Traverse City Fishing Charters

Q: What are the top fishing techniques in Traverse City?

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

The best out of 75 charter fishing deals in Traverse City - enter dates to check availability

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Traverse City: 75 fishing charters available

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Angler's choice

16 ft

Up to 3 people

Northern Michigan Guided Fishing

5.0/5 (22 reviews)

Traverse City

🎣 Ready for an epic fishing adventure in Traverse City, Michigan? Join our guided fishing service, offering excursions within an hour of Traverse City.

"Casey was the best guide we have had on a fishing trip. He was very patient with me even though I backlash two of his rods… I don’t fish with them but he was determined to teach me." —⁠ Katherine,

Trips from

US $375

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Angler's choice

32 ft

Up to 6 people

Fish-X-TC

5.0/5 (241 reviews)

Traverse City

Fishing in Lake Michigan has never looked so good. Come trolling and catch your limit of Salmon and Trout in these peaceful waters. You will spend the day on board the 32’ Chris Craft boat.

"We booked this trip for my two teen boys, my father, and myself." —⁠ Kenneth,

Trips from

US $600

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24 ft

Up to 5 people

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

4.8/5 (36 reviews)

Traverse City

Book your next trip with J. Young Outdoors and find out what the fishing in Northern Michigan is all about. Having spent his lifetime fishing Lake Michigan(Traverse City,Frankfort.Leland) and surrounding inland lakes.

"Showed up to the docks 10 mins early with my son and daughter and the captain was ready to head out." —⁠ Steve,

Trips from

US $550

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31 ft

Up to 6 people

Daydreamer Fishing Charters

5.0/5 (145 reviews)

Traverse City

Book your next adventure with Daydreamer Fishing Charters and get ready to discover Lake Michigan with Captain Ben Orr! Your guide is a Traverse City native, born and raised, and has been running charters since 2003.

"Captain Ben does everything himself, and takes great care to make the experience great." —⁠ Adam,

Trips from

US $500

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31 ft

Up to 6 people

Showtime Charters

5.0/5 (135 reviews)

Traverse City

Showtime Charters runs angling trips out of Traverse City and offers to show you what fishing the Great Lakes is all about. Captain Johnny Barlow is here to get you on some fish, and to make sure you have fun doing it.

"We went out on an evening trip with showtime, and fishing was slow because the wind was up." —⁠ James,

Trips from

US $600

See availability

26 ft

Up to 6 people

Prime Time Fishing Charters

4.9/5 (235 reviews)

Traverse City

Join Prime Time Fishing Charters Trolling and Jigging for an unforgettable fishing experience out of Traverse City. We specialize in half and full day fishing charters on Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay from April to October.

"Challenge will be to follow up that experience! Bar is set pretty high for my son in particular." —⁠ Ryan,

Trips from

US $550

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20 ft

Up to 4 people

NoMi Fishing Charters

Just listed

Traverse City

Welcome to NoMi Fishing Charters, where you’ll experience the beauty and excitement of fishing the waters around Traverse City, Michigan.

"If you’re looking to catch salmon… NoMi Fishing Charters is the move." —⁠ Christopher, Oregon

Trips from

US $500

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18 ft

Up to 3 people

Vandenberg Guide Service

5.0/5 (8 reviews)

Traverse City

Professional guided fishing trips on the scenic rivers of Northern Michigan specializing in Steelhead, Salmon, and Trout. We fish 8 different rivers from Grand Rapids to Traverse City, our favorites are the Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Au Sable.

Trips from

US $100

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22 ft

Up to 4 people

Central Coast Angling

4.8/5 (10 reviews)

Traverse City

Looking for a varied offer that can put you on red-hot Lake Michigan action as well as productive river fishing? Look no further than Central Coast Angling.

"Captain Hinds was awesome to fish with! Made this trip for my son’s 9th Birthday and he had an absolute blast!" —⁠ Seamus,

Trips from

US $350

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25 ft

Up to 4 people

Bite Me Too Charters LLC

5.0/5 (3 reviews)

Traverse City

Bite Me Too Charters is all about fishing the stunning waters of Traverse City on the east or west bay along with Lake Michigan trips available in Frankfort. With Captain Will at the helm, you’ll have a knowledgeable and experienced guide.

"Captain Will went above and beyond to make sure we had an excellent experience for the finale to our bachelor party weekend in TC." —⁠ Jared,

Trips from

5.0/5 (241 reviews)

5.0/5 (33 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure, where the fish bite year round, and the captain takes you to the best places to get the most out of your trip? Then book now with Fish With Jim Outfitters. Captain Jim Chamberlain has been fishing for decades

trips from

US $510

26 ft

●

up to 6

Prime Time Fishing Charters

4.9/5 (235 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $550

31 ft

●

up to 6

Showtime Charters

5.0/5 (135 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $600

31 ft

●

up to 6

Daydreamer Fishing Charters

5.0/5 (145 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $500

24 ft

●

up to 5

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

4.8/5 (36 reviews)

Half-day fishing trips

trips from

US $550

Top Targeted Species in Traverse City

Lake Trout

Lake

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)

River

Brown Trout

Lake

Smallmouth Bass

Lake

Salmon

River

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Traverse City

What are the best private fishing charters in Traverse City?

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Traverse City, Michigan are:

Full list of top fishing charters in Traverse City

How much does it cost to go charter fishing in Traverse City?

The average price for a private 4 hour Traverse City fishing trip is US $549, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $558 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Traverse City are good for families?

Fishing charters in Traverse City that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Traverse City?

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

What are the top fishing techniques in Traverse City?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Traverse City are:

What are the top types of fishing in Traverse City?

The top 3 types of fishing in Traverse City are:

Do Traverse City fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

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

Who are the best rated captains in Traverse City?

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

Who are the top awarded captains in Traverse City?

Who are the top awarded captains in Traverse City?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Traverse City?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Traverse City are:

Extended fishing trips – US $895
2-hour fishing trips – US $100
3-hour fishing trips – US $500
4-hour fishing trips – US $524
5-hour fishing trips – US $550
7-hour fishing trips – US $495
8-hour fishing trips – US $596

Fishing in Traverse City

North Michigan’s largest city is known for many things. It’s the “Cherry Capital of the World” and is home to tourist-friendly attractions – freshwater beaches, downhill ski slopes, vineyards, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. However, its most famous attraction is the bay after which it is named, Grand Traverse Bay. How better to explore this fantastic body of water than aboard one of its Traverse City fishing charters?

Grand Traverse Bay is one of Lake Michigan’s “arms,” so it’s no surprise that it’s full of world-famous fish. Feisty Steelhead open Traverse City’s fishing season in March, and are followed by Bass, Walleye, and Pike. Brown and Lake Trout make an appearance in May, with the Boardman River being an especially fish-filled hotspot. Visit Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan during spring or fall, and you’ll get to encounter the Chinook and Coho Salmon runs.

You’ll find Traverse City fishing charters dotted all around the bay’s waterfront. Experienced guides in this area run a whole host of trips, from 5-hour excursions perfect for families and newer anglers, to extended full day trips. You’ll usually be trolling your chosen fishery, no matter how long you choose to spend on the water. Visit during the winter months, when the bay is frozen over, and you’ll find local guides offering ice fishing adventures.

Rules & Regulations

Every angler aged 16 or above needs to bring along a valid Michigan fishing license. Some species, such as Trout and Salmon, are subject to strict limits and may require specific fishing stamps. Your experienced guide will be able to tell you more and make sure you’re fishing within the law.

Traverse City

4.9/5

Based on 29,311 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Traverse City Fishing Seasons

January

As you might have already guessed, fishing in Traverse City is equally exciting in winter as it is in spring. A popular type of angling during January is fly fishing for Trout or target Steelhead.

February

February sees the fishing season start to really heat up, as spring is just around the corner. Massive Steelhead can be found in the lakes and Lake Trout are an exciting target for fly fishermen.

March

The fishing season is in full swing, with the inland lakes being especially fish-filled. The action on Grand Traverse Bay is also heating up. Lake Trout are still the main target, but you'll find other species starting to inhabit these waters.

April

April is the unofficial start of Traverse Bay's fishing season. There are a few boats already on the water of both the East and West arms of the Bay. Jigging for Lake Trout is the thing to do right now!

May

The beautiful month of May sees Lake Trout lovers heading to Traverse City, equipped with lightweight and regular tackle. Trout fishing reaches its peak. What are you waiting for?

June

The summer season has truly begun. Head offshore onto Grand Traverse Bay for Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, and Steelhead, and stay inshore for Lake Trout.

July

July is all about the annual Cherry Festival, fantastic weather, and unparalleled fishing. Target huge Lake Trout, Coho Salmon, or even Chinook. A mid-summer fishing trip is a must!

August

This month is your best chance to catch a trophy King Salmon as they start their run upstream. Don’t forget to target your share of Coho as well!

September

Coho and Chinook Salmon (Brownies and Steelies as well) fishing remains hot during September, and you'll be able to target Trout varieties too.

October

It’s prime fishing time right now in Traverse City. Waters begin to cool, which means that some fish species start to get active in order to fatten themselves. The annual Salmon run is hot!

November

Salmon and Steelhead are in the rivers, waiting for you to hook 'em. Grab your fishing buddy and head out for the adventure of a lifetime.

December

A day on the water targeting Trout is one of the best things you can do before Christmas. Steelhead might be around, too.

Traverse City Fishing Calendar

Bass (Smallmouth)

Brown Trout

Lake Trout

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)

Salmon

Featured photos from Traverse City

What anglers said about fishing in Traverse City

Its the off-season for local businesses in the area , but the Salmon fishing is prime in the bays.

5.0/5

Its the off-season for local businesses in the area , but the Salmon fishing is prime in the bays.

Nicholas G.

My first time in Traverse City, and I was only there for one night. Beautiful town, lots to see besides going fishing. Hotels are expensive, so be prepared to pay more than you expect. Totally worth it though if you book with J. Young Outdoors for your fishing trip. Jordan's the best!

5.0/5

Jonathan H.

Amazing bass fishing experience, I highly recommend to anyone who loves to fish!

5.0/5

Amazing bass fishing experience, I highly recommend to anyone who loves to fish!

Edward W.

Later in Aug or September is best for salmon. Early and mid Aug is always a little slower, depending on the weather and cooler temps.

5.0/5

Later in Aug or September is best for salmon. Early and mid Aug is always a little slower, depending on the weather and cooler temps.

Edward W.

Yes - The Grand Traverse Bay is protected somewhat from the wind and offers a good variety of fishing options. Especially, with those of with smaller boats.

5.0/5

Yes - The Grand Traverse Bay is protected somewhat from the wind and offers a good variety of fishing options. Especially, with those of with smaller boats.

James J.

Grand Traverse Bay is huge and hiring a guide is essential. I tried fishing it on my own a couple of years ago and had no success. With the right guidance, an angler can expect to both catch fish and learn something at the same time.

5.0/5

Brian E.

August is supposed to be better, we were on the early side for salmon but still did good!

5.0/5

August is supposed to be better, we were on the early side for salmon but still did good!

Adam S.

Absolutely had a great time with mega bite charters . Can’t wait to try a full day trip next time

5.0/5

Absolutely had a great time with mega bite charters . Can’t wait to try a full day trip next time

Chris B.

A good guide makes all the difference. And Jordan is top-notch. Never a bad day in Grand Traverse Bay, but catching big, beautiful, tasty fish is next level! Loved every minute of it. And Jordan made it look easy (even though we know it’s not)!

5.0/5

Jeff B.

Weather was great and there were plenty of fish. All were small our day but was definitely fish.

5.0/5

Weather was great and there were plenty of fish. All were small our day but was definitely fish.

Michael K.

The weather changed pretty quickly on us so layered clothing and a rain layer is a good idea. We brought our cooler filled with snacks and drinks for my boys so they were in great shape the whole trip.

5.0/5

Kenneth S.

The Captain’s voice sounded like Blake Shelton. We limited out, and the crew worked hard to make sure our time was great. This is by far the best charter we’ve ever done. Strongly recommend.

5.0/5

The Captain’s voice sounded like Blake Shelton. We limited out, and the crew worked hard to make sure our time was great. This is by far the best charter we’ve ever done. Strongly recommend.

Samantha S.

Highly recommend booking this fishing charter! We had the best time with family for our Grandpa’s 90th and caught 6 fish, 6-6! It was a success and Tucker and Alonzo were the best captains. Could not have asked for a better experience.

5.0/5

Kevin S.

Prime Time Charters is the way to go for Fishing Charters. Great Captain w over 30 years experience.

5.0/5

Prime Time Charters is the way to go for Fishing Charters. Great Captain w over 30 years experience.

Patrick K.

Spring or fall would probably be better fishing overall, but no complaints about the trip.

5.0/5

Spring or fall would probably be better fishing overall, but no complaints about the trip.

Kellen J.

Be prepared to be swept away by the beauty of the lake. The fish are big and there are lots of them. so bring a large cooler.

5.0/5

Be prepared to be swept away by the beauty of the lake. The fish are big and there are lots of them. so bring a large cooler.

Sharon L.

Lake trout catch is great in July. If your looking for big King Salmon…mid-August is better but you can still get lucky with some quality fish in mid-late July.

5.0/5

Lake trout catch is great in July. If your looking for big King Salmon…mid-August is better but you can still get lucky with some quality fish in mid-late July.

Jason R.

If your looking for a fishing charter book with captain John you will be so happy you did. This was the best charter we have done.

5.0/5

If your looking for a fishing charter book with captain John you will be so happy you did. This was the best charter we have done.

Lerae G.

Take advantage of the awesome neighboring streams and lakes to try your luck at fly fishing. We rented a cabin on the Manistee River and totally enjoyed the feel of the outdoors.

5.0/5

Take advantage of the awesome neighboring streams and lakes to try your luck at fly fishing. We rented a cabin on the Manistee River and totally enjoyed the feel of the outdoors.

Clark L.

Would go at the end of august if you’re looking for salmon but got 2 of them and had a blast!

5.0/5

Would go at the end of august if you’re looking for salmon but got 2 of them and had a blast!

James W.

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Traverse City?

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Jordan was a great captain/ charter outfit. He put us on fish and was good company. We will book again and would recommend! We enjoyed the fun morning of catching salmon !!

Mark T.

Showtime Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

My son and I had a great time fishing with Captain Johnny. He and his first mate were very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We caught 3 Salmon and 1 Lake Trout on our trip out this morning. The boat was very well equipped, spacious and clean. I will definitely be rebooking Showtime Charters in the future and would highly recommend.

Samantha S.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Caught fish and had a good time. Jordon was very knowledgeable, which helped us land fish. If you want a guide who knows hisb stuff, id recommend fishing with Jordon.

Bradley S.

Northern Michigan Guided Fishing

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Casey was the best guide we have had on a fishing trip. He was very patient with me even though I backlash two of his rods... I don't fish with them but he was determined to teach me.. at the end of the trip I was very happy a had my fish...

Katherine R.

Fish-X-TC

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Check one off the bucket list. Had a great time. Beautiful night, great crew, and a lot of fun catching fish.

Pam C.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

We had a great night out with Jordan. He was very knowledgeable of the water and sport. Jordan took us out to two locations for lake trout and salmon. He was very persistent and patient. Jordan wanted the catch as much as we did! We were fortunate to catch a lake trout and salmon at the first location prior to moving to the second. We had success again at the second. My daughter got a 22# salmon! We were the last boat out on the water, ensuring every last bite. Thanks for a memorable trip

Kristin C.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

J. Young is an excellent fishing guide, he knows exactly where the fish are and what they are biting on. Caught my limit of large King Salmon. Definitely recommend!

Chris N.

Showtime Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Captain John and his first mate did a excellent job and really friendly we had a great time with them the afternoon bite was a little slow but we did catch some nice fish

Brad B.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Captain, boat, equipment and location were excellent. Plenty of fish to catch.

Ted N.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Jordan's the best! Prompt communication, easy-going expertise, was so kind and patient with my 8-year-old on his first charter fishing trip, just an awesome person to be around. He put us on the fish and called the bite within minutes of it happening! We caught six fish (5 chinook and a 9lb coho), including a 17 pounder! My 83 year-old dad had a blast. I'll absolutely book with Jordan again!

Jonathan H.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Have charter fished in TC a number of times and this was by far our best experience. Jordan was detailed, knowledgeable, friendly and knew where to go on the bay to find fish. Would highly recommend!

Craig R.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Captain Jordan was very knowledgeable on where to catch some large Salmon. Literally as soon as he said we would start getting bites we had an explosion of bites which ended up with us catching 8 Salmon from 15-18lbs. Great experience for our group from Indiana that have never fished before in the Great Lakes.

Sean T.

Northern Michigan Guided Fishing

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Casey was fantastic. Exceptionally patient with my grandson and we caught a lot of fish. FUN day.

James K.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Never caught such huge fish before! 4 of us and 5 fish total. Mr Young was a great captain. Very knowledgeable about where to get the big ones.

Cynthia N.

Showtime Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

The crew was knowledgeable and friendly, we had a great time even if we didn’t catch many fish. Sometimes that’s how it goes. Highly recommend!

Jennifer M.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

This was our family first fishing trip on a charter boat as we celebrated my Bday. Captain Jordan was awesome! Communicated very well before the trip to make sure we know where to go and what to bring. Within a half hour after setting up our lines we had a huge salmon. Then we got a trout, salmon and another huge trout. At the end of our trip, Captain Jordan cut and cleaned the fish for us. My family and I had a blast and I would highly recommend Captain Jordan. Definitely would do it again.

Martin S.

NoMi Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

My two grandsons had the best time fishing. Ethan was an awesome guy who we had a great time fishing with. He was very knowledgeable, worked hard and has a great personality. Couldn’t have had a better time. I would recommend him 100 percent.

Richard B.

TC Bass Destination Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Capt. Butch was great! Very knowledgeable on where to find the fish, techniques to be used and taught us a lot! I do a lot of charters and the captain taught me an my nephew a lot about fishing in Traverse Bay! Great trip for younger anglers as well! Lots of action and spotting the fish in the clear waters will keep them occupied and attentive. I highly recommend this trip!!! I will be doing it again!

Edward W.

J. Young Outdoors- Reel Livin'

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Captain was fantastic, moved to a different launch location because of conditions, very strong communications throughout the process. Knowledgeable about salmon, great overall experience! If you get a chance to fish with Capt. Jordan, I highly recommend it!

Edward W.

NoMi Fishing Charters

Fishing charter in Traverse City

5.0/5

Ethan is very knowledgeable and is great at what he does! He takes the extra time to explain if you are curious with questions. Gets you moving quick and hooks up into the best fish that Michigan has to offer!