About Your Trip
Spend a day floating the scenic rivers of Northern Michigan with Luke and his team, targeting some of the region’s most sought-after freshwater species. With access to multiple river systems between Grand Rapids and Traverse City—including the Pere Marquette, Big Manistee, and Au Sable—you’ll be fishing productive, ever-changing water with a guide who knows how to stay on the bite.
These trips focus on Steelhead, Salmon, and Trout, with chances at Brown Trout, Brook Trout,
and seasonal runs of Chinook and Coho Salmon. Lake Michigan’s Steelhead are a highlight, known for their size and fight, commonly in the 8–10 lb range with the possibility of much larger fish. Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike may also be in play depending on the time of year.
You’ll fish using spinning gear or fly fishing equipment, depending on your preference, with techniques that can include drifting, jigging, and light tackle presentations. These are hands-on trips, and Luke and his team are dedicated to teaching the techniques and helping you understand how to fish these rivers effectively. Landing a Steelhead is no small feat, and the process of learning and improving is a big part of what makes these trips so rewarding.
Full-day trips offer the most complete experience, giving you time to cover miles of water, dial in techniques, and fish a variety of productive areas. You may float quietly downstream in a drift boat or cover more water in a jet boat, depending on the river and conditions. A grilled shore lunch is included, along with snacks and drinks, making it a comfortable and well-rounded day on the water.
Half-day trips provide a similar experience in a shorter window and are a good option for those with limited time. While you’ll still have opportunities to fish productive water, the reduced time means less opportunity to adjust, learn, and cover as much ground compared to a full day.
Trips are run on a small-group basis to keep the experience personal and effective. Drift boats typically accommodate up to 2 anglers, while the jet boat can take up to 3, with additional boats and guides available for larger groups.
All rods, reels, tackle, lures, and fly fishing equipment are provided, and your catch can be cleaned and prepared at the end of the day if you choose to keep fish within regulations.
If you’re looking to explore some of Michigan’s most beautiful rivers while targeting powerful Steelhead and other prized species, these trips offer a hands-on, rewarding experience in a truly scenic setting.
Amenities
Skill Levels
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Tackle
All rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Fish Cleaning
This guide will clean your catch for you.
Beer
Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.
Music
You can play your own bluetooth music.
Live Bait
Live bait is included for this trip.
Location
This guide can be flexible with the departure location.
Weather
You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather
Federal Permit
This boat is federally permitted to go deep offshore.
Kid Friendly
This trip can cater to small children.
Disability Friendly
This trip can accommodate those with disabilities.
Physicality
This trip requires an easy level of physical activity.
Boat Restroom
No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.
Flexible Cancelation
The deposit for this trip is non-refundable.
Lunch
Please provide your own food / snacks.