St Joe Angler
St. Joseph MI
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St Joe Angler
St. Joseph MI
Your Captain
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Jon Chizmadia
Identity Verified
Jon Chizmadia, Captain at St Joe Angler
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 fishing adventure.
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 second-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.
Upcoming Availability
Fishing Techniques
What's Included
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
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
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Trips Available with St Joe Angler
Top-Rated
Instant Booking
Fishing - River
St Joe Angler16'ClackaCraft Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)
Half Day Guided Fishing Trip In Southwest Michigan
Join Captain Jon Chizmadia for a 4-hour guided fishing adventure on local waters of SW Michigan, targeted species will vary seasonally. 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.
Morning Trip
Maximum 2 persons allowed (base trip price includes 2 guests)
4 Hours
8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - LakeSt Joe Angler16'ClackaCraft Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)
Full Day Guided Bass And Trout Fishing Trip In Northern Michigan
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.
Full Day Trip
Maximum 2 persons allowed (base trip price includes 2 guests)
8 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - RiverSt Joe Angler16'ClackaCraft Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)
Half Day Private Eco Tour - SW MI
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.
Morning Trip
Maximum 2 persons allowed (base trip price includes 2 guests)
4 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - RiverSt Joe Angler16'ClackaCraft Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)
Half Day Guided Bass And Trout Fishing Trip In Northern Michigan
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.
Morning Trip
Maximum 2 persons allowed (base trip price includes 2 guests)
4 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Top-RatedInstant BookingFishing - RiverSt Joe Angler16'ClackaCraft Max 2 guests (base trip price includes 2 guests)
Full Day Guided Fishing Trip In Southwest Michigan
Spend a full day with Captain Jon Chizmadia in SW Michigan for an 8-hour guided fishing adventure (targeted species will vary seasonally). 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.
Full Day Trip
Maximum 2 persons allowed (base trip price includes 2 guests)
8 Hours8:00 AMPick Your Date
Vehicle
St Joe Angler
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
16 ft
Manufacturer Name:
ClackaCraft
Model Year:
2007
Features: GPS
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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.
Boat
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St Joe Angler
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
16 ft
Vehicle Details
FAQs about St Joe Angler
What are the trip rates for St Joe Angler?
What's included in the trip price with St Joe Angler?
What types of Fishing does St Joe Angler offer?
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What is the cancellation policy for St Joe Angler?
Ratings & Reviews Summary
December 24, 2025
Whether you're an expereinced angler looking to get on a good bite, or a newer angler looking to expand your skills and knowledge, St Joe Angler is the way to go. Jon has guided me on numerous occasions, teaching myself and my son how to fly fish, and getting us on fish time and time again. His knowledge of Michigan waterways is up there with the best of them, book your next trip with Jon, you will not be dissapointed!
December 24, 2025
I’ll be honest, I can’t fish to save my life. However, Jon made the whole experience not only easy, but a lot of fun too. He was incredibly patient and explained everything in a way even I could understand. The best part was how amazing he was with my kids. Teaching them, keeping them engaged, and making sure they each had their moment of excitement when they caught something. I couldn’t recommend him more!
