Want to land your next Walleye or Salmon trophy? Then you should definitely look into Sturgeon Bay fishing charters and the ample angling opportunities they have to offer. The town of Sturgeon Bay is conveniently located in between two bountiful bodies of water – Green Bay and Lake Michigan. The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal connects these two great fisheries and enables anglers to chase a plethora of prized game fish. The fact that Sturgeon Bay was proclaimed the best Bass fishery in the country in 2014 is enough to have you reaching for your rod.
Fishing Spots
Sturgeon Bay is a melting pot of fish species, so whatever your prey of choice is, you can target it, as long as you know where to go. From Salmon and Trout to massive Walleye, Yellow Perch, Northern Pike, and Muskellunge, this fishing haven has something for all levels and aspirations.
The Bay Side
If you’re looking for superb Walleye fishing spots, cast your line anywhere along the Bay Side of Sturgeon Bay. The waters of the canal meet the waters of Green Bay here, which makes it a favorite fish hangout. Smallmouth Bass are abundant, and it was the Bay Side that brought the title of “Best Bass Fishery” to Sturgeon Bay. You can also hook Yellow Perch, Muskellunge, and Northern Pike on this side.
Lake Michigan
The fishery of Lake Michigan doesn’t need much introduction. The main allure of Sturgeon Bay is that it combines different kinds of angling in one place, so if you’ve had your fill of Bass and Walleye hunting, you can turn to where Lake Michigan hugs the bay. There you will find Coho and Chinook Salmon that can weigh well over 20 pounds. Steelhead, Lake, and Brown Trout are also a popular catch, and 20-pounders are caught regularly.
The Bank Reef
The Bank Reef is one of the most popular Sturgeon Bay destinations, both for the anglers and the hungry fish. This is where fishermen come for the big boys, the deal breakers, the trophies. Salmon fishing around the Bank Reef is nothing short of extraordinary, so much so that the biggest King Salmon in Wisconsin was caught right here. If the weather conditions allow, many a fisherman come out to the reef to test out the legendary full moon bite. On nights like that, you can expect Walleye, Bass, and Muskellunge galore.
Fishing Tips
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The fishing season in Sturgeon Bay is open year round – open water fishing is possible from late March until the ice sets in. After that, it’s time for some hardcore ice fishing.
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You can go after Chinook (King) Salmon anytime from May to October, but the sweet spot is in July.
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If you’re targeting Trout, bear in mind that trolling with plugs using light lines will be irresistible to Browns. For Lake Trout, try slow trolling close to the bottom, in up to 150 feet of water.
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Steelhead action is hot in summer, and you’ll find them in the open waters, close to the surface. Your catch can weigh anywhere from 3–20 pounds.
Need to Know
Fishing in Sturgeon Bay is fun and productive, and though the bay is 10 miles long, the amount of fish you can hook is formidable. Familiarize yourself with the catch limits and laws before you hit the water.
Regulations
There’s no shortage of Sturgeon Bay fishing charters to choose from and there are plenty of local guides ready to take you to the secret fish hideouts. If you’re fishing with a captain, remember to buy a Wisconsin fishing license before you start the trip. All anglers over the age of 16 need to have the license with them at all times, whether they’re fishing from the shore or from a boat.
Budget
Because there are so many species to target, the price of the charters is often determined by the species you want to target. Smallmouth trips can cost $580–$900, depending on the duration. The price of Walleye jaunts varies from $600–$900 for a group. Ice fishing excursions are usually priced per person and are in the $100 ballpark.
Getting There
A productive Salmon season, first-class Walleye and Bass bites year round, an amazing Trout fishery – Sturgeon Bay has it all. Anglers come here from all over the country to enjoy the comfort and beauty of the quaint town, as well as its top-notch fishing. Green Bay is the biggest city in the area, and you’ll find it some 40 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Both ice fishermen and open water anglers agree – Sturgeon Bay promises some of the best fishing action in the Midwest, and beyond!
Bass (Smallmouth)
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Muskellunge (Musky)
Perch (Yellow)
Pike (Northern)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)
Walleye
