Alpena area fishing?

[Scoop-D-Bear]

A friend is coming in from Des Moines and we are going to be heading to Alpena on Oct 21st to fish the area. Probably will fish the bay at night for some eyes.....hopefully, and maybe some browns or steelies. Also looking maybe to fish the backwaters for eyes and pike. Any suggestions or help would be greatly appreciated as I have never fished this late in this area. Any other lakes that may be good at this time would be good too. We'll be up there for 5 days, so we have some time to move around. Fishing out of a 16' Monark, so we can get into smaller lakes, rivers and the big water on good days.

[Shop Rat]

pm sent.

[BobB(MI)]

The bay has been good for eyes, although I have not been out recently, that was what I was told by some. Browns could be from Rockport down. There still may be some dark salmon in the area, too.

Don't overlook Huron for bass. Every fall I inadvertently catch some monster smallies while I'm fishing for walleyes. Bass could still be good on both Grand and Long, though I haven't fished that late there for years. Long probably a bit better for eyes, but both are not what I would call "good" for wallyeye - a few smaller fish. Tourney on Grand last w/e with 8 boats/21 people and only 1 5-fish limit. Long not much better. Maybe late fall bite on Long will be good?

Best bet for inland walleyes is hands down Hubbard - have had some great action into Nov. If the lake turns over all bets are off - head to Huron. Best bet for bigger walleyes is Lake Huron - PI, Rockport, Alpena, BR or Hville.

Not many people fish this time of year and I think they miss some of the best action of the year - for both size and numbers - for at least walleye and bass.

Bob

PS> You can fish the bay during the day, too. Fishing during the day lets you sleep at night! ;)

[Scoop-D-Bear]

I generally don't fish this late in the season due to hunting, but I have heard exactly what you say, it can be some of the best fishing of the year. Thanks most definately for the report. I would truely like to have a successful trip with maybe a nice meal or two of fresh fish :D
Won't be long and we'll be fishing the hard water, but I am definately stoked about this October trip for sure. I hope it pans out well and with the tips and advice I am getting from everyone, I won't be able to blame anyone but myself if I can't find fish :confused:

[CAPT HEAVY]

If you are thinking of fishing the mouth of the Thunder Bay river there was a big Dredge in there this afternoon screwing the water up!! Just a heads up. Heard that some 'eyes have been caught on Grand but thats the extent of the info I have. Salmon have hardly started to go here. Good Luck.