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Expert-Guided Lake Michigan Morning Fishing Trip

  • Published Date: July 17, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Lake Michigan
  • $400 - $875 price range

Summary

Get ready for an early start and great fishing on this 5-hour morning trip with Captain Ted Charters. We'll head out on Lake Michigan or nearby rivers, targeting Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead. Our expert guides know these waters inside and out, so you'll have the best shot at landing a nice catch. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - we've got top-notch gear and can show you the ropes. For those who want a more personal experience, we also run year-round float trips where you can try for Trout, Salmon, Steelhead, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a perfect outing for families or a group of friends. Whether you're aiming to catch dinner or just enjoy a relaxing morning on the water, you're in for a treat. The scenery around Lake Michigan is stunning, and there's nothing quite like the feeling of that first bite on your line.
Expert-Guided Lake Michigan Morning Fishing Trip

Big Lake, Big Fish

previous-image
3 people fishing in MI

Monster catch on Lake Michigan!

Chinook salmon caught in Big Rapids

The thrill of a big catch!

4 people fishing in Big Rapids

Sun, waves, and big fish days!

Six pink and chinook salmon caught in MI

The lake delivered a trophy today!

A person fishing in MI

Fresh catch straight from the lake!

School of 12 colorful Chum, Pink, Coho, and Chinook Salmon swimming in Big Rapids

Nothing beats a day on the water!

6 Chinook and Coho salmon caught in Big Rapids

Rods bent, fish on in Lake Michigan!

Photograph of a 30-inch pink salmon caught while fishing in Big Rapids

Casting off for another great catch!

Person fishing in Big Rapids

Fishing adventures on the Great Lakes!

7 chinook salmon caught while fishing in big rapids

Hooked up and ready for action!

3 people fishing in MI

Monster catch on Lake Michigan!

Chinook salmon caught in Big Rapids

The thrill of a big catch!

4 people fishing in Big Rapids

Sun, waves, and big fish days!

Six pink and chinook salmon caught in MI

The lake delivered a trophy today!

A person fishing in MI

Fresh catch straight from the lake!

School of 12 colorful Chum, Pink, Coho, and Chinook Salmon swimming in Big Rapids

Nothing beats a day on the water!

6 Chinook and Coho salmon caught in Big Rapids

Rods bent, fish on in Lake Michigan!

Photograph of a 30-inch pink salmon caught while fishing in Big Rapids

Casting off for another great catch!

Person fishing in Big Rapids

Fishing adventures on the Great Lakes!

7 chinook salmon caught while fishing in big rapids

Hooked up and ready for action!

3 people fishing in MI

Monster catch on Lake Michigan!

Chinook salmon caught in Big Rapids

The thrill of a big catch!

4 people fishing in Big Rapids

Sun, waves, and big fish days!

Six pink and chinook salmon caught in MI

The lake delivered a trophy today!

next-image

Reel in the Big Ones: Lake Michigan Fishing

Ready for some serious angling action? Our 5-hour private morning trip on Lake Michigan is where it's at. We're talking prime fishing grounds, top-notch gear, and the kind of local know-how that puts fish in the boat. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, we've got you covered. We'll be going after some of the lake's most prized catches - Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead. And if you're looking to switch things up, we can hit the nearby rivers for some killer float trips too. It's all about getting you on the fish and having a blast doing it.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're out on the big lake as the sun's coming up, mist rising off the water. That's when the magic happens. We'll be trolling the hotspots where the big ones like to hang out. Our boat's decked out with everything you need - rods, reels, bait, the works. And don't sweat it if you're new to this. Our guides know these waters like the back of their hand and they're all about helping you land that trophy fish. We can take up to 6 people, so bring your crew or make it a family day. Just remember to pack some grub and drinks - nothing worse than wrestling with a monster Chinook on an empty stomach!

Hooks, Lines, and Sinkers

Alright, let's talk shop. We're not messing around with bargain bin tackle here. We're using the good stuff - downriggers, planer boards, the whole nine yards. Why? Because that's what it takes to get down where the big fish are hanging out. We'll be setting lines at different depths, using a mix of spoons, flies, and cut bait. It's all about matching what the fish are hungry for that day. And here's a pro tip: keep an eye on those planer boards. When one goes under, you know you're in for a fight. Our guides will show you the ropes on how to play these fish - it's not like reeling in a bluegill from the dock, that's for sure!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Rainbow Trout: These guys are like the acrobats of the lake. They'll jump, they'll run, they'll do everything they can to shake that hook. Most of the ones we catch are in the 2-5 pound range, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 10-pounder. They're at their best in the cooler months, especially spring and fall. When you're reeling one in, keep that rod tip up!

Coho Salmon: Pound for pound, these might be the hardest fighting fish in the lake. They typically run 2-8 pounds and are absolute rockets when they hit your line. Cohos are most active in the spring and fall, but we can find them all summer long if we know where to look. And let me tell you, there's nothing like fresh-caught Coho on the grill.

Steelhead Trout: These are the lake-run cousins of the Rainbow Trout, and they're absolute bruisers. We're talking fish that can easily top 10 pounds. They're in the lake year-round, but the best action is usually in the spring and fall when they're getting ready to run the rivers. When a Steelhead hits, hold on tight - they're known for long, powerful runs that'll have your drag singing.

Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, and for good reason. These are the big boys of the lake, often pushing 20 pounds or more. They're a summer and fall favorite, with the biggest fish typically caught in August and September. Landing a Chinook is like wrestling a pit bull - they're all muscle and don't give up easy. But man, is it worth it when you get one in the boat.

Lake Trout: These are the native heavyweights of Lake Michigan. They're not as flashy as some of the other species, but they'll test your arms alright. Lakers like the deep, cold water, so we often target them with downriggers. They're available year-round, but the fishing really heats up in the summer months. And here's a fun fact - Lake Trout can live for decades, so that big one you catch might be older than you!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, there's a reason why Lake Michigan is a world-class fishing destination. One day you might be battling a monster King Salmon, the next you're finessing some Lake Trout from the depths. And it's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. It's about being out on the big water, watching the sun come up over the lake, maybe seeing a bald eagle swoop by. It's about the stories you'll tell and the memories you'll make. Whether you're a serious angler looking to cross some species off your list or just want to spend a morning doing something different, this trip's got you covered. And with our expert guides, you're in for a real treat. We know where the fish are biting and how to get you on them.

Time to Book Your Spot

So what do you say? Ready to get out there and tangle with some Lake Michigan giants? Whether you're after that trophy Chinook or just want to fill the cooler with some tasty Coho, we've got you covered. Our 5-hour morning trips are the perfect way to start your day off right. And remember, we're not just about the lake - if you're looking to switch it up, we've got those river float trips too. Trout, Salmon, Steelhead, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass - you name it, we can target it. Don't let another fishing season slip by. Give us a call, book your trip, and get ready for some serious rod-bending action. Trust me, once you've fished Lake Michigan with us, you'll be hooked for life!

Learn more about the species

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon, or "kings," are the bruisers of the Great Lakes. These monsters can top 30 pounds, with 15-20 pounders common. We find them in deeper water or staging near river mouths before the fall spawn run. Late summer into fall is prime time. Anglers target kings for their powerful fights and rich, red flesh. These fish hit hard and run deep, so heavy tackle is a must. Trolling with downriggers and big spoons or plugs is effective. Here's an insider tip: early morning trolling with glow spoons can be deadly - kings often feed aggressively in low light. When a big king slams your bait and starts peeling line, you'll know why they're called the king of salmon.

Chinook Salmon

Coho Salmon

Coho salmon, or "silvers," are a blast to catch. Typically 24-30 inches and 8-12 pounds, these acrobatic fish put up a heck of a fight. We find them staging in deeper holes as they prepare to run upriver to spawn. Fall is prime time as they move in from the lake. Anglers love coho for their hard strikes and delicious orange meat. These fish can be finicky, so presentation is key. Try slow-trolling with cut herring or sardine wraps near river mouths. A local secret: wiggle a pink or chartreuse jig tipped with a sand shrimp under a float - the scent and action drive coho wild. Whether you hook one on light tackle or fly gear, get ready for some reel-screaming runs.

Coho Salmon

Lake Trout

Lake trout are the true natives of the Great Lakes. These deep-water predators average 5-15 pounds but can reach 40-plus. You'll find them suspended over deep basins or near underwater structures. Spring and fall are best as they move shallower. Anglers love lakers for their hard fights and rich, oily meat. Jigging or trolling deep with downriggers are go-to methods. Here's a local secret: try vertical jigging with big tube jigs tipped with smelt - the flutter and scent drive lakers wild. Lake trout fishing takes some searching, but when you get into a school of big fish, the action can be non-stop. There's nothing quite like battling a big laker from the depths of Lake Michigan.

Lake Trout

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are a favorite around here, typically running 12-24 inches and 2-8 pounds. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and rivers, often hanging out near riffles or deeper pools. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are ideal. Anglers love 'em for their acrobatic fights and tasty pink flesh. These fish are opportunistic feeders, so matching the hatch with flies or drifting live bait can be effective. One local trick: try swinging a bright streamer through deeper runs on overcast days - the flash often triggers aggressive strikes from bigger rainbows looking for an easy meal. Whether you're a fly fishing purist or prefer spinning gear, landing a feisty rainbow is always a thrill.

Rainbow Trout

Steelhead Trout

Steelhead are the rock stars of the trout world. These sea-run rainbows average 5-10 pounds but can top 20. Look for them in faster currents and deeper pools as they move upstream. Winter and spring are prime, with a smaller summer run. Anglers chase steelhead for their powerful fights and acrobatic leaps. They're challenging to catch, which makes landing one even sweeter. Drift fishing with roe or swinging flies are go-to techniques. Here's a pro tip: when water's high and off-color, try bouncing a brightly colored jig and worm combo along the bottom. The flash and scent can trigger strikes when nothing else will. Steelhead fishing takes patience, but man is it worth it when that chrome missile erupts from the water.

Steelhead Trout

About the FWCT boat

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 15

Manufacturer Name: Crusader

Maximum Cruising Speed: 16

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 350

Get ready for an awesome morning of fishing on beautiful Lake Michigan! Our 5-hour private trip takes you to prime spots where you can try your luck catching trout, salmon, or steelhead. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - our experienced guides will show you the ropes and provide all the gear you need. We'll share local tips to help you reel in some great catches. If you prefer a more personal experience, ask about our year-round float trips where you can target various fish species in the surrounding rivers. Whether you're hoping to land a trophy or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water, our private charters offer something for everyone. Bring up to 5 friends or family members and make some fantastic fishing memories together on Lake Michigan!
Fishing With Captain Ted

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