NOMI Fishing Charters 

If you’re looking to catch salmon... NoMi Fishing Charters is the move. Dude’s like the salmon whisperer or something..he knows where they hang out, what they’re eating, probably knows their moms’ names too. We hopped on his boat and it was smooth sailing the whole way. Clean, comfortable, and he had everything dialed in. You don’t feel like you signed up with some corporate gig, you feel like you’re out with a buddy who just happens to know the Great Lakes like the back of his hand. He’ll set you up and before you know it you’re pulling in a salmon that looks like it’s been lifting weights all winter. They say the Dogman haunts Northern Michigan, but after seeing Captain Pilarski's fishing expertise, I think the real legend’s on the boat.

If you’re anywhere near northern Michigan, stop what you’re doing and book this trip – you won’t regret it! Our day with Captain Pilarski on his boat “Big Red”, was nothing short of unforgettable. From the moment we left the dock, the water was calm, the views of East Bay were stunning, and the excitement was through the roof. We were into fish in no time – hard-fighting king salmon that tested every muscle, and big, beautiful lake trout that had us grinning ear to ear. The captain knew exactly where to go, reading the water and working the gear like a pro. If you want a bucket-list-worthy fishing experience in Traverse City, hit up Capt Pilarski right away! Would recommend and will go fishing again.

Man this guy must have the worlds best fish whistle… we’ve been able to go out on the water with Ethan and the NoMi Fishing crew multiple times now. Each trip has been nothing short of fun and full of fish… lakers, coho, and kings have been the majority of our trips but these guys know how to find whatever’s in season! We had Ethan as a Captain and he knew everything about the local fishing scene being a lifelong resident of Traverse City which made for an experience better than any other charter we’ve ever used in the area. The boat was safe and comfortable for us every time out on the water, which is huge for me as I can’t swim… Ethan made me feel like I was in caring hands and showed me how to use the whistle just in case! We’ve caught fish each time we’re out with NoMi, but even if we didn’t catch anything the experience would’ve been worth the trip! We will be back using NoMi Fishing Charters every chance we get! Can’t recommend them enough.

In spite of the heat we had a good time tonight. Ethan worked hard and was diligent. In result we did get some fish!! If ever again we make the trip up to Tranverse I would for sure look up and book with him again. It was evident that he truly enjoys fishing!!

Captain Ethan is hands down one of the best charter captains around! Born and raised in Northern Michigan, he knows these waters inside and out and always finds the fish—we landed 5 big king salmon on our trip! What really sets him apart is how personable and patient he is with people of all ages. Instead of just doing everything for you, he takes the time to teach and make sure you actually get the full experience of fishing. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does and wants everyone on board to have a great time. Couldn’t recommend him enough!