There is no doubt Port Clinton is the place to be if you want to catch walleye in the spring on Lake Erie. This is my go to area for walleye into mid summer. There are plenty of fish and the access is easy. This guide will help you plan your trip to Port Clinton.
Why Port Clinton?
Let me tell you, folks, Port Clinton isn’t called the “Walleye Capital of the World” for nothing. The amount of walleye in this area at certain times of the year is unbelievable. Not only that, but the size of the fish is impressive. It’s not uncommon to catch a 10 lb. walleye in the spring here.
Lake Erie Western Basin
Lake Erie’s western basin is a perfect place for walleye in the spring and summer. The area offers current, reefs, and basins that walleye love to hang around. Only during the late summer months do they seek deeper, cooler water.
Seasonal Walleye
If you are traveling to fish for walleye in Port Clinton, come in the spring. Anytime after ice out. There are plenty of walleye hanging around until mid summer. If you are looking for jigging action, come in March and April. If you like to troll, you can do that anytime. When the water starts to warm late spring, the migration will begin. However, there are a lot of walleye that hang around through the summer.
Port Clinton Walleye Fishing Spots
If you are ready to fish for Lake Erie walleye in Port Clinton, pay attention to these areas. You will want to take notes!
Shore Fishing Locations
Now, don’t think you need a fancy boat to get in on the action. Some of the best walleye fishing I’ve ever had was right from the shore. Here are a few spots that have never let me down:
- Port Clinton Pier: Right in downtown Port Clinton. There is plenty of parking and easy access. You can fish the river side or the lake side. The best action comes at night and low light conditions.
- Catawba Island State Park: Plenty of parking and easy access. Again, fish at night with crankbaits or low light conditions.
Boat Fishing Hotspots
If you are bringing your boat to Port Clinton, pay attention.
- Kelleys Island Shoal: This is a great place to catch walleye on the move. They frequent this shoal moving in and out of the Western Basin. It’s a shallow shoal with access to deep water.
- Rattlesnake Island: This is a rocky island with lots of current around. Walleye will hang on the sides of this island while they migrate.
- Reef Complex: Located west of Catawba Island and just North of the Perry Power Plant. The reef complex is the place to be during the spawn. Walleye will be around for about 3 weeks on the reefs spawning. This is a great place to jig for walleye!
Port Clinton Walleye Fishing Tackle
Here is the gear that I choose to use when walleye fishing in Port Clinton.
Choosing the Right Rod and Reel
For your rod, you’ll want something with a bit of backbone but still sensitive enough to feel those light walleye bites. I like a medium light to medium action rod, about 6.5 to 7 feet long.
As for line, braid to fluorocarbon works the best. This setup will help you feel the bite.
Trolling is popular in the area. Using line counter reels with trolling rods is the way to go. Medium action is a good all around rod to use. Make sure you have planer boards if running crankbaits and dipsies if you run spoons.
Top Lures and Baits for Port Clinton Walleye
Now, let’s talk about what goes on at the end of that line. Walleye can be picky eaters, but there are a few baits that seem to always get their attention:
- Crawler Harnesses: As the water warms in late spring, a crawler harness is very effective. A single #4 Colorado blade or double willow is what I use.
- Crankbaits: I use crankbaits when trolling in the spring. They just work. It’s hard to beat a deep walleye bandit or P10.
- Jigs and Soft Plastics: Hair jigs are the way to go in the spring. Weight varies with current and depth. Colors vary, but I use black and purple mostly. Tipping a jig head with a soft plastic is also effective.
