I saw many minnows at Sturg. pt off the docks but they seem to be more scattered out. I am sure you cuold get your bait there but it would take a few tries/net throws, to get them between the docks. Seems to be more in the sunny areas. I go to Ferry st. or Ontario st. the night before I plan to fish & get my bait. I also saw alot of minnows at the Erie basin boat launch by the corner on the lake side of the launch.