Fish Bait Set Ups Little Bay De Noc

(Illustrative Only)

Recently, I’ve been experimenting with different bait setups and lure combinations to see what actually works. Minnows, worms, spinners—you name it, I’ve probably thrown it in the water at this point. Unfortunately, the fish and I don’t always seem to agree on what “working” means.

In my head, I’m still entertaining the idea of getting a captain’s license someday and taking people out fishing once a week for 3 hour tours (enough to pay for the boat slip and maintenance). Granted, I should probably master the “consistently catching fish” part first before charging admission to witness my confusion.

I persist for the time being...

From talking with local fishermen, it sounds like worms and minnows are still the undefeated champions. Apparently, fish are simple creatures. Meanwhile, I’m over here trying advanced lure combinations like I’m competing in a bass fishing science fair.

One thing I’ve learned is that local fishermen know everything. They know the spots, the bait, the timing, the weather patterns, and probably the fish by first name. The tricky part is actually getting them to reveal any useful information. Asking a fisherman where his best fishing spot is ranks somewhere between asking for his social security number and the secret family chili recipe.

The other day, I talked with a gentleman who has been fishing the same spot for about ten years. Ten years. At that point, the fish probably recognize his truck when he pulls into the parking lot. He told me all about the catches people were making, what bait they were using, and how he’s out there almost every day. From what I gathered, the simple stuff still works best around the Bay de Noc area.

Meanwhile, I’ve been using one of those retractable fishing poles. It’s pretty convenient because it collapses down small enough to fit almost anywhere—which is great, because apparently the fish want me moving locations every 20 minutes anyway. 

You can look at this Ice Fishing Video 906

If you want to know how fishing is going around the state, check out the DNR fishing report. It’ll probably confirm that everyone else is catching fish except me.

DNR Fish Report

I have been using a retractable pole that is easiest for me to put in my car and carry in a bucket with m gear. For everyday fishing it seems to work just fine. This is something similar. Comes with some other stuff. Telescope Fishing Pole.