Traverse City

65 Fishing Charters

Traverse City Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Traverse City
Traverse City: 65 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(66 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(192 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(99 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(202 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $550
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(4 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $675
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(8 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $275

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Traverse City

According to customer reviews, Showtime Charters, Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig), and Fish-X-TC are some of the most popular fishing charters in Traverse City, Michigan. Full list of top fishing charters in Traverse City.

The average price for a private 4 hour Traverse City fishing trip is $556, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $482 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Showtime Charters, Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig), and Fish-X-TC all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in Traverse City.

The most popular fish species you can target are Lake Trout, Chinook Salmon, and Rainbow Trout (Steelhead). Top fishing techniques include Light Tackle, Trolling, and Jigging. Lake fishing, nearshore fishing, and river fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

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
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Based on 27742 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

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

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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.
Excellent
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.
Lerae G. Carleton, MI
For a first time fishing Traverse city had a excellent time. Would recommend anyone to try this what a beautiful experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
For a first time fishing Traverse city had a excellent time. Would recommend anyone to try this what a beautiful experience.
Mark  W.
Mark W. Canton, MI
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.
Excellent
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.
Clark L. Homosassa Springs, FL
Would go at the end of august if youโ€™re looking for salmon but got 2 of them and had a blast!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Would go at the end of august if youโ€™re looking for salmon but got 2 of them and had a blast!
James  W.
James W. Oden, MI
Take advantage of the advice these guys have. I am always open to learning and these guys taught a lot.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Take advantage of the advice these guys have. I am always open to learning and these guys taught a lot.
VonZell  P.  I.
VonZell P. I. Hilliard, OH
Yes, I would highly recommend booking Tyler for first-time anglers. He will take good care of you and make it an enjoyable outing.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Yes, I would highly recommend booking Tyler for first-time anglers. He will take good care of you and make it an enjoyable outing.
Jennifer  H.
Jennifer H.
Just be prepared and be patient. Take sunscreen and some sunglasses and youโ€™ll have a great time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Just be prepared and be patient. Take sunscreen and some sunglasses and youโ€™ll have a great time.
Will  F.
Will F.
When chattering a boat in traverse city - your charter will be in the west or east bay. Your charter will not go out onto Lake Michigan. That would be a 2hr drive just to get there and lots of gas. The bays have the same fish as Lake Michigan.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
When chattering a boat in traverse city - your charter will be in the west or east bay. Your charter will not go out onto Lake Michigan. That would be a 2hr drive just to get there and lots of gas. The bays have the same fish as Lake Michigan.
Andrew  A.
Andrew A. Grand Rapids, MI
To have a general idea about smallmouth fishing and do research on best times to go
Excellent
5.0 / 5
To have a general idea about smallmouth fishing and do research on best times to go
Ronald  C.
Ronald C. Fairland, IN
Be sure to book with a quality Boat Captain that can get you on fish. Fishing is always fun, but catching is even more fun.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be sure to book with a quality Boat Captain that can get you on fish. Fishing is always fun, but catching is even more fun.
Gregory  L.
Gregory L. Cape Girardeau, MO
Find a local connection prior to yer visit, it will save ALOT of time driving!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Find a local connection prior to yer visit, it will save ALOT of time driving!
Shannon  B.
Shannon B. Griswold, IA
Try it out. Captain is very friendly and polite and gives you tips while realing them in.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Try it out. Captain is very friendly and polite and gives you tips while realing them in.
Jannell  K.
Jannell K. Traverse City, MI
Catch up with DaydreamerCharter boat "badhabit" captain Ben Orr does a great job and has fun
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Catch up with DaydreamerCharter boat "badhabit" captain Ben Orr does a great job and has fun
Joan  F.
Joan F. Bellaire, MI
We were 1st time anglers in Traverse City! Fish are plentiful. Go with an experienced guide like Captain Ben. Daydreamer charters
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We were 1st time anglers in Traverse City! Fish are plentiful. Go with an experienced guide like Captain Ben. Daydreamer charters
Eric  M.
Eric M. Paris, KY
Use prime time charter fishing and if possible book the early morning trip. We had 3 teenagers with us and an hour drive in so early morning would have been miserable with cranky kids but I think the captain said early morning trips may go better but our previous trip was night and we caught a ton. So it can go either way.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Use prime time charter fishing and if possible book the early morning trip. We had 3 teenagers with us and an hour drive in so early morning would have been miserable with cranky kids but I think the captain said early morning trips may go better but our previous trip was night and we caught a ton. So it can go either way.
Joseph  K.
Joseph K. Farmington, MI
Jerry with Prime Time is an excellent guide. He knows what he is doing. I caught some nice fish. I would do it again next time I am in this area.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Jerry with Prime Time is an excellent guide. He knows what he is doing. I caught some nice fish. I would do it again next time I am in this area.
Rick  R.
Rick R. Bakersfield, CA
No hesitation, perfect water, temps, breeze....I am a big fan with plans for returning!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
No hesitation, perfect water, temps, breeze....I am a big fan with plans for returning!
John  K.
John K. Hendersonville, NC
Hire prime time fishing for your first time fishing. Jerry explains everything.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Hire prime time fishing for your first time fishing. Jerry explains everything.
Janet  R.
Janet R. Columbus, Ohio
Fish on the Prime Time with Capt. Jerry, it's a wonderful experience for the whole family.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fish on the Prime Time with Capt. Jerry, it's a wonderful experience for the whole family.
Robert  D.  M.
Robert D. M. Petoskey, Michigan

Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Beautiful Day on the Bay with Tyler from Pure Angling, we went home with plenty of fish for all thee of us. We definitely look forward to another fishing trip with Tyler, this was our โ€œfirst annualโ€ trip!
Jean  B.
Jean B.
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
My husband and I have fished all over this country and others and this was the best guided trip weโ€™ve ever had! Captain Tyler was super knowledgeable and very personable! He was born and raised in the area fishing so he knows these waters well. I caught a 26โ€ record sized lake trout (well, record size for me) and several Ciscoโ€™s. Canโ€™t recommend Tyler enough!
Michele  H.
Michele H.
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
This trip was well worth the time and drive! Captain Tyler was is very personable and knowledgeable in the art of fishing. He knows his stuff and therefore we had a fish filled morning! Within 40 minutes of being out on the water both of our party had decent catches and it remained steady throughout the day. Tyler cleans and fillets the fish for you to take home so that was a much added bonus! 10/10 will book with him again!
Savannah  F.
Savannah F. United States
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Tyler was awesome! Very knowledgeable. Fun day! Would highly recommend booking with him!
Trudi  J.
Trudi J. Lamberton, MN
Osprey Fishing of Michigan
Osprey Fishing of Michigan
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(7 reviews)
Had a great experience with Chris, really enjoyed fishing with him. He is a great captain, and a lot of fun to go with. Highly recommend fishing with him.
Nick  M.
Nick M. Mount Vernon, IN
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Got this trip from a simple google search for a fishing charter for my fiancรฉ as a fatherโ€™s day gift. Money well spent! He enjoyed the trip. They didnโ€™t catch as much as he hoped but the experience was great! Well worth it ! Will definitely book again in the future.
Matthew  B.
Matthew B. Brook Park, OH
Fish-X-TC
Fish-X-TC
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(192 reviews)
Captain Alonzo and Tucker were amazing. They brought us out and knew all the places where the fish bite. Unfortunately, on our day out, the fishes werenโ€™t biting much. Many boats werenโ€™t able to catch anything, but we came home with three fish! We are very grateful for the time we had with them. We will definitely be coming back!
Jamila  P.
Jamila P.
Prime Time Fishing Charters
Prime Time Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(202 reviews)
Had a great time on this charter, caught alot of fish and learned alot. The guys were very knowledgeable and willing to share experience and give us tips on fishing.would highly recommend.
WESLEY  H.
WESLEY H.
Kick Ass Outdoors
Kick Ass Outdoors
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Had a excellent time with captain Terry on our fishing trip .we will definitely plan another trip with Terry.
Mark  W.
Mark W. Canton, MI
Fish-X-TC
Fish-X-TC
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(192 reviews)
Theses guys are great! They worked hard and had us on fish all afternoon. They treated my boys like their own! HIGHLY Recommend FISH X TC and Capt Zo
Jason  S.
Jason S. United States
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Captain Tyler was amazing! My buddies and I had lots of fun and the overall experience was great. Very professional, knowledgeable and experienced. Nothing negative to say, just wish we wouldโ€™ve caught a salmon but weโ€™ll get them next time. We all left happy with smiles on our faces.
Jose  C.
Jose C. Lincoln Park, Michigan
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
We had an amazing time with Captain Tyler! He was Friendly, knowledgeable, and truly made it the best experience! I caught my first ever fish, a 28 inch Lake Trout! He even recommended a place to take our fresh caught fish that would cook it for us, which was delicious!! We are looking forward to another trip one day! 10/10!
Lindsey  T.
Lindsey T. Burt, MI
Fish-X-TC
Fish-X-TC
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(192 reviews)
Captain Alonzo and his son Tucker know how to put you on the fish. Great boat, quality fishing equipment, and the work of Tucker was first class. They put us on linker salmon within 15 minutes of our reaching the fishing location. Great bait selection and spot on running depth. Had a great time and came home with enough fish to last us a long time. Highly recommend Fish-X-TC if you are looking for a great time on the water.
Clark  L.
Clark L. Homosassa Springs, FL
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Tyler with pure angling gave my son and I an incredible experience the morning of September 5th. Professional, and knowledgeable with a great boat Tyler does a great job. You will not be disappointed.
William  C.
William C. Millcreek, UT
Traverse City Charter Fishing
Traverse City Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Caught some great fish with Captain Jeff and First mate Dave. The crew was professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Great boat and the water was smooth in Grand Traverse Bay. They did an excellent job putting us on fish when the boats around us did not seem to be catching many fish. We would highly recommend Traverse City Charter Fishing
Jason  V.
Jason V. Royal Oak, MI
Fish-X-TC
Fish-X-TC
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(192 reviews)
We had a great time! Alonzo and Tucker were amazing and helped us catch our first Salmon! They even cleaned our fish at the end for us! Definitely would book again!
Alexis  M.
Alexis M. Buchanan, MI
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
We had a great trip with Captain Tyler! Pretty choppy waters the day of our trip but he navigated them well. We were aiming to catch a salmon and got a big one right away. We walked away with a salmon, trout and cisco. Captain Tyler was professional and personable, he made the downtime go by well. I would recommend using Captain Tyler for a charter near Traverse City. Thanks for the great trip!
Rachel  G.
Rachel G. Philadelphia, PA
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Great trip as Tyler was able to teach me quite a few things about Great Lakes fishing which was a first for me. We had a good haul of lake trout - a few which I put on ice to take home.
Frank  S.
Frank S. Westerville, OH
Showtime Charters
Showtime Charters
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(66 reviews)
Enjoyed our trip with Captain Johnny and Liam! They kept us over the fish the whole time and we landed a couple of decent Lakers! Thanks, we will have to do it again soon!
David  F.
David F. Brighton, MI
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Pure Angling โ€“ Lake Trout, Salmon (Troll/Jig)
Fishing charter in Traverse City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
Tyler was a great captain! Very knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. This was our first experience and would 100% come back again. Tyler is personable, easy to talk with, and respectful. Tyler made sure we had a good experience on the water!
Whitney  S.
Whitney S.

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