Lake Erie......WOW!!!!!!!!

[jbird]

I just had one of the best trips a walleye guru could ask for. Erie was flat calm and we spanked the walleyes, To end the trip I cashed in on back to back 30+ fish. (10 1/2 pounds and 11 1/4 pounds)
I do have one comment about erie that I didn't care for. I fish the winnebago system alot, and guide once in awhile, I never had trouble with other boaters, charters, guides, and fisherman as I did out on Lake Erie. I realize the charter captains are trying to make a living but runing 50 ft away from my outside boards while I was trolling is unexucesable in my book. We started out the week all by our lonesome and ended the weekend with a crowd. I never talked on the Radio because we had nobody to talk to.
All in all it was an awesome trip. we were able to come home with 60 walleyes in 3 days (I was almost in tears as we were cutting up 8 and 9 pounders). I will definetly be going back this year.

jbird
P.S if anybody needs some waypoints for erie or tips on what was working please email me. I will return your email ASAP.

[Russ B]

jbird, sounds like an awesome trip. But you were almost in tears cutting up big fish? And 60 to boot? Keep it up along with others and it will be Lake Erie "it WAS Wow"
Seems awful people have to kill the ones that make all the more for later is all.
Just my 2 cents.
Russ

[JJ]

60 eyes, maybe try some catch & release.
please dont come back!

[acp]

If you keep slaughtering at that rate there won't be any fish for you to guide for.

Later....

Al

[Smitty]

jbird, can't get to your e-mail address for some reason. Any tips would be appreciated to smitd@mercyhealth.com ..... Here yet tomorrow and Friday.

[Frank]

Cutting up 8 and 9 Lb fish is a waste and talking about it is even worse. I fish in NW Ontario where limits and slot sizes were put in place because of over harvest. I have witnessed slaughter such as this with limits of Northern all over 36" and put to the knife. A lot of fisherman get fish in a vulnerable position and beat up on them. This does not make a good fisherman. A good fisherman is skilled and ethical.
Frank

[Tim FRick]

Come on guys we have had this conversation before! Lake Erie is an awful big lake compared to any inland lake. We do have limits that professional people have set to keep the balance in check. The only problem I have is that you have to e-mail him instead of putting up on WC board what system was working. Great job with the eyes!
Good Luck!!
Tim FRick

[Sheila]

JBird, let me say a little word in your defense! You're asking for trouble when you post good catch numbers, yet failed to say how many people on your boat stocked your freezers with food for your families. I've found there are a large number of protest-type people out there that kind-of don't understand how many walleyes there really are in Lake Erie. Just for example, in the '99 PWT tourney in the Detroit River, the April tournament catches were Harvested (not released!)- filleted and sent off to a food charity like Habitat for Humanity or something. Yes boys, hundreds of walleyes filleted from a PWT weigh-in! The Michigan DNR helped make this call.

Ohio regulations in Erie are 10/walleyes per person - per day. Assuming you heeded this reg limit, you are LEGAL. Don't let anyone argue that with you. BTW, practicing catch/release and selective harvest rituals is VERY GOOD. No doubt about that! And, there may be a time in the future when the Lk. Erie walleye population suffers, but most likely it will probably some nature-related evolutionary or other type thing, vs. recreational fishermen pulling limits. The Ohio DNR will let us know - change the limit regs and such.

Well JBird, hope that helps you feel less guilty after these other posts. Happy eating. ;-)

[bob oh]

Shelia,

I agree, but the reason Lake Erie will get into trouble will be gill nets - Ohio fishermen have not taken their quota of walleyes the last 3 years, but the gill netters in Canada take their quota and then some EVERY YEAR......
ODNR and Ohio Sea Grant biologists have said time and time again that rod and reel anglers cannot hurt Erie's walleye population....

Bob

[Fish-on]

Get out of your little shell guys, you could cut up 10-pounders on Erie all day for a month and never come close to hurting the population. Let the guy be. And yes they are delicious. The myth that big fish aren't good to eat has been disproven by me over and over. Put 'em on the grill.

[Envious]

Here we go again , All I have to say is GREAT JOB JBIRD. I wish I was there and we could have got more....Sorry guys-you don't understand Erie. And I'm not going to argue anymore about it.We've been through this a thousand times. You take em or give em to Canada. The lake can handle it or they will lower the limits for us.(but not the netters) OK go ahead ATTack

[Nick_Ia]

We should examine our approach to keeping fish for the table. A total Catch & Release ethic is not the law nor should it be. Total catch and release is detrimental to good management on some waters. Total catch and release is politically myopic and may be a dangerous practice. Some places and situations call for release of your catch. However, it is okay to keep and eat walleyes within reason. Erie is capable of supporting this type of harvest. Nice catch of fish. I hope you and your friends enjoy them. Use the resource!

[Tyler Campbell]

Mismanagement of fisheries from the Great Lakes to the deep south has proved many times that biologists don't always have the answer. Many times it is motivated by economics, isn't it? I'm not a Lake Erie expert, however I am well read and would have to say that if the lake keeps getting pounded by Canada and the U.S., we will have a problem. There isn't much sense in keeping trophy potential fish anyhow, from an angler's interest. With more intelligent angling pressure there is a much greater threat to any fishery. I have no problems with harvesting, it's necessary. Walleye are a very renewable resource. However it doesn't hurt to put the bigger fish back to keep the gene pool healthy and give other anglers a shot at a trophy.

Good fishin'

[Eyemadman]

All I have is 4 words t say. Were's the fish fry? Last year we caught 76 Keepers 2 days, With most fish over 25 inch, great catch

[Ed M]

Here's some direct quotes from the 4/25/00 Toledo Blade, Steve Pollick's article. If it's OK for 3 tons of walleye to be killed for money on one weekend, then I don't want to hear about taking home a few limits for the freezer. Catch, photograph & filet.

"$225,000 Bass Pro Shops Eastern Pro-Am Walleye Tournament, the kickoff event in the In-Fisherman’s 2000 Professional Walleye Trail.

In all more than 35 fish of 10 pounds or larger were entered.

The 902 fish weighed in two days averaged 6.58 pounds. In all, 5,908 pounds of walleye were donated to Victory Temple Soup Kitchen and the Ohio Veterans’ Home, both in Sandusky."

[Sheila]

Ed, does that mean they filleted all the fish caught at the Pt. Clinton PWT again last month?
Wow, I was there and it was a drive-up the boat weigh-in, but I didn't know they donated 'em all! Must have kept it low-key. That's a lot of fillet work for those volunteers!

[Denied]

JBird, glad you had an enjoyable trip. One of the great things about fishing in Ohio waters of Lake Erie is not only, that you may catch a "wall hanger" but that Ohio has a liberal limit.

Fishing Western Lake Erie aboard "DENIED"
"#####://www.cliftond.com"

[bob oh]

Yes, all filleted and donated. ODNR called the shots...
Bob

[Crew]

When times are good, excess is the order. When times are bad, everyone points the finger. I'd like to see it different for once. Maybe the outcome would be different if we weren't so eager to fill the grills with big eyes. This way the resource would be assured to be around for a long, long, long time. Maybe then the walleyes would be able to survive periods of disease, disaster, envioronmental troubles, etc. I think a good motto would be... everything in moderation.

However, let's keep the agrument with the people that make the decisions and get paid to do so, the DNR sets the limits. If they feel that the catches after a tournament should be put to the knife then they, with their numerous hours of research and infinite knowledge, must know that the system is in great shape and the limits can stay where they currently are at.
Although, somehow it doesn't seem right, I mean we've all heard the beginning of the verse, now we've been told how the rest of the song ends.... nine pounders become twelve pounders, twelve pounders become fifteen pounders, and fifteen pounders can feasibly become...who knows...fillets for the DNR's favorite charity...I don't get it? Somehow that seems unfortunate. These fish can be allowed to have the ability to create more eggs if we put them back in the water. Whether it's 500 eggs or 5,000 eggs that are created, it's still more than one meal. Dead fish don't make eggs. I have a nice spot on my wall picked out for a graphite replica and it won't flake after 20 years.
When you have DNR people waiting at tournament sites to fillet fish... you realize very quickly that it's out of your hands and you hope they are making an educated decision. I, for one, trust that the DNR is making good choices. Even though I will continue to question them and ask for understanding.
I've already stated that an eight pounder and up in my boat goes back in the lake but, you need to know that I don't mind what someone else does in their boat. Keep it or let it go... it's a decision for you to make and when the day is done you need to decide if the days outing was a hunt, sport, or business adventure. For some, it's a little bit of both or none of the above. That's fine. I'm just merely stating that as long as you are in accordance with the laws set by the DNR no one can complain to you about your decision. Putting it back or letting it go?
I honestly do feel bad for the DNR because they are involved in all of the above and a few more difficult decisions. Either side of the coin they have it tough, ****ed if they do and ****ed if they don't! (Farmers and DNR personnel that all work with a crop have my complete and utmost respect and my symphathy).
What I'd like everyone on the board to remember is that the archives are easily accessible. We don't want to argue with you now and not in the future, but if the excess continues, we want to be there to hand you your words when the fishery is low/depleted. The DNR also may need to be reminded that their actions are monitored by many walleye enthusists and if the Erie population does decline.... there'll be a long line at the door with people pointing the finger.
Enjoy the resource and practice CPR (caution, patience, and respect)!

[waz]

fish pwt lake erie in 98 all fish donated to food depository

[Robb]

Sounds like you had the trip of a lifetime.
I was just there a week and ahalf ago. Out of
6 of us in three day we only caught 10 fish.
Biggest was 27inches. Just go to prove in walleye
fishing what difference a week can make or even a day. From reading your replies some people don't
agree with Ohio limits. Sounds like to me that
a few guys had the once in a lifetime trip. I'm
happy for you. What i'm not happy about is the thought of what Canadan gillnet fishermen do with
the fish that are over the size limit ( i beleive
is 22 or 23 inches) that they have killed in their nets. How many 30+inch fish are stabed and thrown overboard. We can only speculate.I'll bet none of them are given to the less fortunate. This is something to think about.If someone is to critize maybe it should be directed at the gillnetters. Something should be done or changed. This is only my option.
Walleyeia.

[Robb]

Sounds like you had the trip of a lifetime.
I was just there a week and ahalf ago. Out of
6 of us in three day we only caught 10 fish.
Biggest was 27inches. Just go to prove in walleye
fishing what difference a week can make or even a day. From reading your replies some people don't
agree with Ohio limits. Sounds like to me that
a few guys had the once in a lifetime trip. I'm
happy for you. What i'm not happy about is the thought of what Canadan gillnet fishermen do with
the fish that are over the size limit ( i beleive
is 22 or 23 inches) that they have killed in their nets. How many 30+inch fish are stabed and thrown overboard. We can only speculate.I'll bet none of them are given to the less fortunate. This is something to think about.If someone is to critize maybe it should be directed at the gillnetters. Something should be done or changed. This is only my option.
Walleyeia.

[Captain Dan Kelly]

guys settle down there are probably more 10lb walleye in lake erie than there is walleye in most lakes in the world it is a very strong fisherie we catch probably 50 to 75 fish 9 to 11 lbs every year. we dont even put a dent into the population the canadian netters are the ones that are going to eventually kill lake erie i hope this helps tight lines and good fishing to all. Captain Dan Kelly

[jbird]

>I just had one of the
>best trips a walleye guru
>could ask for. Erie
>was flat calm and we
>spanked the walleyes, To end
>the trip I cashed in
>on back to back 30+
>fish. (10 1/2 pounds and
>11 1/4 pounds)
>I do have one comment about
>erie that I didn't care
>for. I fish the winnebago
>system alot, and guide once
>in awhile, I never had
>trouble with other boaters, charters,
>guides, and fisherman as I
>did out on Lake Erie.
> I realize the charter
>captains are trying to make
>a living but runing 50
>ft away from my outside
>boards while I was trolling
>is unexucesable in my book.
> We started out the
>week all by our lonesome
>and ended the weekend with
>a crowd. I never
>talked on the Radio because
>we had nobody to talk
>to.
>All in all it was an
>awesome trip. we were able
>to come home with 60
>walleyes in 3 days (I
>was almost in tears as
>we were cutting up 8
>and 9 pounders). I will
>definetly be going back this
>year.
>
>jbird
>P.S if anybody needs some
>waypoints for erie or tips
>on what was working please
>email me. I will
>return your email ASAP.

[jbird]

I am sorry about not putting the info out I didn't want to make a long post. We were catching fish on crawler harnessess, silver blades ran off of bottom bouncers and boards. red/white bead combos worked best. 28 feet behind the board on 1 1/2 oz

I would have released some of the fish but when your fishing 30 feet of water most came up and when put in the live well went belly up. I am still learning how to fizz fish.

The most disturbing part of the whole trip was boats running and making wakes 50 feet from my boards and cutting our trolling paths off.

As for catching and cutting up fish, that was just an expression. Like I said I fish the Winnebago system alot, I release alot of fish, and when I see others in the landings with the same size I caught and released I keep my mouth shut. They are legal and I have no right to tell them how to fish...

For the one gentleman who told me not to come back..to late we are planning another trip in July
this time might try for smallies and perch also...

My email address is J_Bird2Now@yahoo.com
thanks to all those who stuck up for this trip of a lifetime....
Jason aka jbird

[Juls_WI]

Heard it's even more crowded there in the months of June and July. Full of Yuppies and such. Lots of boats jbird (more than you saw last week)....but good luck to you.
Oh, and when you filleted those big bad girls, did you double fillet them? If not you should. You will never know your munching on a 10 pound fish...MMMMMM mmmmmmmmmm..;-)
I can't wait to go back either! Lake Erie is Awsome!!
Oh, and to the ones who made the comments on releasing the big ladies....Just a note: it's the smaller fish that actually produce the most/better eggs during spawn. If your going to release a fish, release the 3-6 pounders. They are the future, not the trophies.

Good fishing to all..

Juls

[Slameye]

As you can see, people are devided on the issue of harvesting walleye. I personally, do not know how I feel either way on the issue. Quite frankly, I think it doesn't matter. This is one boats decision to keep their limits. If every boat on Erie caught their limit, everyday, then it might affect the fishery. This is one boat, one day. The fishing conditions have been poor lately, so not a lot of fish were taken. Just think how many fish are taken when the fish are really hitting! Thousands and thousands in one day. Your fighting over 60 fish. Those fish are nothing in the whole scheme of things. Just my opinion.

[Slameye]

Another quick note. Don't think that the ODNR is perfect, or always on top of things. Remember years ago when they said they were going to stock a fish that was sterile? Now they have to think of a plan to keep that "sterile" saugeye from ruining the gene pool of the walleye and sauger. While doing a good job for us, the ODNR is not God. They do make mistakes! I don't think that they should be exempt from questioning.

[Slameye]

Another quick note. Don't think that the ODNR is perfect, or always on top of things. Remember years ago when they said they were going to stock a fish that was sterile? Now they have to think of a plan to keep that "sterile" saugeye from ruining the gene pool of the walleye and sauger. While doing a good job for us, the ODNR is not God. They do make mistakes! I don't think that they should be exempt from questioning.

[yukonjack]

Jbird, I'll be out this weekend,Sounds like you had a great trip? We have been doing real good for the past month also. I'll be on ch.68.

[Duckman]

Your all a bunch of whiners. Your all mad because you didn't catch them. Reading this board you all have been having a hard time this year catching fish, and when some lucky fisherman finds some turned on fish and slams them you all *****. Isn't that what fishings about? Catching them and filling your freezer..GROW UP and quit whining. Good Job JBird...After treatment like this I'll be ****ed if I tell you guys where and when I've been slamming the fish. Atleast he's man enough to tell you where and how.......I just had to vent. Leave the guy alone.

[FINADDICT]

TELL EM DUCKMAN THIS BOARD IS REALLY STARTING TO TICK ME OFF ITS THE OLD "OPINIONS ARE LIKE....." I WONDER HOW MANY PETA MEMBERS ARE ON THIS SIGHT!! WAY TO GO JBIRD HOPE ALL THIS NEGATIVITY DOESN'T CHANGE YOUR FEELINGS ABOUT FISHERPEOPLE... AS FAR AS THE BOATERS AROUND THE ISLANDS GO TO SMALL OF AN AREA TOO MANY BOATS!!!!

[FreeByrd]

J-Bird,
I'm glad you had such a great trip! You did better than a lot of people that were fishing same area as you. Glad you finished up with two pigs back to back. Erie sure is an awesome fishery. As far as people giving you grief over taking home 60 fish from the MILLIONS in Erie - I wouldn't let it get to you. Hard to understand the fishery in Erie until you experience it. And I've generally found that the ones that say the big ones don't taste any good - don't catch too many big ones. As long as you trim off the belly meat, and the darker colored meat/fat between the filet and the skin, and remove the lateral line they taste great. JULS did have a good suggestion in "double fileting" ie butterflying the filet so it is not as thick. They cook better if you do this. Come on back anytime!
Steve

[Fishnwiz]

I have fished this lake for 2 weeks a year since
1976 (24 years) Things have changed drasticly over the years...from fishing methods to zebra mussels to warter clarity issues of poor to crystal clear! One thing remains the same over all of the years I have fished this GREAT lake....
There is, and will never be, a better more awesome fish factory in my lifetime!!!!!!and I am only 40! What a body !!!!!!!!! of water! Now if they can only figure out how to turn the wind and waves down a little, I will quit my job and move to Sandusky!....Or better yet, Kellys Island!

[LUNDY]

Way to go jbird i'm glad you spanked em, it's really sad to see people jealous of another who obviously put in her or his time learning how to catch walleye. And by the way those big walleye are delicious once you learn how to prepare and cook them.

[Ness]

Hey, Jbird, did you eat my future 10lber???? Lol
Only kidding, pal. I'm glad you did really great and had a fantastic time but I also wish it was ME........ :-)

[walleyedm]

DIDO"S Jbird I have to agree the charter captins are a#$ out ther just returned myself and this is my 6th year in a row with the same trouble!! I had a scrawny little captin try to chase me down I wanted to put a beating on him after I sat sown and fished he did three drive bys fast . He would have never caught me running but I thought I would see what he had and he was a chicken. I plan on going back in the fall If the same captain does this I will not refrain, I do not care if he is making money or not I WILL KICK HIS you no what. Just incase he reads this maroon Triton 189 remember it .!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! fishing was to dy for.

[walleyedm]

P.S. all I have to say is 7 days myself 50 lbs of fillets. average

[Ness]

WOW, a little road rage on the waterways. As big as she is, it sounds like Erie isn't big enough.

[Tyler Campbell]

I wasn't referring specifically to their egg producing capacity. It was aboout catching the next state record. An 11 lb fish is alot closer than a 4 lber. But quite honestly I'm getting tired of this topic altogether, I think there are way too many posts here already.

[bob oh]

I hope you decide not to return, there are enough boaters like you on Erie already!
Bob

[JOHN]

HY MAN CHARTER CAPT.S OWN THE LAKE ASK THEM. IF THEY TRY TO RUN YOU DOWN SHOT A FLARE IN THERE BOAT. MOST OF THEM ARE OK YOU HAVE A HOLES ON ANY LAKE GET THER OH# AND CALL THE COST GUARD. DONT PUT UP WITH THERE RETARDED GAME...