Your Captain
Jon Chizmadia
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Jon Chizmadia has been guiding fly fishing trips for over seven years, but his love for fishing began at age five. Growing up in Michigan, he developed a lifelong connection to the water and a passion for helping others learn the sport. He later taught at the Michigan Fly Fishing School, honing his ability to break down techniques and make fly fishing accessible to anglers of all skill levels. Today, Jon brings that same dedication, knowledge, and patience to every personalized fly fishing adventure on Lake Michigan and the St. Joe River.
Jon’s guiding philosophy is simple: he teaches guests to fish rather than just giving them a catch. From first-time casters to experienced anglers targeting steelhead, smallmouth bass, brown trout, brook trout, or salmon, every trip is tailored to help guests learn, improve, and succeed. He provides step-by-step guidance on casting, reading the water, and choosing the right fly while ensuring anglers always feel confident and in control—he never touches the rod. Each trip is hands-on, educational, and designed to create lasting memories.
The St. Joe River is one of Michigan’s most remarkable fisheries, being the state’s third-largest river with a thriving population of both cool and warm water species. Lake Michigan itself offers legendary fly fishing for steelhead, salmon, smallmouth bass, and even northern pike. Beyond the fishery, the region’s scenic rivers, family-friendly beaches, wine country, and welcoming local community make every outing truly memorable.
Trips include 4- and 8-hour fly fishing excursions in Southwest and Northern Michigan, private eco tours, and fly fishing lessons. Rates start at $220 for a 4-hour local trip for up to two people and scale with trip length and location. Peak season runs from May through October, with off-season trips in November and December offering dedicated anglers the chance to enjoy fewer crowds and crisp, scenic conditions.
Whether you’re seeking your first trout on a fly rod, a family-friendly adventure, or an eco-conscious fishing experience, Jon Chizmadia provides personalized trips that are educational, exciting, and unforgettable. With his expertise, local knowledge, and passion for teaching, every outing is more than just a fishing trip—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn a lifelong skill, and experience the best of Michigan fly fishing.
What's Included
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
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
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Spend a full day with Captain Jon Chizmadia on Lake Michigan for an 8-hour guided fishing adventure targeting steelhead trout, Atlantic salmon, and smallmouth bass. Perfect for up to 2 guests, the trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club aboard the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft equipped for comfort and success. Guests receive personalized guidance from casting to landing fish, making it a hands-on and educational experience. A Michigan fishing license is required, and a 20% deposit secures your booking.
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Join Captain Jon Chizmadia for a 4-hour guided fishing adventure on Lake Michigan, targeting steelhead trout, Atlantic salmon, and smallmouth bass. Perfect for up to 2 guests, this private trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club and includes all gear on the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft designed for comfort and success. Guests receive personalized guidance from casting to landing fish, ensuring a hands-on learning experience. A Michigan fishing license is required, and a 20% deposit secures your booking.
Pick Your Date
Join Captain Jon Chizmadia for a 4-hour guided fishing adventure in Northern Michigan, targeting brook trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Ideal for up to 2 guests, this private trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club aboard the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft equipped for comfort and success. Guests receive personalized, hands-on guidance from casting to landing fish, making it both educational and enjoyable. A Michigan fishing license is required, and a 20% deposit secures your booking.
Pick Your Date
Explore the beauty of Lake Michigan on a 4-hour private eco tour with Captain Jon Chizmadia. Ideal for up to 2 guests, this trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club aboard the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft designed for comfort and an immersive experience. Guests can enjoy wildlife viewing, scenic waterways, and educational insights about the local ecosystem while cruising at a relaxed pace. Perfect for nature lovers and families, this tour combines learning and leisure. A 20% deposit secures your private adventure.
Pick Your Date
Spend a full day with Captain Jon Chizmadia on an 8-hour guided fishing adventure in Northern Michigan, targeting brook trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Perfect for up to 2 guests, the trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club aboard the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft equipped for comfort and a successful fishing experience. Guests receive hands-on, personalized guidance from casting to landing fish, making it both educational and enjoyable. A Michigan fishing license is required, and a 20% deposit secures your booking.
Pick Your Date
Learn the art of fly fishing with Captain Jon Chizmadia on a 4-hour private lesson on Lake Michigan. Perfect for up to 2 guests, the trip departs from Berrien County Sportsman's Club aboard the St Joe Angler, a 16-ft ClackaCraft equipped for comfort and success. Jon provides step-by-step instruction on casting, fly selection, and reading the water, making it ideal for beginners or those looking to refine their skills. A Michigan fishing license is required, and a 20% deposit secures your personalized, hands-on fly fishing experience.
Pick Your Date
St Joe Angler
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
16 ft
Manufacturer Name:
ClackaCraft
Model Year:
2007
Features: GPS
St Joe Angler is a 16-ft ClackaCraft perfect for fly fishing on Lake Michigan and the St. Joe River. Ideal for up to 2 anglers, it’s equipped with GPS, fish finder, livewell, and all the gear needed for a comfortable and successful fishing adventure.
St Joe Angler
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
16 ft
Vehicle Details