Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Charters
Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Charters
Top Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Destinations
Top Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Destinations
Best Chinook Salmon Fishing Charters in Wisconsin
Best Chinook Salmon Fishing Charters in Wisconsin
Chinook Salmon Fishing in Wisconsin
Chinook Salmon Fishing in Wisconsin
- Size 10-50 lbs
- Food Value Excellent
- Game Qualities Good
- Habitats Inshore, Lake, River, Nearshore
(Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
For freshwater anglers who are always craving fast fishing action, the Salmon fishing Wisconsin has to offer is just what the doctor ordered. The Badger State is every angler’s dream, with over 15,000 lakes to explore and two Great Lakes right at its doorstep.
About 25% of Wisconsinites fish regularly and over half a million non-resident anglers visit the state every year in search of their next trophy catch. If you’re an avid Salmon chaser looking for the next destination to explore, then Wisconsin has more fishing grounds than you can explore in a lifetime.
What to Catch
Up until the late '60s, Salmon didn’t exist in Wisconsin. That’s until the Department of Natural Resources introduced Coho (Silver) and Chinook (King) Salmon to the Great Lakes. This was a win-win decision, because it helped control the alewife population (a species of bait fish) and it set the grounds for an outstanding new sport fishery.
Coho Salmon came to the lakes in 1968, and Chinook followed one year later. Thanks to their taste in alewives, these silvery fighters thrive to this day in different bodies of water all over the state and they’re one of the locals' favorite catches.
When to Go
The best time to go Salmon fishing in Wisconsin depends on the body of water where you decide to cast your line. Summer months are usually the most productive ones, so May, June, and July are great times to hit the water.
In late July, Salmon are getting ready to spawn, which means that they’re voracious and come in formidable sizes. As fall rolls around, Salmon from the coastal areas are migrating into the lakes and tributaries, and at the same time, local Salmon hit the rivers and streams to spawn.
September is the best month to catch massive Chinook, and October still offers great Chinook fishing. Because the Salmon’s migration upstream is limited due to many dams, they congregate in large numbers in smaller bodies of water and come closer to land. This is great news for shore anglers, who can target them in the shallow waters and from the piers.
The Salmon bite is excellent when it's overcast and visibility is reduced. If you get on the water before sunrise and cast your line as the sun comes out, you’ve got a good chance of reeling in a good-sized catch.
Where to Go
Whether you’d like to hunt your Salmon in the Great Lakes or on the rivers and tributary streams, you’re in for an unforgettable day on the water.
Lake Michigan and Lake Superior are premier fisheries that offer a wide range of freshwater species, and Salmon is at the very top of that list. Spend a summer day going after the King and Silver Salmon on either of these lakes, and chances are, you’ll have constant action on the rod.
The Root River in Racine County is famous for its top-notch Salmon bite, especially in the fall months, when the fish head upstream for spawning. The Pike River in Kenosha County also has a lot of Salmon to offer, despite its name. Milwaukee River and Menomonee Rivers hide the best bite in the Milwaukee County, and if you’re in Sheboygan County, test your line in the Sheboygan River, you won’t be disappointed.
What to Expect
One thing you can certainly expect when fishing in Wisconsin is fast and furious angling action. You can hook Chinook and Coho Salmon in various sizes during the season. They can weigh from 2–20+ pounds, and even 30 or 40 lb lunkers are in the cards during the fall months.
Because Salmon usually dwell in deeper water (except when on their way to the spawning grounds), trolling is the best way to tempt them. During the spring, you’ll find them in the top 30 feet of water, and this is where you should be trolling with a variety of spoons and flies.
If you don’t have a lot of experience on these waters, Wisconsin Salmon fishing charters are there to take you out. Local captains make it their business to pursue Salmon and find the best bite, and you can find half day fishing trips in the $500–$700 price range.
If you want more time on the water, full day expeditions in the $900–$1,100 ballpark are available. The more time you have on the boat, the greater the chances of catching your new personal record, and in this case it could be a 40 lb Wisconsin Salmon.
How to Prepare
The Salmon fishing Wisconsin is known for doesn’t need much preparation on your part, and that’s what makes it convenient and exciting. Bear in mind that Salmon runs are seasonal here, so ask your captain about the best time to go out.
You’ll need a valid Wisconsin fishing license with a two-day Trout and Salmon stamp, which you can buy in tackle shops. The weather can be fickle, so if you’re fishing in September or October, make sure to bring rain gear and dress in layers. After that, there’s only the matter of drinks and food, and your Salmon extravaganza can begin!
Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Seasons
Wisconsin Chinook Salmon Fishing Seasons
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Seasonality
Chinook Salmon fishing in Wisconsin varies moderately throughout the year. High season is April to June. Low season is January to March and September to December. There is no closed season.
Wisconsin
4.5
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5
Based on 27,959 reviews by FishingBooker anglers
What anglers said about Chinook Salmon Fishing in Wisconsin
What anglers said about Chinook Salmon Fishing in Wisconsin
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.
4.7
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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.
If you want quantity concider between 7-15 through 8/20 and hopefully calmer lake and better temperatures it was in the 90s when I went
5.0
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5
If you want quantity concider between 7-15 through 8/20 and hopefully calmer lake and better temperatures it was in the 90s when I went
Robert B.
Downers Grove, IL
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.
5.0
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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.
South Wayne, WI
Use Feelin Fishy guide service. Capt. Jeff will teach you what you need to know.
5.0
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5
Use Feelin Fishy guide service. Capt. Jeff will teach you what you need to know.
Craig J.
Wilton, IA
Book with northern Lights Adventures...captain Sean !
Savannah very efficient and friendly and helpful!
5.0
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5
Book with northern Lights Adventures...captain Sean !
Savannah very efficient and friendly and helpful!
TOM N JO Nelson
Three Lakes, WI
Bring a rain outfit because fishing in the rain is no fun without rain gear. Dave had an extra outfit for me, so I was dry and warm. If it is sunny bring sunscreen!
5.0
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5
Bring a rain outfit because fishing in the rain is no fun without rain gear. Dave had an extra outfit for me, so I was dry and warm. If it is sunny bring sunscreen!
Stephen S.
La Quinta, CA
Yes, I would highly recommend it. This was me and my buddies's first time Great Lake fishing. We had a great time and caught great fish is both size and quantity.
5.0
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5
Yes, I would highly recommend it. This was me and my buddies's first time Great Lake fishing. We had a great time and caught great fish is both size and quantity.
Paul H.
Frankfort, IL
Go with Top Notch charters! You will not regret it and you will have excellent memories!!
5.0
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5
Go with Top Notch charters! You will not regret it and you will have excellent memories!!
Tom S.
Westport, WI
Remember to get the correct fishing license to allow for catching Lake Salmon and Trout before you go out. Printed licenses can be obtained at The Wharf bait shop near the piers on the river in sheboygan with a Drivers License and SS#. Also, children under a certain age dont need a license.
5.0
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5
Remember to get the correct fishing license to allow for catching Lake Salmon and Trout before you go out. Printed licenses can be obtained at The Wharf bait shop near the piers on the river in sheboygan with a Drivers License and SS#. Also, children under a certain age dont need a license.
Brian H.
Madison, Wisconsin
This was our first time fishing on Superior. I've been to Alaska, I've been to fly in outposts in Canada... Those were Guys' trips.... This was a family friendly outing. I caught lake trout. That was my ambition. Mission accomplished.
Thanks Tim!
5.0
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5
This was our first time fishing on Superior. I've been to Alaska, I've been to fly in outposts in Canada... Those were Guys' trips.... This was a family friendly outing. I caught lake trout. That was my ambition. Mission accomplished.
Thanks Tim!
Jeremy K.
Fargo, ND
Absolutely! They were patient and were prepared to work with my husband who had gone fishing and with me who was a first timer.
5.0
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5
Absolutely! They were patient and were prepared to work with my husband who had gone fishing and with me who was a first timer.
Cory D.
Cazenovia, WI
My fishing trip in Sheboygan was a great experiance. The captain and first mate done every thing possable to catch fish. Top of the line experince.
5.0
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5
My fishing trip in Sheboygan was a great experiance. The captain and first mate done every thing possable to catch fish. Top of the line experince.
Larry L.
Sidney, NE
Keep your dates flexible so that if the weather is bad youโve got an alternative opportunity to wait for the waters to calm.
5.0
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5
Keep your dates flexible so that if the weather is bad youโve got an alternative opportunity to wait for the waters to calm.
Mary E.
Saint Paul, Minnesota
fishing was real steady first hour and a half. then slowed down for 2 hours. then caught our 2 biggest kings at the end of our trip. it was what the captain said it would be . great exp
5.0
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5
fishing was real steady first hour and a half. then slowed down for 2 hours. then caught our 2 biggest kings at the end of our trip. it was what the captain said it would be . great exp
Brian H.
Stevens Point, WI
If you get sea sick take pills. The "lake" can be rough!! Use their expertise!! Enjoy!!
5.0
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5
If you get sea sick take pills. The "lake" can be rough!! Use their expertise!! Enjoy!!
Martine P.
Weyauwega, WI
It's best to fish in Spring or Fall. And early morning or afternoon.
We fished in the middle of the summer, and the middle of the day. We would have caught more fish if we had followed the best fishing times above.
5.0
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5
It's best to fish in Spring or Fall. And early morning or afternoon.
We fished in the middle of the summer, and the middle of the day. We would have caught more fish if we had followed the best fishing times above.
Mike M.
Lincoln, NE
The boat and crew were great. The fishing was a bit slow. We managed to land 3 fish and had a few get away. All-in-all it was a good half day on the lake and my guests enjoyed the experience. I would use them again.
4.7
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5
The boat and crew were great. The fishing was a bit slow. We managed to land 3 fish and had a few get away. All-in-all it was a good half day on the lake and my guests enjoyed the experience. I would use them again.
Andrew A.
Racine, WI
Enjoy the big water. Ask questions and get involved with the equipment. The more you know the better the experience!
5.0
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5
Enjoy the big water. Ask questions and get involved with the equipment. The more you know the better the experience!
Justin K.
Virginia, Minnesota
Schoonerโs Pub, great food, good prices. Take some time to enjoy the harbor walks.
5.0
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5
Schoonerโs Pub, great food, good prices. Take some time to enjoy the harbor walks.
Dawn C.
Newnan, Georgia
Top Notch is a great charter to take if you haven't fished Sheboygan before. Over 20 years of experience. A single vessel and not a fleet! Gives you a more personalized experience of what true fishing is!
5.0
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5
Top Notch is a great charter to take if you haven't fished Sheboygan before. Over 20 years of experience. A single vessel and not a fleet! Gives you a more personalized experience of what true fishing is!
Tyler G.
Sheboygan, WI