Your Captain
Jeff Bajtka
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Looking to explore the incredible fishing opportunities on Lake Michigan? Brownbear Sport Fishing Charters is the perfect choice for your next adventure. Captain Jeff Bajtka has spent years navigating these waters, helping anglers of all skill levels land impressive catches. Whether you’re after your first Salmon or hoping to reel in a trophy fish, Captain Jeff knows the prime locations for a successful day of fishing on Lake Michigan.
Your adventure begins aboard a spacious 30’ Cherokee vessel, designed for comfort and performance. The boat can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for families or small groups. Powered by twin 350 HP engines, it delivers a fast and smooth ride to productive fishing areas. Onboard amenities include a private toilet and a refrigerator — everything you need for a comfortable day on the water.
Lake Michigan fishing charters offer access to some of the best Salmon fishing in the region. Manistee Salmon fishing charters, in particular, are known for producing trophy-sized fish, and Captain Jeff specializes in these offshore trips. Trolling the open waters, you’ll target Chinook and Coho Salmon, testing your skills against these powerful fighters while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake.
Everything you need for the trip is provided, including high-quality rods, reels, tackle, and a variety of artificial lures. Jeff and his first mate are ready to assist at every step, making sure you have a fun, hassle-free fishing experience. Once the trip ends, your catch will be cleaned and filleted, so you can bring home fresh Salmon for a delicious meal.
Families are encouraged to join in the fun — kids are always welcome aboard. Just remember to pack snacks, drinks, and make sure everyone has a valid freshwater fishing license before heading out. For unforgettable Salmon fishing on Lake Michigan, Brownbear Sport Fishing Charters delivers a memorable day on the water with plenty of fish and fantastic views.
What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
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Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
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When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
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What's Included
This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.
Show More
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Show More
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
This private 4-hour afternoon fishing trip on Lake Michigan is offered on weekdays only from May 15 to July 1. Priced at $550, the trip is designed for groups of up to four anglers and begins at 4:00 PM, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy time on the water after the workday. Guided trolling will target species such as Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), Brown Trout, and Chinook Salmon. All fishing equipment is provided, so participants only need to bring a valid Lake Michigan license. Guests are welcome to pack their own food and drinks for a comfortable outing.
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This private 5-hour fishing trip takes place on Lake Michigan, available weekends only from June 1 to June 30. Designed for up to four anglers, the trip is priced at $650, with a $50 discount for reservations made before April 1, 2025. During this guided outing, you’ll be trolling for a mix of Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), Brown Trout, and Chinook Salmon. All rods, reels, and tackle are provided, making it accessible for anglers of all skill levels. Participants need to bring a valid Lake Michigan fishing license and are welcome to pack their own food and drinks for a comfortable day on the water.
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This private 6-hour fishing trip on Lake Michigan is tailored for groups of up to four people, with the option to add a fifth and sixth angler for $50 each. Priced at $700, and with a $50 discount for early booking before April 1, 2025, this guided outing runs from May 15 to September 15. Anglers of all skill levels can enjoy trolling for a variety of species including Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. All fishing equipment is included, so you only need to bring a valid Lake Michigan license along with food and drinks to enjoy a productive day on the water.
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This private full-day charter on Lake Michigan is designed for groups of up to six anglers looking for a focused fishing experience. Available from May 15 to September 15, the trip is priced at $1000 and includes all rods, reels, tackle, and gear. Trolling techniques are used to target multiple species such as Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. The outing is suitable for both experienced anglers and those looking to refine their skills with extended time on the water. A valid Lake Michigan fishing license is required, and guests should bring their own food and drinks.
Pick Your Date
This beginner-friendly full-day charter on Lake Michigan is tailored for groups of up to six people, making it a great option for first-time anglers as well as those with some experience. Running from May 15 to September 15, the guided trip is priced at $1000 and focuses on trolling for multiple species including Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. All rods, reels, and tackle are provided, ensuring participants have everything needed for a productive outing. Guests are required to bring a valid Lake Michigan fishing license, along with their own food and drinks for the day.
Pick Your Date
Brownbear Sport Fishing
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
30 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Cherokee
Model Year:
1986
Engine Manufacturer Name:
350
# of Engines:
2
Horsepower Per Engine:
270
Maximum Cruising Speed:
23
Features: First Mate Toilet Refrigerator Fish Finder GPS Radar
Step aboard a 30’ Cherokee built for up to 6 anglers, powered by twin 350 HP engines, with a private toilet and refrigerator for a comfortable day on Lake Michigan. This well-equipped vessel offers a smooth, fast ride to the best fishing spots on Lake Michigan.
Brownbear Sport Fishing
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
30 ft
Vehicle Details
Lake Michigan is producing strong catches this season, with anglers reeling in Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. Our guided fishing charters run from May 15 to September 15 and are available for groups of up to six people. Each trip includes all rods, reels, and tackle, making it easy for both beginners and seasoned anglers to enjoy time on the water. Space is limited, so booking early secures your chance to fish during peak salmon season. Just bring your Lake Michigan fishing license along with food and drinks for the day.
Fishing on Lake Michigan has been productive, especially along the shoreline where Steelhead and Brown Trout are being caught. Trolling the waters near the shore has been an effective strategy for anglers targeting these prized fish. The Steelhead are putting up a good fight, providing an exciting challenge, while the Brown Trout are abundant and offering excellent catches. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the waters, the shoreline fishing has been a top choice for a successful day on Lake Michigan.
Ratings & Reviews Summary
September 4, 2025
We headed out to deeper water, and while the lake was a bit choppy, riding the big waves was a blast. Conditions weren’t ideal for fishing due to the weather and water temps, but we still landed 2 Lake Trout—one right as we were reeling in for the night! Big thanks to Captain Jeff and Brody for a great time. We’d love to go again!
September 4, 2025
Was fortunate to charter with Brown Bear and Jeff this past Thursday. Storm on Wednesday made the fish scattered. Jeff worked all of his magic and got us 5 nice kings. He is very friendly, knowledgeable and worked hard the entire trip. Will definitely consider booking for next year.
September 4, 2025
Thank you so much for going above & beyond to help us spend Father's Day on the water after our original charter backed out at the last minute. Although you were already booked, you took time to make some calls & get us connected with another crew. Your kindness & customer service is unmatched! 100% recommend Captain Jeff of Brown Bear Sport Fishing!
September 4, 2025
Half-day trip was great. King salmon, lake trout, and steelhead is on our menu tomorrow after our catch today. Captain Jeff was very helpful with us novices to ensure successful catches. We will definitely be back for another half-day of successful fishing (no pressure, Jeff).
September 4, 2025
First class service, Jeff went the extra mile to make sure our family was having fun and it was obvious that he is true professional
September 4, 2025
Captain Jeff goes about and beyond! He made our trip fun and full of fish. Well worth the trip.