Ready for a full day of reeling in the big ones? Our 10-hour fishing adventure on Lake Michigan is the real deal for anglers looking to max out their time on the water. We're talking serious fishing from sun-up to sundown, chasing after monster Chinook salmon, feisty Cohos, and hulking lake trout. Our 32' Pursuit is kitted out with all the top-notch gear you need, and there's plenty of room for you and five of your buddies to spread out and fish in comfort. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered with expert guidance to put you on the fish.
Climb aboard our spacious 32' Pursuit, and we'll motor out to the honey holes where the big fish are biting. We're talking about spending a solid 10 hours on the lake, giving you the best shot at landing that trophy catch. Our experienced captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll be hitting all the prime spots where the fish are stacked up. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from trolling with downriggers to setting up planer boards, depending on what's working best that day. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through everything you need to know to start hauling in fish like a pro.
On this trip, we're pulling out all the stops. We'll be using a combination of trolling techniques to cover water and find active fish. Expect to see downriggers in action, getting our lures down deep where the big boys hang out. We'll also be setting up planer boards to spread our presentation and cover more water. The arsenal includes a mix of spoons, plugs, and cut bait rigs - we've got it all dialed in to match what the fish are keying in on. Our gear is top-of-the-line stuff: Penn and Shimano reels paired with sturdy rods that can handle the fight when a 20+ pound Chinook decides to make a run for it. And hey, if you've got a favorite lure or technique you want to try, bring it along - we're always game to mix things up if it means more fish in the boat.
Chinook Salmon: These brutes are the kings of Lake Michigan, and for good reason. Chinooks (also called King Salmon) can top 30 pounds, and when they hit, hold on tight! These fish are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. They're at their peak from July through September, but we can find them most of the year. The fight of a big Chinook is something you'll never forget - it's like trying to reel in a Mack truck with fins.
Coho Salmon: Don't let their smaller size fool you - Cohos are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in the lake. These silver bullets typically run 3-8 pounds and are known for their crazy acrobatics and blistering runs. They're often found in schools, so when you hook one, get ready for more action. Cohos are most active in the spring and fall, but we can find them year-round if you know where to look.
Lake Trout: These are the old-timers of Lake Michigan, and they can grow to massive sizes. Lakers are often found in deeper, colder water and put up a stubborn, dogged fight. They're not as flashy as salmon, but hooking into a 20+ pound lake trout is a test of endurance that'll leave your arms burning. These fish are available year-round, but the bite really heats up in the cooler months.
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying acrobats are a favorite among anglers for their spectacular fights. Steelhead in Lake Michigan can reach sizes over 10 pounds, and when they're hooked, they go airborne like they've got rockets strapped to their fins. We target these beauties year-round, but spring and fall can be particularly hot for steelhead action.
Let's be real - a 10-hour trip isn't for the faint of heart. This is for the die-hard anglers who can't get enough time on the water. You're out here to stack the odds in your favor, and that's exactly what this extended trip does. More time means more chances at that trophy fish, more opportunities to dial in the bite, and frankly, more fun. Plus, with Lake Michigan's reputation for producing some absolute giants, every cast could be the one that lands you in the record books. Our regulars love the camaraderie that develops over a full day on the water - there's something special about sharing stories, techniques, and the excitement of a big catch with your crew.
Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're serious about your fishing, this 10-hour trip is the way to go. We're talking about maximizing your chances for a cooler full of salmon and trout, and maybe even that once-in-a-lifetime trophy catch. Our calendar fills up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait around. Grab five of your buddies (or make some new fishing friends) and lock in your date. Whether you're looking to put some serious meat in the freezer or just want to experience the thrill of battling Lake Michigan's finest, this trip delivers. So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Book now, and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime!
Chinook salmon, or "kings," are the heavyweight champs of Lake Michigan. These bruisers can top 30 pounds, though 15-20 pounders are more common. You'll find them in deeper, cooler water, often 30-100 feet down. Late summer and fall are prime seasons as they prepare to spawn. Kings are famous for their powerful runs – they'll test your gear and your arms. Their rich, red flesh is top-notch for the grill or smoker. To target these giants, try downriggers with large spoons or cut bait. Here's a local secret: Look for temperature breaks on your fish finder. Kings often hang out where warm and cold water meet. Land one of these and you've got bragging rights for sure.
Coho salmon are a favorite target in Lake Michigan, especially in spring and fall. These silver rockets usually weigh 5-10 pounds and put up an incredible fight. You'll find them cruising the open water, often in the top 30 feet. They follow baitfish, so look for diving birds to locate schools. Cohos are known for their acrobatic leaps and hard runs – hang on tight when you hook one! Their orange-red flesh is also prized for smoking or grilling. To increase your chances, try trolling with flashy spoons or J-plugs. A local tip: when you see one jump, cast quickly to that area. Cohos often travel in schools, so where there's one, there's likely more.
Rainbow trout are a blast to catch in Lake Michigan. These colorful fish usually run 2-5 pounds, though some can reach 10+ pounds. Look for them near underwater structures, drop-offs, and weed beds in cooler water, typically 10-20 feet deep. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water's cooler. Rainbows are known for their acrobatic fights – they'll leap clear out of the water when hooked. Their pink, flaky meat is also fantastic eating. To up your odds, try drifting salmon eggs or small spinners near creek mouths where rainbows gather. These fish can be picky, so don't be afraid to switch up your presentation if they're not biting. The challenge of fooling them is half the fun.
Walleye are a prized catch in Lake Michigan, known for their tasty white fillets. These golden-olive fish typically range from 2-8 pounds, though trophy fish over 10 pounds aren't unheard of. You'll find walleye hanging around rocky structures and drop-offs, usually in 15-30 feet of water. They're most active at dawn and dusk, so those are prime fishing times. Walleye put up a good fight and make excellent table fare, which is why anglers love targeting them. To boost your chances, try slow-trolling with nightcrawler harnesses near the bottom – that's a tried-and-true local tactic. Just remember, walleye have sensitive eyes, so they often hold deeper on bright days. Stick with it and you might land yourself a delicious dinner.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 36
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 350