Top-Rated Lake Michigan Morning Fishing Charter

Lake Michigan's Finest: 6-Hour Trophy Hunt

Ready for a shot at some of Lake Michigan's most prized catches? Our 6-hour morning charter is your ticket to the action. We're talking prime time for trophy fish, with the flexibility to chase the bite wherever it takes us. Whether you're after hard-fighting lake trout or hoping to tangle with a monster Chinook, we've got you covered. Grab your crew (up to 6 anglers) and let's hit the water!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising out of McKinley Marina as the sun starts to peek over the Milwaukee skyline. The lake's calm, there's a hint of fish in the air, and you've got 6 solid hours ahead to make it happen. Our seasoned captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's on a mission to put you on fish. We'll be trolling the productive zones, keeping an eye on the fish finder, and adjusting our tactics as needed. Don't worry if you're new to this – our top-notch first mate's got your back, from baiting hooks to netting your catch. Just remember to bring your A-game and maybe a bit of luck!

Techniques & Tackle Talk

We don't mess around when it comes to gear. We're running top-of-the-line rods and reels, spooled with premium line that can handle whatever Lake Michigan throws at us. Depending on what's biting, we might be using downriggers to get our lures down deep where the big boys hang out, or maybe we'll run some planer boards to cover more water. Spoons, J-plugs, flashers with flies – we've got a whole arsenal of lures that these fish can't resist. And here's a pro tip: keep an eye on those rod tips. When they start bouncing, it's game on!

Customer Stories

"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

"We had a absolute blast the Captain (Greg) and his first mate had us hooked up all day with some monster fish definitely recommend to anyone who is interested great people kind and always making sure your having a fun time thank you again Hold'em Sportfishing🤘🫶" - Charles

Species You'll Want to Hook

Lake Trout: These deep-water bruisers are the backbone of Lake Michigan fishing. They're not just big (we're talking 15-30 pounds for trophy fish), they're also fighters. When a laker decides to dive, hold on tight! They're around all year, but spring and fall are prime time. The cool thing about lake trout is their age – some of these fish can be over 25 years old!

Chinook Salmon: Known as "King Salmon" for a reason, these are the heavy hitters of the Great Lakes. A big Chinook can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, and when they hit your lure, it's like hooking a freight train. They're most active in late summer and early fall during their spawning run. Landing a big king is the highlight of many anglers' season – it's an adrenaline rush you won't forget.

Coho Salmon: Don't let their smaller size fool you – Cohos are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in the lake. They're known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. Spring is usually the hot time for Cohos, but we catch them throughout the summer too. These silver bullets are not only fun to catch, but they're also delicious on the grill.

Brown Trout: If you're after a challenging catch, browns are your target. These fish are notoriously picky and can be tough to fool. But when you do hook up, get ready for a battle. They love to hug the bottom and use every trick in the book to shake your hook. Browns are most active in cooler water, so early spring and late fall are your best bets.

Pink Salmon: Also known as "humpies" due to the distinctive hump males develop during spawning, pink salmon are the smallest of the Pacific salmon species found in Lake Michigan. Don't let their size fool you though – what they lack in weight, they make up for in numbers and fight. They run in odd-numbered years, typically showing up in late summer. When they're in, the action can be fast and furious!

Gear Up and Let's Go

Alright, let's talk prep. You'll need a valid fishing license (we can help you sort that out if needed), and don't forget the essentials: sunscreen (non-spray to keep the deck clean), water, snacks, and a cooler for your catch. We provide all the fishing gear, but feel free to bring your lucky hat or whatever mojo you've got. Oh, and about that cooler – there's a good chance you'll need it. Many of our guests go home with plenty of fresh fillets for the grill.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, Lake Michigan is calling, and those trophy fish aren't going to catch themselves. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this 6-hour charter is your best shot at tangling with some serious Great Lakes giants. Our crew is ready to put you on fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Round up your fishing buddies, pick a date, and let's make some waves. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. See you on the water!