LAKE ONTARIO FISHING REPORT UPDATE - AUG 10

We're now well into what can be called the "mid summer transition "

During this transition, the mature Salmon which will be returning to the rivers & harbors where they were either naturally hatched or stocked to go through the spawning process are setting up or staging as we call it near those areas.

While spots like Jordan/Grimsby/Hamilton have no current stocking & hardly produce any natural reproduction, you will see some numbers of stagers around there & they will have some kings run those waters.

The bigger concentrations of kings in the west end head to areas like Credit, Bronte, Dalhousie & Niagara River. Wind, rain & water temp will influence the movement of these kings in the next few weeks, as different pods will cycle in to these areas. Some years we experience excellent action for a few weeks, while others it's a little short lived. Keep in mind we are talking about the SW part of the lake.

Down the east end by Whitby, Newcastle & Port Hope, the fish often start much sooner and the runs are bigger. This area also tends to have a lot more natural fish then stocked.

They will typically hang out or "stage" outside of these areas for some time, for usually a few weeks until the conditions "call the fish in".

These fish could be in very shallow right at the mouths or out deeper. They can be unpredictable coming & going from these areas. Some Salmon will still be actively feeding as normal in the middle of the water column, while some will be negative, down with their bellies on the bottom.

During this time is where you will need to be on your toes with a bag of tricks and sometimes a bit of patience. These fish will be moody and can turn on or shut off their activity levels at no particular time.

This time of year is when you will want to try some different things to trigger a response. Different types of "Plugs" can be very effective. Especially if they have rattles & bright colors. Flasher/flies & meat rigs will still work too, but consider trying some different colors like gold, red & orange patterns.

This is also a time of year where boat traffic can get pretty congested when fishing the shallows. Be mindful of other anglers and use good judgment when deciding to run long lines off planer boards.

Also be sure to take some time to check your hooks, connections, split rings, & leaders.

Keep in mind that different areas of the lake often have peak times of "stager" activity. It's all beginning to start now. A few spots along the north east side have had runs already!

For those just wanting to catch numbers of fish, you still can! Best bet is to stay looking for bait & stable water. There will be some mature salmon mixed in with younger year classes, along with rainbows & cohos. Put out a spread of spoons & fish in & around the thermocline.

Hopefully this helps some of you!