My husband and I did the “Lake Trout Charter Half Day $700” on Capt Bryce Watson’s Fishful Thinking in St. Joseph, MI.  We are locals to St. Joseph and this was the perfect end to our “staycation.”  The boat was easy to find as it was one of the first slips in Brian’s Marina and had a big sign.  We brought with us a cooler with ice, some snacks, and our $10/day fishing licenses.  Capt Bryce provided everything else including tackle and equipment!  Capt Bryce was clear before we left that, for the evening tour, it was going to be “boring” for the first few hours until the sun starts to set and the fish come up to eat.  We left around 4:30pm, but we reeled in our first king salmon around 6:30pm.  We had two on and lost them in the next hour, then ended up finishing 6 for 8 by 9:30pm with 5 king Salmon & 1 coho.  Capt Bryce would have stayed out on the water all night to help us get our 5 per person limit, but he accommodated us by returning when we asked (even though the fish finder was LIT UP at 9:45pm!)  We were impressed with his knowledge and experience to find the “4 year old screamers” and were glad for the occasional small coho to give my weak arms a break from reeling in the big Kings!  I’ve done sockeye salmon fishing in Alaska, and this was more private, fun, and challenging without the travel!  Both Capt Bryce & first mate Bill were very professional and helpful.  They cleaned the fish for us and we took it home on ice in ziplock bags. We returned home just after 11pm.  If I were to do it again, I would probably choose the morning tour & have four people.

Captain Bryce and his first mate are passionate about fishing.  They know their stuff and have patience with rookie anglers.  Off the bat we caught 3 king salmon and had a huge one on the hook. Unfortunately he got away after fighting me for 3 minutes.  In hindsight, I’m confident if I had handed the rod over to them, they would have reeled it in, but they worked with me and wanted me to have the fun.  The moment they heard the reals they jumped on it with us.  Captain Bryce’s equipment is excellent, and the boat was immaculately clean. Would definitely recommend this charter.

I highly recommend Captain Bryce. We caught a ton of King Salmon, Steel Heads and a trout. While other charters caught 3 or 4 fish we caught 15. Captain Bryce and his crew were great with kids - they were very patient and answered all their questions. Afterwards they dressed the fish and we were able to take a ton home. If you want a great trip book with Captain Bryce.

We had a party of four with varying fishing experience and had a really wonderful experience catching trout and salmon.  The captain and mate were both experienced and knowledgable, and put us on some great fish.  I charter frequently (2+ times a month) and would highly recommend them without reservation.

Bryce is top notch and you should book Fishful Thinking if you’re considering a St. Joe charter. He is knowledgeable about the waters, the fish, the equipment and made our experience exceed all of our expectations. Great guy, angler and the trip was worth every penny.