If you're planning to hit Lake Superior near Duluth today, January 25, 2025, here's what you need to know:

First off, the weather is quite challenging. Expect northwest winds at 15 to 25 knots, with isolated snow showers and waves building to 2 to 4 feet, occasionally up to 7 feet in some areas. There's a GALE WARNING in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning, and a HEAVY FREEZING SPRAY WARNING for areas beyond 5 nautical miles from shore.

Tide-wise, today's low tide is at 6:13 AM with a height of 0.72 feet, and the high tide is at 12:49 AM with a height of 0.75 feet. Another high tide is expected at 10:20 AM, and the next low tide will be at 5:26 PM[2].

Sunrise is early at 7:54 AM, and sunset will be at 4:29 PM, giving you a decent window to get out on the water.

Despite the cold and icy conditions, fish activity is still promising. Anglers are focusing on species like lake trout, steelhead, and some salmonids that are more active in colder waters. Yesterday, anglers reported catching some lake trout and a few steelhead in the tributaries. Steelhead runs are typically active this time of year, especially with the ice-out still a few months away. Early runners can be caught using spawn sacs, flies, beads, and yarn[1].

For trolling on Lake Superior, spoons, stickbaits, and dodger/fly combinations are highly effective. Bright colors such as pink, orange, UV green, and chrome have been successful. For steelhead in the tributaries, spawn sacs, flies, beads, and yarn are good choices[1][3].

If you're looking for hot spots, consider the tributaries around Duluth, especially areas like the St. Louis River and its tributaries. Shorecasting from public access areas and state parks along Lake Superior can also yield good results. If you don't have a boat, hiring a charter in Duluth or Two Harbors could be a good option[4].

Remember to bundle up and stay safe out there, as the conditions are quite harsh. Good luck fishing