Mixed Bag Lake Fishing with A Bite of Heaven
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Target steelhead, king salmon, coho, and brown trout speciesCaptain Brannon provides expert guidance for lake fishing adventureFourperson capacity ensures personalized fishing experience
Ready to test your skills against some of the most sought-after freshwater species in one epic day on the water? Captain Brannon's Mixed Bag Lake Fishing trip puts you right in the action for steelhead, king salmon, coho, and brown trout. This isn't your typical pond fishing – we're talking about a world-class lake adventure where variety is the name of the game. With up to 4 anglers per boat, you'll have plenty of room to work your lines while soaking up the experience of targeting multiple trophy species in a single outing.
Picture this: you're out there at first light, watching the mist roll off the lake surface while Captain Brannon sets up the spread. This trip is all about adapting to what the fish are telling us. One minute you might be battling a chrome-bright steelhead that's jumping clean out of the water, the next you could be locked up with a king salmon that's peeling line like there's no tomorrow. The beauty of a mixed bag approach is that we're not putting all our eggs in one basket – we're reading the water, watching the electronics, and adjusting our tactics based on what's biting. Captain Brannon knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll position you where the fish are feeding, whether that's working the drop-offs, hugging the thermocline, or running the shallows where the browns cruise for baitfish.
We run a combination of techniques that'll keep your rods bent throughout the day. Trolling is the bread and butter here – we'll have downriggers working the deeper water columns where the kings and cohos stage, while running lead core and copper lines to cover different depths. Captain Brannon stocks the boat with top-rated spoons, plugs, and flasher-fly combos that these fish can't resist. For the steelhead, we might switch things up with some casting presentations near structure or tributary mouths. Don't worry if you've never run downriggers before – the captain will walk you through everything from setting the depth to reading the rod tips for subtle bites. All tackle is provided, but if you've got a lucky rod or favorite reel, feel free to bring it along. The boat's rigged with quality fish finders and GPS, so we're always hunting productive water rather than just hoping for the best.
Coho salmon are the acrobats of the lake – these silver bullets average 3-8 pounds and fight way above their weight class. They're notorious for their aerial displays, often jumping multiple times during the fight. Cohos feed aggressively in the upper water column, especially during dawn and dusk periods. What makes them special is their willingness to chase lures and their unpredictable fighting style. One second they're screaming toward the surface, the next they're diving deep trying to wrap you around structure.
Steelhead trout are the crown jewel for many anglers – these chrome-sided fighters can range from 5-15 pounds and are legendary for their stamina. Unlike their ocean-run cousins, lake steelhead develop differently but maintain that signature fighting spirit. They're most active during cooler water periods and have a tendency to make long, powerful runs that'll test your drag system. Steelhead are smart fish that often require finesse presentations, making them a favorite among seasoned anglers who appreciate the technical challenge.
Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the heavyweights of this fishery. These bruisers can push 20+ pounds and provide the kind of arm-burning battles that create lifelong memories. Kings tend to stay deeper during warmer months, hugging the thermocline where the water temperature suits them best. They're notorious for their initial power runs and bulldogging fights near the boat. Landing a big king requires patience and proper technique – rush the fight and you'll likely pull the hooks.
Brown trout round out this fantastic mixed bag, and don't let their reputation as finicky fish fool you – lake browns can be absolute savages when they're feeding. These spotted beauties range from scrappy 2-pounders to trophy fish exceeding 10 pounds. Browns are opportunistic predators that often feed near shore on baitfish, making them perfect targets for both trolling and casting techniques. They're most active during low-light periods and can be found in surprisingly shallow water, especially during spring and fall transitions.
This mixed bag approach gives you the best shot at experiencing the diverse fishing this lake has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add new species to your logbook or someone who wants to maximize their chances of consistent action, this trip delivers. Captain Brannon's local knowledge and proven techniques put you in the best position to succeed, and with only 4 spots available per trip, you'll get the personalized attention that makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the water. The variety keeps things exciting – you never know what's going to grab your line next. Book your spot with A Bite of Heaven Fishing Charters and get ready for a day of fishing that covers all the bases.
Tylosurus AcusBrowns are the crafty old-timers of the trout world - they get smart and spooky as they grow, making them a real challenge to fool. You're looking at fish from 12-24 inches typically, with those gorgeous golden-brown sides and black spots. They love structure: fallen trees, undercut banks, deep pools, anywhere they can ambush prey. Fall and winter are when they really turn on, feeding aggressively before and after spawn. What makes them special is they fight hard and taste great - that firm, mild flesh is perfect for the table. They're also incredibly adaptable and can handle warmer water than other trout. Pro tip: fish them at night or low light conditions. They get much bolder when the sun goes down, and that's when the big ones come out to play.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaKing salmon are the heavyweights of the lake - these bruisers can hit 30+ pounds and will absolutely smoke your drag when they decide to run. Most fish we see range 15-25 pounds with that classic silver body and black-spotted fins. They're light-sensitive, so they hang deep during the day, which means downriggers and heavy tackle are your friends. Early morning and evening are prime time when they move up to feed. What makes them special isn't just the size - that rich, red meat is restaurant quality. Kings are smart and finicky, so you need to work for them. Trolling deep with spoons or plugs is productive, but here's the key: vary your speed constantly. They want that erratic action that mimics wounded baitfish, not something running steady.
Oncorhynchus KisutchSilver salmon are absolute fighters - they'll jump clean out of the water and put on a show that'll get your heart pumping. These acrobatic fish typically run 12-30 inches and weigh 8-12 pounds, with their bright silver sides and dark spotted backs making them easy to spot. You'll find them cruising the lake structure and deeper water during cooler months, especially spring and fall when they're most active. What makes cohos special is that incredible orange-red meat - some of the best eating you'll find. They're aggressive feeders, so bright spoons and spinners work great, but here's a tip: when they're being picky, try switching to smaller gear and slow your presentation way down. That's when you'll get those stubborn ones to bite.
Oncorhynchus mykissSteelhead are the ultimate challenge - basically rainbow trout that spent time in big water and came back mean and strong. These silver rockets average 24 inches but can push 45, and when you hook one, you'll know why they have such a reputation. They love cold, clean water with good current and structure like rocks, logs, and undercut banks. Fall through spring is prime time when they're moving and feeding hard. What sets them apart is that raw power and endurance - they'll make long runs that'll test your drag and your nerves. The fight is what keeps people coming back, plus they're fantastic on the table. My advice: use a longer rod for better line control, and don't try to muscle them in. Let them run and tire themselves out.
Manistee, MI