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Advanced Salmon & Trout Fishing in Michigan
- Published Date: September 13, 2025
- Fishing
- Michigan
- $400 - $500 price range
Summary
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Big Catches of the Day
Fishing dreams in Michigan!
Trophy trout territory!
Drifting for steelhead!
Steelhead season is here!
Fall fishing in Michigan!
Michigan’s trout trophy waters!
Fly fishing paradise!
Bait, cast, catch, repeat!
Fishing dreams in Michigan!
Trophy trout territory!
Drifting for steelhead!
Steelhead season is here!
Fall fishing in Michigan!
Michigan’s trout trophy waters!
Fly fishing paradise!
Bait, cast, catch, repeat!
Fishing dreams in Michigan!
Trophy trout territory!
Full Day Advanced Salmon & Trout Fishing in Michigan
Get ready to hit the water with Captain Rodney for a full day of top-notch salmon and trout fishing in Michigan's prime waters. This 8-hour trip is tailor-made for serious anglers looking to land trophy fish and sharpen their skills. We'll be targeting the big boys - Steelhead, Chinook, Coho, and even some hefty Northern Pike. Pack your Michigan fishing license and prepare for an action-packed day of strategic angling in some of the state's most productive spots.
What to Expect on the Water
From the moment we push off, it's all about the fish. Captain Rodney knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you right on top of the action. We're talking about using advanced techniques - everything from precision trolling to finesse presentations with light tackle. You'll be working premium rods and reels, all provided and rigged with the latest in fishing tech. The boat's equipped with top-of-the-line fish finders and GPS, so we can track down those honey holes where the big ones are holding. Expect a mix of trolling, casting, and maybe even some drift fishing, depending on what's biting and where.
Gear and Grub
No need to lug your tackle box - we've got you covered with all the rods, reels, and bait you'll need. Captain Rodney keeps his gear in tip-top shape, so you're fishing with the best. We're talking about sensitive graphite rods paired with smooth-drag reels, spooled with the right line for the job. As for bait and lures, we'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures - whatever's working best that day. And don't worry about going hungry out there. A hearty lunch is included to keep you fueled up for a full day of battling big fish. Just remember to bring your own drinks and snacks if you want something extra.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
This isn't your average "cast and hope" fishing charter. Captain Rodney's advanced trips are all about putting you on fish and helping you become a better angler. You'll learn new techniques, get insider tips on reading the water, and understand the seasonal patterns of Michigan's prized game fish. It's a hands-on masterclass in Great Lakes fishing. Plus, the chance to hook into a monster Chinook or a acrobatic Steelhead keeps even the most seasoned anglers coming back for more. There's nothing quite like the bend in your rod when a 20-pound salmon hits your line - it's the kind of thrill that keeps you up at night dreaming about your next trip.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Rainbow Trout: These feisty fighters are a favorite among fly fishermen and spin anglers alike. In Michigan, you can find them in both stocked and wild populations. They're known for their spectacular leaps and runs when hooked. The best time to target them is usually in the spring and fall when the water temperatures are cooler. Rainbows in Michigan can range from pan-sized 10-inchers to trophy fish over 10 pounds.
Coho Salmon: Often called "silvers," Coho are prized for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They typically run smaller than Chinooks, averaging 5-10 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and fight. Fall is prime time for Cohos as they make their spawning runs up Michigan's rivers. Their flesh is bright orange and considered by many to be the best-tasting of the Pacific salmon species.
Steelhead Trout: Steelhead are essentially sea-run rainbow trout, and they're one of the most sought-after game fish in Michigan. Known for their incredible strength and stamina, hooking into a Steelhead often results in long runs and spectacular jumps. They can be caught year-round in Michigan, but spring and fall typically offer the best action. A good-sized Michigan Steelhead can easily top 10 pounds, with some monsters pushing 20.
Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, these are the giants of the Great Lakes salmon family. Chinooks in Michigan can grow to over 30 pounds, providing anglers with the fight of a lifetime. They're typically targeted in the late summer and early fall as they begin their spawning runs. The power of a big Chinook when it realizes it's hooked is something every angler should experience at least once.
Brown Trout: Browns are the wily old veterans of the trout world. They're known for being selective and challenging to catch, which makes landing one all the sweeter. In Michigan, you can find them in both rivers and the Great Lakes. They tend to be most active during low light conditions - early morning and evening. A trophy brown trout in Michigan waters can easily exceed 10 pounds, with some lake-run fish growing even larger.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're ready to test your skills against some of Michigan's hardest-fighting fish, this is the trip for you. Captain Rodney's wealth of experience and intimate knowledge of these waters gives you the best shot at landing that fish of a lifetime. Whether you're looking to break a personal best or just want to spend a day hauling in quality fish after quality fish, this advanced fishing trip delivers. Remember, we're limited to just two anglers per trip, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one guidance to refine your techniques. Don't let another season slip by - grab your fishing buddy and book your spots now. The big ones are out there waiting, and with Captain Rodney at the helm, you've got a real shot at making those fish stories come true!
Learn more about the species
Brown Trout
Brown trout in Michigan typically run 12-20 inches, but trophy fish over 10 pounds aren't uncommon. They prefer cooler, deeper water and are often found near structure like fallen trees or undercut banks. Browns are known for being crafty and selective, making them a challenge to catch. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on cloudy days. Fall is prime time as they become more aggressive before spawning. Browns put up a strong, dogged fight, often staying deep and using the current to their advantage. They're excellent eating too, with firm, pink flesh. Try drifting nightcrawlers or casting small spinners in deeper pools. For fly anglers, large streamers fished at night can produce big browns. A local trick: focus on outside bends of rivers where deep holes form. Browns often hold there, waiting to ambush prey. Patience and stealth are key - these fish are wary but the reward is worth it.
Chinook Salmon
Chinook, or king salmon, are the giants of the Great Lakes, often topping 20 pounds with some monsters pushing 40. They start their spawning runs in late summer, peaking in September and October. You'll find them staging near river mouths before pushing upstream. Trolling with downriggers is deadly effective, using large spoons or J-plugs. As they move into rivers, switch to drift fishing with skein or casting large spinners. Kings are known for their brutal fights - when one hits, hold on tight! They'll make powerful runs and try to wrap you around every obstacle in the river. The meat is rich and flavorful, perfect for smoking or grilling. Early mornings and evenings are prime time. Look for dark water and deep holes where they rest. Fresh kings are silver, turning darker as they prepare to spawn. When you hook into a big king, you're in for the fight of your life.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon, also called silvers, typically run 24-30 inches and 8-12 pounds in Michigan. You'll find them in rivers and near shore in the Great Lakes, especially in fall as they make their spawning runs. Cohos are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water. They're aggressive strikers and will hit a variety of lures. I like to troll with J-plugs or spoons early in the morning or at dusk when they're most active. If you're casting from shore, try a medium-sized Cleo spoon in blue and silver. Cohos make excellent table fare with their bright orange flesh. The fall run is prime time, but you can also catch them in the lakes during summer. Watch for jumping fish to locate a school. Once you hook one, hang on tight - these guys don't give up easily!
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are a favorite among anglers, usually running 12-24 inches and 2-8 pounds. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and rivers, often near riffles or deep pools. They're active year-round but really turn on in spring and fall. Rainbows put up an acrobatic fight, leaping out of the water and making strong runs. Their pink meat is also delicious eating. Look for them near structure like fallen trees or boulders. They'll hit a variety of lures, but I've had great luck with small spinners in silver or gold. Cast upstream and retrieve with the current for a natural presentation. If you're fly fishing, a bead-head nymph drifted along the bottom can be deadly effective. Michigan's rainbow trout fishery is world-class, so you're in for some exciting action.
Steelhead Trout
Steelhead are ocean-going rainbow trout that return to rivers to spawn. In Michigan, they average 5-10 pounds but can reach over 20. You'll find them in Great Lakes tributaries, with fall and spring runs offering prime fishing. Steelhead are prized for their powerful fights, often leaping and making long runs. They'll test your skills and gear to the limit. Target them in deeper pools and runs, especially near gravel areas. Drift fishing with spawn bags or bottom-bouncing with jigs tipped with waxworms are go-to techniques. For fly anglers, swinging streamers or drifting nymphs can be deadly. Early mornings and overcast days are often most productive. Steelhead can be finicky, so match your presentation to water conditions. A stealthy approach is key - these fish spook easily. When you hook one, be ready for an epic battle. It's an experience you won't forget.
About the River Chasing Guide Service
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Evinrude
Maximum Cruising Speed: 24
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 115
