Damn Good Guides
Experts Available 24/7
100% Weather Guarantee
Recently Booked Lake Fishing Guides In Wisconsin
Top Cities for Lake Fishing in Wisconsin
Top Types of Lake Trips in Wisconsin
Top Species for Lake Fishing in Wisconsin
“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
More Lake Fishing Guides In Wisconsin
Experience the ultimate fishing adventure on a half-day charter out of Kenosha, Wisconsin! Join us for an exciting journey where both novices and experienced anglers can reel in an impressive catch. We offer two trips daily, a 5 AM trip and an 11 AM trip, ensuring flexibility to fit your schedule. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable fishing experience as we take you out on Lake Michigan's abundant waters. Our expert team will guide you to the best fishing spots, where you'll have the opportunity to catch a variety of salmon and trout. Using a combination of light and heavy-duty equipment, we employ the highly effective technique of slow trolling. Cast your line, feel the anticipation, and get ready to battle with some of the most prized fish in the area. Our method ensures that you have a high chance of success in landing that trophy salmon or trout. The picturesque surroundings of Kenosha, Wisconsin provide the perfect backdrop for your fishing expedition. As you glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan, take in the stunning shoreline and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking to bond with family and friends or seeking a solo adventure, our fishing charter caters to all. We provide top-notch fishing gear, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle, ensuring you have everything you need for an exceptional fishing experience. Don't miss your chance to be part of an exciting angling adventure in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Book your half-day fishing charter today, choosing between our early morning 5 AM trip or our mid-morning 11 AM trip. Get ready to slow troll, catch salmon and trout, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Read More
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
Take a trip with Captain Chris and experience the great 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 famous sportfish species such as King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Lake Trout—all of which you can target on this trip with Captain Chris. On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling lines to attract big Salmon, which love to hit fast-moving baits and lures. When these powerful fish take the hook, you'll feel it! Once that rod is in your hands, bring your A-game, because these fish fight hard. You'll also have the opportunity to drop your lines deeper to hook up some massive Lake Trout, which prefer the deeper, colder parts of the Lake. Whatever you're hoping to catch, Captain Chris is an expert in finding, hooking, and fighting fish in these waters. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 32' Coastal WellCraft sportfisher. She's a beautiful boat with all the equipment necessary for a great day of fishing, including a climate-controlled 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. Chris and his crew 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 Chris! Read More
On this big-time trip out of Algoma, WI, you'll be exploring the amazing waters of Lake Michigan on a 33' 30 Open, equipped with all the latest equipment and gear that will quickly and safely get you on the fish. You'll be targeting the premier Lake Michigan species: Lake Trout, Steelhead, and King and Coho Salmon. These species are all members of the Salmonid family, and are voracious predators of small baitfish. In order to "get bit" you'll be running trolling gear with baits and lures, both of which are great at drawing in hungry Salmon and Trout. Without any predators in these waters, these fish can get huge, even breaking the 30-pound mark (the record is over 40 pounds!). When a monster takes your hook, strap in for a battle—these fish are known for their ferocious fighting abilities, which can feature big runs and even water-clearing jumps. Any catches you would like to take home can be cleaned and filleted by the Captain when you get back on the dock! Everything you need will be waiting for you, including all the rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Just bring proper clothing, some sunglasses and sunscreen, and your fishing licenses! Read More
If you've been looking for another great way to enjoy Lake Michigan in the summer, this trip with Captain Rob is for you! 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 famous sportfish species such as Steelhead, King Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Lake Trout—all of which you can target on this trip. These fish are a blast to catch and are even better to cook up with friends and family! Rob captains a 32' Wellcraft sportfisher. She can comfortably fit up to 6 fishermen, so call some buddies for this trip! She's powered by twin 385-HP Mercruiser engines, so you'll be on the fish in a hurry. With trolling equipment, a GPS navigation system, and fishfinder, Rob's sportfisher is perfect for hooking big fish and haulin' em' in! As an added bonus, the onboard bathroom will keep in you in the action for the entirety of the trip. Captain Rob provides you with all the rods and tackle you will need, but be sure to have your fishing license upon arrival. Be sure to dress accordingly with some rain gear, hat, and sunglasses so you can stay comfortable on the water. The only other thing you'll need is an ice chest to take home your fresh catch! Read More
Experience the thrill of reeling in trophy salmon and trout on Lake Michigan with Captain Frank and Harley's Half Day Fishing Trips! Our expert team is dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable angling adventure. Choose from our early morning 5 AM trip or our mid-morning 11 AM trip and embark on a half-day journey across the majestic waters of Lake Michigan. Captain Frank and Harley, seasoned professionals with years of experience, will guide you to the best fishing spots where the salmon and trout are abundant. Our unique slow trolling technique combines light and heavy-duty equipment to optimize your chances of landing that prize catch. Nothing beats the anticipation while waiting for the strike of a powerful salmon or trout as you take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding you – from the stunning shoreline to the endless blue horizon. Lake Michigan is known for its exceptional fishing opportunities, and our trips ensure you make the most of it. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, our team will provide all the necessary fishing equipment, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle, so you can focus on the thrill of the catch. Join us on our 5 AM trip to witness the sunrise over the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan, or opt for the 11 AM trip to enjoy the mid-morning serenity. Whether you're seeking a memorable outing with family and friends or a solo adventure to test your skills, Captain Frank and Harley's Half Day Fishing Trips are tailored to meet your needs. Book your half-day fishing trip with Captain Frank and Harley today, and get ready for an unforgettable experience that combines angling expertise, stunning scenery, and the thrill of landing trophy salmon and trout. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories on Lake Michigan's pristine waters. Read More
Need a Place to Stay?
Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in Wisconsin
What are the best lake fishing trips in Wisconsin?
The best lake fishing trips in Wisconsin are:
Why should I book a lake fishing trip in Wisconsin with Captain Experiences?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 14 lake trips in Wisconsin, and the most popular trips in the area are Wallhanger Musky Guide Trips guided by Josh, 1/2 Day Musky Fishing guided by Clayton, and Kenosha Salmon Hookfest guided by Shane.
Our guides in Wisconsin are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3487 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 lake guides / fishing lessons in Wisconsin? Check out our beginner and family friendly lake guides in Wisconsin.
What types of lake fishing trips are common in Wisconsin?
The most commonly sought after species for lake fishing are: 1. lake trout, 2. chinook salmon, 3. coho salmon, 4. brown trout, and 5. muskie.
The most common fishing techniques in Wisconsin are trolling, artificial lure fishing, and light tackle fishing but live bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.
How much does a Wisconsin lake fishing trip cost?
Prices for lake fishing in Wisconsin can range anywhere from about $425 to $1,013, but the average price for a half day trip for lake fishing in Wisconsin is $538. The average price for a full day trip for lake fishing in Wisconsin is $860.
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 Wisconsin?
The most popular season for lake fishing in Wisconsin is summer, and most anglers book their trips 64 days in advance.
Do I need a Wisconsin fishing license and what are the bag limits in Wisconsin?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Wisconsin, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Wisconsin. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Wisconsin.
What is lake fishing in Wisconsin all about?
Lake fishing in Wisconsin offers anglers a picturesque and rewarding experience amidst the state's abundant freshwater lakes. Wisconsin is home to over 15,000 lakes, ranging from small, secluded ponds to expansive bodies of water like Lake Winnebago and Lake Michigan. One of the most popular pursuits among anglers is fishing for walleye, a prized species known for its delicious flesh and challenging behavior. Lakes such as Lake Winnebago and Green Bay are renowned for their walleye populations, drawing anglers who use techniques such as trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live bait or artificial lures, and drifting along drop-offs and weed beds where walleye often gather.
Smallmouth bass are another highly sought-after species in Wisconsin's lakes, prized for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. Lakes like Lake Michigan and the northern inland lakes provide excellent habitat for smallmouth bass, where anglers target them using techniques such as casting with topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics around rocky shorelines, points, and submerged structures. Smallmouth bass fishing peaks in the summer and early fall when these fish are most active and can be found in shallow waters feeding voraciously.
Wisconsin's lakes also offer opportunities for anglers to pursue panfish such as bluegill, crappie, and perch. These species provide enjoyable fishing experiences year-round, particularly in the spring and early summer when they move into shallow waters to spawn. Anglers use light tackle and techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait, small jigs, or flies to target panfish around weed beds, docks, and submerged vegetation. Panfish are known for their abundance and cooperative nature, making them ideal targets for anglers of all ages and skill levels looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water. Overall, lake fishing in Wisconsin provides a diverse range of fishing opportunities and experiences, ensuring anglers can find success and satisfaction with each outing.
What are the most popular months to go lake fishing in Wisconsin?
Lake fishing seasons in Wisconsin offer anglers a dynamic and rewarding experience throughout the year, influenced by the changing seasons and behaviors of various fish species. In the spring, as temperatures rise and ice melts, many lakes in Wisconsin come alive with activity from spawning fish such as walleye, northern pike, and panfish. Anglers eagerly await the opening of the fishing season to target these species, using techniques such as jigging with live bait or casting with artificial lures near shallow spawning grounds and emerging vegetation. Spring fishing in Wisconsin's lakes can be particularly productive as fish become more active after the winter months.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, influencing fishing patterns in Wisconsin's lakes. Species like largemouth bass and smallmouth bass become more active as they move into shallow waters to feed and spawn. Anglers often target bass using topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics around submerged structures such as weed beds, fallen trees, and rocky shorelines. Panfish such as bluegill and crappie also remain active during the summer months, providing opportunities for anglers to enjoy consistent action using light tackle and techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait.
As fall approaches, lake fishing in Wisconsin enters a prime season for a variety of species, especially walleye and muskellunge. These predatory fish become more active as they prepare for winter, feeding voraciously to store energy. Anglers often target walleye using trolling techniques with crankbaits or live bait rigs along drop-offs and deep channels, while muskellunge enthusiasts use large, flashy lures and techniques like figure-eight retrieves near weed edges and rocky points. Fall fishing in Wisconsin's lakes offers some of the best opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish, making it a favorite time for many anglers seeking big catches and memorable experiences on the water. Overall, each season in Wisconsin's lake fishing calendar provides unique opportunities to pursue a variety of fish species, ensuring anglers can enjoy the sport year-round.
What techniques are popular for lake fishing in Wisconsin?
Lake fishing in Wisconsin offers anglers a diverse range of types and techniques to pursue a variety of freshwater fish species found in its numerous lakes. One popular method is trolling, which involves using a boat to slowly pull fishing lines through the water equipped with lures or bait rigs. Trolling is effective for targeting species like walleye and lake trout, particularly in larger bodies of water such as Lake Winnebago and Lake Michigan. Anglers adjust trolling speed and depth to match the behavior and preferences of the fish, making it a versatile technique for covering expansive areas of water.
Another favored technique for lake fishing in Wisconsin is jigging, which is particularly effective for catching species such as walleye, northern pike, and panfish. Jigging involves using a weighted lure, known as a jig, that is jerked up and down in the water to mimic the movements of prey. This technique is commonly used around submerged structures, weed beds, and drop-offs where fish congregate to feed. Anglers can vary the size and color of the jig based on water clarity and fish activity, allowing for precise targeting of specific species.
Additionally, casting with artificial lures is a popular and versatile approach for lake fishing in Wisconsin. Anglers use a variety of lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics to mimic the appearance and movements of baitfish, insects, or other prey. This technique is effective for targeting species like bass, muskellunge, and panfish, especially around shoreline structures, points, and submerged vegetation. Anglers adjust their retrieval speed and presentation style based on the behavior of the fish and prevailing conditions, making casting a dynamic and engaging method for lake fishing enthusiasts. Overall, lake fishing in Wisconsin offers anglers a wealth of techniques to explore, ensuring enjoyable and successful fishing experiences across its diverse freshwater habitats.
What species are popular for lake fishing in Wisconsin?
Lake fishing in Wisconsin provides anglers with a rich diversity of fish species to target throughout the year, each offering its own allure and challenge. One of the most sought-after species is the walleye, known for its tasty flesh and elusive nature. Lakes like Lake Winnebago, Green Bay, and Lake Mendota are renowned for their walleye populations, attracting anglers who use techniques such as trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live bait, or drifting with nightcrawlers along drop-offs and weed beds. Walleye fishing is particularly productive during low-light periods such as dawn and dusk, when these nocturnal predators are most active.
Bass fishing is another popular pursuit among Wisconsin lake anglers, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass providing thrilling action. Lakes such as Lake Geneva, Pewaukee Lake, and the Chippewa Flowage offer prime habitat for bass, including rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and weed beds where these fish like to hide and feed. Anglers use a variety of techniques such as casting with topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics to entice strikes from these aggressive predators. Spring and early summer are peak seasons for bass fishing in Wisconsin, as these fish move into shallower waters for spawning and feeding.
Panfish, including bluegill, crappie, and perch, also offer enjoyable fishing opportunities in Wisconsin's lakes. These species are abundant and provide consistent action throughout the year, making them ideal targets for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait, jigging with small jigs, or fly fishing with nymphs and small streamers are effective for targeting panfish around weed beds, docks, and shallow areas. Panfish fishing is particularly popular in spring and early summer when these fish move into warmer, shallower waters to spawn, providing anglers with plenty of opportunities for a successful day on the water. Overall, lake fishing in Wisconsin promises a diverse and rewarding experience with a variety of fish species to pursue, ensuring anglers can enjoy the sport year-round.
Recent Reviews
The Best Places to Fish in Wisconsin
Other Types of Fishing in Wisconsin
Other Types of Hunting in Wisconsin
Featured Cities
- Fishing Charters Near Me
- Austin Fishing Guides
- Biloxi Fishing Charters
- Bradenton Fishing Charters
- Cabo San Lucas Fishing Charters
- Cancun Fishing Charters
- Cape Coral Fishing Charters
- Charleston Fishing Charters
- Clearwater Fishing Charters
- Corpus Christi Fishing Charters
- Dauphin Island Fishing Charters
- Daytona Beach Fishing Charters
- Destin Fishing Charters
- Fort Lauderdale Fishing Charters
- Fort Myers Fishing Charters
- Fort Walton Beach Fishing Charters
- Galveston Fishing Charters
- Gulf Shores Fishing Charters
- Hatteras Fishing Charters
- Hilton Head Fishing Charters
- Islamorada Fishing Charters
- Jacksonville Fishing Charters
- Jupiter Fishing Charters
- Key Largo Fishing Charters
- Key West Fishing Charters
- Kona Fishing Charters
- Madeira Beach Fishing Charters
- Marathon Fishing Charters
- Marco Island Fishing Charters
- Miami Fishing Charters
- Montauk Fishing Charters
- Morehead City Fishing Charters
- Naples Fishing Charters
- New Orleans Fishing Charters
- New Smyrna Beach Fishing Charters
- Orange Beach Fishing Charters
- Panama City Beach Fishing Charters
- Pensacola Fishing Charters
- Pompano Beach Fishing Charters
- Port Aransas Fishing Charters
- Rockport Fishing Charters
- San Diego Fishing Charters
- San Juan Fishing Charters
- Sarasota Fishing Charters
- South Padre Island Fishing Charters
- St. Petersburg Fishing Charters
- Tampa Fishing Charters
- Tarpon Springs Fishing Charters
- Venice Fishing Charters
- Virginia Beach Fishing Charters
How are fishing conditions in Wisconsin?
View Wisconsin Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.
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: