My adult son and I enjoyed an outing with Captain Butch Derickson on July 29, 2025.  Weather conditions were not optimal, but we caught a reasonable number of spirited smallmouth bass.  Most importantly, Butch explained why we fished with specific techniques at specific locations so that we might have an opportunity to try again on our own.  Butch is quite personable and we enjoyed talking with him about a variety of topics in addition to fishing.

Capt. Butch was great! Very knowledgeable on where to find the fish, techniques to be used and taught us a lot! I do a lot of charters and the captain taught me an my nephew a lot about fishing in Traverse Bay! Great trip for younger anglers as well! Lots of action and spotting the fish in the clear waters will keep them occupied and attentive. I highly recommend this trip!!! I will be doing it again!

Fishing conditions were a bit tough after a big storm rolled through over night, but Butch still put my on my new personal best and cought 5 or 6 others that were over 3 lbs.  Great fully equipped bass boat with all the bells and whistles. Also had a good time chatting with Butch and the sightseeing from the lake was almost worth the price of the trip by itself

On the day of our trip the weather was less than perfect, but our capt. was very prompt and had us catching fish quickly. The boat was well kept and was equipped with the latest hardware and fishing gear. I Definitely would recommend to anyone looking for a good fishing guide.

Capt. Butch put me on the fish and was as professional as could be.  I would highly recommend him for any future fishing trip!!!  He was prompt and provided tips!!!  I caught my PB with a 6lb donkey!!!