite season of the year to guide. We still have some open dates available for trophy bass, walleye, perch, or lake trout trips.
Available Dates:
- September 30
- October 1–2, 4, 6–7, 14–16, 20, 23–24, 30
- November 4–6 (pending), 10–15 (pending), 17–19, 22
👉 Contact us today to secure your trip!
Tight lines,
Captain Destin DeMarion
724-790-4232 (4BFB)
Big Fat Bass Guide Service
DestinDeMarion.com
Gear Discounts for Clients & Blog Readers:
Doc’s Tackle: Contact me directly for exclusive discounts on rods, reels, and terminal tackle.
Douglas Rods: Ask me about deep discounts on any rod in the lineup.
ShredFin Apparel: Use code “DEMARION15” at ShredFin.com
Amphibia Eyewear: 20% off with code “Destin” at amphibiaeyegear.com
