Lake Michigan Fishing Report: Battling Winds, Seeking Walleye & Smallmouth

Good morning folks, this is Artificial Lure with your Lake Michigan and Chicago area fishing report for Thursday, December 4th, 2025.

We're looking at some challenging conditions out on the water today, so let's break down what you need to know before heading out.

**Weather and Water Conditions**

Northwest winds are running 10 to 20 knots this morning, becoming west and diminishing to around 10 knots by afternoon. We've got partly cloudy skies clearing throughout the day, which is good news. Waves are running 4 to 6 feet, occasionally reaching 8 feet, but they'll subside to 2 to 4 feet as the day progresses. A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect through this afternoon, so be cautious out there.

**Fish Activity**

Walleye and smallmouth are the stars right now around Lake Michigan. The cold front that moved through has these fish actively feeding, especially during prime morning hours. Water temperatures are in the low 40s, which means slower presentations and vertical jigging are your best bets. We're also seeing excellent perch action mixed in with solid walleye opportunities.

**Best Techniques and Lures**

For this time of year, spinnerbaits with Colorado blades or tandem Colorado-willow combinations are absolutely crushing it. The vibration and blade flash help fish locate your bait in these colder conditions. Ned rigs and tube jigs are fantastic for dragging along the bottom. Blade baits—especially 1/2-ounce options—work great for vertical jigging. Crankbaits and jerkbaits will also produce if you're working shallower structure.

**Hot Spots**

Head to the nearshore zones from Wilmette Harbor down to Gary. The structure around Calumet Harbor and the transitions along gravel banks have been holding excellent fish. Early morning bite times are prime—get out there before 9 AM for the best action.

Thanks for tuning in! Make sure to subscribe for daily updates on conditions around Lake Michigan. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI