Hey there, fellow angler! Ready to hit the big water and chase some serious fish? Captain Mike here, inviting you to join me for a 6-hour trip that'll have you hooked on Lake Michigan fishing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this charter is all about putting you on the fish and showing you why Lake Michigan is a world-class fishery. We'll be targeting some of the lake's heaviest hitters - Smallmouth Bass, Lake Trout, and Steelhead - using tactics that I've fine-tuned over years on these waters. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's make some memories out on the big lake!
When you step aboard my boat, you're in for a day of non-stop action and good times. We'll cruise out to my favorite spots where the fish have been biting, and I'll set you up with everything you need to land the big one. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - I'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time. And for you experienced anglers, get ready to swap some fish stories and maybe learn a new trick or two. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from trolling to jigging, depending on what's working best that day. The lake can be unpredictable, but that's half the fun! You might be reeling in a chunky smallmouth one minute and battling a chrome-bright steelhead the next. Just be sure to bring your camera - you're gonna want proof of these catches!
On Lake Michigan, we play the fish's game - and that means adapting our tactics to what's working. Some days, we'll be running planer boards with crankbaits to cover more water and entice those active fish. Other times, we might drop some jigs tipped with soft plastics right on the nose of a big smallmouth. For trout and steelhead, we often troll with downriggers, using spoons and flies that mimic the baitfish these predators are chasing. I'm always tweaking our approach based on water temperature, time of day, and what the fish are telling us. It's like a chess match out there, and I'll let you in on all the strategies we're using. By the end of the trip, you'll have a good grasp of Lake Michigan fishing techniques that you can use on your own adventures.
Lake Michigan has been on fire lately, with anglers pulling in some real beauties. Just last week, we had a group land a 30-pound lake trout that put up a fight for nearly 20 minutes. Another crew brought in a limit of smallmouth bass, with the biggest pushing 6 pounds - a true football! And let's not forget about the steelhead - we've been seeing some chrome-bright 12-pounders that'll make your drag sing. The fishing's been so good, I've had folks booking return trips before we even get back to the dock. That's the kind of action you can expect on Lake Michigan when you're fishing with someone who knows these waters like the back of their hand.
Smallmouth Bass: Let me tell you, the smallies in Lake Michigan are something else. These bronze-backed bruisers love to hang around rocky structure and will hit a well-presented bait like a freight train. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. What makes them so special? It's their fight - pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish you'll ever tangle with. When a big smallmouth decides to dive for the bottom, you better hold on tight!
Lake Trout: These are the old-timers of the lake, living long lives and growing to impressive sizes. Lake trout are coldwater fish, so we target them in the cooler months or by fishing deep in the summer. They're not the fastest fighters, but they've got stamina that'll test your arms. The best part about lake trout? They're delicious eating if you decide to keep one for the grill. Nothing beats a fresh-caught lake trout baked with lemon and herbs.
Steelhead Trout: Now, if you want a fish that'll make your heart race, look no further than the steelhead. These fish are essentially rainbow trout that have adapted to life in the big lake, and they grow big and strong on a diet of baitfish. Steelhead are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water multiple times during a battle. We catch them year-round in Lake Michigan, but the spring and fall runs are especially exciting. Hook into one of these silver missiles, and you'll be grinning from ear to ear!
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase - Lake Michigan is calling, and the fish are waiting. This 6-hour trip is your ticket to some of the best fishing action the Great Lakes have to offer. Whether you're looking to learn new skills, introduce your kids to the sport, or just enjoy a day on the water with friends, I've got you covered. Remember, we're limited to 3 guests per trip, so don't wait too long to lock in your date. The lake's been generous lately, and I'd hate for you to miss out on the hot bite. So what do you say? Ready to make some waves and catch some fish? Give me a shout, and let's get your Lake Michigan fishing adventure on the calendar. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're holding up that trophy catch!
Lake trout are the heavyweight champs of Lake Michigan. These deep-water bruisers can top 20 pounds, with the average catch running 5-15 pounds. They prefer cold, well-oxygenated water, so we usually find them suspended over deep basins or near underwater structures. Spring and fall are prime times, as they move shallower to feed. Lake trout are prized for their fight - once hooked, they use their bulk to make powerful runs. They're also excellent table fare, with firm, pink flesh. Jigging is often the ticket, especially with lures that mimic wounded baitfish. Here's a local trick: when you mark fish on the finder but they won't bite, try "pounding" your jig on the bottom to stir up sediment. This can trigger their predatory instincts and lead to some explosive strikes.
Smallmouth bass are a popular target on Lake Michigan, known for their aggressive fight and acrobatic leaps. These bronze beauties typically range from 2-6 pounds and love rocky areas and drop-offs. In spring and fall, you'll find them in shallower water, but they head deep when summer heats up. The best action is often early morning or late evening. What makes smallies so fun is their pound-for-pound strength - even a modest one will give you a run for your money. They're also great eating if you choose to keep a few. When the bite's tough, try slow-rolling a grub along the bottom. The subtle action can trigger strikes when nothing else will. Just remember, these fish are wary - light line and stealthy presentations are key to fooling the bigger ones.
Steelhead are the adrenaline junkies of Lake Michigan. These sea-run rainbow trout typically weigh 5-10 pounds but can push 20. They're known for their lightning-fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. We target them in tributaries during their spring and fall spawning runs, but they also cruise the lake's shorelines. Steelhead fishing is addictive because of the challenge - these fish are strong, smart, and notoriously finicky. But when you do hook up, it's a battle you won't forget. They're also gorgeous fish, with silvery bodies and pink lateral lines. For the best shot at a trophy, focus on overcast days or low-light periods. And here's a tip: when river fishing, don't neglect the tail-outs of pools. Big steelhead often hold here, waiting to ambush prey swept downstream.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 32
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150