Lake Michigan Fishing Charters

297 Fishing Charters

Lake Michigan Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Lake Michigan

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Lake Michigan: 297 fishing charters available

Bucket List Fishing Charters

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(27 reviews)
Sheboygan
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $550

Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(30 reviews)
Newaygo
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $245

Last Call Sportfishing Charters

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(69 reviews)
Grand Haven
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $630

Pro Fish'n Sea Charters

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(29 reviews)
Manistee
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $400

Lure-In Fishing Guide โ€“ Sturgeon Bay

Excellent
4.5 / 5
(112 reviews)
Sturgeon Bay
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $430

Lured Inn Charters

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(16 reviews)
South Haven
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $700

Showtime Charters

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(69 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600

Manistee River Fishing Company

Excellent
4.8 / 5
(89 reviews)
Brethren
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300

Hooked Up Sport Fishing โ€“ Frankfort

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(67 reviews)
Frankfort
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $650

Fish-X-TC

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(193 reviews)
Traverse City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Lake Michigan

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Lake Michigan are: Full list of top fishing charters in Lake Michigan
The average price for a private 4 hour Lake Michigan fishing trip is $604, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $703 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.
Fishing charters in Lake Michigan that received great reviews from families are:
The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Lake Michigan are:
The top 3 fishing techniques in Lake Michigan are:
The top 3 types of fishing in Lake Michigan are:
Many fishing charters in Lake Michigan provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:
According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Lake Michigan are:
Who are the top awarded captains in Lake Michigan?
Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Lake Michigan are:
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $487
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $666
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ $505
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ $508
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $633
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,050
This Great Lake is a must-visit for any angling enthusiast. It’s the largest lake located in one country in the whole world and its name, Lake Michigan, comes from michi-gami, the Ojibwe word for “great water.” Surrounded by Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana, its fish-filled waters are accessible from a huge variety of locations. This means you’ll find plenty of Lake Michigan fishing charters just waiting to help you explore this fantastic fishery!
 
An angling adventure in Lake Michigan is all about famous freshwater fish. These vast, deep waters are home to a huge host of world-famous species. Brown Trout, Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, and Steelhead were all introduced here in the 20th century to ward off an invasive species of Herring – and they’ve remained strong to this day! On top of that, you’ll also be able to target Walleye, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass varieties, Musky, Perch, and tasty Whitefish.
 
No matter where you go, Lake Michigan’s captains offer a wide variety of trips. They tend to start at five hours, which is a perfect introduction to this fishery for newbies, families, and experienced anglers alike. If you’re looking to explore deeper waters, you’ll find longer trips starting at seven hours. The action doesn’t stop during winter, either – specialist guides offer Lake Michigan ice fishing trips, with Walleye being a favorite catch!
 
When it comes to choosing the perfect starting point for your adventure, you really are spoilt for choice. All of the lake’s bordering states are filled with excellent fishing locations. If you’re looking for a city adventure, head to Chicago or Traverse City. The ports of Milwaukee and Port Washington hold a huge number of charters, and provide access to Milwaukee Bay. For an ice fishing experience, wrap up warm and head to Green Bay. 
 

Rules & Regulations

All anglers age 16 or older need to bring along a valid fishing license with the necessary stamps. You can purchase yours online, at Walmart, or a variety of bait and tackle shops. 
 
Lake Michigan
Excellent
4.6 / 5
Based on 27943 reviews by FishingBooker anglers
January

While the lake itself isn't too active at the moment, if you have an urge to fish, there's still plenty to explore. Head to Lake Michigan's tributaries, where Steelhead can be found, along with Brown Trout. 

February

February is much the same: Lake Michigan is quiet, but the rivers are full of Trout. These fish spend their time there awaiting spring spawning time. The season is about to begin, with only a few weeks left! 

March

The Steelhead spawning run has begun, with big silver bullets ready to be caught. Lake Trout are also lurking beneath the lake. 

April

The southern basin between Chicago and Waukegan is where Coho Salmon and Rainbow Trout can be hooked during this month. Lake Trout are bustling around Milwaukee's harbor.

May

Late spring is great for Coho Salmon, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Steelhead. This time of year offers some of the most exciting fishing around. Big fan of Perch? You could also be busy in May...

June

Coho varieties weighing over 10 pounds are common in June. King Salmon are a frequent catch nearshore, while Steelhead are mostly found in the deepest parks of the lake. June's Lake Trout can weigh up to 30 pounds.

July

Tackle-busting King Salmon can be found lurking the lake, so bring your best rods and reels! Steelhead, Coho Salmon, Brown Trout, and big Lake Trout are abundant. On top of that, the weather is wonderful!

August

Large, mature Chinooks are plentiful in August. Coho Salmon are still active as well, and are joined by a plethora of Lake Trout and Brown Trout. If you're also after big hauls of Steelhead, now is the best time to visit. 

September

As fall arrives, September might just be the most beautiful time to be on Lake Michigan. Lake Trout are lurking around rock-reef structure offshore, while Chinooks, Brown Trout, and Steelhead can also be hooked.

October

Are you a hardcore trophy hunter? Then head to Lake Michigan in October to catch your limits! Brown Trout and Lake Trout are ready for your hooks, and King Salmon are also around.

November

The action out on the lake starts to wind down, but we can hardly think of a better time to target Steelhead in the rivers and tributaries. The fall Rainbow Trout are here, and are all about explosive runs and jumps.

December

Although the lake is quieter in winter, you can still end your year on a high note! Lake Trout fishing is great in northern Indiana, near the artificial reefs and rock walls, and Steelhead are still active in the rivers.

Lake Michigan fishing calendar

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Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and expect to have a great time. Anyday on the water is a good day.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and expect to have a great time. Anyday on the water is a good day.
Ramon D.
Ramon D.
Be patient and time your trip. He will find the fish, and enjoy the day. The boat is excellent as well as the captain.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be patient and time your trip. He will find the fish, and enjoy the day. The boat is excellent as well as the captain.
Brian S.
Brian S.
Make sure you have a dependable GPS to find your way, the area can be a bit confusing if you're a total stranger to it.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Make sure you have a dependable GPS to find your way, the area can be a bit confusing if you're a total stranger to it.
John G.
John G.
The salmon are running by the thousands!! Also saw some huge brown trout caught. The whole experience was just awesome and fun! And if you love the outdoors, Michigan that time of year on the river is beautiful.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The salmon are running by the thousands!! Also saw some huge brown trout caught. The whole experience was just awesome and fun! And if you love the outdoors, Michigan that time of year on the river is beautiful.
Matthew C.
Matthew C.
Make sure fish are showing up in large numbers and are biting frequently.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Make sure fish are showing up in large numbers and are biting frequently.
Nichole H.
Nichole H.
Really check the weather conditions, if you're prone to sea sickness (or even if you're not) make sure to try to schedule a trip with as little winds as possible.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Really check the weather conditions, if you're prone to sea sickness (or even if you're not) make sure to try to schedule a trip with as little winds as possible.
Ryan W.
Ryan W.
Listen to the local charter captains. Fish are plentiful, big, and delicious
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Listen to the local charter captains. Fish are plentiful, big, and delicious
Eric S.
Eric S. Volo, IL
I'd recommend Captain Gabe with Elsie K Charters and he'll take care of you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I'd recommend Captain Gabe with Elsie K Charters and he'll take care of you.
Jennifer S.
Jennifer S. New Hudson, MI
Me & my group went in with low expectations not knowing what too expect but overall the whole experience was amazing and definitely worth the money, time & energy!!!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Me & my group went in with low expectations not knowing what too expect but overall the whole experience was amazing and definitely worth the money, time & energy!!!
Danielle C.
Danielle C. Flint, MI
Yes I would recommend, however but not in September, it is unpredictable, Captain Bob said that May through August is best. I will probably take my wife and my kids for next year.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Yes I would recommend, however but not in September, it is unpredictable, Captain Bob said that May through August is best. I will probably take my wife and my kids for next year.
Robert T.
Robert T. Howell, Michigan
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
Absolutely with the big Manistee and the little Manistee converging and where they do it's an excellent area to Target salmon recommend it to anybody had a great time and planning next year's trip already
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Absolutely with the big Manistee and the little Manistee converging and where they do it's an excellent area to Target salmon recommend it to anybody had a great time and planning next year's trip already
Ron O.
Ron O. Mason, MI
Hit some local breweries and explore the town if you have some extra time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Hit some local breweries and explore the town if you have some extra time.
Nathan L.
Nathan L. Philadelphia, PA
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
Charter with Murphy's Law Charters. Professional crew and found the fish quickly. Great time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Charter with Murphy's Law Charters. Professional crew and found the fish quickly. Great time.
Van K.
Van K. Frederick, CO
Remember to bring a big cooler. You will get way more fish than you except. Bring a food deeper to pack them up back at your cabin
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Remember to bring a big cooler. You will get way more fish than you except. Bring a food deeper to pack them up back at your cabin
Ann B.
Ann B. Ypsilanti, Michigan
Recommend booking with Captain Steve! Very friendly and knowledgeable. Will definitely be going back!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Recommend booking with Captain Steve! Very friendly and knowledgeable. Will definitely be going back!
Tanya D.
Tanya D. Saint Anne, IL
Obtain a map of the layout of the harbor and the parking area/ locations and bathrooms. If chartering a vessel, obtain the slip number and location of the vessel.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Obtain a map of the layout of the harbor and the parking area/ locations and bathrooms. If chartering a vessel, obtain the slip number and location of the vessel.
James R.
James R. Mishawaka, IN
Port Washington is a very nice and unique town. It has so much to offer and is very clean. We make numerous trips to Port Washington and the surrounding town every year. There is something for everyone.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Port Washington is a very nice and unique town. It has so much to offer and is very clean. We make numerous trips to Port Washington and the surrounding town every year. There is something for everyone.
Josh P.
Josh P. South Wayne, WI
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
We didnโ€™t have a lot of river fishing experience, Dan was super knowledgeable and helped us really get the hang of everything. We had a great time fishing, chatting, and Dan made us lunch which was great. Definitely recommend working with him, he has a super strong knowledge of the area and the fishing conditions.
Michael J.
Michael J.
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Fishing charter in Allegan
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Kevin is very professional and kind Captain. We could catch fish as limits easily. He knows fun of fishing. Thanks a lot, and I would like to highly recommend to others who wants to go trout fishing.
Hideaki M.
Hideaki M.
Due North Guide Service
Due North Guide Service
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Brian is a fantastic guide. His knowledge of the river and personable approach are great. We ran the river on a day with a high pressure system moving in so the bites were slow, but I had a great time! I would recommend Bryan to anyone and look forward to booking again soon!
Matt V.
Matt V.
Ripple Effect Guide Service โ€“ Muskegon River
Ripple Effect Guide Service โ€“ Muskegon River
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
Quinn is an excellent guide! He knows the rivers, the habits of the fish and how they react to changing conditions. He knows the techniques needed for success and explained them well. We nailed em today!!!
Mark B.
Mark B.
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Fishing charter in Allegan
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Cap Kevin's boat was very well equipped and his advice resulted in sensational fishing trip. My 12 year old grandson caught 2 huge King Salmons and 2 other large Steelheads .I also caught a large Steelhead and 2 good size trout.
Robert M.
Robert M.
JMโ€™s Fishing Adventures
JMโ€™s Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in Green Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Weather was windy and cold but Joel went out of his way to make sure that we had a great time and caught fish there were 3 of us on board and we all caught fish
Robert T.
Robert T.
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
Had an amazing time with Dan! Very knowledgeable over the River , many different baits , poles , and lures for us to use. We caught several Brown Trout in just a couple hours . Beautiful fish ! Would highly recommend to anyone.
David R.
David R.
No Butz About It Guide Service
No Butz About It Guide Service
Fishing charter in Green Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(6 reviews)
Took my two young sons out, and we had a great time. Captains a lot of fun, and a great sense of humor.
Ryan G.
Ryan G.
Reel Down Outfitters -River Fishing
Reel Down Outfitters -River Fishing
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
Captโ€™n Zach was great, first time for my me, my son and grandson River fishing he spent some time showing us what to do, and we caught 5-6 King Salmon, he was great, and knew what he was doing, definitely recommend Reel Down outfitters
Anthony B.
Anthony B.
Limitless Fishing Charters
Limitless Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Muskegon
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(134 reviews)
Cpt Justin is very knowledgeable and patient. You can tell he loves fishing, takes the time to explain everything. My son and I had a blast and we both highly recommend this charter!!
Ramon D.
Ramon D.
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
(109 reviews)
Before we even started the trip, Captain Tyler was looking out for us by changing our time slot due to weather. We were very grateful as the weather at that time was very cold and rainy. Tyler was great with teaching us what to do and why. Explained all the equipment he used to find the fish. We ended up reeling in 17 fish! Great trip! Would do it again in a heartbeat...just in a different season. We were really cold the last weekend of October.
Sarah G.
Sarah G.
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
First time catching salmon. We had a great time with Dan's great assistance. Lots of fun and fight with these big fish.
Jane W.
Jane W.
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
We had a blast and enjoyed the beautiful day. Brought home two 15+ pounders. Great teaching/coaching throughout the trip and lunch was delicious. Wished it would have been a 10 hour trip!
Brittney S.
Brittney S.
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Fishing charter in Allegan
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Capt. Kevin was extremely accommodating for my elderly grandfather and made the experience memorable for the both of us. His level of expertise was clear when we were pulling in more fish than any other anglers on the water that dayโ€ฆ.I originally did not want to write a review because I was worried it will make it harder to schedule future trips, that being said, I highly recommend booking a trip with Captain Kev.
Max E.
Max E.
Reel Down Outfitters -River Fishing
Reel Down Outfitters -River Fishing
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
Our guide Zach was personable, friendly, professional, and highly experienced. Am planning a trip next fall with him already. My wife and I were very impressed by his knowledge and skills.
Blake V.
Blake V.
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Dan Nealy's Fishing Buddies
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
This was my sonโ€™s second time with Dan and my first and it was an awesome day. We seen and caught fish. Dan is very nice and knowledgeable, plus a good cook. He grilled us lunch right on the boat! I canโ€™t wait to go again
Jillian R.
Jillian R.
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Chromeseekers โ€“ Big Manistee River
Fishing charter in Brethren
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Our guide Keygan was great. He put us on fish and gave us tips for success. He was adapt at handling the boat and all the gear. Great time. Beautiful day in northern MI!
Ed R.
Ed R.
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Sweet T Sportfishing โ€“ Allegan
Fishing charter in Allegan
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
We had a unforgettable two days on the river with Captain Kevin and created memories we will cherish for years. Highly recommend, we will be making a return visit in the future!
Andrew W.
Andrew W.
Ripple Effect Guide Service โ€“ Muskegon River
Ripple Effect Guide Service โ€“ Muskegon River
Fishing charter in Newaygo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
Quinn K. awesome guy and made extra efforts to find what river the fish were coming in on. Would use him again without hesitation!
Joseph M.
Joseph M.
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
(109 reviews)
Celebrating our 1st anniversary, my boyfriend and I were on his first charter experience, ( Iโ€™ve done a couple before) we had Tyler as our captain. He was very knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and let us have a very hands on experience! We caught 12 fish and took home 10, Tyler was able to fillet and clean the fish on the boat as we took most home and 2 to a restaurant recommended by Tyler, for them to cook up! We had so much fun and I canโ€™t wait to come back and book with Tyler again!
Dalilah S.
Dalilah S.