Hey there, anglers! Ready for a day packed with non-stop action on Lake Erie? Captain Keith here, and I've got just the trip for you. We're talking about a full day of chasing both walleye and steelhead - two of Erie's most sought-after fish. This combo trip is the real deal, perfect for groups of up to 6 looking to mix it up and land some serious catches. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. So grab your gear, and let's hit the water for some world-class fishing!
Here's the scoop: we'll be heading out to the deeper waters of Lake Erie where both walleye and steelhead like to hang out. This isn't your average fishing trip - it's like getting two adventures for the price of one. We'll start by targeting those hard-fighting steelhead. Let me tell you, when one of these silver bullets hits your line, you'll know it! They'll give you a run for your money, jumping and thrashing all the way to the boat. Once we've had our fill of steelhead action (or they've had their fill of us), we'll switch gears and go after some walleye. These tasty critters are known for their delicious fillets, and Lake Erie is packed with them. It's not uncommon for our customers to limit out on walleye, so be prepared for some serious catching!
On this trip, we'll be using a mix of techniques to land our fish. For steelhead, we often troll with spoons or stick baits near the surface where these acrobatic fish like to feed. We'll be using specialized rods and reels that can handle the power of a big steelhead's first run. When it comes to walleye, we'll drop down a bit deeper. We might use crawler harnesses, worm harnesses, or even some good old-fashioned jigs tipped with minnows. Don't worry if you're new to these methods - I'll walk you through everything you need to know. We provide all the gear, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and maybe a lucky hat!
Walleye: These golden-eyed predators are the bread and butter of Lake Erie fishing. They typically range from 2 to 5 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 10-pounder - they're out there! Walleye tend to school up, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. They're most active during low light conditions, which is why early mornings or evenings can be prime time. What makes walleye so popular? Besides their willingness to bite, they're arguably one of the best-tasting freshwater fish out there. Nothing beats a walleye fish fry after a day on the water!
Steelhead Trout: Now, if you want a fish that'll really test your skills, steelhead are where it's at. These lake-run rainbow trout are like freshwater missiles, known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. We typically catch them in the 5 to 10 pound range, but 15-pounders aren't unheard of. Steelhead fishing on Lake Erie is at its best in the cooler months, from fall through spring, when these fish are cruising the open lake. What makes them so exciting? It's all about the fight. When a steelhead hits, be ready for your drag to start screaming. These fish will make multiple runs, often jumping clear out of the water in spectacular fashion. It's an adrenaline rush like no other!
Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing Lake Erie. It's not just about the quantity of fish (though we've got plenty of those), it's about the quality of the experience. Where else can you battle a high-flying steelhead one minute and then reel in a mess of tasty walleye the next? The diversity of the fishing here keeps things interesting all day long. Plus, there's nothing like being out on the big water, surrounded by that vast expanse of blue. It's a chance to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with what really matters - good fishing, good company, and maybe a few good fish stories to take home.
Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on Lake Erie and tangle with some walleye and steelhead, now's the time to lock in your date. Remember, we can take up to 6 anglers, so it's perfect for a group of buddies or even a family outing. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - we welcome anglers of all skill levels and we're here to make sure you have a great time. We'll provide all the gear you need, just bring some snacks, drinks, and your sense of adventure. Trust me, once you experience the thrill of a double-header with a walleye on one line and a steelhead on the other, you'll be hooked for life. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call or book online, and let's make some memories on Lake Erie!
Steelhead in Lake Erie are essentially rainbow trout that spend time in the big lake before running up tributaries to spawn. These powerful fish average 5-10 pounds but can reach over 20. Look for them in deeper, cooler parts of the lake in summer, moving closer to shore and river mouths in fall and spring. Steelhead are famous for their acrobatic fights – once hooked, they'll leap and run, testing your skills and gear. The best action is usually from October through April. Trolling spoons or stick baits can be effective in the lake, while fly fishing with egg patterns or streamers works well in rivers. These fish are lightning-fast, so set your drag light and be ready for sudden runs. A local tip: on sunny days, try fishing deeper or in shaded areas where steelhead feel more comfortable. Whether you're after the thrill of the catch or some excellent table fare, steelhead are a Lake Erie favorite.
Walleye are a prized catch in Lake Erie, known for their golden-olive color and distinctive reflective eyes. These fish typically range from 15 to 30 inches, with the bigger ones pushing 20 pounds. You'll find them hanging out near rocky or sandy bottoms, often in 10 to 30 feet of water. They're most active in low light, so early mornings and evenings are prime time. Walleye put up a good fight and taste great, making them popular with anglers. Spring and fall are excellent seasons to target them. When the water's warm, try trolling with crawler harnesses along drop-offs. A local trick? Use a slow retrieve with a jig tipped with a minnow – walleye can't resist it. These fish have sharp teeth, so bring pliers for hook removal. Whether you're after a trophy or a tasty dinner, walleye fishing on Lake Erie is hard to beat.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Crusader
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 454