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Damn Good Lake Michigan Fishing Guides

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

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In Lake Michigan

Fishing in Benton Harbor

Lake Fishing Trip in Benton Harbor

Salmon & Trout Fishing

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36 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
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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 Waukegan

Lake Fishing Trip in Waukegan

Salmon & Trout Fishing

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36 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Grand Haven

Lake Fishing Trip in Grand Haven

Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $675
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Fishing Trip in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan Lunkers!

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36 ft 1 - 6 People From $850
Fishing in Kenosha

Lake Fishing Trip in Kenosha

Kenosha Salmon Hookfest

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $875
Fishing in Holland

Lake Fishing Trip in Holland

Michigan Salmon Action

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30 ft 1 - 6 People From $750

Top Types of Trips in Lake Michigan

“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

Lake Fishing Guides In Lake Michigan

Fishing in Ludington

Lake Fishing Trip in Ludington

Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

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

Lake Fishing Trip in Grand Haven

Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $675
Fishing in Spring Arbor

Lake, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Spring Arbor

Michigan Sportfishing Special

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

Lake Fishing Trip in Algoma

Cohos, Kings, And Lake Trout Trip

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33 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Waukegan

Lake Fishing Trip in Waukegan

Epic Salmon And Trout Trip

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36 ft 1 - 6 People From $650
Fishing in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Fishing Trip in Winthrop Harbor

Lake Michigan 8 Hour Trip

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39 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200

More Fishing Guides In Lake Michigan

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 From $620
Fishing in Manistee
Fishing in Manistee
Fishing in Manistee
trip description for Manistee Salmon Slammin' in Manistee

Take a trip out with Captain George 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 a top freshwater sportfishing destination, but with so much water and low-to-moderate fishing pressure, there's no better place to bag a big one! On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling to attract big Salmon, which love to whack 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! In addition, Salmon are excellent table far, whether you choose to throw them on the grill, pan-sear the fillets, or even try them raw as sushi! Ask Captai George for his favorite recipe, and he'll point you in the right direction. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 21' Ranger bay boat. She's kitted out with all the equipment necessary for a great day of fishing, including twin Mercury Verado 300-HP engines and a covered console to keep you out of the sun when you're not actively fishing. Your captain will bring everything you need for an ideal trip, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. George will also clean and package all your keepers at the end of the trip. All you need to bring is a 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 George! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Manistee

Manistee Salmon Slammin'

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
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 From $650
Fishing in Holland
Fishing in Holland
Fishing in Holland
trip description for Lake Michigan Salmon and Trout Trip in Holland

Get out there 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. If you've ever wanted to fight big freshwater gamefish, this trip has your name on it. You'll primarily be trolling lines to attract big Salmon and Steelhead, which love to hit fast-moving baits and lures. Salmon and Trout are great fighters that will really test your strength, stamina, and skills—so come ready! In addition to their fighting abilities, all of these species are terrific table fare, and Captain Tim is happy to clean them for you. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 33' Wellcraft sportfisher. She's a beautiful boat with all the equipment necessary for a great day of fishing, including twin Yamaha 330-HP engines and a comfortable 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. All you need to bring is a Michigan 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 Holland

Lake Michigan Salmon And Trout Trip

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in St. Joseph
Fishing in St. Joseph
Fishing in St. Joseph
trip description for Lake Michigan with Captain Jerry in St. Joseph

Experience the thrill of reeling in monster salmon and trout on Lake Michigan's pristine waters! Join Captain Jerry aboard his luxurious 36-foot Tiara Sportfisher for an unforgettable fishing expedition. Enjoy top-of-the-line equipment, expert guidance, and stunning views as you embark on a fishing adventure of a lifetime. Book your spot now and create lasting memories on this ultimate angling getaway! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in St. Joseph

Lake Michigan With Captain Jerry

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36 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Muskegon
Fishing in Muskegon
Fishing in Muskegon
trip description for Muskegon Salmon Adventure in Muskegon

If you've been looking for a premier sportfishing trip on Lake Michigan, you're in the right place. This epic Salmon and Trout trip with Captain Chad is ideal for any angler, whether you're aiming for a new personal best, hoping to fill your cooler with keepers, or all of the above! Many people don't know that the Great Lakes are home to some of the biggest, baddest freshwater sportfish in the USA. The stocks include Chinook (King) Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, and Steelhead, all of which are powerful fighters and excellent table fare. You'll hunt these fish using a variety of baits and lures on trolling gear. All of the Salmonids—the family that includes Salmon and Trout—love to hit fast-moving targets, and when one of these fish takes the hook, you'll feel it! Salmon and Trout both have fast runs and big jumps, so these fights are nothing short of spectacular! Once your reel starts screaming, you better be ready! After you 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 Chad will clean and bag your catch, so you can take home a delicious dinner. Captain Chad's 36’ Tiara has a spacious deck and twin Crusader engines with a total of 700 horsepower to get you out there fast. This vessel is built to cut smoothly through choppy lakewater, so you should be trolling with the utmost comfort. She also features a full kit of electronics, a comfortable cabin, live wells for bait, and coolers for your keepers. Captain Chad provides all the equipment needed for a successful day of fishing, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. You should bring food and drinks so you don’t get worn-out, plus appropriate clothing, some sunglasses, and sunscreen. Other than that, Captain Chad has got you covered! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Muskegon

Muskegon Salmon Adventure

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $695
See All Trips in Lake Michigan

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Lake Michigan

What are the best fishing trips in Lake Michigan?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 25 trips in Lake Michigan, and the most popular trips in the area are Salmon & Trout Fishing guided by Jeremee, Salmon & Trout fishing guided by Jim, and Lake Michigan Angler's Delight guided by Frank.

Our guides in Lake Michigan are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3507 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 Lake Michigan? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Lake Michigan.

What types of fishing trips are common in Lake Michigan?

Lake fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Lake Michigan as well as nearshore fishing.

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

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

How much does a Lake Michigan fishing trip cost?

Prices in Lake Michigan can range anywhere from about $677 to $1,100, but the average price for a half day trip in Lake Michigan is $756. The average price for a full day trip in Lake Michigan is $948.

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 Lake Michigan?

The most popular season for fishing in Lake Michigan is fall, and most anglers book their trips 62 days in advance.

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

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

Lake Michigan Fishing Overview

The sixth largest lake in the world and the largest sport fishery of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is a fishing experience like no other. You won't want to miss out on the action here. This vast northern fishery provides world-class fishing opportunities that don't exist anywhere else. Whether fishing from a boat or through a hole in the ice, big fish are always biting.

Lake Michigan is home to a long list of cold water game fish. The popular target species include steelhead, coho salmon, perch, chinook salmon, rainbow trout, lake trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye. The style of fishing can vary dramatically depending on season and target species but trolling, jigging, and live bait are the most popular. The fish in Lake Michigan grow large and are formidable fighters with exception of walleye.

The sheer size of Lake Michigan can be intimidating, and every local will have their own spots. Your best chance to get some action is by heading out with a local who knows their stuff. Not only can the lake be tough to navigate, but the weather on the lake can be unpredictable, and a guide will help make sure you are safe for the duration of your time on the water.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Mate Jeremy and Captain Issac were an awesome team. My son, grandson and I caught 9 fish....7 kings and 2 rainbows. Biggest king was 41.5 inches long. Great trip!!

    Skip T. | July 17, 2023

    Trip: Lake Michigan Charter Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    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

Top Targeted Fishing Species in Lake Michigan

Top Fishing Techniques in Lake Michigan

Top Types of Fishing in Lake Michigan

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:

See All Trips in Lake Michigan