facebook pixel

Damn Good Lake Fishing Guides In Lake Erie

Check real-time availability on Lake Erie lake fishing trips. Online booking | 5 / 5 stars | Guides from $450

Choose a Date
5/5 Average Rating

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Lake Fishing Guides Near Lake Erie

Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Lakeside Marblehead

Lake Fishing Trip in Lakeside Marblehead

Lake Erie Smallies, Walleye, Perch

100% (1)
29 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Port Clinton

Lake Fishing Trip in Port Clinton

Lake Erie Catfish Special

NEW
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $330
Fishing in Lakeside Marblehead

Lake Fishing Trip in Lakeside Marblehead

Lake Erie Walleye Hunt

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $990
Fishing in Avon Lake

Lake Fishing Trip in Avon Lake

Half-Day Lake Erie Hook-Up

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Lorain

Lake, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Lorain

Full Day Walleye Fishing

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Port Clinton

Lake Fishing Trip in Port Clinton

Walleye Trolling Afternoon (PM)

NEW
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000

Most Popular Types of Lake Trips in Lake Erie

Top Species for Lake Fishing in Lake Erie

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Lake Fishing Guides Near Lake Erie

Fishing in Lorain
Fishing in Lorain
Fishing in Lorain
trip description for Walleye Trolling in Lorain

If you've been searching for the Lake Erie Walleye trip of a lifetime, look no further. Captain Keith is a pro when it comes to fishing Lake Erie for these famous gamefish, and he'll make sure that you and yours have a great time and go home with a trophy, a full cooler, or both! In order to maximize your chances of success, Captain Keith follows the fish as they migrate around the lake. In the spring, the fish hang out on the western side of the lake, then move east as the water begins to warm up. In the fall, the fish head back west and eat like crazy as they prepare for the long winter. If you're looking to catch a trophy, spring and fall are the times to do it! On this trip, you'll be using a variety of lures to draw bites. Depending on the time of year, there are a several different techniques to choose from. In the spring, you'll employ diving crank baits that can find Walleye down in the deep, cold water. Towards the middle of the summer, you'll focus on trolling higher in the water column. As the season progresses, you may switch to spoons or other lures depending on what's getting the bite. Captain Keith will make sure to get you set up with the best tackle, no matter the season! Although Walleye arent known as huge fighters, they're widely regarded as some of the best freshwater eating fish out there! When you're fishing with Captain Keith, he'll make sure you head home with a cooler full of dinner. You'll be fishing out there aboard his 27' Sportcraft cuddy cabin, a fast boat that's ideal for trolling, with an enclosed cabin to keep you comfortable all day. She also runs a Crusader 454 inboard engine so you'll be out there in the blink of an eye! You'll be provided with everything you need for a blue-ribbon fishing trip; all you need to bring is proper clothing for the weather, your Ohio fishing licenses, and a good attitude! Captain Keith offers $25 off for kids, First Responders, and military servicemembers and veterans—please let us know if you or one of the members of your group is in this category! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Lorain

Walleye Trolling

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Lewiston
Fishing in Lewiston
Fishing in Lewiston
trip description for Niagara River Fishing Charters in Lewiston

Full day trips are 6 hours. Maximum of 4 Clients to a boat. All rods, reels, bait and tackle are included. Clients must bring a valid New York State fishing license, Proper clothing for weather conditions along with rain gear as well as snacks food and drinks. Like half day trips, All clients must sign a waiver before boarding our vessel. For half-day sportfishing trips, Joe recommends bringing your favorite snacks and drinks and for full-day fishing charters, he suggests lunches along with extra snacks and drinks to keep you full and hydrated throughout the day. Joe is on the water year round and loves to fish the transition between warm water and cold water (or vice versa) when the fish get most active. Target fish species include Bass, Walleye, Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout and Lake Trout. He provides all his Clients with rods, reels, bait, and tackle but you are more than welcome to bring your own gear if you'd like. Each person aboard will be provided with a type 1 life jacket. There are certain times of the year where a life jacket must be worn at all times aboard our boat, especially in the winter. Coldwater fishing is extremely fun but must be done in a safe manner. You'll be fishing from a 2019 Lund 2175 Pro V Limited powered by a 350 horsepower Mercury Verado L6 Supercharged. The Boat Features a beamwidth of 8 feet 6 inches wide and a length of 21 feet 10 inches long. It's capable of speeds up to 65 mph. Lund Boats and Mercury Outboards have been around forever and are time tested and trusted by expert guides all over the United States The boat offers a comfortable ride--and the interior says it all: Beautiful charcoal bow carpet along with detachable sea deck mats that cover an all vinyl floor. Makes cleaning after some very fishy trips an absolute breeze. Walkthrough windshield provides our clients a break from the wind on colder days. Aft and Bow live wells along with a high-pressure wash down station. 4 Pro Ride limited seats. This rig is spacious and stable in even the roughest of water. A valid New York State fishing license is required for any person aboard our boat participating in fishing charters. Guided fishing trips include most of the fishing equipment you will need but there are some things you will be responsible for bringing. New York State Sportfishing License can be purchased online at. You may also want to consider buying a Canadian fishing license in order to fish both sides of the Niagara River as well as Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Fishing charters are year-round, Please dress Sportfishing during our cold season can be very rewarding as long as proper fishing equipment and clothing are used. Water and windproof outerwear is a must, wool socks and insulated waterproof boots will aid in keeping your feet warm and dry. Good quality hat and gloves will help heat loss and the gloves will ensure that you don't lose dexterity in your fingers In the event that you decide to keep some of their catch of the day Joe is more than happy to prep and filet them for you. All he asks is that you bring your own Ziploc bags (preferably gallon-sized) and a cooler with ice in it to keep them cold on your ride home. As a part of sportfishing, Joe tries to practice catch and release, however, clients are welcome to keep fish to enjoy, please consider releasing half your daily limit as a way of giving back to our fishery. Joe has a zero-tolerance drug policy on our boat. No drugs including Marijuana will be allowed aboard our vessel. We understand that Marijuana is legal in New York State but we will on multiple occasions be transiting through Canadian water. Possession in Canadian water is not allowed and puts all on board especially the Guide in jeopardy. Alcohol products are allowed in moderation at the Guide's discretion. Any intoxicated individuals will be asked to leave the vessel. Passengers safety is Guide Joe's first priority Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Lewiston

Niagara River Fishing Charters

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Fishing in Conneaut
Fishing in Conneaut
Fishing in Conneaut
trip description for Lake Erie Classic Walleye Trip in Conneaut

Although Lake Erie isn't the biggest or the deepest of the Great Lakes, it certainly has some of the best fishing, with strong native stocks of Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Perch, and more! On this trip with Captain Jim, you'll focus on hooking Walleye, which are a blast to catch as well as famously good table fare. Walleye love to hit lures right off the bottom, so you'll focus on slow-trolling to draw bites. You'll be using a variety of lures, most of which will imitate small baitfish. Captain Jim will make sure you're ready to go with the best terminal tackle; he's been fishing here for years, and he knows what to throw and where to throw it. Walleye aren't known as great fighting fish, but they're still extremely fun for anglers of all levels. In addition, they often hang out together, so getting multiple "tips down" at the same time isnt uncommon. Captain Jim runs his trips aboard his 30' Cherokee sportfisher, a beautiful vessel that's ideal for families or groups of up to six. She's fast, with twin Chevrolet Crusader engines, and comfortable, with seating and an enclosed cabin area. She also has a nice bathroom, plus all the electronics and gear you could want! Your captain will come prepared with everything you need for an awesome trip. Just bring your fishing licenses, proper clothing, and a cooler for your keepers! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Conneaut

Lake Erie Classic Walleye Trip

NEW
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Lorain
Fishing in Lorain
Fishing in Lorain
trip description for 2-Hour Lake Erie Trip (Evening) in Lorain

This 2-hour trip is perfect for out-of-towners who want to wet a line and catch fish along with the sunset. Your target species is Walleye, the most popular gamefish in Lake Erie, but there's a good chance you'll hook a Channel Cat or a Freshwater Drum as well. You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Moke's 21' Warrior high performance tournament boat. She's packing 350-HP Suzuki engines, so you'll be absolutely flying off the dock and out to the hot fishing spots! Captain Moke will supply everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including all rods, reels, bait and tackle! Just bring a cooler with some snacks and drinks, sunscreen, and proper clothing! This is a very popular option for out of town folks. Let’s go fish. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Lorain

2-Hour Lake Erie Trip (Evening)

NEW
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $650
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Lakeside Marblehead
Fishing in Lakeside Marblehead
Fishing in Lakeside Marblehead
trip description for Late Erie Walleye and Perch in Lakeside Marblehead

Although Lake Erie isn't the biggest or the deepest of the Great Lakes, it certainly has some of the best fishing, with strong native stocks of Walleye and Perch this all times of year! On your trip with Captain Bob, you'll have full access to this rich fishery, and you'll have a blast on either the half-day or the full-day trip option. Here, that means slow-trolling for Walleye, which like to hit lures moving quickly near the bottom, as well as light tackle cast-and-retrieve techniques for Perch. Walleye and Perch are both excellent eating fish, and Captain Bob can have your fish picked up and cleaned for you at the dock. Just bring a cooler so you can take your keepers home. You'll be fishing aboard his 30' SportCraft sportfisher. She's a beauty, and is perfect for the kinds of fishing you'll be doing. She sports a 380-HP inboard engine, so you'll be out there fishing in the blink of an eye, and has a comfortable cabin area with seating to keep you having fun all day. Captain Bob will come prepared with everything you need for an awesome trip! Just make sure to bring proper clothing, your lunch, Ohio fishing licenses, and a smile. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Lakeside Marblehead

Late Erie Walleye And Perch

100% (1)
30 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Cleveland
Fishing in Cleveland
Fishing in Cleveland
trip description for Trophy Walleye Night Bite (Oct-Dec) in Cleveland

If you've been looking for a unique Walleye trip on Lake Erie, this evening trip might just be for you. Captain Mike is an expert when it comes to fishing Lake Erie for trophy Walleye and Steelhead On this trip, we’ll be looking for trophy walleye in the dark and close to shore. This is when the fish are ou top of the water feeding getting ready for winter. This is one of the best fishing on Lake Erie. You'll be fishing at night, when these fish are out and active! You'll be fishing from the deck of Captain Mike's 21' Warrior high performance Multi Species boat 350-HP Suzuki engines, so you'll be absolutely flying off the dock and out to the hot fishing spots! Captain Mike will supply everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including all rods, reels, bait and tackle! Just bring a cooler with some snacks and drinks, sunscreen, and proper clothing! Let’s go fishing! Read More

Lake, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Cleveland

Trophy Walleye Night Bite (Oct-Dec)

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
See All Lake Trips in Lake Erie

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Lake Erie

What are the best lake fishing trips in Lake Erie?

Why should I book a lake fishing trip in Lake Erie with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 38 lake trips in Lake Erie, and the most popular trips in the area are Lake Erie Smallies, Walleye, Perch guided by Robert, Lake Erie Catfish Special guided by Scott, and Cleveland /Lorain Trophy Walleye guided by Michael.

Our guides in Lake Erie are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3308 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.

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

What types of lake fishing trips are common in Lake Erie?

The most commonly sought after species for lake fishing are: 1. walleye, 2. perch, 3. steelhead, 4. smallmouth bass, and 5. channel catfish.

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

How much does a Lake Erie lake fishing trip cost?

Prices for lake fishing in Lake Erie can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,100, but the average price for a half day trip for lake fishing in Lake Erie is $618. The average price for a full day trip for lake fishing in Lake Erie is $827.

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 lake fishing in Lake Erie?

The most popular season for lake fishing in Lake Erie is summer, and most anglers book their trips 117 days in advance.

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

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

What is lake fishing in Lake Erie all about?

Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes of North America, offers anglers an exceptional freshwater fishing experience renowned for its diverse fish populations and scenic beauty. Stretching across four states—Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan—and Ontario, Canada, Lake Erie is famous for its productive fisheries and abundant catches. Anglers visiting Lake Erie can target a wide variety of species, including walleye, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, steelhead trout, and panfish such as bluegill and crappie. The lake's vast expanse and diverse underwater structures, including reefs, drop-offs, and rocky points, provide ample opportunities for different fishing techniques and strategies throughout the year.

Spring and summer are typically the most productive seasons for lake fishing in Lake Erie, when warmer temperatures and seasonal movements stimulate fish activity. Walleye are particularly sought after by anglers for their delicious flesh and strong fights. They are often found in deeper waters near reefs and underwater structures, where anglers troll with harness rigs or cast with jigs and minnows. Smallmouth bass, known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps, are another popular species found along rocky shorelines, points, and shallow flats.

Beyond the fishing excitement, Lake Erie offers anglers breathtaking views of its expansive waters, opportunities to explore historic lighthouses and coastal towns, and chances to enjoy water-based recreational activities such as boating and sailing. Anglers can access Lake Erie from numerous public boat ramps, marinas, and fishing charters available along its shoreline, ensuring convenient access to prime fishing spots and amenities. Whether you're a seasoned angler seeking a thrilling pursuit of trophy fish or a novice looking to enjoy the outdoors, lake fishing in Lake Erie promises an enriching and memorable experience amidst the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region.

What are the most popular months to go lake fishing in Lake Erie?

Lake Erie, one of North America's Great Lakes, offers anglers a diverse and exciting fishing experience throughout the year. Known for its abundance of fish species and expansive waters, Lake Erie provides ample opportunities for both recreational and competitive fishing.

During the cooler months, from December to February, lake fishing on Lake Erie typically focuses on species such as walleye, yellow perch, and steelhead trout. These fish are commonly found in deeper waters near the lake's central basin and around the islands, where they congregate in search of cooler temperatures and food sources. Anglers use a variety of techniques including trolling with deep diving lures, jigging, and drift fishing to target these species during the winter season.

Spring, from March to May, marks the beginning of the prime fishing season on Lake Erie as temperatures rise and fish become more active. This time of year sees the spawning activities of walleye and yellow perch, making it an ideal time for anglers to target larger fish. During the spring months, anglers can also target trophy-sized steelhead trout near tributary streams and river mouths where they migrate to spawn.

Summer, from June to August, offers excellent fishing opportunities on Lake Erie as water temperatures stabilize and fish move into shallower waters. Anglers can target a wide variety of species including bass, walleye, perch, and freshwater drum, which are abundant around rocky reefs, shallow flats, and nearshore structures. This season also provides opportunities for anglers to enjoy fishing from boats, charters, or from the shoreline, taking advantage of the long daylight hours and warmer weather. Whether casting from the rocky shores of the islands or trolling in open waters, Lake Erie offers anglers a year-round fishing experience with diverse fish populations and scenic views to enjoy.

What techniques are popular for lake fishing in Lake Erie?

Lake Erie, one of North America's Great Lakes, offers anglers a vast and varied fishing experience with a rich diversity of species and techniques to explore. One of the most prized catches in Lake Erie is the Walleye, known for its delicious flesh and challenging pursuit. Anglers typically target Walleye using techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or worm harness rigs near drop-offs, reefs, and underwater structures where Walleye congregate to feed. Spring and fall are prime seasons for Walleye fishing, as they move into shallower waters to spawn or feed actively. Understanding seasonal patterns and water temperatures can significantly enhance success rates, making Lake Erie a top destination for Walleye enthusiasts.

Another popular species in Lake Erie is the Yellow Perch, valued for its tasty fillets and abundance in the lake's shallower waters. Anglers often target Yellow Perch using techniques such as drift fishing with small jigs or live bait rigs near weed beds, rocky bottoms, or around submerged structures where Perch school up. Techniques such as vertical jigging or casting and retrieving with small spoons or spinners can also be effective in enticing strikes from these schooling fish. Spring and summer are typically the best times for Yellow Perch fishing when they gather in large numbers to spawn and feed, providing anglers with ample opportunities for a rewarding day on the water.

For those seeking a more exhilarating fishing experience on Lake Erie, targeting Smallmouth Bass can provide an exciting challenge. Smallmouth Bass are known for their acrobatic leaps and strong fight, making them a favorite among sport fishermen. Anglers often use techniques such as casting and retrieving with crankbaits, jigs, or soft plastic baits near rocky shorelines, reefs, and drop-offs where Smallmouth Bass hunt for prey. Early mornings and evenings are prime times for Smallmouth Bass fishing, as they are more active during low-light periods. Understanding their behavior and habitat preferences can increase the likelihood of landing a trophy Smallmouth Bass, adding to the thrill of fishing on Lake Erie's expansive waters.

What species are popular for lake fishing in Lake Erie?

Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes of North America, offers anglers a wealth of fishing opportunities with a diverse range of species to target in its expansive waters. One of the primary catches in Lake Erie is the walleye. Known for their tasty, flaky flesh and excellent fighting ability, walleye are highly sought after by anglers. These predatory fish can be found in various depths throughout the lake, often congregating near rocky reefs, drop-offs, and underwater structures. Anglers commonly use techniques such as trolling with crankbaits or spinner rigs, jigging with spoons or soft plastics, and drifting with live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows to entice walleye. They provide thrilling battles and are a staple catch for anglers exploring the vast waters of Lake Erie.

Another popular species to pursue in Lake Erie is the yellow perch. These panfish are known for their delicate, sweet meat and are a favorite target among anglers looking to fill their cooler. Yellow perch can be found in large schools near the lake's shallow waters, especially during the spring and fall spawning seasons. Anglers often use small jigs or live minnows fished near the bottom to target yellow perch effectively. They provide fun and rewarding fishing opportunities, particularly for families and beginners exploring the abundant fishery of Lake Erie.

In addition to walleye and yellow perch, anglers lake fishing in Lake Erie may also encounter species such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and various types of trout and salmon. Smallmouth bass, known for their aggressive strikes and aerial acrobatics, inhabit rocky shorelines and can be targeted using techniques such as casting with crankbaits or fishing with live bait such as crayfish. Largemouth bass, although less common in the open waters of Lake Erie, can be found near submerged vegetation and structure, offering anglers opportunities for a mix of species in this dynamic and productive freshwater fishery.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    My son and I and 4 other friends had a blast on our full day excursion with Capt. Alex Zelinko. He was a wonderful Captain, kind courteous, informative and fun. I would highly recommend Captain Alex Zelinko and Captain Experiences to anyone looking for an enjoyable day of fishing. Thank you Alex. Dave Vachon.

    David R. with Tom U. of Lorain, Ohio

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent trip

    Kyle W. with Robert H. of Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio

  • ★★★★★
    Larry was a great guide - put us on top of lots of Walleye. We got our 30 fish limit in 4 hours. The boat - Walleye Magnet - was awesome and perfectly set up to catch tons of keepers.

    Brandon M. with Tom U. of Lorain, Ohio

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Joe was the best! And he knows how to get on them BIGS!!!

    Jaxon H. with Joseph S. of Lewiston, New York

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing experience. Capt Sean was very knowledgeable of the area and knew where the fish were. We are looking forward to our next trip already.

    Adam H. with Sean S. of Lorain, Ohio

  • ★★★★★
    Sean was a fantastic guide. He's very personable and we had great conversation in addition to catching a lot of fish! His boat was clean and spacious, I'll definitely be booking him again.

    Josh H. with Sean S. of Lorain, Ohio

  • ★★★★★
    Our captian was great. Very knowledgeable and explained what was going on since it was our first time on a charter. Really came in the clutch to get us near our limit at the end. I would recommend these guys and I will be booking again.

    Eldon L. with Alex Z. of Lorain, Ohio

Other Types of Fishing in Lake Erie

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

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

See All Lake Trips in Lake Erie