Half Day Morning Salmon and Trout Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Early morning departure targeting salmon and trout speciesPeak Coho season runs from May through midJuneFirst Mate support included with fourperson capacity
If you're looking to get your lines wet on Lake Michigan's most productive waters, this 5-hour morning charter with Hold'em Sportfishing is exactly what you need. Captain Greg and his crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on fish from the moment you leave the dock. This isn't just another fishing trip—it's your chance to experience some of the best salmon and trout action the Great Lakes have to offer. With a maximum of 4 anglers, you'll get the personal attention that makes all the difference between a good day and an epic day on the water.
Your adventure kicks off early—we're talking 4 AM to 6 AM departure depending on what the fish are doing and where they're holding. Yeah, it's early, but trust me, the fish bite best in those pre-dawn hours when the water's calm and the baitfish are moving. During peak Coho season from May 1 to June 15, this trip is absolutely money, but honestly, Lake Michigan delivers solid action all season long. You'll be targeting a mixed bag that includes Lake Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, and Pink Salmon. The crew provides a skilled First Mate who'll keep your lines in the water and help you land those trophy fish—don't forget to tip them 10-20% because these guys work hard to make your trip successful. Make sure you've got your fishing license sorted before you step on board, and pack sunscreen (non-spray only), plenty of water, some snacks, and a cooler for those fresh fillets you'll be taking home.
We're running a trolling spread that's been dialed in over years of fishing these waters. The boat's rigged with downriggers, planer boards, and lead core setups to cover the entire water column from surface to bottom. Depending on conditions and what's showing on the fish finder, we might be pulling spoons, plugs, or flasher-fly combos at depths ranging from 20 feet down to 150 feet or more. Lake Michigan's thermoclines can be tricky, but that's where the captain's experience really shines—he knows exactly where to find those temperature breaks where salmon and trout stack up. The boat's equipped with quality Penn and Shimano reels spooled with fresh line, so you don't need to worry about bringing your own gear unless you want to. When a fish hits, you'll know it—Lake Michigan salmon don't mess around, and even a modest Coho will give you a fight you won't forget.
"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!!" - Chad
Chinook Salmon are the kings of Lake Michigan for good reason—these bruisers can push 30 pounds and will test every ounce of drag on your reel. They're most active in the cooler morning hours and tend to hold in deeper water near thermal breaks. When a King hits your line, you'll know it immediately from that bone-jarring strike and the screaming run that follows. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, with some of the biggest fish showing up in August and September.
Coho Salmon are pure adrenaline on a fishing line, known for their spectacular jumps and never-quit attitude. These silver bullets typically range from 8-15 pounds and are absolutely phenomenal table fare. The Coho bite really fires up from May through June, though you'll find them scattered throughout the summer months. They're notorious for their acrobatic fights, so keep your rod tip up and enjoy the show.
Lake Trout are the native heavyweights of these waters, and catching one feels like connecting with Lake Michigan's fishing heritage. These deep-dwelling giants can live for decades and grow to impressive sizes—20-pounders aren't uncommon. They prefer the coldest, deepest water and are often found near bottom structure. Lake trout have a unique fighting style, preferring powerful runs to flashy jumps, and their rich, flaky meat is prized by anglers who know good fish.
Steelhead (Rainbow Trout) are hands-down some of the most exciting fish you can hook in the Great Lakes. These chrome-bright fighters are fresh from their spawning runs and absolutely loaded with energy. They'll jump, run, and do everything possible to throw your hook. Steelhead can range from 5-15 pounds, with the occasional monster pushing even bigger. They're incredibly versatile feeders and can be found anywhere from near-surface to mid-depth, depending on water temperature and bait concentrations.
Pink Salmon might be the smallest salmon in Lake Michigan, but they make up for size with sheer numbers during their peak years. These 2-4 pound fighters show up in massive schools during odd-numbered years, creating some of the most fast-paced fishing action you'll find anywhere. They're perfect for getting kids or inexperienced anglers into fish, and their light, flaky meat is excellent when prepared fresh. When the pinks are running, it's not uncommon to boat dozens of fish in a single trip.
This top-rated Lake Michigan charter consistently delivers the kind of fishing memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're after that trophy Chinook for the wall or just want to experience world-class Great Lakes fishing, Captain Greg and the Hold'em Sportfishing crew have the knowledge and dedication to make it happen. With only 4 spots
Our 32-foot sportfish convertible is built for serious Lake Michigan fishing adventures. This well-equipped boat comfortably handles up to 6 anglers and comes loaded with everything you need to target salmon and trout. The downriggers and live sonar help you stay on the fish, while the enclosed salon gives you a warm spot to grab coffee between strikes. When the lake gets choppy, you'll appreciate the radar system and GPS for safe navigation. The onboard fridge keeps your drinks cold and gives you a place to store your catch until you can get it in your cooler. After a morning of battling kings and cohos, the flush toilet and comfortable seating make the ride back to port much more pleasant. The captain knows these waters inside and out, and with the fish finder constantly scanning below, you'll spend more time fighting fish than searching for them.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaChinook salmon - the "kings" of Lake Michigan - are what trophy dreams are made of. These bruisers average 15-20 pounds but can push 30+ pounds, making them the heavyweight champions out there. Unlike their jumping coho cousins, kings are power fighters that dive deep and bulldoze through the water. They're light-sensitive, so they stay in the depths during bright days, which means downriggers and weighted presentations are your best bet. What makes them special isn't just the size - that rich, red meat is some of the finest eating you'll find. Early morning and evening bites produce best, especially during cooler months. These fish prefer the bottom half of the water column, so get your baits down deep. Pro tip: use a steady, slow troll with plugs or spoons - kings like a consistent presentation over flashy action.
Oncorhynchus KisutchCoho salmon, nicknamed "silvers," are the stars of our May-June peak season for good reason. These 8-12 pound fighters are pure adrenaline on the line, jumping up to 6 feet and making blazing runs that'll have your drag screaming. They cruise the mid-depths of Lake Michigan, often suspended over deep water but willing to chase bait shallow. What makes cohos special is their aggressive nature and acrobatic shows - plus that bright orange meat is table fare at its finest. Early morning trips during their peak run offer the best action when they're actively feeding. They'll hit spoons, plugs, and flies, but bright colors like chartreuse and pink work best. My go-to tip: when you hook one, keep steady pressure but let your drag do the work - these fish will tire themselves out jumping.
Salvelinus NamaycushLake trout are the deep-water giants of Lake Michigan, averaging 15-40 pounds and living in the coldest, deepest parts of the lake. These grey-green bruisers with cream-colored spots are built for the depths, preferring water over 100 feet deep during summer months. What sets lakers apart is their raw power - no jumping, just pure bulldogging strength that'll test your tackle. They're excellent eating with firm, flaky meat that's perfect for the grill. Spring offers the best shallow-water opportunities right after ice-out, but summer fishing means going deep with downriggers. Overcast days and low-light conditions trigger the best feeding activity. Jigging is deadly effective - try paddle-tail swimbaits or jigging spoons worked vertically. Key tip: fish them slow and deep, and once you find them, stay put - lakers often school up in specific depth zones.
Oncorhynchus GorbuschaPink salmon are the smallest of the Pacific salmon at around 4-5 pounds, but don't let size fool you - they're scrappy fighters with plenty of energy. Also called humpies for the distinctive hump males develop, these silver bullets prefer the cooler waters of Lake Michigan. They're most active during odd-numbered years when populations peak, making those seasons particularly exciting. What draws anglers is their willingness to bite and that beautiful pink flesh that's loaded with omega-3s. They'll hit bright jigs and spoons, especially in pink or chartreuse colors. Best fishing happens in the cooler months when they're actively feeding. Local trick: add some herring or squid scent to your lures - pinks are drawn to those natural oils that mimic their favorite crustaceans and baitfish.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout, also called steelhead in Lake Michigan, typically run 8-24 inches and average 2-8 pounds. You'll find them cruising the cooler depths during summer, but they move shallower in spring and fall when water temps hit that sweet spot of 55-64°F. These fish are absolute acrobats when hooked - expect jumps and runs that'll test your drag. What makes them special is their adaptability and strong fight, plus that pink flesh makes for excellent eating. They're active all season, but early morning and evening bites are prime time. Pro tip: keep your bait moving slightly off the bottom - rainbows prefer active presentations over static offerings. Their keen eyesight means they can be picky, so don't be afraid to downsize your tackle in clear water.
I cannot say enough good things about this charter. We were on fish the whole day, 5 different species of fish and some serious gi...
Lake Michigan