Milwaukee charter fishing offers so many exciting angling opportunities that it’s hard to choose just one. The largest city in the Badger State is right along the shores of Lake Michigan. As soon as you hear the name you can’t help but think about monster Brown Trout, fiery Coho ‘Silver’ Salmon, the acrobatic Steelhead, line-ripping Chinook ‘King’ Salmon, and Lake Trout from deep waters...

Just stop for a moment and think of all the stories to be had from your catch in Milwaukee. Even though the city’s entertainment doesn’t end with dining, there are a lot of excellent breweries and local taverns that will gladly prepare your catch. Top off your day of fishing by going to a nice music venue.

Known For

They say you haven’t fished until you’ve fished Wisconsin. It’s true that there are many hot Lake Michigan fishing spots in the state, but how many of them can brag about holding the majority of the state records? Well, Milwaukee definitely can!

The Lake includes the Milwaukee Bay and the connecting rivers. There are lagoons, inland lakes, rivers, and streams, that all together make prime spots for fishing in Wisconsin all year-round. And it’s more than enough to keep your rods busy no matter the weather!

Lake Michigan fishing in Milwaukee

The western side of Lake Michigan is like a magnet for the crème de la crème of the Great Lakes species. It’s still not clear which fish species can be called the Milwaukee ‘Superstar.” Milwaukee’s side of Lake Michigan offers a world-class fishery for whatever patrols the local waters.

As soon as the temperature warms up and the fish migrate north from the southern end of the lake, the local anglers head out to their own Milwaukee fishing spots. They begin the warming up by Trout fishing early in April to gain strength for battling Coho Salmon and Rainbow Trout later in May. The brute strength and size of Chinook ‘King’ Salmon keep anglers awake during the summer months and early fall. In September and October, all the species gather in Milwaukee before they start their journey up the rivers. 

Is it worth going out for a half day?

Check the bite on a five-hour trip to get the taste of Salmon fishing Milwaukee-style. But don’t think that half-days are only designed to chase huge Salmon! There are plenty of Lake Trout, Brown Trout or Steelhead hanging around. 

Your typical 5-hour charter will make you feel that you are in the game even if you can’t come back with a nice mixed bag. The fishing grounds are pretty close from shore, so you can start trolling in less than half an hour without having to travel too far out. Bottom line - a half-day trip can be enough to make your angling dreams come true.

What if I stay out longer?

Once you are onboard, surrounded by the fishing lines and waiting for the non-stop action, you simply won’t want to come back. If you are wondering whether you should prolong your Lake Michigan charter fishing in Milwaukee, the short answer is 'absolutely yes.' Add a few more hours to your half-day trip or upgrade it to an overnight. Any type of fishing in Wisconsin is worth a full-day trip!

On an 8+ hour adventure, you will be able to truly connect with the beautiful waters of the Great Lake. One of the biggest advantages that can compensate a longer ride to the fishing grounds is the unique Steelhead playgrounds that are situated 15-20 miles offshore. Milwaukee’s proximity to those deep waters allows you to target these skyrocketing fish close to the lake’s mountain range.

How much will it cost?

Since the cost of running the boat out and back is the same regardless of how many passengers are on board, the price can differ only a little if you have a six-pack or just two anglers.

The average five-hour Milwaukee Lake Michigan charter will be somewhere around $570. Add $250 to get the price of a full-day trip.

Milwaukee River Fishing.

It’s no surprise that the productive waters of Milwaukee are A-1 fishing grounds. Some big, splashy fish can be found in the Milwaukee River. What may seem surprising (but pleasantly surprising) is that you don’t need a boat to hit up the river! Go along the shoreline, take some delicious Carp from the lower parts of the River. The warm effluence from other bodies of water attracts some pretty big Carp.

The Milwaukee River runs from the northern parts through the heart of the city and offers a seasonal pleasure for any Trout and Salmon lover. A trip to the river is a ‘must-have’ for anyone who wants to master their fly-fishing skills.

Apart from the healthy waters of the Milwaukee River, there are other places to drop a hook. Put on your wading boots and head to the beaches of the Doctor's Park for some Brown Trout. Drop a line in the Menomonee River for your acrobatic Steelie and Salmon.

Types of Fishing

Salmon

Whether you are a novice out on the ‘Big Pond’ or a seasoned angler, your chances of landing Salmon are usually 50%. You can try your hand at drift fishing or stick to the good old trolling technique.

If Coho are your main target, it’s good to use lighter fishing gear to see your hits better. Trolling crankbaits can do the job for both Silver and King Salmon, as well as trolling spoons.

Trout 

Lake Trout prefer smaller lures more than bigger ones. Some Lakers can be over 30 pounds so you will need a heavier rod. You can catch them by casting live and artificial bait or still fishing. However, just like with Salmon, it’s always a good idea to go for trolling. If you are fishing in the river, fly fishing can be a great way to enjoy some time with the Trout.

When targeting Brown Trout, you can use a light action spinning rod. Brownies have good eyesight so it’s better to use a lighter line. They can also be a bit tricky to find - seek local knowledge if you want to truly enjoy Trout fishing in Wisconsin!

Steelhead fishing in Milwaukee is another thing to keep you entertained. As long as you have a professional captain by your side, he will get Steelhead to bite! Once hooked, the legendary Steelie will show off their acrobatic jumps. Concentrate in the right depth of the water, use planer boards, and keep the optimal speed.

Rules and Regulations

If you are coming from out-of-state, you should purchase the 2-Day Great Lakes Fishing license with a Great Lake Salmon and Trout Stamp to cover your charter fishing needs.