Great Lakes fishing report for the week of September 24, 2026. The fall transition is in full swing across the Great Lakes. The king salmon are running the rivers, the walleye are on the move, and the perch are schooling up. With the cooler weather and shorter days, fish are feeding heavily.
What’s Hitting
This week on the water, king (chinook) salmon are running the tributaries of Lake Michigan and Lake Ontario. Coho salmon are also moving into the rivers, and the first steelhead are showing up. On Lake Erie, walleye are active in the Western and Central basins, and yellow perch are schooling up in large numbers. On the upper lakes, lake trout are moving toward their spawning reefs.
Where to Find Them
King salmon are in rivers like the Pere Marquette, the Manistee, and the Salmon River in New York. Pier fishing at harbor mouths along Lake Michigan is also producing. On Lake Erie, walleye are in the Western Basin and around the islands, and yellow perch are off Cleveland, Fairport Harbor, and the islands. Lake trout are on the shallow reefs on Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.
Tides & Conditions
There are no tides on the Great Lakes, but wind and water temperature are important factors. Water temperatures are dropping, which is triggering the salmon runs and walleye movements. Fall winds can make the big lakes dangerous, so check the marine forecast before heading out.
Tackle & Tactics
For salmon in the rivers, drift egg sacs, skein, or beads under a float, or cast spinners and spoons. On the piers, cast spoons and crankbaits at dawn and dusk. For walleye on Lake Erie, troll crankbaits or worm harnesses. For yellow perch, use a spreader rig or a crappie rig with emerald shiners.
Local Intel This Week
Popular salmon spots include the Pere Marquette River in Baldwin and the Salmon River in Pulaski, New York. For Lake Erie walleye and perch, the ramps at Maumee Bay State Park in Ohio and East Harbor State Park provide good access. Fish are concentrating in the rivers and along the harbor mouths. Regulations vary by state and province, and many rivers have special salmon and steelhead rules, so check current regulations before you fish.
This Week’s Tip
When fishing for salmon in the rivers, be mindful of other anglers and practice good river etiquette. Give others plenty of space, and never cast over someone else’s line.
More Great Lakes Resources
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