Detroit River Walleye Fishing Charter
Private Trip
River Fishing
Five-hour private Detroit River fishing charter for walleyeAll fishing gear provided with expert local guidance includedAccommodates up to three guests with morning departure times
Looking for a solid day of walleye fishing without the crowds? This private 5-hour charter with Big EZ Charters puts you right in the heart of Detroit River's best fishing grounds. Starting at 7 AM when the fish are most active, you'll have the boat to yourself and up to two buddies for $475. Need to bring more anglers? No problem – it's just an extra $100 per person beyond the initial three-person capacity. The captain provides all the gear you need, so you can focus on what matters most: landing fish and having a great time on the water.
The Detroit River isn't your typical lazy weekend fishing spot – this waterway connects two Great Lakes and creates some of the most productive walleye habitat in the region. Your morning starts early because that's when walleye feed most aggressively, especially during the cooler months. The current here is what makes this fishery special, bringing constant fresh water and plenty of baitfish that walleye can't resist. Big EZ Charters knows exactly where to position the boat based on current conditions, water temperature, and seasonal patterns. You'll be fishing from a well-equipped vessel that's built for comfort and functionality, with plenty of room to fight fish without getting in each other's way. The captain handles navigation and finding the hot spots, while you get to focus on feeling that distinctive walleye tap on your line.
All your fishing equipment comes included – rods, reels, tackle, and bait are provided by the charter service. The Detroit River calls for specific techniques that work best with the current and structure. You'll likely be using bottom bouncers with spinner rigs, jigs tipped with minnows or crawlers, or trolling with crankbaits depending on what the fish are hitting that day. The key here is reading the river's mood – some days they want a slow presentation near the bottom, other times they'll chase a faster-moving lure in the current seams. Your guide knows these waters inside and out and will adjust tactics throughout the trip based on what's working. The boat's fish finder helps locate schools and structure, but experience reading the water is what separates a good day from a great one. Don't worry if you're new to river fishing – the captain will walk you through the techniques and help you dial in your presentation.
Walleye are the main event on this charter, and the Detroit River consistently produces some of the region's best eating-sized fish. These golden beauties typically run between 14 and 24 inches here, with the occasional bigger fish pushing into trophy territory. Spring and fall are prime time for walleye, when they're actively feeding and moving through the river system. What makes Detroit River walleye special is their fight – the current gives them extra leverage, so even a modest-sized fish will give you a workout. They're also incredibly clean-tasting thanks to the constant water flow, making them perfect for a Friday night fish fry. Lake Sturgeon add an element of surprise to any trip on these waters. These prehistoric giants can reach impressive sizes, and hooking into one is like connecting with a freight train. Sturgeon are catch-and-release only, but landing one of these ancient fish creates memories that last a lifetime. They're not the primary target, but when one decides to grab your walleye rig, you'll know it immediately. The fight can last 15-20 minutes, and seeing one of these massive fish surface next to the boat never gets old.
This private charter fills up fast, especially during peak walleye season when word gets out about the bite. At $475 for up to three anglers, you're getting a full morning of guided fishing with all gear included – that's hard to beat for a private charter experience. The early 7 AM start time puts you on the water when conditions are typically best, and five hours gives you plenty of opportunity to dial in the bite and put fish in the cooler. Make sure to contact Big EZ Charters before booking to confirm availability and get the latest intel on current fishing conditions. They'll also provide meeting location details and any specific recommendations based on recent trips. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to explore new waters or someone wanting to experience Detroit River's renowned walleye fishing, this charter delivers the local knowledge and equipment you need for a successful day on the water.
Get ready to chase walleye on the Detroit River aboard Big EZ Charters' 2002 Lund 2075 Pro V Magnum. This fishing machine comes equipped with dual Mercury 225 engines plus a trolling motor for stealthy approaches to those prime fishing spots. The boat handles river currents like a dream and gives you plenty of casting room for up to three anglers. Whether you're working the deeper channels or targeting structure along the banks, this setup has the power and precision you need. The captain knows these waters inside and out, so you'll be fishing the hottest spots where walleye are actively feeding. All your tackle and gear are provided, making it perfect for both seasoned anglers and newcomers looking to learn the ropes. Five hours gives you serious time to work different techniques and locations as conditions change throughout the morning. Book your Detroit River fishing adventure and experience what this productive fishery has to offer.
Acipenser FulvescensLake sturgeon are living dinosaurs - these prehistoric giants have been swimming the Detroit River for 200 million years. Most we encounter are 3-4 feet long and 30-60 pounds, but they can grow massive. They're bottom feeders with barbels like whiskers that help them hunt crawfish, worms, and small fish along sandy and rocky areas. Spring and early summer offer the best action when they're more active. What makes them special is the pure thrill of hooking into something this ancient and powerful - plus their meat makes excellent steaks. Bring heavy tackle because even smaller ones fight like bulldozers. My tip: fish deep holes and drop-offs with nightcrawlers on the bottom, and be patient - sturgeon take their time deciding to bite.
Sander VitreusThe Detroit River's walleye are what keep us busy most mornings - these golden-sided fish with their signature glassy eyes are perfect table fare and put up a solid fight. Most of our walleye run 14-20 inches, though we see some bigger females pushing 6-7 pounds. They love the river's rocky drop-offs and structure during the day, then move shallow to feed at dawn and dusk. Spring through fall fishing is excellent, but those low-light periods are key. Their mild, flaky meat makes them Michigan's favorite eating fish. Pro tip: in the Detroit River, work your jigs slow along the bottom near the shipping channels - walleye here are used to heavy current and like their bait moving naturally with the flow.
Detroit River