Damn Good Traverse City Fishing Guides

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

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Destin
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Lake Fishing Trip in Traverse City

Grand Traverse Bay Fishing Trip

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1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallie Special

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21 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore, Lake Fishing Charter in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Trip

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21 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon Slammin'

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21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

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16 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon And Steelhead

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31 ft 1 - 6 People From $800

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

Target Species in Traverse City

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  • 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)

Lake Fishing Guides In Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon Slam

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31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore, Lake Fishing Charter in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Trip

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21 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Lake Houghton Ice Fishing

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1 Person From $425
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallie Special

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

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

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43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip in Traverse City

Grand Traverse Bay Fishing Trip

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1 - 5 People From $500

River Fishing Guides In Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Betsie River Guide

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15 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

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16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $350
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Michigan Salmon Drift Fishing

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15 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Spring Steelhead Slam

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1 - 2 People From $550

More Fishing Guides In Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

100% (2)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure

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

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Spring Steelhead Slam

NEW
1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon Slam

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Lake Houghton Ice Fishing

NEW
1 Person From $425
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Traverse City

What are the best fishing trips in Traverse City?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 10 trips in Traverse City, and the most popular trips in the area are Grand Traverse Bay Fishing Trip guided by Tyler, Traverse city smallmouth bass trip guided by Owen, and Traverse City Smallie Special guided by Butch.

Our guides in Traverse City are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3807 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 Traverse City? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Traverse City.

What types of fishing trips are common in Traverse City?

Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Traverse City as well as river fishing and nearshore fishing.

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

The most common fishing techniques in Traverse City are artificial lure fishing, light tackle fishing, and trolling but fly fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Traverse City fishing trip cost?

Prices in Traverse City can range anywhere from about $400 to $970, but the average price for a half day trip in Traverse City is $542. The average price for a full day trip in Traverse City is $719.

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 Traverse City?

The most popular season for fishing in Traverse City is fall, and most anglers book their trips 69 days in advance.

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

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

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing time Amazing captain Amazing fishing

    Jennifer V. | October 13, 2024

    Trip: Manistee Salmon and Steelhead

  • ★★★★★
    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: Michigan Streamer/spin Trout Fishing

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

    Alfred J. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

  • ★★★★★
    Casey was an awesome guide!

    Rodney A. | August 29, 2023

    Trip: Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    My daughter and I had a great time fishing with Butch. She had never caught a smallmouth before. Not only did she catch more than me she caught the biggest (4.40 lbs). Weather wasn't ideal with slick water and overcast most of the time but he still managed to put on some good fish. Our best 5 went a little over 16.5lbs. Was a good trip and I would recommend Butch as he has a lot of guide/tournament experience in the area. We went in the West Bay out of Traverse City.

    Terry K. | July 23, 2023

    Trip: Traverse City Smallie Special

How are fishing conditions in Traverse City?

View Traverse City Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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