Ice Fishing Trips - Saginaw Bay
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Ice fishing adventure on Saginaw Bay targeting walleyeComplete equipment package includes snowmobiles and heated shantiesProfessional guide service with electronics and tackle provided
When winter locks down Saginaw Bay with thick, solid ice, that's when the real action starts. Our ice fishing trips put you right in the heart of Michigan's premier walleye territory, operating from our heated base at 65 S Linwood Beach Rd in Linwood. This isn't your typical walk-out-and-drop-a-line setup – we're talking about a full-service winter fishing operation that gets you to the hot spots fast and keeps you comfortable while you work the schools of hungry walleye that cruise these productive waters all season long.
Your day kicks off at The Reel Fish'n House Rental, where you'll meet up and gear up for what's consistently rated as one of the top ice fishing experiences on the Great Lakes. We handle the heavy lifting – literally. Our snowmobiles get you out to prime fishing zones quickly, cutting through the wind and covering ground that would take forever to hike. Once we're positioned over productive structure, you'll fish from warm, wind-proof shanties that make all the difference when you're spending hours working jigs in sub-freezing temps. The electronics we bring aren't just standard fish finders – we're talking high-end units that show you exactly what's happening below the ice, from bottom composition to fish movement patterns. You'll see walleye approaching your bait in real-time, which completely changes how you fish and dramatically ups your success rate.
Jigging is king out here, and there's good reason why it's our go-to technique for Saginaw Bay walleye. The rods we provide are sensitive enough to feel the lightest tap but have the backbone to handle aggressive fish in current. We're talking about subtle presentations – small jigs tipped with minnows or plastics, worked just off bottom where walleye feed most actively during winter months. The key is reading your electronics and adjusting your jigging cadence based on what the fish are telling you. Sometimes they want aggressive snaps and pops, other times a barely-there lift and drop triggers strikes. Our tackle selection covers the full spectrum, from 1/8-ounce jigs for finicky fish to heavier presentations when you need to get down fast in deeper water or current. The beauty of this setup is that everything's dialed in for Saginaw Bay conditions – we know what works here because we fish it constantly.
Walleye are the main event on Saginaw Bay ice, and winter fishing here is absolutely world-class for good reason. These fish school up tight during cold months, often stacking in impressive numbers over specific pieces of structure or depth changes. What makes Saginaw Bay walleye special isn't just their numbers – it's their quality. We're talking about chunky, well-fed fish that average 2-4 pounds, with plenty of opportunities for bigger specimens that push 6-8 pounds or more. Peak action typically runs from late December through February, when walleye are actively feeding and relatively predictable in their movements. They tend to hold in 12-20 feet of water during midday hours, then move shallower toward evening. What gets anglers hooked on walleye fishing is that perfect combination of challenge and reward – they're smart enough to keep you working, but when you dial in the pattern, you can have banner days that'll keep you talking all year. Plus, there's nothing quite like watching a big walleye materialize on your electronics, swimming up to investigate your jig.
This is hands-down one of the most complete ice fishing packages you'll find anywhere on the Great Lakes. We've eliminated every hassle and obstacle that typically comes with ice fishing – transportation, shelter, electronics, rods, tackle – so you can focus entirely on catching fish. The single-angler capacity means you get personalized attention and can fish at your own pace without dealing with crowds or conflicting fishing styles. Keep in mind that we don't provide fish cleaning during ice season, so plan accordingly if you want to take your catch home. Saginaw Bay's ice fishing window is relatively short but incredibly productive, and prime dates fill up fast among serious walleye anglers who know this area's reputation. Whether you're new to ice fishing or a seasoned pro looking for a guided trip on unfamiliar water, this is your chance to experience some of Michigan's finest winter fishing without any of the usual headaches.
This 22' Custom Starcraft center console packs serious power with its 250HP Evinrude, hitting speeds up to 47 knots when the water's open. Built in '86 but kept in great shape, she's your ticket to prime fishing spots on Saginaw Bay. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when you're working structure, while the GPS and fish finder help you stay on the walleye. VHF radio keeps you connected for safety and intel from other anglers. Though she can handle up to 5 people during regular season, winter ice fishing trips focus on smaller groups for the best experience. When Saginaw Bay locks up, this boat transitions to supporting snowmobile-based ice fishing operations, getting gear and supplies where they need to go for those productive walleye jigging sessions.
Detroit