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Hey there, fishing fans! Captain Richard Wagner here, ready to get you hooked on some Lake Michigan action. If you've been itching to try your hand at salmon fishing but weren't sure where to start, boy do I have the trip for you. Our half-day beginner-friendly outing is the perfect way to dip your toes into the exciting world of Great Lakes fishing. We'll be targeting some of the lake's most prized catches - Chinook salmon, coho, and steelhead - all while soaking in the beautiful scenery of Lake Michigan. Best part? You don't need any experience. I'll be right there with you, showing you the ropes and making sure you have a blast out on the water.
Picture this: You're out on the open water of Lake Michigan, the sun's warming your face, and there's a good chance you're about to reel in your very first salmon. That's what we're offering with this 5-hour private fishing trip. It's hands-on, it's fun, and it's all about learning the basics of Great Lakes fishing. I'll be right there with you, teaching you everything from how to cast your line to the art of trolling and even how to handle your catch once it's on the boat. Don't worry about gear - we've got all the fishing equipment, tackle, and bait you'll need. And when you land that big one? I'll clean and fillet it for you, so it's ready for the dinner table. All you need to bring is your Wisconsin fishing license, some comfy clothes that'll keep you warm on the water, and maybe a few snacks to keep your energy up. It's a day of relaxation, education, and hopefully, some fish-catching celebration!
Alright, let's talk fishing. If you're new to this, don't sweat it - that's why I'm here. We'll be using a technique called trolling, which is basically dragging our lines behind the boat as we cruise along. It's a great way to cover a lot of water and find where the fish are biting. I'll show you how to set up your rod, how to watch for bites, and the right way to reel in a big one when it hits. We use some pretty cool gear out here - downriggers to get our bait deep where the big boys swim, and special lures that salmon and trout just can't resist. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the feeling when that rod bends and you know you've got a fighter on the line. Whether it's your first time holding a rod or you're just new to salmon fishing, you'll be a pro by the time we're done.
Let's chat about the stars of our show - the fish we'll be after. Lake Michigan is home to some real beauties, and we're targeting three of the best: Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead trout. Each of these fish has its own personality, and catching them is a different adventure every time.
Chinook salmon, also known as King salmon, are the heavyweight champs of the lake. These bad boys can grow up to 30 pounds or more, and when they decide to bite, you're in for a real fight. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps - land one of these, and you've got bragging rights for life. Spring and fall are prime time for Chinooks, but we can find them all summer long.
Coho salmon might be a bit smaller than their Chinook cousins, but what they lack in size, they make up for in feistiness. These silver bullets are fast, furious, and a ton of fun to catch. They usually weigh in around 5-10 pounds, making them a great target for beginners. Cohos start running in the spring and stick around through the fall, giving us plenty of chances to get them on the hook.
Last but not least, we've got steelhead trout. These guys are actually a type of rainbow trout that spends time in both the lake and rivers. They're known for their spectacular fights and beautiful coloration. Steelhead can be caught year-round in Lake Michigan, but they're especially active in the spring and fall. Landing one of these beauties is always a thrill - they're acrobatic fighters that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.
So, what do you say? Ready to try your hand at some world-class salmon fishing? This trip is perfect if you're looking to learn the ropes, create some awesome memories, and maybe even catch dinner while you're at it. Lake Michigan is calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this adventure. Whether you're flying solo, bringing a buddy, or making it a family day out (we can take up to 3 guests), there's nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in your first big catch. So grab your hat, pack some snacks, and let's hit the water. The fish are waiting, and I can't wait to help you catch 'em. Book your spot now, and let's make some waves!
Chinook salmon, also called King salmon, are the heavyweights of Lake Michigan. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds, with some topping 40. You'll find them cruising the cooler, deeper waters, especially near underwater structures. Spring and fall are prime times, but summer can be good too. Chinooks are prized for their hard-fighting spirit - when one hits, hold on tight! Their rich, orange-red meat makes for excellent eating. To boost your chances, try trolling with downriggers to get your lures deep. I like to use flashy spoons or cut herring as bait. Just remember, these fish can be a bit finicky, so don't be afraid to switch things up if they're not biting.

Coho salmon, or silvers, are the acrobats of Lake Michigan. Typically weighing 5-10 pounds, these fish are known for their spectacular jumps and runs when hooked. You'll often find them in the top 30 feet of water, especially near creek mouths and along shorelines. Fall is the peak season, but we catch them from spring through summer too. Cohos are a blast to catch - their explosive strikes and aerial displays make for an exciting fight. They're also delicious, with bright orange flesh that's less fatty than Chinooks. For best results, try trolling with smaller lures like dodger and fly combos or small spoons. My go-to trick is to vary your trolling speed - a sudden change can trigger strikes from following fish.

Steelhead are the marathoners of Lake Michigan - these sea-run rainbow trout can reach 10-15 pounds and put up an incredible fight. Look for them near shore in spring and fall, or out deep in summer. They're often found around stream mouths and along current breaks. Steelhead are prized for their acrobatic leaps and long, powerful runs. Their flesh is lighter than salmon, with a mild, delicate flavor. Spring and fall offer the best action, but you can catch them year-round. When targeting steelhead, I like to use long, light rods and smaller lures. Try casting spoons or drifting spawn sacs near shore, or trolling with small plugs out deep. One tip: these fish have excellent eyesight, so use lighter line and smaller presentations in clear water.

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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 300