Area anglers are not loving the unseasonable weather Erie has been experiencing this fall. Although many residents may find the higher-than-normal temperatures and dry weather a welcome break from freezing temperatures and snow expected this time of year, it has anglers worried. Low water levels have been especially troublesome due to their negative impact on the steelhead run. But, as they say, every cloud has a silver lining. When it comes to area fishing, that silver lining is an unexpected late shot at walleye and perch.

Both walleye and perch are a favorite of Lake Erie anglers, and fall is one of the best times of the year to catch monsters of either species. Although spring is known for big runs of walleye and perch, the fall run adds the bonus of catching bigger fish — those that have been feeding and growing all summer. In an average year, September and October would be the highlight of the fall season. Still, this year’s warmer temperatures have extended the season and provided the possibility of fresh fish for Thanksgiving.

Let’s look at some tips and tricks for filling your creel with these tasty treats while waiting for the creeks to rise.

Both species will be on the hunt for baitfish. Finding schools of shad, emerald shiners, or gobies is key to filling your creel quickly. My favorite technique is to find a school and fish my live offering near the school, but in a manner that makes it more enticing — slightly below, drifting off to the side, etc. — mimicking being wounded and thus an easier target. If you prefer artificial lures, make sure to select one that resembles these favorite species — remember to match the hatch.

The Western Basin produces some of the best fall fishing, regardless of your target species. The large flats attract walleye and perch, feeding on migrating baitfish. The narrow passages between islands, especially around Bass Island, are perfect for walleye trolling but will also produce large schools of perch. Be ready to switch tackle and slow to a drift when you see schools sitting near the bottom.

Conditions on the Lake can change at any time, so it is essential to be ready. This means having rods for trolling, drifting, or jigging on the rigged boat and being prepared to fish. Keeping a close eye on electronics for schools as they adapt to the baitfish will help you know when it is time to change tactics. Having a drift sock, anchor, and spot-lock trolling motor will help you successfully fish no matter what technique is called for.

Speaking of conditions, the weather in Erie is as unpredictable as the fishing. Like the fishing, it can also change in the wink of an eye. Be prepared for the worst, no matter what it looks like when you launch or what the weatherman might have said. Northerly wind can create dangerous conditions and severe storms. Plus, the best fishing is after water temperatures have dropped below 50 degrees when the risk of hypothermia increases drastically. Stop and seek shelter if the weather turns bad, no matter how good the fishing is or how long you have waited to get on the water.

If you do a little planning, prepare for anything, and are ready to switch tactics or locations at the drop of a hat, the fall bite can produce big fish quickly.

Good luck and good fishing.