Waukegan Fishing Charters

Q: What are the top fishing techniques in Waukegan?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Waukegan are: Trolling , Light Tackle , Jigging null

The best out of 57 charter fishing deals in Waukegan - enter dates to check availability

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Waukegan: 57 fishing charters available

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Angler's choice

36 ft

Up to 6 people

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

5.0/5 (86 reviews)

Waukegan

Looking to troll for the big ones out of Waukegan? Then Jawzon Charter Services are for you and Captain Jim Stepp is your man! Captain Jim is a professional fisherman. In his spare time he fishes tournaments on Lake Michigan.

"We had an absolutely amazing experience with Captain Jim and first mate Mike on JawzOn!" —⁠ Denise,

Trips from

US $650

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Angler's choice

34 ft

Up to 6 people

Merganzer Fishing Charters

4.9/5 (96 reviews)

Waukegan

Merganzer Fishing Charters offers full-service fishing experiences at a variety of lengths, heading onto Lake Michigan for Salmon, Trout, and Perch.

"I have been fishing for over 45 years, and chartered over 100 trips and this was the best trip I ever had." —⁠ MICHAEL,

Trips from

US $650

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Angler's choice

36 ft

Up to 6 people

Long Gone 3 Charters

5.0/5 (154 reviews)

Waukegan

Discover the fishing secrets of Waukegan, IL and let Long Gone 3 Charters captained by James Goebel show you what makes an astonishing angling adventure! Your captain promises a fishing expedition of a lifetime aboard his 36’ Chris Craft vessel.

"My family and I booked Long Gone 3 Charters to celebrate my father’s 60th birthday." —⁠ Nolan,

Trips from

US $600

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Angler's choice

31 ft

Up to 6 people

Hook’d On Fishing Charters, Inc

5.0/5 (38 reviews)

Waukegan

Hook’d On Fishing Charters, Inc runs fishing trips out of Waukegan and offers to show you what the local fishery is all about. Come on aboard with Capt. John, whose main priority is to get you on some fish.

"What an amazing day on the water with Capt John and first mate Eric." —⁠ Eric,

Trips from

US $595

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34 ft

Up to 6 people

Abby Fishing Charters

5.0/5 (26 reviews)

Waukegan

Based out of Waukegan, Abby Fishing Charters is your ticket to a memorable time on the water. Capt.

"This was such a great adventure for us first-timers on a fishing boat!" —⁠ Shelley, Illinois

Trips from

US $600

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33 ft

Up to 6 people

Playin Hooky Charters

4.7/5 (9 reviews)

Waukegan

Book your next trip with Playin’ Hooky Charters and find out what keeps anglers coming back to Waukegan, Lake Michigan, located within 30 miles of Chicago, for more! These waters are known for Brown Trout, Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Rainbow Trout

Trips from

US $575

See availability

25 ft

Up to 3 people

Prime Time Fishing, LLC

5.0/5 (9 reviews)

Waukegan

If you’re ready to experience fishing in Waukegan, we’ve got you covered with Prime Time Fishing, LLC. With Captain Karl at the helm, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience on the water.

Trips from

US $500

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37 ft

Up to 6 people

Xtasea IV Charters

5.0/5 (38 reviews)

Waukegan

Xtasea IV Charters has only one goal – to make sure that you have a wonderful experience in the Great Lakes.

"This is my first time on a vacation like this. I brought my friends with me and we had an incredible fishing experience!" —⁠ Andrii,

Trips from

US $610

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Angler's choice

40 ft

Up to 6 people

Twenty Four VII Charters

5.0/5 (96 reviews)

Winthrop Harbor (22 min drive from Waukegan)

Get aboard Twenty Four VII Charters, and explore fishing out of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, or out of Kenosha, Wisconsin.

"Captain Frank contacted me after booking and suggested we fish out of Kenosha because he felt the fishing would be better." —⁠ Ronald,

Trips from

US $750

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39 ft

Up to 6 people

GO-FOR-IT Charters

5.0/5 (13 reviews)

Winthrop Harbor (22 min drive from Waukegan)

If fishing in Winthrop Harbor is on your bucket list, look no further than GOFORIT Charters. With Captain Mike at the helm, you’re in knowledgeable and experienced hands.

"Took the fiancee, her parents, and siblings up to Zion for Father’s Day weekend." —⁠ Emmanuel,

Trips from

US $725

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See all 57 fishing charters in Waukegan

Half-day fishing trips in Waukegan

37 ft

●

up to 6

Xtasea IV Charters

5.0/5 (38 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

Xtasea IV Charters has only one goal – to make sure that you have a wonderful experience in the Great Lakes. Based out of Waukegan IL, you’ll have access to the rich waters of Lake Michigan, going after some of the nation’s favorite, mos

trips from

US $610

31 ft

●

up to 6

Hook’d On Fishing Charters, Inc

5.0/5 (38 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $450

36 ft

●

up to 6

Long Gone 3 Charters

5.0/5 (154 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $600

34 ft

●

up to 6

Merganzer Fishing Charters

4.9/5 (96 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

Merganzer Fishing Charters offers full-service fishing experiences at a variety of lengths, heading onto Lake Michigan for Salmon, Trout, and Perch. The focus of each trip is to make sure everyone has a fun and productive time on the water, no matter thei

trips from

US $650

36 ft

●

up to 6

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

5.0/5 (86 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $650

Top Targeted Species in Waukegan

Lake Trout

Lake

Chinook Salmon

Inshore

Coho Salmon

Inshore

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)

River

Brown Trout

Lake

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Waukegan

What are the best private fishing charters in Waukegan?

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Waukegan, Illinois are:

Full list of top fishing charters in Waukegan

How much does it cost to go charter fishing in Waukegan?

The average price for a private 4 hour Waukegan fishing trip is US $712, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $826 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Waukegan are good for families?

Fishing charters in Waukegan that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Waukegan?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Waukegan are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Waukegan?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Waukegan are:

What are the top types of fishing in Waukegan?

The top 3 types of fishing in Waukegan are:

Do Waukegan fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Waukegan provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Waukegan?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Waukegan are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Waukegan?

Who are the top awarded captains in Waukegan?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Waukegan?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Waukegan are:

5-hour fishing trips – US $719
6-hour fishing trips – US $808
7-hour fishing trips – US $500
8-hour fishing trips – US $960
9-hour fishing trips – US $700

Fishing in Waukegan

Discover premier Waukegan fishing charters on the shores of Lake Michigan, where world-class salmon and trout fishing awaits. This bustling Illinois harbor is your gateway to year-round angling adventures, from the thrill of battling acrobatic Chinook Salmon to the steady pursuit of trophy Lake Trout. Professional captains navigate these rich waters with expertise, leveraging top-tier equipment and local knowledge for consistent action.

Spring through fall delivers prime salmon runs, with Coho peaking in October and Chinook dominating September and October. Brown Trout and Steelhead add variety, especially during cooler months near the Waukegan Power Plant discharge channels. Half-day or full-day charters cater to all skill levels, focusing on nearshore structures and deep-water hotspots for maximum catches. Beyond salmonids, Perch fishing thrives along breakwalls, while the nearby Chain O’Lakes offers bass, walleye, and muskellunge in interconnected waterways.

Veteran-guided trips prioritize safety and success, with US Coast Guard-licensed operations like Windy City Salmon ensuring a seamless experience. Modern vessels depart from Waukegan Harbor for efficient access to Lake Michigan’s prime grounds—no gear or expertise needed. Whether targeting seasonal salmon migrations or exploring the diverse inland fisheries, Waukegan’s charters promise unforgettable Midwest angling.

Waukegan

5/5

Based on 29,238 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Waukegan Fishing Seasons

January

Welcome the beginning of a new year by checking out Waukegan's Brown Trout bite. An ice fishing trip is a great idea if the ice is thick enough to fish through. Just make sure you have a professional guide with you!

February

The last month of winter in Waukegan can still be good for ice fishing if the weather and the lake’s conditions allow. If it’s unsafe going out, just wait for next month, when the season begins!

March

This is when Waukegan's fishing season tends to kick off. Starting late March, Perch are usually biting pretty well. You can also cast your line for Whitefish!

April

Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass can be found in the Waukegan's harbor, along with Lake and Brown Trout. Brownies and Lakers are lurking in Lake Michigan's nearshore waters, as well as the first Coho Salmon.

May

Time tom fully explore the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan! You can get your hands on Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and, of course, Coho Salmon and Chinook Salmon.

June

The first month of summer sees anglers from all over the country out on the water. Join 'em and fish for acrobatic Steelhead, as well as Salmon varieties.

July

July is the season that keeps everyone busy, from novice anglers catching the first Salmon in their lives to seasoned professionals! Coho and Chinook are on offer, as well as Steelhead and Lake Trout.

August

The last month of summer switches your attention to Brown Trout, which can be found in good numbers. Lake Trout, Steelhead, and Chinook Salmon are all still available.

September

Head out onto Lake Michigan for some Lake Trout action offshore, especially around the reefs and rocky structure. You can also cast your line for Salmon, Brown Trout, and Steelhead, as well as Lakers.

October

October in Waukegan sees anglers, captains, and fishing enthusiasts wrapping up the season. You can still get your hands on Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Steelhead, and Brown Trout.

November

The fishing season is fully winding down now, and you might even start to see Lake Michigan icing over. You can check Waukegan's many creeks for the occasional bite.

December

You can find Perch if you know where to look and if you are fishing alongside a knowledgeable charter captain. Ice fishing can be productive but is not safe unless if you go alone, so get in touch with a local guide!

Waukegan Fishing Calendar

Brown Trout

Lake Trout

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)

Salmon (Chinook)

Salmon (Coho)

Featured photos from Waukegan

What anglers said about fishing in Waukegan

Long pants might not be a bad idea as there may be some annoying flies landing on you if there is no wind and you are close to shore.

5.0/5

Long pants might not be a bad idea as there may be some annoying flies landing on you if there is no wind and you are close to shore.

Conrad Z.

If you’re fishing this area, plan for morning or evening if you want the best bite. Afternoon is always less predictable.

5.0/5

If you’re fishing this area, plan for morning or evening if you want the best bite. Afternoon is always less predictable.

Thomas A.

Our first trip which we started at 10am. Now that we know what to expect, our next booking will be an early morning time slot.

5.0/5

Our first trip which we started at 10am. Now that we know what to expect, our next booking will be an early morning time slot.

Vincent R.

Go with the best. It is so worth having an experienced Captain,great equipment, and good weather don't hurt either.

5.0/5

Go with the best. It is so worth having an experienced Captain,great equipment, and good weather don't hurt either.

James O.

Morning trip is great, highly recommend using Jawzon Fishing Charter while in Waukegan.

5.0/5

Morning trip is great, highly recommend using Jawzon Fishing Charter while in Waukegan.

Myranda G.

Be patient, listen to the captain and just enjoy the thrill of landing a big one!

5.0/5

Be patient, listen to the captain and just enjoy the thrill of landing a big one!

Norman D.

It all depends on the weather, just like anything else, but if the fish are there, you'll get them

5.0/5

It all depends on the weather, just like anything else, but if the fish are there, you'll get them

Andy D.

Make sure to get the Lake Michigan Salmon stamp along with your fishing license, and bring motion sickness meds if you’re not used to being out on the open water.

5.0/5

Make sure to get the Lake Michigan Salmon stamp along with your fishing license, and bring motion sickness meds if you’re not used to being out on the open water.

Chris C.

We fished early morning…. And the captain was able to put us on the fish right away! It’s worth getting up early!!

5.0/5

We fished early morning…. And the captain was able to put us on the fish right away! It’s worth getting up early!!

Kim C.

I was the only one on our trip that had fished on Lake Michigan previously. I informed captain Jim and he did everything to make the trip a great adventure for everyone.

5.0/5

I was the only one on our trip that had fished on Lake Michigan previously. I informed captain Jim and he did everything to make the trip a great adventure for everyone.

Jim P.

Great place to get out on the lake. Bring adequate food & drink on the boat with you, and be prepared for changing temperatures.

5.0/5

Great place to get out on the lake. Bring adequate food & drink on the boat with you, and be prepared for changing temperatures.

Pete M.

June is good, but I understand that fishing Lake Michigan in May is best! Our trip far surpassed fishing in Indiana or Michigan. Booking with Hook’d on Fishing in Waukegan Harbor was a great choice! We were novices but the two of us (father and son) still managed to put 7 coho in the boat! Any day is a great day to be on the water!

5.0/5

Eric S.

Coho season (May-early June) is best time to take kids. King season (July) is fantastic to catch huge fish but is typically not as reliable as coho.

5.0/5

Coho season (May-early June) is best time to take kids. King season (July) is fantastic to catch huge fish but is typically not as reliable as coho.

Rick G.

Go with Jawzon, this captain knows where to go and how catch the fish on this lake

5.0/5

Go with Jawzon, this captain knows where to go and how catch the fish on this lake

Charles W.

May is a good month to go perfect weather! The Waukegan harbor was easy to get to and fairly clean. Fish cleaning station available and long peer for great fishing.

5.0/5

May is a good month to go perfect weather! The Waukegan harbor was easy to get to and fairly clean. Fish cleaning station available and long peer for great fishing.

Jillian H.

Go on a charter with Captain Jim because he has been fishing this area for a long time.

5.0/5

Go on a charter with Captain Jim because he has been fishing this area for a long time.

David M.

Dress for the weather. Still pretty chilly in May. Went with Capt Karl Rudobielski of Prime Time Fishing, LLC. He was fantastic!

5.0/5

Dress for the weather. Still pretty chilly in May. Went with Capt Karl Rudobielski of Prime Time Fishing, LLC. He was fantastic!

Allen I.

Weather can be unpredictable early in season, bring change of clothes and rain gear

5.0/5

Weather can be unpredictable early in season, bring change of clothes and rain gear

Jim L.

Early April may be tough for salmon. Agreed to rebook a few days prior to our trip because conditions (visibility, water temp, etc) were tough to catch salmon, had plenty of luck at the end of April.

5.0/5

Early April may be tough for salmon. Agreed to rebook a few days prior to our trip because conditions (visibility, water temp, etc) were tough to catch salmon, had plenty of luck at the end of April.

Samuel S.

Listen to the local charter captains. Fish are plentiful, big, and delicious

5.0/5

Listen to the local charter captains. Fish are plentiful, big, and delicious

Eric S.

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Waukegan?

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

All the boxes checked down to the smallest detail. Found the fish and kept us on them finishing with a 20# brown trout as lines were being pulled at end of day. This was our second trip and we will be back next year.

Joe G.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain Jim and Mate Mike were awesome!! Had a great time!!! First Time with Grandson on Lake Michigan and watching him bringing in the several King Coho will be a memories that will last forever. Watching him smile over and over again as Captain Jim Yells Out !! - FISH ON!! and he jumps to grab reel and starts winding in fish. Thanks Again, Captain Jim for the ever lasting memories.

Tom P.

Long Gone 3 Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Took our sons out this morning. Could not have asked for a better Captain or day. Slayed the fish, and laughed the entire time. Wonderful experience, great memories! Have a ton of fish to package. Will be coming back!

Kris G.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain Jim and his deck hand Mike kept us on fish the whole time. It was an absolute blast. Jim's knowledge of the lake and how to find the fish was next to none I highly recommend him and will be booking with him again in the future.

CODY S.

Merganzer Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Daryl and Matt were great to work with and made sure we got on and stayed on the fish. 10/10, would recommend

Dylan S.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Great trip for adults and kids. Captain Jim knows how to find the big fish.

Matt T.

Hook’d On Fishing Charters, Inc

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain John and mate were well prepared and knowledgeable. Highly recommend. I took my son out and we caught a few different species. Give them a try!!

Gary S.

Abby Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

This was such a great adventure for us first-timers on a fishing boat! Captain Andy and co-captain Scott were so helpful and educational. We learned technique, about fishing in the great lakes, types of fish, and how fish are replenished. It was a good day for us and we took home a great haul. The boat is clean and well equipped, and Andy cleans and fillets all the fish. We can't wait to do it again in 2026!

Shelley B.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

My friend and his joined my son for a father son fishing outing. Captain Jim and First Mate, AJ, were wonderful with the boys and taught my friend and I a lot more about off shore fishing. They were professional and extremely knowledgeable which made our whole fishing trip a great one! My friend caught a massive 23 lb salmon and the boys reeled in 4 large salmons. We are looking forward to our next trip with Captain Jim!

Paul L.

Merganzer Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Great job by Captain Darrel and Matt been fishing all over the world this was a special trip great job guys

Brian R.

Abby Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain Andy put us on fish right away Great day! Will book again next year!

Peter O.

Long Gone 3 Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

I took my grandson ( 12 years old)fishing ! We had such a great time last year so we booked another trip! It was a perfect day! Caught some big fish!! Loved every minute! Watching my grandson having a blast!! Priceless!

Donna A.

Abby Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain Andrew and a crew was very professional and we had a lot of fun during our fishing experience.

Oleh P.

Hook’d On Fishing Charters, Inc

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

I did this charter for my 13 year-old son and he had an amazing time. John and his first mate were very nice and accommodating. We went on a morning trip and caught king salmon and lake trout, we can’t wait to go back in the spring.

Heather J.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

Captain Jim put us on the fish he is an amazing fisherman..would highly recommend him ..good equipment such as great time we will be booking him again

Norman W.

Merganzer Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

4.7/5

Took two 12 year old boys out. Captain Daryl and his First Mate were excellent. We felt safe even with foggy conditions. They were patient, answered all of our questions, and set us up for success. We caught our limit of lake trout.

Gavin M.

Xtasea IV Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

This is my first time on a vacation like this. I brought my friends with me and we had an incredible fishing experience!

Andrii H.

Abby Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Waukegan

4.7/5

Captain Andrew was very knowledgeable and even though fish were scarce he was able to put us on a few giant salmon we got a total of around 40 pounds of filet. Definitely going again in the spring. Thank you to Scott also you were on it.

Hector V.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

4.7/5

Although we only caught one fish (an 11# lake trout), due to earlier weather conditions, Captain Jim and AJ of Jawzon did all they could to troll and set baits for us to catch. I enjoyed the nice day on the boat with my 4 grown grandsons, our first fishing charter.

Kenneth A.

Jawz-on Charter Services 36 foot

Fishing charter in Waukegan

5.0/5

This was our second trip and it was better than the first (the first was great). We weren't catching early on and Jim said "let's go to deeper water". We caught quite a few and they were as happy as we were. Jim and crew are awesome! Highly recommend!