Featured Walleye Charters in Bay City
Expert captains ready to take you on your next walleye adventure.
Best Time to Catch Walleye
Walleye can be caught year-round in Bay City. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Walleye
Walleye are a prized catch in the Bay City area, largely due to Saginaw Bay's excellent Walleye population. The bay's shallow, fertile waters provide ideal spawning and feeding grounds. Spring and fall are the peak seasons, with the post-spawn period in spring being particularly productive. Trolling crankbaits or worm harnesses along the shipping channel or near structure is a common tactic. Consider using lead core line to get your lures down to the desired depth. Launching from the Bay City State Recreation Area provides easy access to the bay. Be aware of changing weather conditions on Saginaw Bay, as it can get rough quickly. Also, pay attention to the DNR creel surveys, which offer insights into Walleye size and abundance.
How to Catch Walleye
Walleye Fishing Regulations in Michigan
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
15-inch minimum
License Required
Resident or Non-resident Fishing License
Check the Michigan Fishing Guide for exceptions on specific bodies of water.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Michigan state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching Walleye in Bay City?
Many anglers in Bay City use jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers to catch Walleye. Crankbaits and trolling harnesses are also effective, especially in open water.
What is the minimum size for keeping Walleye in Michigan?
In Michigan, the minimum size limit for Walleye is 15 inches. Any Walleye shorter than that must be released.
What's the daily bag limit for Walleye in the Bay City area?
The daily bag limit for Walleye in the Bay City area is 5 per day.
Is there a specific season for Walleye fishing in Michigan?
No, you can fish for Walleye year-round in Michigan. However, certain areas may have specific closures, so it's always best to check the regulations.
More Walleye Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Bay City
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