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Channel Lake Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability on 13 Channel Lake fishing trips. Online booking | 5 / 5 stars | Guides from $604

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides Near Channel Lake, Il

Fishing in Channel Lake

Lake Fishing Trip in Channel Lake

Fox Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing

NEW
1 - 3 People $
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Fishing Trip in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 8 Hour Trip

NEW
39 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Fishing Trip in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan Lunkers!

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Kenosha

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Lake Michigan Magic

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Kenosha

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Weekend Salmon Run

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Waukegan

Lake Fishing Trip in Waukegan

Weekday Special - 36' Trojan

NEW
36 ft 1 - 3 People $

Most Popular Types of Trips in Channel Lake

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More Fishing Guides Near Channel Lake, Il

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Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
trip description for Kenosha Salmon Hookfest in Kenosha

If you've been looking for some truly epic sportfishing on Lake Michigan, then this trip has your name on it! For some reason, many people don't know about the fantastic fishing that the Great Lakes have to offer—leaving more big fish for you. Captain Shane has decades of experience fishing out of Kenosha, WI, and will definitely put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast. On this trip, you'll be chasing big King Salmon, Cohos, and Lake Trout on trolling gear. These fish love to whack fast-moving baits and lures, and you can expect wild fights once a trophy fish is on the line. Captain Shane is full of expert advice and tips to improve your fishing, so you'll leave this trip a better angler than when you went out. He's also happy to clean and bag your keepers once you return to the dock, so you can take home a cooler's worth of excellent table fare. Salmon and Trout are delicious eating fish, whether you opt to toss them on the grill, sear them on the stovetop, or even try them fresh as sushi. Ask Captain Shane for his favorite recipes! You'll be fishing aboard his 33' Tiara sportfisher, a beautiful and comfortable boat that's ideal for fishing the lake. She sports twin Crusader engines with a total of 700 horsepower, and is kitted out with electronics and gear to maximize your fishing. She also features a full cabin in case of inclement weather, or just to keep you out of the sun. This vessel is truly a fishing machine, and has everything you need for an awesome trip. Captain Shane will supply all the necessary gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. The only things you need to bring are some sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a pair of sunglasses to cut the glare. Captain Shane is here to catch fish, and sometimes that requires going further off shore. If you opt to go out further, there may be an additional fuel surcharge. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Kenosha Salmon Hookfest

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
trip description for Weekday Salmon Run in Kenosha

Take a trip out with Captain Tim and experience the great freshwater fishing that Lake Michigan has to offer! Lake Michigan is the third-largest of the Great Lakes and the fifth-largest lake in the world, with just over 22,000 square miles of surface area. It's loaded with fish, including fantastic sportfish species such as Steelhead, King Salmon (also known as Chinooks), Coho Salmon, and Lake Trout—all of which you can target on this trip with Captain Tim. On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling lines to attract big Salmon and Steelhead, which love to take fast-moving baits and lures. When these powerful fish hit the hook, you'll feel it! Salmon are great fighters that will really test your strength, stamina, and skills—so bring your A-game! You'll also have the opportunity to drop your lines down to hook up some massive Lake Trout, which prefer the deeper, colder parts of the Lake. In addition to their fighting abilities, all of these species are terrific table fare! Whatever you're hoping to catch, Captain Tim is an expert when it comes to finding, hooking, and fighting fish in these waters. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 33' Trojan sportfisher. She's a beautiful boat with all the equipment necessary for a great day of fishing, including twin Crusader 350-HP engines and a cabin to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the fall. Your captain will bring everything you need for an ideal trip, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Tim will also clean and package all your keepers at the end of the trip. All you need to bring is a Wisconsin fishing license with the appropriate stamps, a cooler with snacks and drinks, proper clothing, sunscreen, and a smile! Get out there and enjoy the clear, cool waters of Lake Michigan with Captain Tim! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Weekday Salmon Run

NEW
35 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Waukegan
Fishing in Waukegan
Fishing in Waukegan
trip description for Epic Salmon and Trout Trip in Waukegan

Did you know that the Great Lakes are home to some of the biggest freshwater Salmon and Trout in the world? These huge fish are famously delicious, but they’re also fun to catch for anglers of all experience levels. Get out on the water with Captain Jim for a family fish-whacking adventure! You can spend either a half or full day casting lines with up to 6 of your family and friends, and come home with an amazing meal to boot. Captain Jim’s 36’ Trojan sportfisher has a spacious deck and twin diesel engines with a total of 660 horsepower. The vessel cuts smoothly through the waters of the lake, so you should be trolling with the utmost comfort. Once your reel starts screaming, you better be prepared for battle! If you successfully pull in a monster, you can store it in the icebox so it stays fresh during the remainder of your voyage. Back at the dock, Captain Jim will clean and bag your catch, so you have a tasty dinner that night. Captain Jim provides all the equipment needed for a successful day of fishing, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. If you are bringing any younger anglers, Captain Jim will bring lifejackets for them. You should bring food and drinks so you don’t get cranky throughout the day, and appropriate clothing. Other than that, Captain Jim has got you covered! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Waukegan

Epic Salmon And Trout Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
trip description for Lake Michigan Angler's Delight in Kenosha

Experience the ultimate fishing adventure on a half-day charter out of Kenosha, Wisconsin! Join us for an exciting journey where both novices and experienced anglers can reel in an impressive catch. We offer two trips daily, a 5 AM trip and an 11 AM trip, ensuring flexibility to fit your schedule. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable fishing experience as we take you out on Lake Michigan's abundant waters. Our expert team will guide you to the best fishing spots, where you'll have the opportunity to catch a variety of salmon and trout. Using a combination of light and heavy-duty equipment, we employ the highly effective technique of slow trolling. Cast your line, feel the anticipation, and get ready to battle with some of the most prized fish in the area. Our method ensures that you have a high chance of success in landing that trophy salmon or trout. The picturesque surroundings of Kenosha, Wisconsin provide the perfect backdrop for your fishing expedition. As you glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan, take in the stunning shoreline and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking to bond with family and friends or seeking a solo adventure, our fishing charter caters to all. We provide top-notch fishing gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle, ensuring you have everything you need for an exceptional fishing experience. Don't miss your chance to be part of an exciting angling adventure in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Book your half-day fishing charter today, choosing between our early morning 5 AM trip or our mid-morning 11 AM trip. Get ready to slow troll, catch salmon and trout, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Lake Michigan Angler's Delight

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor
trip description for Lake Michigan 4 Hour Twilight in Winthrop Harbor

Head out with Josh and prepare for an action-packed evening of Great Lake fishing with a beautiful sunset view! The massive Lake Michigan is a perfect to place to get the vast experience of ocean fishing while targeting freshwater Salmon and Trout! On this 4-hour sunset trip, Travis will take you into the Lake Michigan waters where you'll be going after Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon. Josh will take you trolling the open waters to attract these picture-worthy fish. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your guide take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Josh will provide all rods, reels and tackle, and will provide live bait for an additional cost. All you need to bring is sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothing, an Illinois fishing license with a Salmon stamp, any snacks or drinks you might need, and a cooler to store your catches. Josh will happily clean any keepers for an additional fee. Book your trip today and come home with some tasty fish! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 4 Hour Twilight

NEW
39 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
Fishing in Kenosha
trip description for Kings, Coho, & Big Ol' Lake Trout in Kenosha

Take a trip with Captain Chris and experience the great fishing that Lake Michigan has to offer! Lake Michigan is the third-largest of the Great Lakes and the fifth-largest lake in the world, with just over 22,000 square miles of surface area. It's loaded with fish, including famous sportfish species such as King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Lake Trout—all of which you can target on this trip with Captain Chris. On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling lines to attract big Salmon, which love to hit fast-moving baits and lures. When these powerful fish take the hook, you'll feel it! Once that rod is in your hands, bring your A-game, because these fish fight hard. You'll also have the opportunity to drop your lines deeper to hook up some massive Lake Trout, which prefer the deeper, colder parts of the Lake. Whatever you're hoping to catch, Captain Chris is an expert in finding, hooking, and fighting fish in these waters. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 32' Coastal WellCraft sportfisher. She's a beautiful boat with all the equipment necessary for a great day of fishing, including a climate-controlled cabin to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the fall. Your captain will bring everything you need for an ideal trip, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Chris and his crew will also clean and package all your keepers at the end of the trip. All you need to bring is a Wisconsin fishing license with the appropriate stamps, a cooler with snacks and drinks, proper clothing, sunscreen, and a smile! Get out there and enjoy the clear, cool waters of Lake Michigan with Captain Chris! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Kings, Coho, & Big Ol' Lake Trout

100% (1)
32 ft 1 - 6 People $$
See All Trips in Channel Lake

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Channel Lake

What are the best fishing trips in Channel Lake?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 13 trip in Channel Lake: Fox Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing guided by Trevor.

Our guides in Channel Lake are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2585 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a charter include Kenosha, Winthrop Harbor and Waukegan.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Channel Lake? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Channel Lake.

What types of fishing trips are common in Channel Lake?

Lake fishing is the most popular in Channel Lake.

The most commonly sought after species in Channel Lake are: 1. chinook salmon, 2. lake trout, 3. coho salmon, and 4. brown trout.

The most common fishing techniques in Channel Lake are trolling, light tackle fishing, and artificial lure fishing but bottom fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Channel Lake fishing trip cost?

in Channel Lake prices can range anywhere from about $604 to $1,070, but the average price for a half day trip in Channel Lake is $659. The average price for a full day trip in Channel Lake is $886.

What month is best for fishing in Channel Lake?

The most popular season for fishing in Channel Lake is fall, and most anglers book their trips 47 days in advance.

Do I need a Channel Lake fishing license and what are the bag limits in Channel Lake?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Channel Lake, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Channel Lake. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Channel Lake.

What is fishing in Channel Lake all about?

Fishing in Channel Lake, Illinois, offers anglers a serene and rewarding experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Chain O'Lakes region. Situated in Lake County, Channel Lake is part of a chain of interconnected lakes and waterways renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can explore Channel Lake's expansive waters, casting their lines for a variety of freshwater species. Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, northern pike, and walleye are among the popular catches that lure anglers to these tranquil waters throughout the year.

Channel Lake's diverse habitats provide anglers with a range of fishing experiences, from casting along rocky shorelines and weed beds to trolling in deeper waters. During the warmer months, bass fishing is particularly productive, with anglers targeting these prized gamefish amidst the lake's submerged structures and weed beds. Anglers can also enjoy panfishing for bluegill and crappie, using light tackle and live bait to entice bites from these abundant species.

For those seeking a different angling adventure, Channel Lake is also a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. When the lake freezes over, anglers can venture onto the ice to target species such as bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. Ice fishing provides a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of winter while enjoying the thrill of the catch. With its scenic beauty and abundance of fishing opportunities, Channel Lake stands as a premier destination for anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing experience in northern Illinois.

What are the most popular months to fish in Channel Lake?

Fishing seasons in Channel Lake, Illinois, offer anglers a dynamic and ever-changing array of opportunities throughout the year. Spring heralds the start of the prime fishing season, as warming temperatures trigger increased activity among many freshwater species. Anglers can expect to find largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike moving into shallower waters to spawn, providing exciting opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to reel in some impressive catches.

Summer brings its own excitement to the fishing scene on Channel Lake, with longer days and warmer waters creating ideal conditions for a variety of species. Bass fishing remains productive during the summer months, with anglers targeting these prized gamefish amidst the lake's submerged structures and weed beds. Panfishing for bluegill and crappie also continues to be popular, with anglers enjoying the simplicity and accessibility of fishing from the shore or boat.

As the temperatures begin to cool in the fall, fishing on Channel Lake reaches a crescendo of excitement. The arrival of cooler weather triggers a surge in activity among many freshwater species, providing anglers with ample opportunities to pursue their favorite catches. Whether casting lines from the shore or boat, anglers can enjoy the thrill of fishing amidst the stunning natural beauty of Channel Lake's scenic shoreline. With its rich biodiversity and diverse fishing opportunities, Channel Lake offers anglers an unforgettable fishing experience year-round.

What types of fishing are popular in Channel Lake?

In Channel Lake, Illinois, anglers have the opportunity to engage in a variety of fishing techniques, each offering its own unique experience and challenges. One popular method is casting from the shore or boat, targeting species such as largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Anglers can use a variety of artificial lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics, to entice strikes from these prized gamefish amidst the lake's submerged structures and weed beds.

Another popular fishing technique in Channel Lake is panfishing, which involves targeting species such as bluegill and crappie. Panfish are abundant in the lake and can be caught using a variety of methods, including bait fishing with live bait or artificial lures, as well as fly fishing. Anglers can enjoy the simplicity and accessibility of panfishing, often using light tackle and finesse techniques to entice bites from these popular freshwater species.

For those seeking a different angling adventure, Channel Lake also offers opportunities for trolling. Anglers can troll along the lake's deeper waters, targeting species such as walleye and northern pike. Trolling allows anglers to cover a larger area of water and explore different depths, increasing their chances of encountering active fish. Whether casting from the shore, boat, or trolling along the lake's surface, anglers in Channel Lake can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences amidst the scenic beauty of northern Illinois.

What species are popular in Channel Lake?

Channel Lake, Illinois, offers anglers a variety of fishing species to target throughout the year, making it a popular destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts. One of the most sought-after catches in Channel Lake is the largemouth bass, prized for its aggressive strikes and strong fighting ability. Anglers can target bass using a variety of techniques, including casting artificial lures, live bait, or fly fishing. With its abundance of submerged structures, weed beds, and shallow flats, Channel Lake provides ideal habitat for bass, offering anglers plenty of opportunities to reel in some impressive catches.

In addition to bass, Channel Lake is home to a variety of other freshwater species, including northern pike, walleye, bluegill, and crappie. Northern pike are known for their voracious appetite and powerful strikes, making them a thrilling catch for anglers of all levels. Walleye, with their sharp teeth and elusive nature, present an exciting challenge for anglers to pursue. Meanwhile, bluegill and crappie offer excellent panfishing opportunities, with anglers enjoying the simplicity and accessibility of targeting these popular freshwater species from the shore or boat.

Whether casting from the shore, boat, or trolling along the lake's surface, anglers in Channel Lake can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences amidst the scenic beauty of northern Illinois. With its rich diversity of fishing species and abundant opportunities for anglers to pursue their favorite catches, Channel Lake stands as a premier destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable fishing experience.

What are the best places to fish in Channel Lake?

Channel Lake, Illinois, offers anglers a variety of prime fishing spots to explore, each with its own unique characteristics and opportunities. One standout location is the northwestern shoreline of the lake, which features a mix of submerged structures, weed beds, and shallow flats that provide ideal habitat for bass, northern pike, and panfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or explore the area by boat, enjoying the tranquility of the lake while pursuing their favorite catches.

Another popular fishing spot in Channel Lake is the southern end of the lake near the dam and spillway. This area is known for its deeper waters and strong currents, which create ideal conditions for targeting species such as walleye and northern pike. Anglers can fish from the shore or boat, using a variety of techniques to entice strikes from these prized gamefish amidst the lake's submerged structures and rocky shoreline.

Additionally, the central portion of Channel Lake offers excellent opportunities for panfishing, with abundant populations of bluegill and crappie. Anglers can explore the lake's shallower waters and weed beds, casting their lines with light tackle and finesse techniques to entice bites from these popular freshwater species. Whether fishing from the shore, boat, or trolling along the lake's surface, anglers in Channel Lake can enjoy a diverse range of fishing experiences amidst the scenic beauty of northern Illinois.

Other things to do in Channel Lake

In addition to fishing, Channel Lake, Illinois, offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy during their visit. Nature enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding area by hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking in nearby parks and nature reserves. Chain O'Lakes State Park, located just a short drive from Channel Lake, boasts miles of trails winding through forests, wetlands, and along the shoreline, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of the region.

For those interested in water-based activities, Channel Lake and the surrounding Chain O'Lakes offer opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Visitors can rent watercraft from local outfitters and spend the day exploring the interconnected waterways, discovering hidden coves, and enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the Chain O'Lakes region. Additionally, the lake's calm waters provide an ideal setting for swimming, paddleboarding, and other water sports during the warmer months.

History buffs will appreciate the chance to learn about the area's rich cultural heritage by visiting local museums, historic sites, and landmarks. Nearby attractions such as the Volo Auto Museum and the Fox River Trolley Museum offer opportunities to explore vintage automobiles, trains, and other historic artifacts, providing a glimpse into the region's past. With its diverse range of activities and attractions, Channel Lake offers something for everyone to enjoy beyond the waters of the lake.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Chris did a great job rescheduling and made the trip fun. We all had a great time and we will enjoy grilling the trout and salmon tonight and talk about the fishing. Thank you!!!

    Ron B. with Chris R. of Kenosha, Wisconsin

  • ★★★★★
    Absolutely fantastic trip with Shane. He explained everything we needed to know and set expectations before the trip and was easy to find when we got there. Super knowledgable, patient, and fun, his boat was clean and he was extremely efficient. Learned a lot, got on some major trout and salmon action, and had a blast. Looking forward to the next time we can get out there with him!

    Shawna S. with Shane L. of Kenosha, Wisconsin

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