Lake Michigan Charter Fishing

Lake Michigan is renowned for its thriving salmon fishery, attracting anglers from all over the world. One essential tool that has revolutionized salmon fishing on this majestic lake is the downrigger. This device allows you to precisely control the depth at which your bait or lure is presented, increasing your chances of landing a prized salmon. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of effectively using downriggers for salmon fishing on Lake Michigan.

Understanding Downriggers

Before diving into the specifics of using downriggers, it’s important to understand how they work. Downriggers are mechanical devices that are typically mounted on the stern of a fishing boat. They consist of a spool and a weight, which is attached to a cable. The weight is lowered to the desired depth and can be raised or lowered throughout the fishing process. The fishing line, with a bait or lure, is attached to a release clip on the cable, allowing you to present your offering at the desired depth.

Selecting the Right Downrigger

Choosing the right downrigger is crucial for a successful salmon fishing expedition. Factors such as weight capacity, ease of use, and durability should be considered. Electric downriggers are the most popular choice due to their convenience and ability to handle heavy weights. Hydraulic and manual downriggers are also options to explore, depending on your budget and preferences. Continue reading →

When it comes to freshwater fishing, few experiences can rival the thrill of salmon fishing on Lake Michigan. The combination of picturesque landscapes, abundant salmon populations, and the strategic use of planer boards creates a perfect recipe for an exciting angling adventure. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of planer boards and uncover why they are a valuable tool for any salmon angler on Lake Michigan.

Understanding Planer Boards

Planer boards are specialized devices used in trolling, a fishing technique commonly employed in large bodies of water like Lake Michigan. These boards are designed to spread out fishing lines and keep them away from the boat, creating a wider fishing area and reducing the chances of spooking fish. They consist of a mast, a flag, and a keel, which work together to ensure optimal performance.

Benefits of Planer Boards in Salmon Fishing

Using planer boards offers several advantages in salmon fishing on Lake Michigan. They allow anglers to cover a larger expanse of water, effectively increasing the chances of encountering active salmon. By spreading out multiple lines, fishermen can target different depths and distances from the boat, presenting bait in a more appealing manner. They also help in reducing line tangles. With the lateral positioning of the lines, they are less likely to cross over one another, reducing the risk of knots and the frustrating task of untangling lines.

Another benefit is that planer boards provide visual cues to detect fish strikes. When a fish strikes the bait, the pressure on the line causes the flag on the board to pop up, signaling a potential catch. This allows anglers to easily spot which line has been hit and swiftly reel in the fish. Continue reading →

Fishing is moving in a very positive direction, why aren’t you here to go? You could be!

Great day on the water Saturday 5-13-23.

The best bite came late in the morning to help us double our catch from 7 to 14 in the last two hours of the charter.  A new first mate in training.  You always have to keep the fish wet…..

Hope to see you onboard next year!  Capt Mike