Warmth. Sunshine.
I’m sitting here writing this with the windows open, soaking in a beautiful 60-degree day here in Erie. After the winter we’ve had, it’s a welcome change. It finally feels like things are breaking loose, with warmer temperatures starting Sunday and carrying into next week, at least according to the forecast.
We were finally able to get the boat back out on Presque Isle. Big thanks to my good friend Mark Hughes for helping me clean up and redo some wiring. This was about improving efficiency and functionality, and getting everything ready for some upgrades coming to the Phoenix 21XE. I’m looking forward to sharing those soon.
For now, Big Fat Bass Guide Service is back to operating at full capacity. That’s a great feeling heading into what’s shaping up to be a busy spring. We kick things off this Saturday with an electronics and perch trip.
First Fishing Report of 2026
I was able to sneak out for a few hours to run the boat, check conditions, and see what’s happening with both perch and smallmouth.
A few key takeaways.
Water levels are low. Even lower than last year. Use caution in shallow areas, including ramps like Chestnut Street where I launched. It’s doable, but trim up and be smart. Don’t turn too tight to the right coming out or your prop and lower unit are going to have a bad day. I’ve already heard of a few guys finding out the hard way.
Presque Isle Bay water temperature is still cold. We’re sitting in the 30s. In my experience, 40 degrees is the mark where things really start to open up. You can still catch them in the 30s, especially perch, but it tends to group fish tightly and slow everything down.
Yellow Perch Update – Lake Erie
There are still plenty of perch to be caught and some true jumbos showing up.
Fish are grouped tight right now. If you’re in the right area, expect to have some company. That’s just part of early spring perch fishing on Lake Erie.
The bite is slow and methodical. If you find them, you can get right in a hurry, but it may take some patience to dial in the exact spot.
I prefer catching them on plastics and moving baits, but right now live bait is producing better. That can change quickly with warmer water, but for now minnows are the deal if you’re looking for consistency.
Shallow water has been the most reliable zone so far.
Lake Erie Smallmouth Bass Report
Our bronze friends are around, but it’s not fully turned on yet.
We’re close.
Over the next week or two, things should improve quickly as water temperatures rise and more fish move in. Right now, slower presentations are key. At times it feels more like ice fishing than bass fishing.
Fish are still grouped and not fully spread out. There are definitely deeper fish, but it’s worth checking mid-depths and even shallow water, especially if we get a steady warming trend.
As conditions improve, we’ll be able to cover more water, fish faster, and really get into a more aggressive style. That’s when Lake Erie smallmouth fishing really shines.
Lake Erie Fishing Guide – Booking Update
Spring is nearly booked through late June into July. Once we hit summer, we’ll start mixing in more walleye casting trips along with bass. Keeping an open mind that time of year can really pay off.
Fall is also filling in quickly, with only a handful of prime dates remaining. If you’re planning a trip for trophy smallmouth, lake trout jigging, or fall walleye, now is the time to reach out.
We currently have three May dates remaining:
- May 26 (morning)
- May 27 (afternoon)
- May 30 (Saturday, prime date due to reschedule)
Fall always brings more weather shifts, so flexibility helps make the most of your trip.
Book a Trip with Big Fat Bass Guide Service
If you’re looking for a Lake Erie fishing guide this season, whether it’s for smallmouth bass, perch, walleye, or lake trout, we’d love to get you out on the water.
Big Fat Bass Guide Service is built around helping you learn, catch more fish, and experience Lake Erie the right way.
Reach out now to plan 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.
Angler Tungsten: Use code “DD20” at a AnglerTungstenCo.com
ShredFin Apparel: Use code “DEMARION15” at ShredFin.com
Amphibia Eyewear: 20% off with code “Destin” at amphibiaeyegear.com
Lake Erie Fishing Report FAQ
What is the water temperature in Presque Isle Bay?
Water temperatures are currently in the 30s, with 40 degrees being the key mark for increased fish activity.
Is perch fishing good on Lake Erie right now?
Yes, the perch bite is building in Presque Isle Bay, with fish grouped tightly and best success coming on live bait.
When does smallmouth bass fishing turn on in Lake Erie?
Smallmouth fishing typically improves quickly once water temperatures reach the low 40s, which we are approaching.
