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Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago 

4.9
(11 reviews)
 North Cannon Drive 2401, Chicago, IL 60614, United States–
+160
+157
Angler's Choice

Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago 

Chicago, IL, United States
–
23 ft
5
4.9
(11 reviews)
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

THIS IS A BRAND NEW BOAT OCT 2026

🚨FOR MY CUSTOMERS IN OTHER COUNTRIES🚨

THE STATE OF ILLINOIS IS NOT ALLOWING ANYONE 16 AND OVER TO BUY A ILLINOIS FISHING LICENSE WITHOUT A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER.  THIS IS CURRENTLY BEING WORKED OUT.

MANIPULATOR II
2026 Crestliner Authority 2250 – Built to Conquer Lake Michigan

Introducing the MANIPULATOR, our 2026 Crestliner Authority 2250, the newest addition to the Thin Blue Line Fishing fleet. This boat is a serious Lake Michigan fishing machine at 23 feet, built for performance, comfort, and putting fish in the boat.

Powered by a 300 HP Mercury Pro XS and equipped with a 15 HP Mercury Pro Kicker, the MANIPULATOR has the power to run across Lake Michigan and the precision to troll for salmon, trout, and other Great Lakes gamefish.

When it comes to fishing technology, this boat is loaded. Featuring four Garmin displays (two 9-inch, one 10-inch, and one 12-inch), Garmin LiveScope LVS44 and LVS34 systems, a Garmin Kraken trolling motor, and two Cannon Optimum electric downriggers, the MANIPULATOR is equipped with some of the latest technology available for serious Great Lakes fishing.

The boat also features a full enclosure, providing additional protection from wind, rain, and the unpredictable conditions Lake Michigan can throw our way. Whether we're trolling offshore for King Salmon, targeting Lake Trout in deep water, or using LiveScope to locate fish, this boat is ready for the challenge.

The MANIPULATOR combines the versatility of a smaller fishing boat with the equipment and capabilities of a serious offshor

Welcome to Chicago, the land of multi-species fishing, where we target and fish a variety of lakes, such as Lake Michigan, Wolf Lake, and Chicago River.

You can bring kids on your trip, and you’re allowed to keep the fish you catch.

Captain Ernesto covers you for all the rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Before you come aboard, just make sure you have your fishing licenses as well as some food and drinks.

THIS IS A BRAND NEW BOAT OCT 2026

🚨FOR MY CUSTOMERS IN OTHER COUNTRIES🚨

THE STATE OF ILLINOIS IS NOT ALLOWING ANYONE 16 AND OVER TO BUY A ILLINOIS FISHING LICENSE WITHOUT A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER.  THIS IS CURRENTLY BEING WORKED OUT.

MANIPULATOR II
2026 Crestliner Authority 2250 – Built to Conquer Lake Michigan

Introducing the MANIPULATOR, our 2026 Crestliner Authority 2250, the newest addition to the Thin Blue Line Fishing fleet. This boat is a serious Lake Michigan fishing machine at 23 feet, built for performance, comfort, and putting fish in the boat.

Powered by a 300 HP Mercury Pro XS and equipped with a 15 HP Mercury Pro Kicker, the MANIPULATOR has the power to run across Lake Michigan and the precision to troll for salmon, trout, and other Great Lakes gamefish.

When it comes to fishing technology, this boat is loaded. Featuring four Garmin displays (two 9-inch, one 10-inch, and one 12-inch), Garmin LiveScope LVS44 and LVS34 systems, a Garmin Kraken trolling motor, and two Cannon Optimum electric downriggers, the MANIPULATOR is equipped with some of the latest technology available for serious Great Lakes fishing.

The boat also features a full enclosure, providing additional protection from wind, rain, and the unpredictable conditions Lake Michigan can throw our way. Whether we're trolling offshore for King Salmon, targeting Lake Trout in deep water, or using LiveScope to locate fish, this boat is ready for the challenge.

The MANIPULATOR combines the versatility of a smaller fishing boat with the equipment and capabilities of a serious offshor

Welcome to Chicago, the land of multi-species fishing, where we target and fish a variety of lakes, such as Lake Michigan, Wolf Lake, and Chicago River.

You can bring kids on your trip, and you’re allowed to keep the fish you catch.

Captain Ernesto covers you for all the rods, reels, tackle, and lures. Before you come aboard, just make sure you have your fishing licenses as well as some food and drinks.

Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
Charter Operator
Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
6 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour
Popular features
You keep catch
Rods, reels & tackle
Popular features
You keep catch
Rods, reels & tackle

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown AM
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 15 - Dec 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $800
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hr Jig/Cast Salmon &Trout Chicago
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM)
Seasonal trip
Feb 15 - Apr 30
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $825
Entire boat: 2 people
4 Hr Trolling Salmon &Trout Chicago
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (6:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM)
Seasonal trip
Feb 15 - Apr 30
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $800
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hour Trip – Chicago River Bass
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 10:15 AM
Seasonal trip
Nov 5 - Mar 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $800
Entire boat: up to 5 people
4 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan Winter
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 12:05 PM
Seasonal trip
Nov 1 - Mar 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $800
Entire boat: up to 3 people
4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Oct 2 - Dec 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $825
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Trip – Chicago River- Bass
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Feb 15 - Dec 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hr Salmon and Trout DOWNTOWN (AM)
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 25 - Dec 31
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hr Trip PERCH LAKE MICHIGAN AM
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Nov 15 - Dec 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $875
Entire boat: 2 people
5 Hr SALMON AND TROUT Downtown Mid
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 10:10 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 25 - Dec 29
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hr Trip PERCH LAKE MICHIGAN MID
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 10:10 AM
Seasonal trip
Nov 14 - Dec 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hour Trip – Chicago River- Bass
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 10:15 AM
Seasonal trip
Mar 25 - Apr 5
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people
5 Hr SALMON and Trout Downtown PM
FREE Cancellation 14 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 3:25 PM
Seasonal trip
Mar 25 - Apr 25
Salmon
Bass (Largemouth)
Pike (Northern)
Muskellunge (Musky)
+7
US $850
Entire boat: up to 3 people

Customer reviews

Loading...

Rating

4.9
11 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (12)

Reviews (11)

  • Jack Brodeur
    Jack Brodeur
    Repeat angler
    us
    Missouri, US
    Member since 2026
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    First time salmon/steelhead experience and it was incredible!

    5 Hour Trip – Chicago River- Bass on July 11, 2026 • 2 adults

    What an amazing day with Captain Ernesto of Thin Blue Line Fishing! As pretty avid bass fishermen this was definitely outside our comfort zone. First time fishing for either species and being on Lake Michigan. From te moment we met the Captain at the boat launch until we stepped off that afternoon our safety and comfort were top priorities. The conditions wee less than favorable but we still caught 3 Kings and 4 steelhead, good enough to place 4th overall in the tournament. If Nick had shown up to fish and not Chris we could have definitely placed better but he let a few off unfortunately. 10 out of 10 trip, definitely recommend booking with Captain Ernesto!

  • Shiloh Lockhart
    Shiloh Lockhart
    us
    Alaska, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fish galore!!!!

    5 Hr Salmon and Trout DOWNTOWN (AM) on June 20, 2026 • 2 adults

    The captain was wonderful! Made the whole trip memorable! Found the fish and gave detailed instructions on how to reel them in. It was our first time fishing on a boat and will definitely do it again. He was super patient and very knowledgeable! We caught a King Salmon!! Loved every minute of this trip.

  • Kiecha Joseph
    Kiecha Joseph
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2022
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Fish On!

    4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown AM on October 25, 2026 • 2 adults

    I purchased a trip for my Dad's birthday. He and my nephew had an amazing time and caught plenty of fish! Thanks Captain Ernesto!

  • Bennett Spencer
    Bennett Spencer
    us
    Connecticut, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fun day!

    5 Hr Salmon and Trout DOWNTOWN (AM) on September 11, 2026 • 2 adults

    we had a blast, catching 10 lakers and 1 coho. lots of fun, would recommend to anyone looking for a successful trip

  • Brett Smith
    Brett Smith
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    professional guide

    5 Hr SALMON AND TROUT Downtown Mid on August 29, 2026 • 4 adults

    found the fish well equipped boat

  • Lauro Simoes Campolina
    Lauro Simoes Campolina
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Ernesto

    5 Hr SALMON AND TROUT Downtown Mid on October 3, 2026 • 3 adults
  • Penny Loftus
    Penny Loftus
    us
    Minnesota, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Wonderful guide! Had a great experience.

    5 Hr Salmon and Trout DOWNTOWN (AM) on August 7, 2026 • 2 adults
  • Jon Massey
    Jon Massey
    us
    Kansas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    July fishing trip

    4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown AM on July 14, 2026 • 2 adults
  • Eric Bennett
    Eric Bennett
    Repeat angler
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    4.7
    Verified

    Tough Conditions

    4 Hr Jig/Cast Salmon &Trout Chicago - 3:00 PM on March 29, 2026 • 2 adults

    Lake was murky and temps were cold. Setup and caught Lake Trout on first cast. Rest of the trip was slow, tried jigging, casting and trolling and could not connect. Capt Ernesto was great and would book again under better water conditions.

  • Mike Newlun
    Mike Newlun
    Repeat angler
    us
    Tennessee, US
    Member since 2024
    3 trips
    4.7
    Verified

    Fishing with Ernesto

    5 Hr SALMON AND TROUT Downtown Mid on August 24, 2026 • 3 adults

FAQs about Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago

Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $800 per group - 4 Hour Trip – Chicago River Bass (5 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan Winter (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 1 guest - 4 Hr Jig/Cast Salmon &Trout Chicago (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 1 guest - 4 Hr Jig/Cast Salmon &Trout Chicago - 10:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 1 guest - 4 Hr Jig/Cast Salmon &Trout Chicago - 3:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $50 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown AM (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hr Trolling Salmon &Trout Chicago (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hr Trolling Salmon &Trout Chicago - 10:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $800 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hr Trolling Salmon &Trout Chicago - 3:00 PM (4 hours)
  • US $825 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 4 Hr Salmon and Trout Downtown (4 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hour Trip – Chicago River- Bass (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hour Trip – Chicago River- Bass (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hr Salmon and Trout DOWNTOWN (AM) (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hr SALMON AND TROUT Downtown Mid (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hr SALMON and Trout Downtown PM (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 1 guest - 5 Hr Trip PERCH LAKE MICHIGAN AM (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group, additional US $25 per person after 3 guests - 5 Hr Trip PERCH LAKE MICHIGAN MID (5 hours)
When you book a trip with Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Multimedia system
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Lures
Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing
  • Lake fishing
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing
  • Reef fishing
Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
Top targeted fish species with Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago include:
  • Bass (Largemouth)
  • Bass (Smallmouth)
  • Brown Trout
  • Lake Trout
  • Muskellunge (Musky)
  • Perch (Yellow)
  • Pike (Northern)
  • Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
  • Salmon
  • Salmon (Chinook)
  • Salmon (Coho)

Your operator

Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
Chicago, Illinois, United States
ID & license verified
67 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since October 2020
Angler's Choice
The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.
I understand what it's like to be in your shoes, searching for the right charter, hoping for a great experience, and wanting to feel confident in your choice. As someone who's been both a customer and now a captain, I know how important it is to find a trip that's not only professional and enjoyable, but also personal and memorable. That's why I treat every charter as more than just a day on the water, I see it as an opportunity to create a genuine, lasting experience tailored to your expectations. Your time, trust, and excitement matter, and I'm committed to making sure your trip is everything you hoped for and more. Looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the Chicagoland area? Step aboard with Captain Ernesto and get ready for an exciting day on the water! With over 35 years of experience and two unique boat options to match your fishing style, Captain Ernesto's hands-on charters offer the perfect blend of action, learning, and fun. Reel in Salmon, Trout, Bass, Pike, and Perch while enjoying a fully guided experience tailored to anglers of all levels. And the best part? Every trip comes with the option to have your fishing trip recorded so you can relive the thrill anytime. Spots fill fast, book your trip today and let Captain Ernesto help you make memories that last a lifetime!
Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
Thin Blue Line Fishing Llc
Fully verified
Angler's Choice
67
reviews
2020
member since
~1h
response
I understand what it's like to be in your shoes, searching for the right charter, hoping for a great experience, and wanting to feel confident in your choice. As someone who's been both a customer and now a captain, I know how important it is to find a trip that's not only professional and enjoyable, but also personal and memorable. That's why I treat every charter as more than just a day on the water, I see it as an opportunity to create a genuine, lasting experience tailored to your expectations. Your time, trust, and excitement matter, and I'm committed to making sure your trip is everything you hoped for and more. Looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the Chicagoland area? Step aboard with Captain Ernesto and get ready for an exciting day on the water! With over 35 years of experience and two unique boat options to match your fishing style, Captain Ernesto's hands-on charters offer the perfect blend of action, learning, and fun. Reel in Salmon, Trout, Bass, Pike, and Perch while enjoying a fully guided experience tailored to anglers of all levels. And the best part? Every trip comes with the option to have your fishing trip recorded so you can relive the thrill anytime. Spots fill fast, book your trip today and let Captain Ernesto help you make memories that last a lifetime!

The fish you can target

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Muskellunge (Musky)
Muskellunge (Musky)
Yellow Perch
Yellow Perch
Northern Pike
Northern Pike
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon
Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Muskellunge (Musky)
Muskellunge (Musky)

Real catches by this captain

  • Young angler proudly holding a long spotted lake trout aboard a fishing boat on open water.
    Fish 1
    Lake Trout
    Kiecha J.
    Kiecha J.
    I purchased a trip for my Dad's birthday. He and my nephew had an amazing time and caught plenty of fish! Thanks Captain Ernesto!
  • Group of anglers proudly displaying their catch of multiple trout on a board at the dock, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Lake Trout
    Lauro S.
    Lauro S.
  • Two anglers proudly displaying their catch of large Lake Trout while fishing on a boat in open water.
    Fish 1
    Lake Trout
    Bennett S.
    Bennett S.
    we had a blast, catching 10 lakers and 1 coho. lots of fun, would recommend to anyone looking for a successful trip
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a catch of multiple Salmon on a fishing trip, with a cooler visible in the boat.
    Fish 1
    Coho Salmon
    Jack B.
    Jack B.
    What an amazing day with Captain Ernesto of Thin Blue Line Fishing! As pretty avid bass fishermen this was definitely outside our comfort zone. First time fishing for either species and being on Lake Michigan. From te moment we met the Captain at the boat launch until we stepped off that afternoon our safety and comfort were top priorities. The conditions wee less than favorable but we still caught 3 Kings and 4 steelhead, good enough to place 4th overall in the tournament. If Nick had shown up to fish and not Chris we could have definitely placed better but he let a few off unfortunately. 10 out of 10 trip, definitely recommend booking with Captain Ernesto!
  • An angler proudly displaying a large Salmon while out on the water, showcasing a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Atlantic Salmon
    Shiloh L.
    Shiloh L.
    The captain was wonderful! Made the whole trip memorable! Found the fish and gave detailed instructions on how to reel them in. It was our first time fishing on a boat and will definitely do it again. He was super patient and very knowledgeable! We caught a King Salmon!! Loved every minute of this trip.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
5 persons
Boat length
23 ft
Year built
2026
Boat manufacturer
Crestliner Authority 2250
Boat type
Aluminum fishing
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
58 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
Lake Fishing
Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
Reef Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Multimedia system
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Lures

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 14 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 14 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 PayPal
 Bank transfer

What’s biting in Chicago right now

Bass (Largemouth)Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)Bass (Smallmouth)
Brown TroutBrown Trout
Lake TroutLake Trout
Perch (Yellow)Perch (Yellow)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Chinook)Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)Salmon (Coho)

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago
Thin Blue Line Fishing 23' Chicago
4.9
(11)
23 ft
Group size 1 - 5
1 - 5
Fish 1
Fish 2
+9
4 hour trip • 5 persons
US $800