Ready for some serious fishing action? Captain Mike's 6-hour charter on the Detroit River is where it's at. You'll be targeting some of Michigan's most prized catches, including walleye, yellow perch, and bass. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. We'll hit all the local hotspots and use tried-and-true techniques to put you on the fish. It's time to experience one of the best fishing grounds in the Great Lakes region!
When you step aboard Captain Mike's boat, you're in for a treat. This isn't your average fishing trip – it's a full-on Detroit River experience. We'll cruise through the heart of the city, with skylines on both sides as we hunt for the best fishing holes. The river's known for its strong current, so be ready for some exciting drifts as we work different techniques. Captain Mike's got years of experience under his belt, so he knows exactly where the fish are biting and how to get them on your line. You'll learn some local tricks of the trade and might even pick up a few colorful Detroit fishing stories along the way.
On this charter, we're not messing around – we're here to catch fish. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting. For walleye, we might do some vertical jigging or trolling with crawler harnesses. If we're after perch, it's all about finding schools and dropping some minnows their way. Bass fishing? Get ready to toss some crankbaits or work a dropshot rig along the rocky areas. Captain Mike's always got the latest intel on what's working, so you'll be using the most effective methods for the day. And don't worry if you're new to these techniques – he'll walk you through everything step-by-step.
Folks who fish the Detroit River with Captain Mike tend to make it a regular thing, and for good reason. This isn't just a fishing trip; it's a chance to see the Motor City from a whole new angle. You've got the urban skyline as your backdrop while you're reeling in some of the best freshwater game fish around. It's a perfect mix of city vibes and great angling. Plus, with a 3-person max on the boat, you're getting personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to cast. Whether you're looking to stock the freezer or just enjoy a day on the water, this charter delivers the goods time and time again.
Largemouth Bass: These bruisers are a Detroit River staple. They love to hang out near structure, so we'll be working the docks, weed edges, and submerged logs. Largemouth can grow up to 8 pounds in these waters, and they put up one heck of a fight. Spring and fall are prime times to target them, but you can catch 'em all season long. There's nothing quite like the explosion of a big largemouth smashing a topwater lure – it's an adrenaline rush every angler should experience.
Walleye: The crown jewel of Great Lakes fishing, walleye are what bring many anglers to the Detroit River. These golden-eyed predators can grow to trophy sizes here, with 10-pounders not uncommon. We typically target them in spring during their spawning run, but fall can be dynamite too. Walleye are known for their excellent table fare, so if you're looking to take home a delicious dinner, these are your go-to fish. The way they hit a jig on the fall is something special – you'll be hooked for life.
Smallmouth Bass: Often called "brown bass," smallmouth are pound-for-pound one of the hardest fighting fish in freshwater. The Detroit River's rocky areas and current seams are perfect smallmouth habitat. These acrobatic fish are known for their spectacular jumps and powerful runs. We usually find them in 5-20 feet of water, and they respond well to tube jigs and crankbaits. Catching a big smallie is like hooking into a submarine – they just don't quit!
American Yellow Perch: Don't let their size fool you – yellow perch are a blast to catch and even better to eat. These tasty panfish school up in huge numbers, especially in fall and winter. When we find a school, it's often non-stop action. Kids love catching perch because they're eager biters and come up in bunches. Plus, there's no better fish fry than fresh yellow perch fillets. It's a true Michigan tradition.
Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching for some top-notch fishing action, Captain Mike's Detroit River charter is where it's at. You've got a seasoned pro at the helm, some of the best freshwater fishing in the country right at your fingertips, and a chance to make some serious angling memories. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with walleye and perch or battle it out with some hard-fighting bass, this trip's got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing what the Detroit River has to offer. Grab your spot on the boat, and let's get out there and start catching. The fish are waiting – are you ready to reel 'em in?
Yellow perch are the tasty panfish that keep Detroit River anglers coming back. These schooling fish usually run 8-12 inches, with jumbos hitting 14 or more. You'll find them around weed edges, drop-offs, and over sandy or gravelly bottoms. Perch are active year-round, but fall brings some of the best action as they fatten up for winter. Anglers love targeting perch for their willingness to bite and excellent table fare. A simple slip-bobber rig with a minnow or piece of worm is all you need. Local tip: bring a variety of hook sizes - sometimes the bigger perch prefer larger baits. When you find a school, you can catch them one after another. The fight might not be as spectacular as with bass, but the steady action and delicious fillets more than make up for it. There's nothing like a perch fry after a good day on the water.
Largemouth bass are the heavyweights of the bass family, often reaching 5-10 pounds. You'll find them lurking around submerged logs, weed edges, and dock pilings in lakes and slower river sections. These ambush predators are most active in warmer months, especially early morning and evening. Anglers love targeting largemouth for their powerful strikes and acrobatic fights. They'll hit a variety of lures, but plastic worms are a local favorite. Work them slowly along the bottom near cover. In summer, try fishing deeper structures as the bass move to cooler water. A cool trick is to look for jumping baitfish - largemouth are often feeding below. These fish aren't just fun to catch; they make for some good eating too if the water's clean. Whether you're after a trophy or just steady action, largemouth bass fishing on the Detroit River is hard to beat.
Smallmouth bass are the scrappy fighters of the Detroit River. These bronze beauties typically run 2-4 pounds, with some topping 6. You'll find them around rocky areas, current breaks, and along deeper ledges. They're most active in cooler water, making spring and fall prime times. Smallies are known for their acrobatic leaps and hard-fighting nature - pound for pound, they're one of the strongest freshwater fish. Anglers love targeting them with light tackle for a real challenge. Try tube jigs or drop shot rigs with soft plastics. A local tip: when the water's clear, go with natural colors like green pumpkin. In stained water, switch to brighter hues. Keep your bait near the bottom and be ready for a sharp hit. Whether you're after numbers or that trophy bronzeback, smallmouth fishing here is hard to beat.
Walleye are the bread and butter of Detroit River fishing. These golden-eyed predators average 2-5 pounds but can top 10. You'll find them along rocky drop-offs and in deeper holes, especially at dawn and dusk when they're most active. Spring and fall are prime walleye seasons here, with many anglers chasing the famous spring run. Walleye put up a good fight and are prized for their tasty white fillets. To catch them, try slowly trolling with bottom bouncers and crawler harnesses. When the bite's on, you can limit out quick. A local trick is to use brightly colored beads on your harness - walleye seem to love that extra flash. Keep an eye on your electronics; these fish often school up. Once you find them, you're in for some fun. There's nothing quite like feeling that telltale tap-tap-tap of a walleye strike.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 32
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150