Most anglers with access to Lake Erie agree that summer offers a great lineup of fishing opportunities.  When the smallmouth bass fishing action begins to wane, walleye fishing fills the void nicely.  At this time of the year, you should call a few friends and plan a summer trip for Lake Erie walleye. 

If you do not have a boat, trip planning requires important decisions – selecting a fishing charter service, and if necessary, reserving overnight accommodations.  Even if you do own a boat, it may be a good idea to swallow your pride and take your first trip on Lake Erie with a licensed charter captain.  The lessons you learn, fuel savings realized, and peace of mind are well worth the investment.   

There are many good charter fishing boats operating on Lake Erie.  An excellent one that operates out of Walnut Creek Marina west of Erie Pennsylvania is Something Catchy Charters owned by captain Brian Mills. 

On a recent trip,  Captain Brian and first mate/daughter Alex, took good care of us.  We fished 6 miles northeast of the Walnut Creek Marina in 70 feet of water for fish suspended at a depth of 40-50 feet.  We use lures only – no “inline spinners” and nightcrawlers.  We trolled the entire time. That surprised me because the only other time I fished for walleyes, I was on a “head boat” out of Port Clinton, Ohio; and we “drift fished” with spinners and nightcrawlers.  

Speaking of lures, Captain Brian told us that he likes to fish a variety of crank baits, stick baits, spoons, and divers.  He uses Bomber, Reef Runners, and Michigan lStingers.  He trolls and experiments with color, trolling speed, and various lure combinations until he establishs a fish catching pattern.  

The weather during this visit to Erie followed the classic “cold front change.”  Days of stable, hot, muggy weather transitioned to a stormy period; followed by clear skies and much cooler temperatures.  The passing storm and a stiff north breeze churned the lake and changed the fishing patterns.  Any angler reading this knows what this type of weather shift can do to the fishing. 

The changing weather did not spoil our chances for success.  Brian Mills hates to get “skunked” when fishing for walleye.  We learned that during this weather shift, his charters caught fish before, during, and after the cold front had passed through.   Our trip was on the backside of the cold front, and the fishing was tough; but we caught fish.  

Fishing on a charter boat is affordable, safe, enjoyable, and productive. You can schedule a charter, take your serious fishing buddies, and spend the day filling the coolers.  You also can schedule a charter, take your family and non-fishing friends, and spend the day learning how to catch fish and relaxing.  A good charter captain adjusts the trip to suit the clients.  Preparations for a trip are easy. You should dress for the weather by bringing a sweatshirt or jacket just in case. Don’t worry about tackle as it will be provided. The most important thing to remember is that you must have a fishing license for the State from which you launched. 

Comfortable lodging before and after the charter trip is available at The Green Roof Inn (TGRI), on Route 18 South of Girard Pennsylvania and Route 90.  Innkeepers, Brad and Cindy, keep the place spotless and hassle free.  The Green Roof Inn is located in the countryside, has a picnic pavilion, campfire area, and fish cleaning station. There is of room for your boat if you trailer one.    

Good luck.