Damn Good Traverse City Fishing Guides

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Traverse City fishing trips. River, Lake, and Nearshore trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore, Lake Fishing in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Trip

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallie Special

100% (6)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Traverse City

Grand Traverse Bay Fishing Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Thompsonville

Spring Steelhead Slam

100% (4)
14 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Hot Trip
people are viewing this trip.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Elk Rapids

Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure

100% (1)
1 - 6 People From $150
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Frankfort

Crystal Lake Rock Bass Adventures

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $500

Top Types of Trips in Traverse City

Top Species for Fishing in Traverse City

“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

All Target Species in Traverse City

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • 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 Traverse City, Mi

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Thompsonville

Northern Michigan Salmon Fishing

100% (4)
15 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Beulah

Betsie River Guide

100% (2)
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $425
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in South Boardman

Streamer / Spin Trout Fishing

100% (5)
16 ft 1 - 4 People From $395
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Frankfort

Crystal Lake Rock Bass Adventures

100% (2)
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Hot Trip
people are viewing this trip.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing in Elk Rapids

Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure

100% (1)
1 - 6 People From $150
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing in Thompsonville

Spring Steelhead Slam

100% (4)
14 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Traverse City

What are the best fishing trips in Traverse City?

Popular Types of Fishing In Traverse City

Traverse City fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Traverse City include lake fishing, river fishing, and ice fishing.

Lake fishing charters are popular for catching salmon, trout, and walleye. River fishing charters are great for catching steelhead, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Ice fishing charters are perfect for catching perch, bluegill, and crappie.

Traverse City fishing charters often visit landmarks such as the Old Mission Peninsula and the Boardman River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's a Traverse City fishing charter that's perfect for you.

The Best Places To Fish In Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its abundance of lakes and rivers, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Here are some of the best places to fish in Traverse City, whether you're looking to go on a fishing charter or cast your line from shore:

1. Boardman River: This river is known for its trout fishing and is a popular spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.

2. Grand Traverse Bay: This bay is home to a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and bass. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the bay.

3. Long Lake: This lake is known for its walleye and pike fishing, and is a great spot for ice fishing in the winter.

4. Lake Leelanau: This lake is home to a variety of fish, including bass, pike, and walleye. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the lake.

5. Torch Lake: This lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing charters. It's home to a variety of fish, including lake trout, salmon, and bass.

6. Platte River: This river is known for its salmon and steelhead fishing, and is a popular spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.

7. Green Lake: This lake is known for its bass and pike fishing, and is a great spot for ice fishing in the winter.

8. Crystal Lake: This lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing charters. It's home to a variety of fish, including lake trout, salmon, and bass.

Other Things To Do In Traverse City

While Traverse City fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant Michigan city. Take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, where you can visit wineries, orchards, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. For a taste of local culture, check out the Dennos Museum Center, which features exhibits on Native American art and contemporary art. If you're looking for outdoor adventure, head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can hike, bike, or even sandboard down the dunes. And don't forget to indulge in Traverse City's famous cherry pie and other local culinary delights.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Sick trip - badass guide - nuff said

    Nicholas K. | July 26, 2025

    Trip: Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day on the water with Butch. Super friendly, knowledgeable, and put us right on the bass. Caught some fish and learned a few new techniques too. The boat and gear were top-notch, and the whole trip was relaxed and fun.

    Kristin B. | July 5, 2025

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

  • ★★★★★
    Great day!!! Alex is very knowledgeable regarding the river,the species, and VERY skillful boat captain. Personable, pleasant, and patient. Makes a great bowl of split pea and ham soup. Will definitely do this again. Tom Johnson

    Thomas J. | April 14, 2025

    Trip: Spring Steelhead Slam

  • ★★★★★
    Casey is an amazing guide! Very personable, knowledgeable and patient. He taught us the skills we needed to catch fish. It was a spectacular day. I would highly recommend to first timers and experienced alike.

    Brian C. | June 20, 2024

    Trip: Streamer / Spin Trout Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time found fish for us

    Alfred J. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

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