Damn Good Waukegan Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Waukegan fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Waukegan, Il

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Waukegan

Salmon & Trout Fishing Waukegan

100% (2)
38 ft 1 - 12 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Waukegan

Weekday Special - 36' Trojan

NEW
36 ft 1 - 3 People From $720
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Waukegan

Epic Salmon And Trout Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Waukegan

Weekend Fishing Trip

NEW
34 ft 1 - 5 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 6 Hour Trip

100% (3)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,200
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan Lunkers!

100% (2)
36 ft 1 - 12 People From $900

Top Types of Trips in Waukegan

What makes Captain Experiences Damn Good?

Damn Good Guides

You will only find quality, vetted guides on Captain Experiences, and we know them all on a first-name basis.

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

Our US-based team is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns.

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

We want to keep everyone safe, so if the weather is bad we'll work with you to reschedule at no cost.

100% Weather Guarantee

4.9 / 5 Average Rating

We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans across North America and beyond.

4.9 / 5 Average Rating

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we've handpicked every single one. We're passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Top Species for Fishing in Waukegan

All Target Species in Waukegan

  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Fishing Guides In Waukegan, Il

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 4 Hour Twilight

100% (3)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 8 Hour Trip

100% (3)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

8 Hour Lake Trout Extravaganza!!!

100% (3)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,600
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Kenosha

Kenosha Salmon Hookfest

100% (3)
40 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Lake Fishing in Kenosha

Weekend Salmon Run

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $780
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Kenosha

Ultimate Salmon Fishing Experience

100% (2)
36 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,200

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Waukegan

What are the best fishing trips in Waukegan?

The best fishing trips in Waukegan are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in Waukegan with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 20 trips in Waukegan, and the most popular trips in the area are Salmon & Trout Fishing Waukegan guided by Jim, Weekday Special - 36' Trojan guided by Jim, and Epic Salmon And Trout Trip guided by Jim.

Our guides in Waukegan are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 8293 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are 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.

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

What types of fishing trips are common in Waukegan?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Waukegan as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Waukegan are: 1. chinook salmon, 2. coho salmon, 3. lake trout, 4. brown trout, and 5. steelhead.

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

How much does a Waukegan fishing trip cost?

Prices in Waukegan can range anywhere from about $800 to $2,600, but the average price for a half day trip in Waukegan is $1,280. The average price for a full day trip in Waukegan is $1,890.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Waukegan?

The most popular season for fishing in Waukegan is summer, and most anglers book their trips 43 days in advance.

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

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

Popular Types of Fishing In Waukegan

Waukegan fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of charters include half-day and full-day trips, as well as private and group charters.

For those looking to catch salmon and trout, the most popular option is a Lake Michigan charter. These charters typically depart from the Waukegan Harbor and visit landmarks such as the Waukegan South Pier and the Waukegan Lighthouse.

If you're interested in catching bass and other freshwater fish, a charter on the nearby Fox River may be more your speed. These charters often depart from the Waukegan Marina and visit landmarks such as the Bowen Park Dam and the Waukegan Riverwalk.

No matter which type of Waukegan fishing charter you choose, you're likely to catch a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, bass, perch, and walleye. So grab your gear and get ready for a day of adventure on the water!

The Best Places To Fish In Waukegan

Waukegan, Illinois is a great destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its proximity to Lake Michigan, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Here are some of the best places to fish in Waukegan, Illinois:

1. Waukegan Harbor: This is a popular spot for fishing charters, as it offers easy access to Lake Michigan and a variety of fish species.

2. North Point Marina: Another great spot for fishing charters, North Point Marina offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including salmon, trout, and perch.

3. Bowen Park: This park offers a peaceful setting for fishing, with a pond stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish.

4. Waukegan Beach: This is a great spot for shore fishing, with opportunities to catch salmon, trout, and perch.

5. Glen Flora Country Club: This private club offers fishing opportunities for members, with a stocked pond and access to the Des Plaines River.

Whether you're looking for a fishing charter or a peaceful spot to cast your line, Waukegan, Illinois has plenty of options for anglers of all levels.

Other Things To Do In Waukegan

While Waukegan fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant city. Take a stroll through the Waukegan History Museum to learn about the city's rich past, or explore the stunning Bowen Park and its beautiful gardens. For a fun day out with the family, head to Six Flags Great America amusement park or the Jump America trampoline park. If you're looking for a cultural experience, catch a show at the Genesee Theatre or visit the Jack Benny Center for the Arts. And don't forget to indulge in some delicious local cuisine at one of Waukegan's many restaurants.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Jim did a great job of finding fish and landing them It was great trip Thank you Capt Jim

    Wayne A. | May 19, 2026

    Trip: Salmon & Trout Fishing Waukegan

  • ★★★★★
    Our ice fishing experience with Trevor was nothing short of incredible. From the moment we stepped onto the ice, he was unbelievable with my kids—patient, fun, and completely dialed in to keeping them engaged. He told great stories, taught them about fishing in a way they could understand, and somehow managed to keep everyone warm and smiling the entire time. Trevor’s knowledge was obvious, but what really stood out was his kindness and the way he made the entire experience feel effortless and enjoyable. It felt less like a guided trip and more like spending the day with someone who genuinely loves what he does and wants your family to love it too. I would recommend Trevor to absolutely anyone looking for an unforgettable ice fishing adventure. Five stars doesn’t even begin to cover it!

    Nicolette C. | February 2, 2026

    Trip: Ice Fishing Illinois - Walleye

  • ★★★★★
    Trevor was super knowledgeable and friendly. It was just a few of us so we got to try a couple spots. We were traveling so we didn’t keep any of the fish we caught but had a great time.

    Jodi K. | February 8, 2025

    Trip: Fox Chain O' Lakes Ice Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | August 12, 2023

    Trip: Kings, Coho, & Big Ol' Lake Trout

  • ★★★★★
    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. | September 20, 2022

    Trip: Kenosha Salmon Hookfest

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Top Targeted Fishing Species in Waukegan

Top Types of Fishing in Waukegan

Last updated: July 15, 2026

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