Half Day Bass Fishing Trip in Detroit River
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fourhour guided bass fishing on Detroit River watersProfessional instruction for largemouth and smallmouth bassPrivate charter accommodates up to three guests maximum
If you're looking to hook into some serious bass action without committing to a full day on the water, Captain Timothy Gill's half-day Detroit River trip is exactly what you need. This 4-hour guided fishing adventure puts you right in the sweet spot where largemouth and smallmouth bass call home. Whether you're just getting your feet wet in the bass fishing world or you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your technique, Tim knows how to make every cast count. You'll be fishing from his trusty Ranger Z21 Comanche – a boat that's built for comfort and gets you to the fish fast. With room for just 2 guests, this isn't some crowded charter where you're fighting for elbow room. It's your own private bass hunting mission on one of Michigan's most productive waters.
The Detroit River isn't your typical lazy river – it's a bass factory that connects Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie, creating the perfect storm of current, structure, and baitfish that bass absolutely love. Captain Tim knows every rock pile, weed edge, and drop-off along this stretch, and he's not shy about sharing what makes each spot tick. You'll start your morning launching from Auburn, then cruise to wherever the fish are biting best that day. The beauty of a half-day trip is that you get all the prime time fishing without the afternoon lull that can happen on longer outings. Tim's approach is hands-on – he'll set you up with the right gear, show you the techniques that work in these waters, and help you read what the fish are telling you through your rod tip. Don't worry if you've never thrown a spinnerbait or worked a drop shot before. This guy has a knack for breaking down techniques in ways that actually make sense, and before you know it, you'll be fishing like you've been doing it for years.
The Detroit River demands versatility, and Captain Tim comes loaded with tackle that matches the conditions you'll face. Depending on the season and what the bass are doing, you might find yourself throwing everything from shallow-running crankbaits along the weed lines to dragging soft plastics through deeper structure. The river's current creates some unique opportunities – bass will stack up in current breaks and ambush points that don't exist in still water. Tim's got medium-heavy spinning rods and baitcasters rigged and ready, so you can focus on learning the presentations rather than fumbling with tackle. He's big on teaching the "why" behind each technique – explaining how to feel the difference between a rock, a weed, and a fish, or how to work a jig so it looks like a crawfish trying to hide. The Ranger Z21 gives you the platform to fish effectively, with plenty of deck space to move around and a trolling motor that lets Tim position the boat exactly where it needs to be. You'll learn to read water differently after spending time with someone who's made a living understanding how bass use this river system.
Largemouth bass in the Detroit River are the poster fish for why this fishery has such a solid reputation. These green machines average 2-4 pounds but don't be surprised if you tangle with something pushing 6 pounds or better. They love the weedy bays and slower sections where they can ambush prey, especially during warmer months from late spring through early fall. What makes Detroit River largemouths special is their attitude – they hit hard and fight dirty, using the current and structure to their advantage. These fish have seen plenty of lures, so they can be finicky, but when you figure out what they want, the action can be lights-out. Tim knows exactly where these fish set up shop during different seasons and what triggers them to bite.
Smallmouth bass are the other half of this dynamic duo, and many anglers argue they're even more fun to catch. Detroit River smallies are bronze bulldogs that fight way above their weight class. They typically run 1-3 pounds but occasionally you'll hook into a 4-pound-plus tank that'll make your drag scream. These fish love rocky areas, current breaks, and deeper structure, especially during summer when they school up in predictable spots. Smallmouths are active almost year-round in this system, but they're at their peak from late spring through early winter. What sets them apart is their aerial shows – a hooked smallmouth will jump, tail-walk, and generally go crazy trying to shake your hook. They're also notorious for making long runs that test your drag settings and your nerves. Captain Tim has dialed in the specific structure and techniques that consistently produce quality smallmouth bass, and he's always excited to share what makes these fish tick.
A half-day trip with Captain Timothy Gill isn't just about catching fish – though you'll definitely do plenty of that. It's about learning from someone who genuinely loves sharing his knowledge and seeing his guests succeed. The Detroit River offers some of the most consistent bass fishing in Michigan, and having Tim as your guide means you're not just casting blind and hoping for the best. You're getting years of experience and local knowledge working in your favor. The fact that this trip accommodates just 2 guests means you get personalized attention that's impossible on larger charters. Whether you're planning a father-son trip, want to introduce someone to bass fishing, or you're looking to step up your own game, this is the kind of experience that pays dividends long after you head home. The Detroit River's bass aren't going anywhere, but prime dates with top-rated guides like Tim fill up fast, especially during peak season. If you're serious about putting some quality bass in the boat while learning techniques you can use anywhere, it's time to secure your spot on the water.
The Ranger Z21 Comanche is your ticket to serious bass action on the Detroit River. This 21-foot fishing machine packs a 250 HP Evinrude that'll get you to the hotspots fast, cruising smoothly at 35 mph across Michigan waters. Built specifically for bass and walleye fishing, she's got everything you need for a productive day chasing largemouth and smallmouth. The boat comfortably handles up to 4 anglers, though your trip accommodates 2 guests for a more personalized experience with Captain Timothy. Whether you're working shallow cover or deeper structure, this rig delivers the stability and performance to put you on fish. From the comfortable seating to the reliable handling, every detail is designed to maximize your time with a line in the water rather than dealing with boat issues.
Micropterus SalmoidesLargemouth bass are the classic target that gets most anglers hooked on fishing. These green giants can reach 3-5 pounds in the Detroit River system, with their huge mouths that extend past their eyes. Look for them around weed beds, downed trees, and shallow bays where they ambush prey. They love cover and aren't as picky about water clarity as smallies. Spring through fall offers consistent action, with early morning and evening being peak times. What guests love is the explosive strikes and aerial shows when hooked. Plus, they're great eating when caught from clean water like ours. Here's a local trick: throw red or chartreuse lures near structure during overcast days - largemouths are drawn to bright colors and the low light makes them less cautious about coming shallow to feed.
Micropterus DolomieuSmallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that'll test your skills on the Detroit River. These bronze-backed beauties average 12-18 inches and love rocky bottoms and current breaks. You'll find them around structure like bridge pilings and drop-offs, especially in 8-15 feet of water. Spring and fall are prime time when they're shallow and aggressive, but summer fishing can be great too if you go deeper. What makes smallies special is their fight - pound for pound, they're some of the strongest freshwater fish you'll hook. They jump, run, and never give up easy. The meat's firm and tasty too. Pro tip: when the water's clear, downsize your line to 8-10lb test and use natural colors. They're spookier than largemouths but worth the extra effort.
Detroit River