About Your Trip

Generally, I start my charters in the early morning. Upon request, evening trips can be arranged. I allow 1-4 anglers on a charter. I like having this number of people for charters. It gives everyone lots of room to safely move while fishing. It also makes for a more personal trip for you and your party. Different times of year offer different types of fishing. Below is a brief description of the types of fishing I offer.

What Can We Fish For.....

Depending on the time of the year we can fish for:

SMALLMOUTH BASS

Smallmouth fishing generally starts out about the end of March and stays strong till November. Every year fishing becomes better and better. The size of the fish continues to grow yearly. The average size of the smallies is about 3.5 lbs. however, there are many fish that weigh over 4.5 lbs. and a good number of fish over 5 lbs. All fishing is done by casting with light line and medium to medium light spinning rods.

You will get to experience lots of areas along the Lake Michigan shoreline in a single day. On an average day you can expect to catch between 18-30 fish. All smallmouth trips are 100% catch and release - NO EXCEPTIONS. The reason that the fishery continues to grow is due to the catch and release efforts by the local anglers. All equipment, top of the line Shimano rods and reels, and baits are provided.

BROWN TROUT

Brown trout trips start in December and go all the way thru March. Casting or trolling trips are both available. Brown Trout fishing in Lake Michigan continues to get better and better every year with fish weighing anywhere between 3-30 lbs.

Casting trips involve casting in hot water discharges using light line with spinning rods. Trolling trips involve a more laid back approach with a spread of rods. Usually about 9 rods will be out at one time with an assortment of different baits. All equipment, top of the line Shimano rods and reels, and baits are provided.

SALMON + TROUT CASTING

Casting for salmon can be an experience of a lifetime. Coho Salmon start hitting the warm water discharges in January and stay until the end of March. There's lots of action on light line and light rods. Cohos at this time of year are some of the best table fare. They are excellent fighters and make a very tasty meal.

King salmon start to hit the shoreline in late September and stay until the end of October. There's nothing better than having a big king on the end of your line. Your drags will be screaming. All equipment, top of the line Shimano rods and reels, and baits are provided.

Starting in November thru March we will be jigging for big Lake Trout using light spinning gear.  These fish average 12 pounds and can reach upwards of 30 pounds.  This is a rare type of fishing to do on Lake Michigan and is a great way to spend the day. 

SALMON + TROUT TROLLING

Trolling for Salmon and Trout is available year round. Summer is the best time of the year for trolling. Deep water makes fishing even more exciting.

East Chicago Marina, one of the ports I use, is one of the best ports on the Great Lakes for summertime salmon and trout action. Big fish and big numbers make this an awesome time to get kids or friends fishing.

PERCH

Perch fishing is available year round. The best months to catch perch are June thru August; however, the perch population is determined by wind and temperature. The best way to book a trip is to call me, and I will give you an updated report. Perch are tricky to catch but delicious to eat!

What should I bring?

Depending on the weather, the following items are recommended:

• Proper fishing license/salmon-trout stamp
• Soft-soled shoes
• Warm clothing/rain coat (if necessary)
• Food and beverage
• Sun glasses/sun-screen & lotion
• Camera & film
• Cooler to trasport fish home
• Valid Fishing License for the waters we will be fishing
• http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/5330.htm Link for Indiana Licenses
• https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/LPR/Pages/default.aspx Link for Illinois Licenses

• If a trip is cut short due to sea sickness you will be charged for the full trip.

• All deposits will be kept if trip is not canceled within 10 days of scheduled date.

Don't forget to check out the My Waters Page for the areas we fish!

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