Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip 

5.0
(13 reviews)
 267 Arthur Street, Manistee, MI 49660, United States–

Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip 

Manistee, MI, United States
–
27 ft
4
5.0
(13 reviews)

With Rippin Drag Charters, you can plan to have a great time and plenty of fun! Captain Derek brings years 25 years of fishing expertise, US Coast Guard approved, and is licensed and insured to make sure your fishing adventure is memorable and full of excitement on Michigan's rivers and lakes.

Lake Michigan provides an amazing fishery that provides opportunity to land multiple Salmon species (Chinook and Coho), Steelhead, Lake Trout, and Brown Trout

Planning a family outing? Kids are absolutely welcome! Just remember, children need to wear life vests, so check with the captain to ensure the right size is on board. And don't forget to pack some snacks for the day!

Your excursion takes place aboard an 2025 Hewescraft Ocean Pro 240 that is powered by a 300 Mercury, perfectly equipped for up to five passengers and stocked with all the essentials. Captain Derek provides rods, reels, lures, and live bait, so you won't need to bring your own.

You will need to purchase a State of Michigan fishing license. Licensing information is available online, or you can ask the captain. Remember to bring along sunblock (non-spray), sunglasses, snacks, and drinks.

Get ready for a great day on the water with Rippin Drag Charters, where every moment is crafted to make your fishing adventure unforgettable. Book your trip today and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!

With Rippin Drag Charters, you can plan to have a great time and plenty of fun! Captain Derek brings years 25 years of fishing expertise, US Coast Guard approved, and is licensed and insured to make sure your fishing adventure is memorable and full of excitement on Michigan's rivers and lakes.

Lake Michigan provides an amazing fishery that provides opportunity to land multiple Salmon species (Chinook and Coho), Steelhead, Lake Trout, and Brown Trout

Planning a family outing? Kids are absolutely welcome! Just remember, children need to wear life vests, so check with the captain to ensure the right size is on board. And don't forget to pack some snacks for the day!

Your excursion takes place aboard an 2025 Hewescraft Ocean Pro 240 that is powered by a 300 Mercury, perfectly equipped for up to five passengers and stocked with all the essentials. Captain Derek provides rods, reels, lures, and live bait, so you won't need to bring your own.

You will need to purchase a State of Michigan fishing license. Licensing information is available online, or you can ask the captain. Remember to bring along sunblock (non-spray), sunglasses, snacks, and drinks.

Get ready for a great day on the water with Rippin Drag Charters, where every moment is crafted to make your fishing adventure unforgettable. Book your trip today and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!

Rippin Drag Charters
Charter Operator
Rippin Drag Charters
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
Seasonal trip
May 16 - Sep 14 (Fri, Sat, Sun)
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Chinook)
US $550
Entire boat: up to 3 people
6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (PM)
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 2:30 PM
Seasonal trip
May 16 - Sep 14 (Fri, Sat)
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Chinook)
US $550
Entire boat: up to 3 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

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

Anglers' gallery (15)

Reviews (13)

  • Laura Free
    Laura Free
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fantastic!

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on July 17, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

    ​From the second we stepped onboard until the moment we docked, this trip was an absolute blast! As first-timers with kids in tow, we weren't sure what to expect, but the crew completely had our backs. They showed us the ropes and gave us the ultimate tips and tricks for reeling in the big ones—which was a lifesaver when our arms felt like they were going to fall off! (Especially for the kids, who managed to pull in a massive 15-17 lb catch!). ​The crew was phenomenal: super knowledgeable, funny and entertaining, and by the end of the day, it felt like we’d been friends for years. Hands down the highlight of our vacation and a memory we’ll cherish forever. Plus, we walked away with nearly 100 lbs of beautiful, delicious salmon and trout. Highly, highly recommend!

  • Anthony Ortiz
    Anthony Ortiz
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    learned alot and caught my pb salmon

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on July 24, 2026 • 4 adults

    Derrick and his wife were amazing. best charter ive been on. I asked to catch my pb salmon and they didn’t disappoint. i caught a 15 lber then a 17lb and got my 20.1 lber. Already booked another trip woth them for november. Highly recommend this charter great people and they care about you and your experience not out just for moneyz

  • Jacob Lynch
    Jacob Lynch
    us
    Indiana, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    one of my best days fishing

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on May 23, 2026 • 2 adults

    me and a buddy got the most salmon and trout we have ever got. He caught his first salmon and trout and we had a really great morning.the captain and first mate knew exactly what to do to put you on fish and were great nice people. It was better than we expected. The enclosed cab was nice to have also.

  • Scott Schnedler
    Scott Schnedler
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Wow!!

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on August 3, 2025 • 2 adults

    So impressed!!! Capt. Derek and Karla were nothing but personable and professional. Took my 14yo son for the first time on a trip. They included him on everything they were doing from a fishing stand point and also took interest in what he was outside of the trip (sports, school, life). We got out to the lake and they got us on fish. Pulling out all the tricks they have learned on the way worked. Karla called out a fish chasing us and got him hooked which was impressive ( sorry Derek). Loved the pure chaos of multiple fish on. Also, they let father-son teamwork land a fish which made dad happy (Salmon Shuffle). We brought lots of meat home!! We will be booking Walleye trip on the Detroit River and will be pushing my wife for another Manistee vacation next year to go out again!!!

  • Ken Brescia
    Ken Brescia
    Repeat angler
    us
    Tennessee, US
    Member since 2018
    8 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    good times

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on July 19, 2025 • 3 adults

    it was a good trip out. I enjoyed the conversations and the boat was awesome. it was so comfortable that I fell asleep between bites. the crew were top notch. they worked hard at getting the fish to bite. they have the knowledge and technology to find them. I'd recommend this charter to anyone. I look forward to next time. Thanks!

  • David Robison
    David Robison
    us
    Iowa, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Great small boat adventure

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on August 2, 2025 • 2 adults

    Derrick and his wife run a slick operation and were well prepared for the trip. Very knowledgeable, up to date boat and gear. They knew where to go and how to catch fish. Highly recommend them. Note, this is a small/medium size boat. Great for 2-3 people fishing,

  • Jason Jones
    Jason Jones
    Repeat angler
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2023
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Wonderful

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on September 6, 2025 • 3 adults

    Feeling the hit, setting the hook, and fighting the fish and current made an excellent experience for us all. Captain and crew were a pleasure to chat with and fish with. I shall definitely charter with them again.

  • Kevin Moser
    Kevin Moser
    Repeat angler
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Derek

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on August 22, 2025 • 5 adults • 1 child

    We had a good experience! Very friendly and we even signed up last minute ! Kid friendly, our 8yr old got to reel a salmon in! It is early but watching the sun come up was neat too! Thank again!

  • Tim Crandall
    Tim Crandall
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Derek

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on August 9, 2026 • 2 adults
  • Kevin Miller
    Kevin Miller
    us
    Michigan, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fishing with Derek

    6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) on June 20, 2026 • 3 adults

FAQs about Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip

Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $550 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (am) (6 hours)
  • US $550 per group, additional US $100 per person after 3 guests - 6 Hour Trip – Lake Michigan (PM) (6 hours)
When you book a trip with Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Porta-Potty
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder Lowrance
Trips booked with Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (Okuma Coldwater reels and Offshore planner boards)
  • Live bait (Cut bait is often used and provided)
  • Lures (Multitude of spoons, flies, and meat rigs)
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Fish cleaning and bagging are included)
  • Snacks (Bring snacks for the trip)
  • Drinks (Bring drinks, please no glass)
  • First mate (10 to 15 percent tip customary for the first mate)
  • Fishing license (Can be purchased online thru MI DNR)
  • Lunch (Pack a lunch)
Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip offers the following types of fishing:
  • Lake fishing (Lake Michigan)
  • Nearshore fishing (At times may fish near shore)
  • Offshore fishing (At times may need go travel a few miles out)
Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip offers the following fishing technique:
  • Trolling
Top targeted fish species with Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip include:
  • Lake Trout
  • Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
  • Salmon (Chinook)
  • Salmon (Coho)

Your operator

Rippin Drag Charters
Rippin Drag Charters
Manistee, Michigan, United States
3 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
23 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since November 2024
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.
With over 25 years of fishing experience, I am passionate about both the sport and sharing my knowledge of fishing with others. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, my extensive expertise ensures you'll have a memorable and successful fishing trip. Specializing in a variety of species, including steelhead, salmon, and walleye, I tailor each trip to suit the needs and experience level of my clients. I am is also a U.S. Coast Guard-approved, licensed, and insured captain, providing an added layer of safety and professionalism to every trip. I am commitment to top-tier service means your time on the water is not only fun but also safe and well-organized. When I am not guiding fishing trips, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter in northern Michigan, where you can often find them fishing on the region's pristine waters. While I'm at the helm, you're guaranteed an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, learning, and, of course, great fishing!
Our Team
Karla S.
Karla S.
First mate
Derek S.
Derek S.
Captain
Rippin Drag Charters
Rippin Drag Charters
Fully verified
Angler's Choice
3
reports
23
reviews
2024
member since
~1h
response
With over 25 years of fishing experience, I am passionate about both the sport and sharing my knowledge of fishing with others. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, my extensive expertise ensures you'll have a memorable and successful fishing trip. Specializing in a variety of species, including steelhead, salmon, and walleye, I tailor each trip to suit the needs and experience level of my clients. I am is also a U.S. Coast Guard-approved, licensed, and insured captain, providing an added layer of safety and professionalism to every trip. I am commitment to top-tier service means your time on the water is not only fun but also safe and well-organized. When I am not guiding fishing trips, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter in northern Michigan, where you can often find them fishing on the region's pristine waters. While I'm at the helm, you're guaranteed an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, learning, and, of course, great fishing!
The crew
Karla S.
Karla S.
First mate
Derek S.
Derek S.
Captain

The fish you can target

Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon

Real catches by this captain

  • Two anglers proudly posing with a display of multiple fish at Pier 31 in Manistee, MI, showcasing their successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Chinook Salmon
    Anthony O.
    Anthony O.
    Derrick and his wife were amazing. best charter ive been on. I asked to catch my pb salmon and they didn’t disappoint. i caught a 15 lber then a 17lb and got my 20.1 lber. Already booked another trip woth them for november. Highly recommend this charter great people and they care about you and your experience not out just for moneyz
  • A family proudly displaying their catch of salmon and trout on a fishing charter, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Coho Salmon
    Laura F.
    Laura F.
    ​From the second we stepped onboard until the moment we docked, this trip was an absolute blast! As first-timers with kids in tow, we weren't sure what to expect, but the crew completely had our backs. They showed us the ropes and gave us the ultimate tips and tricks for reeling in the big ones—which was a lifesaver when our arms felt like they were going to fall off! (Especially for the kids, who managed to pull in a massive 15-17 lb catch!). ​The crew was phenomenal: super knowledgeable, funny and entertaining, and by the end of the day, it felt like we’d been friends for years. Hands down the highlight of our vacation and a memory we’ll cherish forever. Plus, we walked away with nearly 100 lbs of beautiful, delicious salmon and trout. Highly, highly recommend!
  • A group of anglers proudly displaying their catch of Lake Trout on a fishing charter, enjoying a sunny day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Lake Trout
    Kevin M.
    Kevin M.
  • A collection of freshly caught salmon laid out on the deck of a fishing boat, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Coho Salmon
    Jacob L.
    Jacob L.
    me and a buddy got the most salmon and trout we have ever got. He caught his first salmon and trout and we had a really great morning.the captain and first mate knew exactly what to do to put you on fish and were great nice people. It was better than we expected. The enclosed cab was nice to have also.
  • An angler proudly displaying a large trout while fishing from a small boat in a scenic river setting.
    Fish 1
    Chinook Salmon
    Jason J.
    Jason J.
    Feeling the hit, setting the hook, and fighting the fish and current made an excellent experience for us all. Captain and crew were a pleasure to chat with and fish with. I shall definitely charter with them again.
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Salmon on a fishing charter, surrounded by other catches on the deck.
    Fish 1
    Chinook Salmon
    Kevin M.
    Kevin M.
    We had a good experience! Very friendly and we even signed up last minute ! Kid friendly, our 8yr old got to reel a salmon in! It is early but watching the sun come up was neat too! Thank again!
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Salmon aboard a fishing boat, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Chinook Salmon
    Scott S.
    Scott S.
    So impressed!!! Capt. Derek and Karla were nothing but personable and professional. Took my 14yo son for the first time on a trip. They included him on everything they were doing from a fishing stand point and also took interest in what he was outside of the trip (sports, school, life). We got out to the lake and they got us on fish. Pulling out all the tricks they have learned on the way worked. Karla called out a fish chasing us and got him hooked which was impressive ( sorry Derek). Loved the pure chaos of multiple fish on. Also, they let father-son teamwork land a fish which made dad happy (Salmon Shuffle). We brought lots of meat home!! We will be booking Walleye trip on the Detroit River and will be pushing my wife for another Manistee vacation next year to go out again!!!
  • Two anglers proudly displaying their catch of large Salmon while fishing on a boat in a serene water setting.
    Fish 1
    Chinook Salmon
    David R.
    David R.
    Derrick and his wife run a slick operation and were well prepared for the trip. Very knowledgeable, up to date boat and gear. They knew where to go and how to catch fish. Highly recommend them. Note, this is a small/medium size boat. Great for 2-3 people fishing,
  • An angler proudly displaying a large Salmon aboard a charter boat, showcasing the excitement of a successful fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Chinook Salmon
    Ken B.
    Ken B.
    it was a good trip out. I enjoyed the conversations and the boat was awesome. it was so comfortable that I fell asleep between bites. the crew were top notch. they worked hard at getting the fish to bite. they have the knowledge and technology to find them. I'd recommend this charter to anyone. I look forward to next time. Thanks!
  • An angler proudly displaying a large Salmon while fishing on a boat, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Chinook Salmon
    Headed out this morning and found an active pod of fish! We are seeing the larger adult salmon beginning to show. Looking like its going to only get better and better from here on out!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
27 ft
Year built
2025
Boat manufacturer
Hewescraft
Boat type
Sportfishing
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 300HP

What kind of fishing will you do?

Lake Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Trolling

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Porta-Potty
GPS
Fishfinder
Lowrance
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Okuma Coldwater reels and Offshore planner boards
Live bait
Cut bait is often used and provided
Lures
Multitude of spoons, flies, and meat rigs
Catch cleaning & filleting
Fish cleaning and bagging are included
Snacks
Bring snacks for the trip
Drinks
Bring drinks, please no glass
First mate
10 to 15 percent tip customary for the first mate
Fishing license
Can be purchased online thru MI DNR
Lunch
Pack a lunch

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 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.
Child friendly
Children are welcome
You keep catch
Fish cleaning and bagging are included

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
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express

What’s biting in Manistee right now

Lake TroutLake Trout
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Chinook)Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)Salmon (Coho)

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip
Rippin Drag Charters - Lake Michigan Trip
5.0
(13)
27 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+2
6 hour trip • 4 persons
US $550