At Hold’em Sportfishing, we believe salmon fishing on Lake Michigan is more than just a sport — it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, make lasting memories, and enjoy the quiet focus that comes from time spent on the water. Our Lake Michigan salmon charters operate out of Milwaukee, one of the Midwest's top ports for sportfishing. Depending on the season, anglers can reel in a variety of prized species, including Coho and Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. The best time for salmon fishing on Lake Michigan often falls between late spring and early fall, when water temperatures are optimal and fish are actively feeding nearshore and offshore. No matter the season, we’ll take you to proven fishing spots where action is most likely. Captain Greg brings over 45 years of hands-on experience navigating these waters. As a lifelong Wisconsin resident, he knows the local fishing patterns inside and out. His calm, patient approach makes him a favorite with beginners, families with young children, and those trying Lake Michigan salmon fishing for the first time. Every trip is designed to be family-friendly, with a focus on comfort, safety, and fun. From helping you set lines to offering tips on how to fight and land your catch, our crew is here to ensure you feel confident every step of the way. You’ll fish aboard a 32’ Sportfish Convertible, fully equipped with advanced trolling gear, sonar, downriggers, and all necessary fishing tackle. The boat offers a fully enclosed cabin with a restroom, cushioned seating for up to five guests, and plenty of deck space to move around. Whether you're relaxing between bites or getting ready to reel in a big one, the vessel is designed for comfort and convenience, even on longer outings. With the capacity for up to six anglers, our Lake Michigan salmon charters are ideal for group trips or family outings. We recommend purchasing your Wisconsin fishing license ahead of your scheduled trip and bringing sunscreen (avoid sprays), drinks, and sunglasses. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but please leave the glass bottles and hard liquor at home. Tipping your First Mate (10–20%) is appreciated, as they work hard to make your day productive and fun. For a rewarding day on the water, look no further than Hold’em Sportfishing — your trusted source for Milwaukee salmon fishing charters.

Chinook Salmon

Salmon and Trout Fishing Heating Up This May in Milwaukee

Brown Trout

Coho Salmon

Fishing activity in Milwaukee's Lake Michigan waters is heating up this May, offering anglers exciting opportunities to target various salmon and trout species.​

Coho Salmon Action: Coho salmon are currently abundant along the Milwaukee shoreline, particularly between the North and South Gaps of the harbor. Anglers are finding success trolling in 10 to 15 feet of water using orange dodgers paired with peanut flies. This setup has been effective in attracting Coho salmon, which are actively feeding in these areas. ​

Brown Trout and Chinook Salmon: While Coho salmon dominate the catch, there have been reports of Brown trout activity, especially around the South Gap of the Milwaukee harbor. Trolling with spoons has yielded some Brown trout, and occasionally, Chinook salmon in the 10 to 14-pound range are being caught, adding to the excitement for anglers seeking larger fish. ​

Fishing Techniques: Successful anglers are employing a combination of trolling methods, utilizing lead core lines and dipsy divers to reach varying depths. Spoons like the Moonshine UV Green Flounder Pounder and Stinger Orange Crush have been productive, especially when targeting Coho salmon near the surface. Adjusting trolling speeds and depths based on water temperature and fish activity has been key to maximizing catch rates. ​

Best Times to Fish: Early morning and late afternoon have proven to be the most productive times for fishing, aligning with the peak feeding periods of salmon and trout. Monitoring weather conditions and water temperatures can also aid in planning successful fishing trips.​

Licensing and Regulations: Anglers are reminded to ensure they have a valid Wisconsin fishing license before heading out. Licenses can be purchased online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at authorized vendors. ​

With favorable conditions and active fish populations, May is shaping up to be an excellent month for fishing in Milwaukee's Lake Michigan waters.

EPSG:4269

Group of 5 people enjoying a fishing trip in Milwaukee

Chinook salmon caught while fishing in WI

Anglers with 3 rainbow trout and mahi mahi caught fishing in Milwaukee

Two anglers with a big catch in Milwaukee

Coho Salmon and Lake Trout caught by 3 anglers in Milwaukee

Eight pink salmon, rainbow trout, and coho salmon in Milwaukee

Ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Book your trip with Hold'em Sportfishing today and experience the thrill of Lake Michigan's best salmon fishing — your ultimate catch is waiting!

Hold’em Sportfishing with Captain Greg Windau delivers unforgettable Lake Michigan salmon fishing charters from the heart of Milwaukee. With years of experience on the water and a deep understanding of seasonal salmon patterns, Captain Greg offers expertly guided trips targeting coho salmon, king salmon, and more. Whether you're a first-time angler or a seasoned fisherman, you’ll have the chance to hook into hard-fighting fish while enjoying a professionally run, safety-focused experience. All gear is provided, and the boat is equipped with the latest technology to help you make the most of your day on the water. This Lake Michigan salmon fishing charter is all about results, comfort, and fun. Hold’em Sportfishing specializes in coho salmon fishing in Lake Michigan during peak spring and early summer months, and transitions to kings as the season progresses. Trips are customized for individuals, families, and small groups looking to experience top-tier Lake Michigan salmon charters. From trolling deep offshore to running nearshore lines, every outing is tailored to match the bite and ensure a rewarding day of fishing.

At Hold’em Sportfishing, we understand that salmon fishing on Lake Michigan is more than just a hobby — it’s a chance to experience nature in its purest form, create lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the calm of the open water. Fishing on Lake Michigan offers access to a variety of prized species, including Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, Lake trout, steelhead, and brown trout. The prime fishing season typically runs from late spring to early fall, when water temperatures are perfect for active feeding and productive fishing. Whether you're casting off inshore or heading offshore, Captain Greg knows the best spots to find fish and make every outing a successful one. Captain Greg Windau brings over 45 years of experience on Lake Michigan, making him one of the most knowledgeable guides in the area. As a lifelong Wisconsin resident, he has a deep understanding of local fishing patterns and seasonal movements of the fish species in the lake. Captain Greg’s calm and patient demeanor makes him especially popular with families, beginners, and those new to Lake Michigan salmon fishing. His ability to teach anglers of all levels ensures that every trip is enjoyable, educational, and rewarding, with a focus on making every guest feel confident on the water. Captain Greg’s approach to fishing is centered on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests. From teaching proper casting techniques to offering advice on how to reel in your catch, he takes pride in guiding you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to land your first fish or you're a seasoned angler hoping to improve your skills, Captain Greg tailors each charter to meet your needs. His dedication to safety and fun ensures that each trip is family-friendly and creates memories that last a lifetime. <h2>Your Fishing Adventure Aboard the 32’ Sportfish Convertible</h2>Your fishing adventure takes place aboard a 32’ Sportfish Convertible, fully equipped with top-of-the-line trolling gear, sonar, downriggers, and all the necessary fishing tackle. The boat features a fully enclosed cabin with a restroom, cushioned seating for up to five guests, and ample deck space for moving around. Designed for comfort and convenience, the vessel is perfect for longer fishing trips, whether you’re relaxing between bites or gearing up to reel in a big one. With the capacity to accommodate up to six anglers, it’s ideal for family outings or group charters on Lake Michigan.

Check out our fishing spots! The red zone marks prime fishing areas, while the pins show where we meet guests. Locations may vary by season and conditions. Let’s go fishing!

Captain Greg Windau – Experienced Guide and Local Expert

Fishing License

Salmon Fishing

Things to Do

<h3> Lake Michigan Salmon Charter Rates</h3> Milwaukee Salmon Fishing Trip Options What’s Included in Your Charter Trip Best Times for Coho and King Salmon ﻿1. How much does a Lake Michigan fishing charter cost in Milwaukee? Prices typically range from $450 to $800, depending on trip length and group size. Hold’em Sportfishing offers competitive rates with all gear included.2. What’s included in a Milwaukee salmon fishing charter? All charters include rods, reels, bait, tackle, and safety gear. Fish cleaning is usually available for an additional fee.3. Are there half-day fishing charters available in Milwaukee? Yes. Hold’em Sportfishing offers half-day Lake Michigan salmon charters, ideal for morning or afternoon outings targeting coho and king salmon.4. How many people can go on a fishing charter? Charters typically accommodate up to 6 guests. Hold’em Sportfishing offers private trips so your group has the boat to yourselves.5. Do charter prices change based on the season? Pricing remains consistent, but availability fills up fast during peak salmon runs in spring and late summer. Booking early is recommended.6. Is a fishing license included in the charter price? No. Wisconsin law requires each angler 16+ to have a Great Lakes fishing license with a salmon/trout stamp, purchased separately.7. Are there discounts for kids or groups? While prices are set per trip, some seasonal offers or weekday discounts may be available. Contact Hold’em Sportfishing for the latest deals.8. What payment methods are accepted for charter trips? Hold’em Sportfishing accepts cash, major credit cards, and deposits online to reserve your Lake Michigan salmon charter.9. Can I cancel or reschedule a fishing charter? Yes, with advance notice. Weather-related cancellations are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. Policies are outlined at the time of booking.10. What’s the best time of year for affordable salmon charters in Milwaukee? Late April through early June offers excellent coho salmon fishing at great value. King salmon season picks up in late summer.

Milwaukee Bay - Milwaukee, WI Fishing Report on 1st May, 2025

AUTHOR

Greg Windau

NOTES

Salmon and Trout Fishing Heating Up This May in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Bay - Milwaukee, WI

CATCHES

3 Total Catches

Total catches3

Chinook Salmon

Catches - 1

Brown Trout

Catches - 1

Coho Salmon

Catches - 1

Hold'em Sportfishing Available Trips

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