Detroit River Walleye Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target multiple fish species on Detroit River watersAll fishing gear and equipment provided by charterSmall group experience with maximum three guests
The Detroit River is a walleye angler's dream, and Reel-Tite Charter knows exactly where to find them. This top-rated charter service has been putting clients on fish for years, targeting one of the Great Lakes' most sought-after species in waters that consistently produce impressive catches. With gear provided and a captain who knows every productive spot, you'll spend your day focused on what matters most – getting your line tight and landing fish.
Your Detroit River fishing adventure starts early, when the walleye are most active and the river traffic is light. Captain and crew from Reel-Tite Charter will have all the necessary tackle rigged and ready – rods, reels, tackle, and bait are all part of the package. The boat accommodates up to three anglers, which means plenty of room to fish comfortably without crowding. You'll want to pack your own snacks and drinks for the day, but leave the glass bottles at home – they're not allowed on board for safety reasons. Most importantly, make sure you've got your valid Michigan fishing license before you step foot on the boat. The crew can point you toward productive water, but they can't help if you don't have proper documentation.
Detroit River walleye fishing is all about understanding current breaks, depth changes, and structure. The captain will likely start you trolling with crankbaits or pulling bottom bouncers with crawler harnesses, depending on conditions and fish activity. The river's current creates natural feeding lanes where walleye ambush baitfish, and experienced guides like Reel-Tite know exactly where these sweet spots are located. You'll work depths ranging from 15 to 35 feet, adjusting your presentation based on what the fish are telling you. The beauty of guided fishing here is that you don't need to worry about reading electronics or understanding seasonal patterns – your captain handles the technical stuff while you focus on feeling for bites and setting hooks. When trolling isn't producing, expect to switch tactics to jigging or drifting live bait along productive drop-offs.
Detroit River consistently delivers quality fishing action, which is why repeat customers make up a big chunk of Reel-Tite's business. The river connects Lake Huron and Lake Erie, creating a natural highway for migrating fish and concentrating walleye in predictable areas throughout the season. Local anglers know this fishery produces not just numbers, but quality fish – walleye in the 3 to 6-pound range are common, with occasional trophies pushing 8 pounds or better. The urban setting might surprise first-time visitors, but don't let the city backdrop fool you. This water holds serious fish, and the bite can stay hot from early morning through late afternoon when conditions align.
Walleye are the main attraction on Detroit River, and for good reason. These golden-sided fighters are pound-for-pound some of the best eating fish that swim in the Great Lakes system. Detroit River walleye typically run between 14 and 24 inches, with the sweet spot being fish in the 18 to 20-inch range that provide excellent table fare. Spring and fall offer the most consistent action, when cooler water temperatures trigger feeding activity and concentrate fish in specific areas. What makes walleye so appealing to target is their predictable behavior – they relate to structure, follow baitfish movements, and respond well to proper presentation. When you hook into a decent walleye, you'll feel that characteristic head-shaking fight as they try to use the current to their advantage. The bite can range from subtle taps that barely register to aggressive strikes that nearly pull the rod from your hands. Experienced walleye anglers know to watch their rod tips closely and set the hook at the first sign of weight or resistance. These fish have excellent eyesight and can be finicky feeders, but when you dial in the right combination of location, depth, and presentation, the action can be fast and furious.
Detroit River walleye fishing with Reel-Tite Charter offers everything you need for a successful day on the water – experienced guidance, quality equipment, and access to productive fishing spots that produce consistent results. Whether you're a local angler looking to improve your catch rate or a visiting fisherman wanting to experience one of Michigan's renowned walleye fisheries, this charter service delivers the goods. The three-person capacity keeps groups small and personal, ensuring everyone gets individual attention and plenty of opportunities to get their lines wet. Book your Detroit River fishing trip and discover why this water has earned its reputation as a walleye factory among Great Lakes anglers.
Cassopolis, MI