Lake Michigan Fishing Charters

The best out of 382 charter fishing deals in Lake Michigan - enter dates to check availability

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Lake Michigan: 382 fishing charters available

Showing 1 - 10
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32 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
4 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $595
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23 ft

Up to 3 people

Instant Confirmation
2 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $300

Angler's choice

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37 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
2 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $525
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34 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
2 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $300
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16 ft

Up to 3 people

Instant Confirmation
Trips from
US $375
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Meet the Captain

30 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
Recent reports
Last booking: 2 hours ago
Trips from
US $250

Angler's choice

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36 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
Recent reports
Last booking: 8 hours ago
Trips from
US $650

Angler's choice

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36 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
Recent reports
6 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $700

Angler's choice

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36 ft

Up to 6 people

Instant Confirmation
2 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $550

Angler's choice

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19 ft

Up to 4 people

Instant Confirmation
3 bookings in the past week.
Trips from
US $215

Top-rated family fishing trips in Lake Michigan

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Half-day fishing trips in Lake Michigan

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18 ft

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up to 3

Half-day fishing trips
Mainstream Guides will take you fishing on Michigan’s most productive rivers and streams where an abundance of fish life awaits! Guide Aaron Spence has fished these rivers professionally for over 15 years and is able to show you just what Michigan r

trips from

US $350

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22 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Head out to Whitehall, Michigan and spend a wonderful day on the water with Third Coast Charters. You’ll be in the safe hands of Captain Todd Venema, a skilled and experienced angler who’ll make sure you have the best possible experience. Ther

trips from

US $300

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40 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Come and experience the best that Lake Michigan has to offer with Breezy 1 Charters. Head offshore with an experienced crew, and even take the chance to stay in a lakeside lodge, as you get the most out of the diverse fishery on offer in this Great Lake.

trips from

US $770

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33 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
If you’re looking for a professional, friendly, and knowledgeable fishing guide in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, you can’t go wrong with Jaws II Sport Fishing. Captain Steve Braunsdorf is a local who loves fishing, but most of all, loves putting his cu

trips from

US $650

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34 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
If you’ve always wanted to explore the prolific waters of Lake Michigan, join J J Sport Fishing Charters for an incredible adventure! Captain Jim Swanezy is the man behind this charter, and he specializes in Trout and Salmon fishing on this vast wat

trips from

US $600

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39 ft

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up to 4

Half-day fishing trips
Fish’n Tales Charters is based in Ludington and offers a year-round fishing adventure on Lake Michigan. Join Captain Michael, who’s been fishing these waters his whole life. Whether you’re an avid angler or a beginner just looking for so

trips from

US $700

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36 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Maritime Charters will take you on a fishing adventure on the waters of Lake Michigan. Your tournament-winning captain will make sure to take you to the best fishing spots, and show you all the honey holes. Captain Marc Sobeski has been fishing for over 2

trips from

US $650

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36 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
The crew of Fishin’ Finn-Atics has something to offer to any breed of angler. If you are a beginner fisherman who has never held a fishing rod in your hand, a proud parent of a younger angler who needs to be introduced to fishing, or a seasoned vete

trips from

US $850

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22 ft

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up to 3

Half-day fishing trips
Small Craft Advisory Guide Service specializes in introducing anglers of all skill levels to the beautiful waters of Green Bay and its tributaries. The season begins in spring, when hungry Walleye run up the Fox, Peshtigo, Menominee, and Oconto rivers in

trips from

US $550

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36 ft

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up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Mega Bite Charters offers fishing trips on the waters of east Traverse Bay in Michigan. If you want to experience all that Northern Michigan has to offer, a day out with this crew is the right choice. Your guide Adam Collet specializes in catching Lake Tr

trips from

US $750

Top Targeted Species in Lake Michigan

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
River
+2
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
Inshore
+3
Lake Trout
Lake Trout
Lake
Brown Trout
Brown Trout
Lake
+1
Walleye
Walleye
River
+1
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Lake
+1
Yellow Perch
Yellow Perch
River
+2
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
River
+1

Top Fishing Techniques in Lake Michigan

Ice Fishing
Ice Fishing

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Lake Michigan

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Fishing in Lake Michigan

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 β€œgreat 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

4.9/5
Based on 29,146 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Lake Michigan Fishing Seasons

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

Bass (Largemouth)Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)Bass (Smallmouth)
Brown TroutBrown Trout
Lake TroutLake Trout
Muskellunge (Musky)Muskellunge (Musky)
Perch (Yellow)Perch (Yellow)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Coho)Salmon (Coho)
WalleyeWalleye
Whitefish (Lake)Whitefish (Lake)

What anglers said about fishing in Lake Michigan

Go with the best. It is so worth having an experienced Captain,great equipment, and good weather don't hurt either.
5.0/5
Go with the best. It is so worth having an experienced Captain,great equipment, and good weather don't hurt either.
James O.
James O.
Bring change for the parking meters. Not expensive for the day, but who carries change any longer?
5.0/5
Bring change for the parking meters. Not expensive for the day, but who carries change any longer?
Zach V.
Zach V.
There are many restaurants near the dock that have a variety to choose from. You can rent scooters and tour around Sheboygan.
4.3/5
There are many restaurants near the dock that have a variety to choose from. You can rent scooters and tour around Sheboygan.
Ivan J.
Ivan J.
Morning trip is great, highly recommend using Jawzon Fishing Charter while in Waukegan.
5.0/5
Morning trip is great, highly recommend using Jawzon Fishing Charter while in Waukegan.
Myranda G.
Myranda G.
Go expecting the best time ever! Pack snacks and plenty to drink for the kids. Bring joy to the boat and you'll enjoy this memorable experience for the rest of your days!
5.0/5
Go expecting the best time ever! Pack snacks and plenty to drink for the kids. Bring joy to the boat and you'll enjoy this memorable experience for the rest of your days!
Shauntrece V.
Shauntrece V.
Probably better first thing in the morning. We opted for 1:30 afternoon trip to appease the non-fishermen in the family.
5.0/5
Probably better first thing in the morning. We opted for 1:30 afternoon trip to appease the non-fishermen in the family.
Amy W.
Amy W.
Give yourself time to locate the parking and the slip. I recommend planning to have lunch in PW so you can have a relaxed start to your trip.
5.0/5
Give yourself time to locate the parking and the slip. I recommend planning to have lunch in PW so you can have a relaxed start to your trip.
Brian S.
Brian S.
Beautiful time of year! Great weather! I recommend and was very satisfied with "Always on Charters"!
5.0/5
Beautiful time of year! Great weather! I recommend and was very satisfied with "Always on Charters"!
Frank A.
Frank A.
Be patient, listen to the captain and just enjoy the thrill of landing a big one!
5.0/5
Be patient, listen to the captain and just enjoy the thrill of landing a big one!
Norman D.
Norman D.
Get a good charter captain and talk to the locals about the fishing before hand or just get on the water on a charter and have some fun
5.0/5
Get a good charter captain and talk to the locals about the fishing before hand or just get on the water on a charter and have some fun
Donald P.
Donald P.
Had my 9 and 6 year old grandkids out with Captain Bob last year. They now love fishing!
5.0/5
Had my 9 and 6 year old grandkids out with Captain Bob last year. They now love fishing!
Keith N.
Keith N.
Highly Recommend!! Capt Seaberg of Last Call is very friendly, highly knowledgeable and every bait shop we seem to walk into knows him. He is the one to go with if you are trying to decide on a charter captain.
5.0/5
Highly Recommend!! Capt Seaberg of Last Call is very friendly, highly knowledgeable and every bait shop we seem to walk into knows him. He is the one to go with if you are trying to decide on a charter captain.
Timothy N.
Timothy N.
Book this boat for a wonderful fishing trip. These people know what they are doing. Lots fish. Very knowledgeable captain and first mate
5.0/5
Book this boat for a wonderful fishing trip. These people know what they are doing. Lots fish. Very knowledgeable captain and first mate
Roberto S.
Roberto S.
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
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.
Kenneth S.
Kenneth S.
Dress warm and layer. Temperature on the water fluctuates quite a bit with the sun and clouds. Bring a bag with rain gear and an extra layer just in case.
5.0/5
Dress warm and layer. Temperature on the water fluctuates quite a bit with the sun and clouds. Bring a bag with rain gear and an extra layer just in case.
Brian H.
Brian H.
It all depends on the weather, just like anything else, but if the fish are there, you'll get them
5.0/5
It all depends on the weather, just like anything else, but if the fish are there, you'll get them
Andy D.
Andy D.
Definitely take a charter, its worth it. Im sure some of the other charters are good but I can only speak on Hold'em Sportsfishing and highly recommend them!
5.0/5
Definitely take a charter, its worth it. Im sure some of the other charters are good but I can only speak on Hold'em Sportsfishing and highly recommend them!
Adam S.
Adam S.
Early morning Sun Rise was awesome. Can't wait to see that again. The feel of being on the boat and the anticipation of catching fish was worth the expense. We had coho salmon grilled last night and it was so good. The captain will tell you the best ways to cook the fish.
5.0/5
Early morning Sun Rise was awesome. Can't wait to see that again. The feel of being on the boat and the anticipation of catching fish was worth the expense. We had coho salmon grilled last night and it was so good. The captain will tell you the best ways to cook the fish.
Braxton R.
Braxton R.
We had a GREAT time. The weather cooperated as well. THANK YOU for helping us to have a great experience.
5.0/5
We had a GREAT time. The weather cooperated as well. THANK YOU for helping us to have a great experience.
Mari-jo S.
Mari-jo 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.
Samantha S.

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Lake Michigan?

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