Michigan's Premier Lake Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Target walleye and perch across three premier Michigan watersCaptain provides live bait, gear, and expert fishing techniquesSmall group charter accommodates up to six guests comfortably
Captain Danny Boy knows Michigan waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on fish across three of the state's most productive fishing grounds. Whether we're working the deep structure of Lake Michigan, drifting the current breaks of the Detroit River, or hitting the legendary walleye grounds of Saginaw Bay, this morning trip delivers consistent action for up to six anglers. Pack light – just bring your cooler and valid Michigan fishing license. We've got the rest covered, from premium live bait to all the tackle you'll need, plus snacks to keep you fueled between fish.
Your day starts early when the fish are most active and the water's glass-calm. Captain Danny Boy picks his spots based on current conditions, water temperature, and where the baitfish are holding. Some mornings we'll be working the thermocline in 40 feet of Lake Michigan, other days we're drifting live minnows through the channels of the Detroit River, or trolling crawler harnesses across Saginaw Bay's famous reef systems. The beauty of fishing multiple locations means we can adjust to seasonal patterns and weather conditions. Spring through fall, there's always something biting in Michigan waters. You'll learn why local anglers consider these three fisheries among the most reliable in the Great Lakes region. The captain shares decades of experience, pointing out structure on the fish finder and explaining why certain presentations work better than others.
We run a variety of methods depending on the season and target species. For walleye, expect to work bottom bouncers with spinner rigs, troll with planer boards, or jig live minnows along drop-offs and reef edges. The Detroit River's current means we'll often anchor and cast, letting the flow carry our baits naturally downstream where walleye ambush prey. Lake Michigan perch fishing is all about finding the right depth – we use spreader rigs with multiple hooks to maximize action when schools are located. Captain Danny Boy provides top-shelf tackle including Ugly Stik rods, quality reels, and a full selection of jigs, rigs, and terminal gear. Live bait is always fresh – emerald shiners, fatheads, and nightcrawlers depending on what the fish want that day. The boat's equipped with modern electronics including GPS, fishfinder, and all safety equipment. You'll learn techniques that work specifically in these waters, from reading electronics to understanding seasonal migration patterns.
American Yellow Perch are the bread and butter of Great Lakes fishing, and Michigan's populations are absolutely world-class. These scrappy panfish typically run 8-12 inches with occasional jumbos pushing 13-14 inches – the kind that make your arms tired after a morning of steady action. Perch are most active during cooler months, particularly late fall and early spring when they school in massive numbers over sandy bottoms and reef structures. What makes perch fishing so addictive is the non-stop action once you locate a school. They're aggressive feeders that hit small jigs tipped with minnows or worms, and it's common to double up with fish on multiple rods. Plus, they're absolutely delicious table fare – sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for a fish fry.
Walleye are the crown jewel of freshwater fishing, and Michigan's waters produce some genuine trophies. These golden beauties average 2-4 pounds with plenty of fish pushing 6-8 pounds, especially during spring and fall runs. Walleye are most active during low-light periods – early morning, late evening, and overcast days when they move shallow to feed. Their excellent eyesight and wariness make them a challenging target that rewards patience and technique. The fight is steady and determined rather than flashy, but feeling that distinctive head-shake on the end of your line never gets old. Walleye are also premier eating fish with firm, white fillets that have virtually no fishy taste. The Detroit River and Saginaw Bay are legendary walleye destinations, while Lake Michigan holds excellent populations in deeper water near structure.
Captain Danny Boy's morning trips consistently produce fish across three of Michigan's most productive waters. With expert guidance, quality equipment, and local knowledge that comes from years on these lakes and rivers, you're set up for success whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time. The combination of reliable action, beautiful scenery, and top-notch table fare makes this a customer favorite that keeps anglers coming back season after season. Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best freshwater fishing the Great Lakes have to offer. Morning trips book fast, especially during peak seasons, so secure your spot today and get ready to see why Michigan waters have such a legendary reputation among serious anglers.
Perca FlavescensYellow perch are the bread and butter of Michigan fishing - they make up about 85% of what gets caught in Lake Michigan for good reason. These golden beauties with their dark vertical stripes usually run 7-8 inches, though we occasionally see them push past a foot. They school up in huge numbers around weed beds, docks, and rocky structure in 10-20 feet of water. Spring through fall are prime time, especially when they move shallow in cooler weather. What makes perch so popular? They bite readily on minnows and worms, fight surprisingly hard for their size, and taste amazing in the pan - sweet, flaky white meat. Here's a local trick: when you catch one perch, drop your line right back down. Where there's one, there's usually a whole school waiting underneath.
Sander VitreusWalleye are the prize fish of our Great Lakes waters, and for good reason. These golden-olive beauties average 15-20 inches but can push 30 inches and 20 pounds - especially the females. Their signature silver eyes help them hunt in low light, which is exactly when they bite best. Look for them along rocky breaks, weed edges, and drop-offs in 15-30 feet during the day, but they'll move shallow at dawn and dusk to feed. Spring and fall provide the hottest action when water temps hit that sweet spot around 50-60 degrees. Guests love walleye because they fight smart and steady, plus they're hands down the best eating fish in freshwater - mild, flaky, and buttery. My go-to tip: use live minnows on a slow troll along bottom structure. Patience pays off with these fish.
Detroit