Richard Wagner's DNR GO WILD Guide Certification for Lake Michigan

What the Certification Covers

Richard Wagner's DNR GO WILD Guide Certification is issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The document lists him as the holder of certificate number 606-3706 and identifies him as a guide operating out of the Great Lakes region. This certification anchors his work leading charter trips on Lake Michigan from his base at Great Lakes Yacht Sales in Kenosha.

The certification is valid through March 31, 2026. During that time, Richard is authorized to guide fishing trips targeting species including king salmon, coho salmon, lake trout, steelhead trout, and brown trout. His certification reflects his commitment to operating within Wisconsin's guidelines for professional guides on the Great Lakes.

A Day on the Water with Reel 4 Real Charters

Fishing with Richard aboard Reel 4 Real Charters means stepping onto a well-equipped 30-foot Century center console boat powered by twin 300hp Yamaha engines. The boat holds up to six passengers and is built to handle Lake Michigan's conditions. Richard brings everything needed for a productive day: top-quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait are all part of the experience.

Richard handles boat positioning and navigation while setting up your gear and providing instruction on trolling strategies and casting mechanics. His approach works whether you're new to Great Lakes fishing or you've spent years chasing salmon. After the day wraps, he cleans and fillets your catch so you head home with ready-to-cook filets. All you need to bring is a valid Wisconsin fishing license, weather-appropriate clothing, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and your own food and drinks.

Trip Options for All Skill Levels

Reel 4 Real Charters offers several ways to experience Lake Michigan depending on what you're after. The Guided Great Lakes Boat Trip takes you out to target chinook salmon, coho, lake trout, and steelhead with full instruction and tackle provided. The Learn to Catch Big Lake Salmon trip is built for first-timers, with patient step-by-step teaching on trolling, casting, and how to safely bring in your fish.

For anglers who want to dial in their technique, the Dedicated Deep Water Trolling Charter focuses on landing trophy chinook and steelhead in deeper water where Richard's local knowledge of productive grounds makes the difference. Families can book the Private Great Lakes Fishing Experience, where members of all skill levels take turns reeling in coho, chinook, and steelhead in a welcoming environment. Kids get their own adventure on the Hands On Boat Fishing trip, designed to teach young anglers how to hold the rod, reel, and work as a team while chasing big fish.

Getting Ready for Your Charter

Before your trip, make sure you have a valid Wisconsin fishing license in hand. Richard will have all the fishing gear, tackle, and bait ready, but the license is something only you can bring. Pack layers or weather-appropriate clothing since Lake Michigan can shift quickly, and bring polarized sunglasses—they cut the glare on the water and let you spot what's happening below the surface. Sunscreen, a hat, and your favorite snacks and drinks will round out your day.

Contact Reel 4 Real Charters through their website at Reel4RealCharters.com to book your trip and ask any questions about what to expect. Richard is happy to talk through what species are biting that time of year, the best conditions for your group's skill level, and anything else to help you prepare for a memorable day on the water.