Lake Michigan 5-Hour Salmon & Trout Charter

Midday Magic: 5-Hour Lake Michigan Fishing

Trip Overview

Not everyone's a morning person, and that's totally cool. This 5-hour midday charter is perfect for those who prefer to sleep in but still want to experience the thrill of Lake Michigan fishing. Sure, the bite might slow down a bit during the day, but don't worry – our seasoned captain knows all the sweet spots where the fish are still active. You'll be targeting a mix of Lake Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, and various salmon species. Our first mate's got your back the whole time, so even if you're new to fishing, you'll be reeling 'em in like a pro in no time.

What to Expect on the Water

Once we push off from the dock, we'll cruise out to some prime fishing grounds on Lake Michigan. The captain will set us up with a spread of lines, using a mix of downriggers, dipsy divers, and planer boards to cover different depths. We'll be trolling most of the time, which means we're constantly on the move, searching for active fish. Keep your eyes peeled for jumping salmon – it's a sight that never gets old! The first mate will be there to help you reel in your catch and answer any questions. Remember, a 10-20% tip for their hard work is always appreciated. Oh, and don't forget to bring some snacks, water, and a cooler for your catch. Trust me, nothing beats cracking open a cold drink while waiting for that next big hit!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Lake Michigan is a world-class fishery, and our midday charter gives you a solid taste of what it has to offer. Even though we're not out at the crack of dawn, there's still plenty of action to be had. The lake's crystal-clear waters and the sight of Milwaukee's skyline in the distance create a unique fishing experience. Plus, the variety of species we target means you never know what you might catch next – could be a hard-fighting Chinook salmon or a acrobatic steelhead leaping out of the water. It's this mix of relaxation and excitement that keeps folks coming back year after year.

Customer Stories

"Great Times!! Excellent adventures!" - Gregory

"Wow! exceptional charter fishing experience. Captain Greg and Cathy are a husband/wife Team. Captain Greg introduced his "first mate" as one of the best in Milwaukee and that, we quickly saw, is the truth. These two went above and beyond in every way with an attitude of EXCELLENCE in every touch. HIGHLY recommend Hold'em Sportfishing out of McKinley Marina, Milwaukee. Mom, Dad, and three sisters went out on this trip for our Father's day wish. Every thing from the safety of the boat, to navigating to determined hunting down the fish, to docking, cleaning & packaging the fish for take home and EVEN photos with several phones. This couple has a passion in what they are doing and provided an experience as though we were their own family. Besides some lake trout, king salmon, and rainbow trout, we have memories that will last a lifetime." - Billie Sue

Species You'll Want to Hook

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying acrobats are a favorite among Lake Michigan anglers. Steelhead can grow up to 36 inches and put up an incredible fight when hooked. They're known for their spectacular leaps and long, powerful runs. In the lake, they often cruise near the surface, making them a perfect target for our midday trips. The best time to catch them is usually in the spring and fall, but you can find some year-round in Lake Michigan.

Coho Salmon: Often called "silver salmon," Cohos are known for their aggressive strikes and tasty flesh. They typically range from 2-5 pounds in Lake Michigan, though some can reach up to 10 pounds. Cohos are usually found in the upper part of the water column, making them ideal targets for our midday charters. They're most abundant in the spring and early summer, but can be caught throughout the fishing season.

Chinook Salmon: Also known as "King Salmon," these are the heavyweight champs of Lake Michigan. Chinooks can grow over 30 pounds, and when one of these bruisers hits your line, you're in for the fight of your life. They tend to go deep during the day, but our captain knows how to find them. The peak season for Chinooks is late summer through early fall, when they start their spawning run.

Brown Trout: These wily predators are often caught close to shore, but we also find them out in the open lake. Brown trout in Lake Michigan can grow to impressive sizes, with some topping 20 pounds. They're known for their beautiful spotted patterns and hard-fighting nature. Spring and fall are prime times for browns, but we catch them year-round.

Lake Trout: Native to Lake Michigan, "lakers" are the true deepwater specialists. They can live for decades and grow to massive sizes – 20-pounders aren't uncommon, and 40-pounders are possible! We often target them with deep-running lures or by fishing near the bottom. Lake trout are available year-round, but the fishing really heats up in the cooler months.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I get it – waking up at the crack of dawn isn't everyone's cup of coffee. That's why this midday charter is such a gem. You get to sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and still have an awesome day out on Lake Michigan chasing after some of the best freshwater game fish around. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, our experienced crew will make sure you have a blast. And let's be real – there's nothing quite like the feeling of reeling in a big salmon or trout while taking in the beautiful views of the lake. So why wait? Grab your friends or family, pack some snacks, and let's hit the water. The fish are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action. Book your spot now and get ready for a day of fishing you won't forget!