Captain
Casey Richarson

Member since May 2021 Traverse City, United States
Background
I have been fishing my whole life. In 2016 I made it my career. I take pride and creating an unforgettable experience every time I'm on the water. I started Fishing as a young boy on my grandfather's dock on derby lake in Stanton, Michigan. I fished throughout my whole adult life. In 2013 I was in a Vehicle fire that nearly killed me. With all the newfound time on my hands healing, I found fly tying and immersed myself in the world of flyfishing. With countless hours on the water and time on the vice. I decided to make this my career as I got back on my feet. After nine years of guiding I absolutely love what I do! There's no better therapy than the water. I'm passionate about sharing my story and the healing powers of nature that surround us.
Techniques
Fly fishing and spin gear

Hey, I'm Captain Casey Richarson

Traverse City, United States
Background
I have been fishing my whole life. In 2016 I made it my career. I take pride and creating an unforgettable experience every time I'm on the water. I started Fishing as a young boy on my grandfather's dock on derby lake in Stanton, Michigan. I fished throughout my whole adult life. In 2013 I was in a Vehicle fire that nearly killed me. With all the newfound time on my hands healing, I found fly tying and immersed myself in the world of flyfishing. With countless hours on the water and time on the vice. I decided to make this my career as I got back on my feet. After nine years of guiding I absolutely love what I do! There's no better therapy than the water. I'm passionate about sharing my story and the healing powers of nature that surround us.
Techniques
Fly fishing and spin gear
Anglers Choice
Verified

My Charter Listing

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Angler's choice
Traverse City
 2 bookings in the past week.
 Instant Confirmation
Trips from US $375

Fishing Reports

Big browns top water
Big browns top water
May 21, 2024 Traverse City
**Fishing Report: Mouse Fishing for Brown Trout on the Manistee River** The Manistee River is heating up as we enter the prime season for mouse fishing, with brown trout becoming increasingly active. This method, renowned for its excitement and accessibility, doesn't demand expert-level skills—just the ability to stay up through the night and a willingness to embrace the adventure. **Equipment:** For the best experience, gear up with top-tier equipment. A sturdy 9-foot, 5 to 7 weight rod paired with a reliable reel and a smooth drag system will handle these aggressive fish perfectly. Use floating lines designed for mousing and leaders around 0X to 2X to ensure strength without sacrificing stealth. High-quality mouse patterns, such as the Moorish Mouse or the Mr. Hankey, mimic the movement of a small rodent skimming across the water's surface, irresistible to hungry browns. **Current Conditions:** Fishing is starting to peak on the Manistee River. The warmer nights have triggered the brown trout's predatory instincts, leading to explosive surface strikes. The river is in excellent condition, with water levels and clarity ideal for night fishing. As darkness falls, the magic begins. Casts near undercut banks, fallen trees, and deeper pools yield the best results. **Tips for Success:** 1. ****Fishing Report: Mouse Fishing for Brown Trout on the Manistee River** The Manistee River is heating up as we enter the prime season for mouse fishing, with brown trout becoming increasingly active. This method, renowned for its excitement and accessibility, doesn't demand expert-level skills—just the ability to stay up through the night and a willingness to embrace the adventure. **Equipment:** For the best experience, gear up with top-tier equipment. A sturdy 9-foot, 5 to 7 weight rod paired with a reliable reel and a smooth drag system will handle these aggressive fish perfectly. Use floating lines designed for mousing and leaders around 0X to 2X to ensure strength without sacrificing stealth. High-quality mouse patterns, such as the Moorish Mouse or the Mr. Hankey, mimic the movement of a small rodent skimming across the water's surface, irresistible to hungry browns. **Current Conditions:** Fishing is starting to peak on the Manistee River. The warmer nights have triggered the brown trout's predatory instincts, leading to explosive surface strikes. The river is in excellent condition, with water levels and clarity ideal for night fishing. As darkness falls, the magic begins. Casts near undercut banks, fallen trees, and deeper pools yield the best results. Now is the perfect time to experience the thrill of mouse fishing on the Manistee River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to this technique, the excitement of a brown trout crashing through the surface to take your mouse fly is unparalleled. Get your finest gear ready, embrace the night, and enjoy what is shaping up to be the best fishing of the year. -Casey
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Customer reviews

Rating summary
Excellent
5.0 / 5
out of 5 stars from 17 reviews
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Photos & videos by reviewers (7)
Fun and attentive
Awesome experience
What a great day! Captain Casey is a pro.  Highly recommend!
+4
Angler rating
17
0
0
0
0
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Appropriate for children
75%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Caught fish
65%
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Showing:
5 of 17 reviews
Mia M.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Fun and attentive

VERIFIED   NEW  Trout Fishing Fly/Gear-Full Day on July 22, 2025
Casey was beyond patient. Both of us were complete beginners and messed up every cast that we tried but Cacey patiently and...
Mia M. recommends Northern Michigan Guided Fishing
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Jason H.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Super knowledgeable and personable guide

VERIFIED   Night Fishing For Trout on August 3, 2024
Casey was exceptional, and very accommodating and patient. I was a total fly fishing newbie. Had never caught anything on a...
Jason H. recommends Northern Michigan Guided Fishing
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Mike R.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Outstanding guide

VERIFIED   NEW  Trout Fishing Fly/Gear-Half Day on July 12, 2025
Casey was an outstanding guide!  Extremely competent, personable and patient regardless of the conditions.  Great for beginners...
Mike R. recommends Northern Michigan Guided Fishing
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Lisa O.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Great trip

VERIFIED   NEW  Trout Fishing Fly/Gear-Half Day on July 10, 2025
Casey was the best fishing guide you could ask for. he has extensive knowledge of the area lakes and knows the river like the...
Lisa O. recommends Northern Michigan Guided Fishing
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Julie M.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Experience:
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Crew
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Overall

Awesome experience

VERIFIED   NEW  Pan Fishing-Half Day on July 19, 2025
I took my 14 year old grandson on the pan fishing trip. Casey was the perfect captain. Definitely recommend!
Julie M. recommends Northern Michigan Guided Fishing
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