As of September 27, 2024, the fishing scene on Lake Michigan in Chicago is looking very promising. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your day on the water.

First off, let's talk about the weather. Today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 54 degrees. The winds are light, coming in from the northeast at about 5 mph, which should make for a comfortable day on the lake.

Sunrise was at 6:38 AM, and sunset will be at 6:24 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to fish. As for tidal conditions, Lake Michigan does not have significant tides, so you don't need to worry about that.

Yesterday saw a lot of activity from various fish species. Anglers reported catching a good number of yellow perch, particularly around the Montrose and Belmont harbors. Salmon, including both coho and chinook, were also active, with several catches reported near Diversey Harbor and the power lines at Montrose Harbor. Smallmouth bass and trout were also on the bite, especially in the downtown Chicago area.

For lures, it's a good idea to use small jigs and crankbaits for the smallmouth bass. For salmon, try using spoons like the Acme Kastmaster or Blue Fox Vibrax. For perch, small minnows or tiny jigs tipped with worms are usually effective.

In terms of bait, live bait such as minnows and nightcrawlers are always a good choice for perch and bass. For salmon, try using cut bait like herring or alewives.

If you're looking for hot spots, consider heading to Montrose Harbor for both perch and smallmouth bass. Diversey Harbor is another great spot, especially for shore fishing salmon. The area around Navy Pier can also be productive for perch and other species.

Overall, it's shaping up to be a great day on Lake Michigan, so grab your gear and get out there