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Guides > Captain Greg Windau

Hold'em Sportfishing

5 15 reviews Identity VerifiedIdentity Verified

Milwaukee WI

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Guides > Captain Greg Windau

Hold'em Sportfishing

locationMilwaukee WI

Guidesly Guarantee
5 15 reviews

Your Captain

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Greg Windau

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Greg Windau, Captain at Hold'em Sportfishing

At Hold’em Sportfishing, we believe salmon fishing on Lake Michigan is more than just a sport — it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, make lasting memories, and enjoy the quiet focus that comes from time spent on the water.


Our Lake Michigan salmon charters operate out of Milwaukee, one of the Midwest's top ports for sportfishing. Depending on the season, anglers can reel in a variety of prized species, including Coho and Chinook Salmon, Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), and Brown Trout. The best time for salmon fishing on Lake Michigan often falls between late spring and early fall, when water temperatures are optimal and fish are actively feeding nearshore and offshore. No matter the season, we’ll take you to proven fishing spots where action is most likely.


Captain Greg brings over 45 years of hands-on experience navigating these waters. As a lifelong Wisconsin resident, he knows the local fishing patterns inside and out. His calm, patient approach makes him a favorite with beginners, families with young children, and those trying Lake Michigan salmon fishing for the first time. Every trip is designed to be family-friendly, with a focus on comfort, safety, and fun. From helping you set lines to offering tips on how to fight and land your catch, our crew is here to ensure you feel confident every step of the way.


You’ll fish aboard a 32’ Sportfish Convertible, fully equipped with advanced trolling gear, sonar, downriggers, and all necessary fishing tackle. The boat offers a fully enclosed cabin with a restroom, cushioned seating for up to five guests, and plenty of deck space to move around. Whether you're relaxing between bites or getting ready to reel in a big one, the vessel is designed for comfort and convenience, even on longer outings. With the capacity for up to six anglers, our Lake Michigan salmon charters are ideal for group trips or family outings.


We recommend purchasing your Wisconsin fishing license ahead of your scheduled trip and bringing sunscreen (avoid sprays), drinks, and sunglasses. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but please leave the glass bottles and hard liquor at home. Tipping your First Mate (10–20%) is appreciated, as they work hard to make your day productive and fun. For a rewarding day on the water, look no further than Hold’em Sportfishing — your trusted source for Milwaukee salmon fishing charters.

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Upcoming Availability

July 2025
August 2025

Expertise & Attributes

fishing

fishing

Freshwater FishingFreshwater FishingGood with FamiliesGood with FamiliesGood with KidsGood with KidsGood with Large GroupsGood with Large GroupsGood with New AnglersGood with New AnglersMaster GuideMaster GuideNature / Wildlife ViewsNature / Wildlife Views

Fishing Techniques

Trolling FishingHeavy Tackle

What's Included

Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

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Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

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

Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

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Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

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Trips Available with Hold'em Sportfishing

Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy Fish
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy FishTop-Rated
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy FishInstant Booking
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy FishFishing - Inshore
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy Fish

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy Fish

Our 6-hour morning fishing trip offers the best of both worlds—prime fishing conditions and the flexibility for Captain to explore the best areas for catching fish. With this trip, you’ll have ample time to target Lake Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Pink Salmon in the productive waters of Lake Michigan. A skilled First Mate is on board to assist you throughout the journey, and a 10–20% tip is appreciated for their efforts. Ensure you have the proper fishing license, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen (non-spray), water, snacks, and a cooler for your catch.

Morning Trip

Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy FishMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy Fish6 Hours
Recommended | Private 6-Hour Morning Fishing Charter | Prime Time for Trophy Fish4:30 AM
$750

Pick Your Date

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Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout Season
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout SeasonTop-Rated
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout SeasonInstant Booking
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout SeasonFishing - Inshore
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout Season

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Private 5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout Season

Kick off your day with a 5-hour morning fishing trip, departing between 4 AM and 6 AM depending on seasonal conditions and target species. This trip is especially popular from May 1 to June 15 during peak Coho season, though it's a solid choice all season long. You'll have the opportunity to target Lake Trout, Steelhead (Rainbow Trout), Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Pink Salmon in the productive waters of Lake Michigan. Trips include the support of a skilled First Mate—tipping 10–20% is a great way to show appreciation. A fishing license may be required, so check online or confirm with the captain. Pack sunscreen (non-spray), water, snacks, and a cooler for your fillets.

Morning Trip

Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout SeasonMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout Season5 Hours
Private  5-Hour Morning Charter – Peak Coho & Trout Season5:00 AM
$675

Pick Your Date

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Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing TripTop-Rated
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing TripInstant Booking
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing TripFishing - Inshore
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip

Our 6-hour afternoon fishing trip gives you the opportunity to fish two prime areas, enhancing your chances of a productive day on the water. Starting in deeper waters during the high-sun period, the fish remain active, and as the day shifts to lower light, we move closer to shore for even more action. This trip targets Lake Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Pink Salmon in the rich waters of Lake Michigan. A skilled First Mate is available to assist, and a 10–20% tip is appreciated. Don’t forget your fishing license, sunscreen (non-spray), water, snacks, and a cooler for your catch!

Afternoon Trip

Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip6 Hours
Private 6-Hour Afternoon Fishing Trip2:30 PM
$750

Pick Your Date

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Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s Favorite
Best Price Guarantee
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s FavoriteTop-Rated
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s FavoriteInstant Booking
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s FavoriteFishing - Lake
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s Favorite

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s Favorite

Head out at 5 PM for an evening fishing trip on Lake Michigan that runs through sunset. The action often builds slowly but can finish strong as larger fish become more active later in the day. While catch numbers may not match the morning trips, the potential to hook into trophy-sized fish is higher in the evening hours. This is a great option for anglers focused on quality over quantity. Trips are guided by a professional crew, including a First Mate who works hard to make your experience smooth and successful—a 10–20% gratuity is appreciated.

Evening Trip

Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s FavoriteMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s Favorite4 Hours
Private 4-Hour Sunset Charter – Captain’s Favorite5:00 PM
$595

Pick Your Date

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Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout Fishing
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout FishingTop-Rated
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout FishingInstant Booking
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout FishingFishing - Inshore
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout Fishing

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout Fishing

If you're not an early riser, our 5-hour mid-day fishing trip is perfect for you! While the bite may slow during midday, Captain’s extensive knowledge of Lake Michigan ensures you'll still have a productive experience. This trip allows you to target Lake Trout, Steelhead (Rainbow Trout), Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Pink Salmon. A skilled First Mate is onboard to assist you throughout the trip. Gratuities of 10–20% are appreciated for their hard work. Be sure to check if a fishing license is required and bring sunscreen (non-spray), water, snacks, and a cooler for your catch.

Morning Trip

Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout FishingMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout Fishing5 Hours
Private 5-Hour Mid-Day Charter – Salmon & Trout Fishing11:30 AM
$675

Pick Your Date

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Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch Guarantee
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch GuaranteeTop-Rated
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch GuaranteeInstant Booking
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch GuaranteeFishing - Offshore
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch Guarantee

Hold'em Sportfishing32'Carver Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch Guarantee

This extended fishing charter is perfect for dedicated anglers looking to make the most of their time on Lake Michigan. By fishing during key bite windows and having the flexibility to explore multiple productive zones—whether close to shore or far offshore—you'll increase your chances of success. This trip comes with a catch guarantee (conditions apply, please confirm with the Captain), making it an ideal choice for those aiming to fill their cooler. Mid-day departures are also an option, depending on your preference. Be sure to check license requirements and bring non-spray sunscreen, water, snacks, and a cooler for your fillets.

Full Day Trip

Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch GuaranteeMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch Guarantee8 Hours
Private Full-Day Lake Michigan Salmon Charter – Catch Guarantee4:00 AM
$950

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Vehicle

Hold'em Sportfishing

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

6

Boat Length:

32 ft

Manufacturer Name:

Carver

Model Year:

1984

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Mercruiser

# of Engines:

2

Horsepower Per Engine:

260

Maximum Cruising Speed:

20

Features: Outriggers Toilet Ice-Box Refrigerator Fish Finder GPS Radar

Hold'em Sportfishing Carver Boat

Step aboard our 32’ Sportfish Convertible, built for comfort and performance on Lake Michigan. With room for 6 guests, it features top-tier trolling gear, downriggers, live sonar, charting tech, a flush toilet, and a cozy enclosed salon—perfect for relaxing between bites or chatting with the captain

Boat

Hold'em Sportfishing Carver Boat image 0

Hold'em Sportfishing

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

6

Boat Length:

32 ft

Vehicle Details

FAQs about Hold'em Sportfishing

Reports and Expert Articles

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Big Chinooks, Huge Rainbows—Milwaukee Fishing Heating Up for July!

The action is heating up again in Milwaukee! We've had some slower trips in June and some fantastic ones to follow, yet all these wonderful groups of anglers had a blast catching these quality fish! And there have been some monsters coming in - BIG Chinooks and HUGE Rainbows. THIS is the best time to get in on this, it's setting up to be another FiNTastic July!!! Call or Message for your reservation: 262-951-5605 Captain Greg

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Multi-Generational Fun and Big Cohos Keep Milwaukee Fishing Hot

Milwaukee fishing is still going strong, with fair numbers of cohos still around. And now they are King* sized! Plus more Chinooks and Rainbows in every box. It's good to see young anglers through the older ones all having a great time fishing for (and catching) some of these great fish. Family groups of several generations all sharing equally in this great fishing experience. Get your group together and make your own memories! Captain Greg (262) 951-5605

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Rough Waters, Solid Catch – Milwaukee Fishing Still On Fire!

The lake conditions most of the weekend were certainly not ideal - yet these anglers braved the wild ride to catch good numbers of high quality fish! Milwaukee fishing remains hot 🥵, get your trip in soon! Captain Greg (262) 951-5605

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Salmon and Trout Fishing Heating Up This May in Milwaukee

Fishing activity in Milwaukee's Lake Michigan waters is heating up this May, offering anglers exciting opportunities to target various salmon and trout species.​ Coho Salmon Action: Coho salmon are currently abundant along the Milwaukee shoreline, particularly between the North and South Gaps of the harbor. Anglers are finding success trolling in 10 to 15 feet of water using orange dodgers paired with peanut flies. This setup has been effective in attracting Coho salmon, which are actively feeding in these areas. ​ Brown Trout and Chinook Salmon: While Coho salmon dominate the catch, there have been reports of Brown trout activity, especially around the South Gap of the Milwaukee harbor. Trolling with spoons has yielded some Brown trout, and occasionally, Chinook salmon in the 10 to 14-pound range are being caught, adding to the excitement for anglers seeking larger fish. ​ Fishing Techniques: Successful anglers are employing a combination of trolling methods, utilizing lead core lines and dipsy divers to reach varying depths. Spoons like the Moonshine UV Green Flounder Pounder and Stinger Orange Crush have been productive, especially when targeting Coho salmon near the surface. Adjusting trolling speeds and depths based on water temperature and fish activity has been key to maximizing catch rates. ​ Best Times to Fish: Early morning and late afternoon have proven to be the most productive times for fishing, aligning with the peak feeding periods of salmon and trout. Monitoring weather conditions and water temperatures can also aid in planning successful fishing trips.​ Licensing and Regulations: Anglers are reminded to ensure they have a valid Wisconsin fishing license before heading out. Licenses can be purchased online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website or at authorized vendors. ​ With favorable conditions and active fish populations, May is shaping up to be an excellent month for fishing in Milwaukee's Lake Michigan waters.

Ratings & Reviews Summary

5.00
out of 5
Based on 15 ratings
100%
recommended
recommended
Based on 15 recommendations
5
15
4
3
2
1
Our Captain is loved for...
Great Guide
Great For Top Anglers
Best Spots
Good with Kids

July 11, 2025

We had an awesome experience with Hold’em Sportfishing aboard the Kings Full on Saturday of Memorial weekend 2022. We arrived on the dock at 4:45am and Captain Greg and his first mate was ready to go. After a thorough safety briefing and answering any of our initial questions, we were off. We ran out about 20 minutes out of the harbor and started setting lines so we were ready when we went over several waypoints. It didn’t take long and we had a triple of Coho on the lines. We ended up with a limit of fish which is icing on the cake. Fishing is fishing and there are no guarantees that there will be a limit or even a fish in the boat. I know that Captain Greg would be working his tail off to get us on fish if we weren’t into them, but we were that day. The Kings Full boat is large, comfortable, and we’ll equipped. A full bathroom is much appreciated (particularly by my wife and daughters). Fishing equipment on board was set and ready to go. They have a tradition that one of the clients on board gets to pick the last spoon to send out and if that bait hits then whoever picked it gets to fight that fish! Fun stuff. Of course my spoon didn’t hit, but when my daughters got to pick one of course they both hit! We had several triples and doubles when we were out. Lots of excitement, but we were never rushed or had orders barked at us. First Mate Cathy is the best. Captain Greg has extensive Lake Michigan fishing knowledge and is more than willing to entertain questions from Lake Michigan newbies. We came home with 25lbs+ of fresh salmon and lake trout. All expertly filleted and bagged for us. We’ll have salmon dinners oncea week for the next 20 weeks!! Thanks to Captain Greg and First Mate Cathy for providing my family a wonderful and safe Great Lakes fishing experience!! When do the the King Salmon start?????

July 11, 2025

What an exciting adventure we had with Hold'em fishing Charter🐟 From the skilfull maneuvering and guidance of Captain Greg who knows right where the fish are 🐠 to the 1st mate Cathy who's glistening smile lit up our voyage through the sparkling waters of lake Michigan 😊 They not only know what they're doing but they made it a cruse filled with cherished memories of laughter and smiles I will never forget. 😍 We were all submerged in the flourishing bliss of a lifetime invited to experience an enchanting stress-free journey hook line & sinker 😉 Thanks! it doesn't get better than this!🥰

July 11, 2025

Captain Greg and his first mate Cathy were perfect! What an awesome experience fishing with them and the guys. It was a great day!

July 11, 2025

Hold’em Sportfishing is an awesome charter out on Lake Michigan. My family had a fantastic time and we got to bring home lots of fish! Captain Greg was a great, experienced instructor and is very passionate about what he does. Him and his wife are a great team and work noticeably hard to keep the crew entertained! If you are looking for a great time with family or friends, I highly recommend booking with Hold’em Sportfishing!!

July 11, 2025

Phenomenal trip! Captain Greg and First Mate Cathy were awesome to fish with! They had us on fish all day and were having as much fun as all of us. They are extremely knowledgeable and their passion for fishing and great customer service really shows. We cannot wait to go back!

July 11, 2025

I cannot say enough good things about this charter. We were on fish the whole day, 5 different species of fish and some serious giants!! We were 1 fish short of a 20 fish limit. Greg knows his stuff, I promise you will not be disappointed!!

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