Afternoon Salmon & Trout Fishing on Lake Michigan
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Private 6hour afternoon fishing trip on Lake MichiganCaptain David provides interactive guidance and local techniquesAccommodates up to 4 anglers with military discounts available
If you're looking for a solid afternoon on Lake Michigan targeting some serious fish, Captain David's got you covered. This half-day trip kicks off at 3:00 PM from Portage, Indiana, giving you six quality hours on the water without that early morning alarm. Perfect for folks who want to sleep in but still get after the salmon and trout that make Lake Michigan famous. You'll be fishing from a well-equipped 27' Stamas Fisherman that handles the big water beautifully, whether you're bringing the family, breaking in some beginners, or you're a seasoned angler looking for your next trophy.
Captain David keeps things interactive and educational throughout the trip, sharing local knowledge and techniques that'll make you a better angler. The afternoon timing actually works in your favor - you'll hit prime feeding windows as the day cools down and fish start moving up in the water column. The 27' Stamas gives you plenty of room to move around and fight fish properly, plus the stability you need when things get exciting. With up to four anglers included in the base rate, you can bring your crew without breaking the bank. The captain provides all the gear and knows exactly where the fish are holding based on current conditions, water temps, and recent patterns. Don't forget that $150 deposit secures your spot, and with the flexible cancellation policy, you've got peace of mind if weather doesn't cooperate.
Lake Michigan fishing is all about trolling, and Captain David has it dialed in. You'll be running a spread of downriggers, dipsy divers, and leadcore setups to cover different depths and water columns. The boat's equipped with quality electronics to mark fish and structure, plus all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle you'll need. Expect to run spoons, plugs, and flies depending on what the fish are hitting. The captain adjusts speed, depth, and lure selection based on real-time conditions - water temperature, clarity, and fish activity all play into the game plan. You'll learn about thermoclines, bait movements, and how to read your electronics while the captain works the spread. It's hands-on fishing where you'll actually understand what's happening below the surface, not just hoping for the best.
Chinook Salmon are the kings of Lake Michigan, and for good reason. These powerhouse fish can push 20-30 pounds and will test your drag system like nothing else. They're most active during spring and fall runs, but summer fish are aggressive feeders that'll hammer spoons and plugs in deeper water. When a king hits, you'll know it - they make blistering runs and aerial displays that get everyone on the boat excited. The fight can last 15-20 minutes, and landing one is a memory you'll talk about for years.
Brown Trout bring a different kind of excitement to the trip. These fish are notorious for their wariness and explosive strikes, often hitting close to the boat in shallow water during low-light periods. Lakers typically run 5-15 pounds but fight with incredible stamina and cunning. They'll wrap you around downrigger cables, make sudden direction changes, and test your angling skills. Browns are active throughout the summer months and provide consistent action when salmon fishing slows down.
Lake Trout are the deep-water specialists that many anglers overlook, but they shouldn't. These fish live in the coldest, deepest parts of Lake Michigan and can reach impressive sizes - 10-20 pounders are common, with giants pushing 30+ pounds. Lakers fight differently than salmon, using their weight and the deep water to their advantage. They're available year-round but really shine during summer months when they're feeding heavily on alewives and smelt. Landing a big lake trout requires patience and steady pressure, making them a favorite among experienced anglers who appreciate technical fishing.
This afternoon trip hits the sweet spot for Lake Michigan fishing - you get quality time on productive water without the early morning rush. Captain David's local knowledge and interactive approach make this trip work for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned Great Lakes anglers. The weekday discount saves you 10% Monday through Friday, and veterans get an even better deal with 20% off. With the flexible seven-day cancellation policy, there's no risk in securing your dates early. Lake Michigan's salmon and trout fishing is world-class, and this trip puts you right in the middle of the action with a captain who knows how to find fish and put you on them consistently.
Captain David's 27' Stamas Fisherman is your ticket to Lake Michigan's best salmon and trout action. This classic boat has been completely restored and runs on reliable twin 150HP Tohatsu engines that'll get you to the fish fast and smooth. The open deck design gives everyone plenty of room to work their lines without getting tangled up, and the stable hull handles Lake Michigan's waves like a champ. Whether you're casting for steelhead near shore or trolling for kings in deeper water, this boat's built for serious fishing. The afternoon departure means you'll hit prime feeding times when the fish are most active. Captain David knows these waters inside and out, so you'll spend more time fighting fish and less time searching. Perfect setup for families wanting to learn or experienced anglers looking to put some serious fish in the cooler.
Tylosurus AcusBrowns are the crafty veterans of the lake, typically running 3-8 pounds and known for being incredibly selective. They cruise the deeper waters during summer but move shallow near structure like piers and drop-offs, especially in low light. Fall fishing is prime time when they feed aggressively before winter. What draws anglers back? These fish are smart and spooky, making every hookup feel earned. They fight with surprising strength for their size and taste fantastic on the table with firm, mild meat. The key with browns is patience - they can follow your lure for hundreds of yards before deciding to bite. Try varying your trolling speed or switching colors when you mark fish but aren't getting strikes.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaKing salmon are the heavyweights of Lake Michigan, averaging 12-20 pounds with some pushing 30+. These silver-sided bruisers with black-spotted fins love the deep, cold water and stay down around 60-120 feet most of the day. Spring through fall offers solid action, but late summer can be epic when they're feeding hard before their spawning run. What makes them special? The fight is legendary - they'll make long runs and jump clear out of the water. Plus, that rich orange meat is some of the best eating you'll find. Here's a local trick: when trolling spoons or plugs, don't be afraid to run them deeper than you think. These fish often suspend just above the thermocline where the water temperature drops.
Salvelinus NamaycushLakers are the giants lurking in the deep - we're talking fish that can hit 20-40 pounds in Lake Michigan's coldest depths. These grey-green monsters with cream markings spend most of their time in 100+ feet of water, especially during summer when they seek out that cold, oxygen-rich zone. Early spring right after ice-out and late fall are your best shots when they move up a bit. Why chase them? Landing a big laker is like arm-wrestling a submarine - they use the deep water to their advantage with long, powerful runs. The meat is rich and oily, perfect for smoking. Pro tip: vertical jigging with heavy spoons or large swimbaits works best. When you feel that subtle tick on the bottom, set the hook hard.
Portage, Indiana, USA