Water temperature rising faster than normal

[West Basin]

Remember the surface temperature does not equal the bottom temperature starting around this time of year. As warmer water enters from the Maumee River and the warm air temperatures warm up the upper surface waters, the water column starts forming thermoclines. Take a drop over thermometer with you and check the water temperature down the water column. As the currents move the various waters around the Western Basin, you can have different bottom and surface temps in the same place throughout the day. The colder water from the Detroit River or out deeper comes in and temps drop. Nearshore shallow warmer water moves out the temps rise. Bottom temperature is what matters to spawning walleye, not the surface temp. Plus new groups of walleye are arriving every day, so spawning usually takes place from late March to late April, depending on the year.

Lake Surface temperatures:
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