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Caught a Striped Searobin in Lakeside Marblehead
Striped Searobin Fishing in Lake Erie, OH
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The Striped Searobin (Prionotus evolans) is one of Lake Erie's more unusual inhabitants. This distinctive fish belongs to the order Scorpaeniformes and family Triglidae. Typically measuring between 12 and 18 inches in length and weighing up to 3 pounds, Striped Searobins are recognized by their wing-like pectoral fins that help them "walk" along the lake bottom. - They have striking eyes that can range from dark blue to rich green, surrounded by gold. - Their unique ability to make croaking sounds when handled surprises many first-time catchers.
Fishing Charter by Captain David Faller in December
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Summary
Friday June brought perfect conditions for our 4-hour Walleye fishing charter on Lake Erie. Launching from East Harbor State Park in Lakeside Marblehead, we enjoyed partly cloudy skies after morning rain had cleared. I guided David and crew through a mix of trolling, bottom fishing, and casting crankbaits—all essential techniques for Lake Erie fishing success. While we didn't land trophy-sized fish, we connected with some Striped Searobin action and everyone had a fantastic time on the water. Black H2O Dog Charters provides everything you need for a successful day, from specialized tackle to local knowledge of the lake's best fishing spots. Whether you're an experienced angler or complete beginner, our Lakeside Marblehead charters offer some of the best fishing opportunities on Lake Erie's productive waters.
Fishing Charter with David Faller – Rates & Booking
Captain David Faller of Black H2O Dog Charters runs Friday June fishing trips from East Harbor State Park in Lakeside Marblehead. Our 4-hour Walleye (PM) Trip is perfect for anglers looking to experience Lake Erie's famous fishery without committing to a full day on the water. We launch at 3:00 pm to target the evening bite when walleye are most active. All necessary fishing equipment, licenses, and expert guidance are included—just bring your personal items, sunscreen, and a camera to capture your catches. Our rates are competitive for the Lakeside Marblehead area, and we welcome anglers of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned fishermen.
Highlights of Black H2O Dog Charters
Black H2O Dog Charters offers a professional fishing experience on Lake Erie's productive waters. We employ a variety of fishing techniques tailored to current conditions, including trolling to cover water efficiently, bottom fishing over structure, and casting crankbaits when fish are aggressive. Our local knowledge helps put you on fish consistently throughout the season.
Our afternoon trips from East Harbor State Park provide the perfect window for targeting active fish while enjoying Lake Erie's scenic beauty. Even when the fishing is challenging, the experience of being out on these historic waters creates lasting memories. We pride ourselves on creating a comfortable, enjoyable atmosphere where anglers of all skill levels can learn and succeed.
Local Species Insights: Striped Searobin
While walleye are Lake Erie's star attraction, the Striped Searobin provides an interesting catch for many anglers. This distinctive bottom-dweller features wing-like pectoral fins and makes a croaking sound when caught. Though not typically targeted specifically, they're occasionally caught while bottom fishing for walleye and other gamefish.
In Lakeside Marblehead waters, we typically find these fish along structural elements and sandy bottoms. They respond well to bottom presentations with natural baits. While not considered a premier gamefish, catching one adds variety to your day and offers an opportunity to see one of Lake Erie's more unusual inhabitants up close.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your trip with Black H2O Dog Charters, dress in layers as Lake Erie weather can change quickly. Bring sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. Our boat is equipped with safety gear, fishing equipment, and essential amenities to keep you comfortable. We recommend light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for your time on the water.
Our 4-hour afternoon trips begin at 3:00 pm from East Harbor State Park in Lakeside Marblehead. We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure. The marina offers parking and basic facilities. For the best experience, let us know about any special needs or fishing preferences when booking so we can customize your trip accordingly.
Fishing in Lake Erie, OH: Striped Searobin
The Striped Searobin (Prionotus evolans) is a fascinating member of the Triglidae family, order Scorpaeniformes. These distinctive bottom-dwellers are known for their wing-like pectoral fins, armored heads, and ability to "walk" along the lake bottom using specialized fin rays. In Lakeside Marblehead waters this June, these unusual fish add variety to the typical Lake Erie catch.
Striped Searobin Overview
Striped Searobins are bottom-dwelling fish characterized by their large, fan-like pectoral fins and armored heads. Though not typically targeted by anglers, they're interesting catches that occasionally surprise fishermen pursuing other species. Their ability to make croaking or grunting sounds when handled has earned them the nickname "sea robins."
Striped Searobin Habitat and Distribution
These fish typically inhabit inshore estuaries and sandy or muddy bottoms. In the Lake Erie region near Lakeside Marblehead, they can be found around structural elements, often in depths of 20-60 feet. They prefer areas with good bottom structure where they can use their modified fin rays to "walk" along the bottom while searching for food.
Striped Searobin Size and Weight
Typically ranging from 12 to 18 inches in length, Striped Searobins can weigh up to 3 pounds when fully grown. Most specimens caught in Lake Erie tend to be on the smaller end of this range, with larger individuals being less common in the area.
Striped Searobin Diet and Behavior
These bottom-feeders primarily consume small crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and small fish they find while probing the lake bottom. They use their specialized pectoral fin rays to stir up sediment and expose hidden prey. Searobins are most active during dawn and dusk periods, which coincides with prime fishing times on Lake Erie.
Striped Searobin Spawning Season
In the Great Lakes region, Striped Searobins typically spawn during the warmer months of late spring through early summer. Water temperature plays a crucial role in their spawning behavior, with activity increasing as temperatures rise above 60°F. During June in Lakeside Marblehead, these fish may be engaged in spawning activities, particularly in protected inshore areas.
Striped Searobin Fishing Techniques
While rarely specifically targeted, Striped Searobins are most commonly caught while bottom fishing with natural baits. Small pieces of cut bait, nightcrawlers, or shrimp work well when fished near the bottom. Using a simple bottom rig with just enough weight to maintain bottom contact is effective. In June around Lakeside Marblehead, anglers often encounter them while fishing near structural elements in 30-50 feet of water, particularly when using slower presentations meant for walleye.
Striped Searobin Is It Good to Eat?
Though not a popular food fish in the Great Lakes region, Striped Searobins do have edible white meat with a mild flavor. The meat is firm and can be prepared similar to other mild whitefish. However, their small size and the difficulty of cleaning them (due to their armored bodies) means they're typically released rather than kept for the table. Those who do prepare them often fillet the meat and use it in chowders or fish stews.
Striped Searobin Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Searobin?
A: While not typically targeted, Striped Searobins respond best to natural baits like nightcrawlers, small pieces of cut fish, or shrimp presented on or near the bottom.
Q: Where can I find Striped Searobin near Lakeside Marblehead?
A: Look for them in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms in depths of 20-60 feet. They're often found near underwater structures where they can hunt for small invertebrates and baitfish.
Q: Is Striped Searobin good to eat?
A: They have edible white meat with a mild flavor, but they're not commonly kept for food in the Lake Erie region due to their small size and the effort required to clean them properly.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Searobin?
A: Dawn and dusk tend to be the most productive times, with better chances during the warmer months from late spring through early fall. In June, they become more active as water temperatures rise.
Q: Do Striped Searobins put up a good fight?
A: For their size, they can provide a surprisingly spirited fight, though not as powerful as gamefish like walleye or bass. Their unique characteristic is the croaking or grunting sound they make when caught.
Q: Are Striped Searobins rare in Lake Erie?
A: While not rare, they're not as common as popular gamefish species. Many anglers fishing Lake Erie for years might only encounter them occasionally as incidental catches.
