Big Gills Charters

5.0/5 (22 reviews)

Oak Street 300, South Haven, MI 49090, United States–

Big Gills Charters

5.0/5 (22 reviews)

Oak Street 300

South Haven, MI, United States

Trips & prices Targeted species Boat info What's biting What's included Contact captain

Trips & prices What's included Targeted species Boat info Reviews Contact captain

If you're ready to enjoy fishing in South Haven and Lake Michigan, look no further than Big Gills Charters!

Depending on conditions, you might hook into Chinook (King), Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Steelhead, and whatever else is biting. For these species, you're likely to troll. Fish caught during the trip are yours to take home, provided they're legal to keep. Catch cleaning is available, so you can take your fish home to eat. Bring a cooler for your catch!

This is sportfishing, it can be challenging. Children are welcome, for youth under 10-years of age please contact the Captain Gilleylen for questions. Be sure to ask if child-sized life vests are available, otherwise, you should bring your own. You'll need to get a local fishing license before the trip. This information is usually available online through MDNR website, or you can ask the captain. It's never a bad idea to bring sunscreen (non-spray) applied at home, snacks, drinks, and sunglasses.

You'll be trolling lines from a 33' Cruiser that can carry up to 6 passengers. It has downriggers and everything you need for a productive day on the water, plus a clean and private restroom on board for your convenience. Capt. Troy will provide rods and reels for you, along with lures. When available, there will be a First Mate on board to help your trip run smoothly. First mate works for tips only, please tip accordingly. 20% is customary!! For details about this, please ask the captain. Thank you for the consideration!

Now's the time to experience fishing in South Haven for yourself with Big Gills Charters!

Customer reviews

Rating summary

5.0/5

out of 5 stars from 22 reviews

See details

Boat

5.0/5

Crew

5.0/5

Experience

5.0/5

Photos & videos by reviewers (221)

+218

Anglers claimed

Good experience

100%

Appropriate for children

77%

Friendly captain

100%

Satisfied with the boat

100%

Recommend this charter

100%

Caught fish

100%

Showing 1 - 5 of 22 reviews

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Showing: 5 of 22 reviews

Michelle Allen

5.0

Verified

Big Gills, Big fun

Half Day Morning Trip(4 People Max) on August 17, 2025 • 2 adults • 2 children

We had an incredible trip with Big Gills Charters! Captain Troy and First Mate Ben were absolutely fantastic — professional, patient, and friendly. I went out with three 13-year-old boys, and they made the experience fun and memorable for all of us. They took the time to explain everything and made sure everyone was involved. We ended up catching a king salmon and a steelhead, which was a huge thrill for the kids (and me too!). The boat was clean and well-equipped, and we all felt completely safe and comfortable the entire time. These guys know what they're doing and love sharing the experience with others. Highly recommend Big Gills Charters for anyone looking to have a great time on the water!

Reported catch:

Response from Captain

August 18, 2025

Thank you Michelle! It was a good trip! The boys were well behaved and great to spend time with!! Please keep us in mind for the future!!

Gerald King

5.0

Verified

Awesome evening on lake

Evening Trip (6 People Max) on July 19, 2025 • 6 adults

We had an absolutely awesome trip. 6 guys fit comfortably. Gear was top notch. Captain Troy was easy to work with on logistics. Captain and Ben were great hosts. Caught 8 big fish but I think we had another 6-7 fish on the line. We were on something for most of the evening. Highly recommend the evening charter. Amazing view of sunset and South Haven. We will definitely do that again!

Response from Captain

July 20, 2025

You all were fabulous!! Great time!! Appreciate you all, and look forward to next time!!

Jason Sloderbeck

5.0

Verified

Great Captain and first mate

Half Day Morning Trip(4 People Max) on August 9, 2025 • 2 adults

Big Gills worked hard to get us fish, and the fishing wasn’t easy that day. Regardless of the fishing, the Captain and first mate, Ben, were very personable. Boat and tackle was well kept. Absolutely no complaints. Will definitely re-book.

Reported catch:

Response from Captain

August 21, 2025

Great time!! Thank you both for your business and hope to have you again soon!!

Rich Wells

5.0

Verified

Great fishing experience on Lake Michigan

Half Day Morning Trip(4 People Max) on July 12, 2025 • 4 adults

Captain and first mate were very helpful in getting us onto fish. We had a great time catching several nice salmon.

Response from Captain

July 13, 2025

Thank you Rich!! Wonderful family and group!! Love to have you all anytime! Looking forward to next time!!

Doug Kassing

5.0

Verified

South Haven Fishing

Full Day 7 Hours 1-4 People on August 30, 2025 • 5 adults

Had a great day on the lake fishing and caught some nice fish. Several were big ones.

Reported catch:

Response from Captain

August 31, 2025

Wonderful crew!! Thank you very much for your consideration and business with us!!

Trip availability and prices

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November 2025

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2 adults • 0 children

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Half Day Morning Trip(4 People Max)