Damn Good Detroit River Fishing Guides

Fishing in the Detroit River offers anglers a unique blend of urban and natural environments, creating a diverse and exciting fishing experience. Located between the United States and Canada, this river connects Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie, making it a prime habitat for a wide range of fish species. Anglers flock to the Detroit River throughout the year to target species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and muskellunge, among others. The river's proximity to major metropolitan areas like Detroit and Windsor adds to its accessibility and appeal, making it a popular destination for both local anglers and visitors.

One of the highlights of fishing in the Detroit River is the opportunity to catch trophy-sized walleye. Known as one of the best walleye fisheries in North America, the Detroit River draws anglers from far and wide seeking to land these prized fish. During the spring spawning run, walleye migrate upstream in massive numbers, providing anglers with excellent fishing opportunities. Whether trolling, jigging, or drifting, anglers employ various techniques to entice these elusive fish, adding to the excitement of the chase.

In addition to walleye, the Detroit River offers superb fishing for smallmouth bass, particularly during the summer months. The river's rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and swift currents create ideal habitats for smallmouth bass to thrive. Anglers can target these feisty fish using a variety of lures and techniques, including casting crankbaits, jigs, or soft plastics. The thrill of hooking into a powerful smallmouth bass amidst the backdrop of the Detroit skyline makes for an unforgettable fishing experience on the Detroit River.

Fishing seasons in the Detroit River are influenced by the changing temperatures and behaviors of various fish species throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of the fishing season, with the onset of the walleye spawning run drawing anglers to the river. As water temperatures rise, walleye migrate upstream in massive numbers, providing excellent opportunities for anglers to target these prized fish. This period, typically from April to June, is widely regarded as prime time for walleye fishing in the Detroit River.

Summer brings warm temperatures and increased activity among a variety of fish species in the Detroit River. Smallmouth bass, in particular, become more active as they move into shallower waters to feed and spawn. Anglers can also target other species such as yellow perch, muskellunge, and freshwater drum during this season. Whether casting from shore or drifting in a boat, summer offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities on the Detroit River, catering to anglers of all preferences and skill levels.

As autumn approaches and temperatures begin to cool, fishing in the Detroit River enters its fall season. This period, typically from September to November, is characterized by changing fish behavior as they prepare for the winter months. Walleye, smallmouth bass, and other species continue to feed voraciously, providing anglers with ample opportunities to land a trophy-sized catch. Additionally, the fall season often sees reduced fishing pressure, allowing anglers to enjoy the river's serene beauty and abundant fishing opportunities in a more tranquil setting.

Fishing in the Detroit River offers a diverse range of techniques and methods to suit the preferences of anglers of all skill levels. One popular method is trolling, which involves slowly moving a boat through the water while trailing lines with bait or lures behind it. Trolling is particularly effective for targeting walleye, a prized species in the Detroit River. Anglers can adjust their trolling speed and depth to match the behavior and preferences of the fish, increasing their chances of a successful catch.

Another common technique used in the Detroit River is jigging, which involves vertically presenting a jig or baited hook to fish below the boat. Jigging is highly effective for targeting species like walleye and smallmouth bass, especially when they are holding near the river bottom or around submerged structures. Anglers can vary their jigging motion to entice fish into striking, making it a dynamic and engaging fishing method.

Additionally, casting from shore or from a stationary boat is a popular approach for anglers fishing in the Detroit River. This method allows anglers to target a variety of species, including smallmouth bass, perch, and muskellunge, among others. By using a combination of lures, bait, and casting techniques, anglers can cover different areas of the river and adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. Whether fishing from a dock, pier, or rocky shoreline, casting provides anglers with a rewarding and accessible way to enjoy the fishing opportunities of the Detroit River.

The Detroit River offers anglers a rich diversity of fish species, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts throughout the year. One of the most prized catches in the river is the walleye, renowned for its succulent meat and thrilling fight. The Detroit River is considered one of the best walleye fisheries in North America, particularly during the spring spawning run when massive numbers of walleye migrate upstream. Anglers flock to the river during this time to capitalize on the abundance of walleye, often landing trophy-sized catches.

Another sought-after species in the Detroit River is the smallmouth bass, prized for its aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps. Smallmouth bass thrive in the river's rocky shorelines, swift currents, and abundant submerged structures, providing anglers with ample opportunities to target them throughout the year. Summer, in particular, is an excellent time for smallmouth bass fishing in the Detroit River, as they move into shallower waters to feed and spawn, making them more accessible to anglers.

In addition to walleye and smallmouth bass, the Detroit River is home to a variety of other fish species, including yellow perch, muskellunge, freshwater drum, and channel catfish, among others. These species offer anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Whether trolling, jigging, casting from shore, or drifting in a boat, anglers can enjoy a rewarding fishing experience on the Detroit River, with the chance to reel in a variety of prized catches.

The Detroit River, situated between Michigan and Ontario, Canada, is renowned as a premier fishing destination with a rich variety of fish species and ample opportunities for anglers. One of the main draws of the Detroit River is its world-class walleye fishing. Known as the "Walleye Capital of the World," the river attracts anglers from far and wide who come to target trophy-sized walleye during their spawning runs. The river also supports healthy populations of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, muskellunge (muskie), and northern pike, providing diverse fishing experiences throughout the year.

Accessibility and amenities along the Detroit River contribute significantly to its popularity among anglers. There are numerous boat launches, marinas, and public fishing access points along both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the river, making it easy for fishermen to access prime fishing spots. Local guides and charter services are available for those looking to enhance their fishing experience with insider knowledge and equipment. The river's proximity to Detroit and Windsor ensures that anglers have access to accommodations, restaurants, and other conveniences during their fishing trips.

In addition to its excellent fishing opportunities, the Detroit River offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline and the Windsor waterfront, adding to the overall fishing experience. The river flows through a diverse landscape, including urban areas, natural shorelines, and scenic islands, providing a picturesque backdrop for anglers. Whether you're fishing from a boat, kayak, or the shoreline, the Detroit River promises a rewarding and memorable fishing adventure with the chance to reel in some impressive catches amidst a vibrant and historic setting.