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Traverse City Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides Near Traverse City, Mi

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Fishing in Traverse City

Lake Fishing Trip in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallie Special

100% (1)
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $440
Fishing in Traverse City

Lake, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Traverse City

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Trip

NEW
21 ft 1 - 2 People From $450
Fishing in South Boardman

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Premier Nighttime Trout Fishing

100% (1)
16 ft 1 - 2 People From $400
Fishing in Manistee

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon Slammin'

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Thompsonville

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Michigan Salmon Drift Fishing

NEW
15 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Manistee

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Manistee Salmon Slam

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $825

Most Popular Types of Trips in Traverse City

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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More Fishing Guides Near Traverse City, Mi

Fishing in Elk Rapids
Fishing in Elk Rapids
Fishing in Elk Rapids
trip description for Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure in Elk Rapids

Can’t wait for the dog days of summer to start hauling in fish? Switch it up and join Jim on an ice fishing expedition! Out on one of many Michigan inland lakes, you will be dropping lines through holes in the ice and waiting for a bite. Your prey might include, Trout, Pike, Perch, Burbot, or Walleye. These fish are less active in the cold winter months, but still just as tasty! Jim will clean and bag your catch for you, which is lucky because these freshwater species are delicious! This trip can accommodate big groups, making this fun for family and friends. Make sure everyone on your trip is bundled up tight though—you don’t want to catch a chill. Jim will set up an shelter to keep you warm, but it is still important to have warm socks and several layers of thick clothing. Other than warm clothes, you don’t have to bring anything! Jim will provide all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle needed to bring up a big one. Feel free to bring some snacks and drinks though, so you don’t get hungry on the half-day trip. If you’ve never been ice fishing before, this trip is an incredible opportunity to learn a fun winter sport! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Elk Rapids Ice Fishing Adventure

NEW
1 - 6 People From $150
Fishing in Custer
Fishing in Custer
Fishing in Custer
trip description for Michigan Bass and Trout Special in Custer

If you've ever wanted to double-up on freshwater gamefish, this trip with Captain Zach is your ticket! You'll be targeting Smallmouth Bass and Brown Trout on the edges of Lake Michigan, one of the biggest lakes in the world and a beautiful place to enjoy the summer sun. You can chase these fish using a variety of techniques and gear, from classic light tackle to fly gear and centerpins and more. Captain Zach has experience using all these types of gear and is happy to give you some advice no matter how you choose to fish. Your techniques and tackle will also vary depending on whether you're aiming for Smallies or Trout, so you can expect to mix things up quite a bit on this trip. You'll be fishing from the deck of his 18' Blazer jet boat. She's perfect for this type of trip, and is powered by a 60 HP Mercury engine so you can cruise smoothly. Your captain will bring everything you need for an ideal trip, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Zach is also happy to clean and package your keepers at the end of the trip. All you need to bring is a Michigan fishing license with the appropriate stamps, a cooler with snacks and drinks, proper clothing, sunscreen, and a smile! Get out there and enjoy the clear, cool waters of Lake Michigan with Captain Zach! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Michigan Bass And Trout Special

100% (1)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $295
Fishing in Roscommon
Fishing in Roscommon
Fishing in Roscommon
trip description for Lake Houghton Ice Fishing in Roscommon

This is a full day (8-10 hours) guided Ice Fishing Trip on Lake Houghton. You can catch a wide range of fish including crappie, perch, walleye, and pike. Your pro guide Derek will provide you with all the necessary fishing gear, equipment, and techniques to get you on the fish. Don't forget to bundle up! While Ice fishing might be a cold-weather endeavor it is a super productive way to catch fish and a great outing to spend quality time with your friends and family! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Lake Houghton Ice Fishing

NEW
1 Person From $425
Fishing in Elk Rapids
Fishing in Elk Rapids
Fishing in Elk Rapids
trip description for Grand Traverse Bay Trip in Elk Rapids

Captain Jim offers top-quality open-water fishing charters on Lake Michigan, as well as many of the smaller lake and rivers here in this beautiful state! He specializes in trolling for Salmon, Trout, Steelhead and other members of the Salmonid family, and when you book with him, you'll be in the best possible position to take home a trophy fish! Whether you're a beginner or an old hand, Captain Jim will ensure that you have a memorable and extremely fun fishing trip. He's great with kids and will make sure that even the smallest member of your party gets a chance to hook a fish! On board his 24' Qwest pontoon boat, you'll be able to relax in comfort until a fish hits the hook. Then, get ready for some rod-bending action! Salmon are hard-fighting fish, so you'll have to bring your muscles when you come on this charter! Jim is a friendly, enthusiastic guide who has served thousands of happy anglers since 1998. Jim's fishing knowledge and love for the sport has consistently resulted in a successful day of fishing. Jim enjoys helping others catch fish as well as sharing the secrets that have given him a competitive edge over the competition. Your fishing party will be given Jim's personal attention and best effort to ensure a successful and enjoyable guided fishing experience. Get out there and get hookin'! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Grand Traverse Bay Trip

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Ludington
Fishing in Ludington
Fishing in Ludington
trip description for Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon in Ludington

If you've been "feeling the itch" and wanting to go chase some monster fish on one of the world's biggest lakes, this trip has your name on it! Captain Steven is extremely knowledgeable and experienced, and will put you on big Kings, Cohos, Lake Trout and morecome hell or high water. Captain Steve and his crew always strive to find fish and provide a fantastic charter fishing experience! You'll be going after the fish using mostly trolling techniques. Salmon and Lake Trout hunt at different depths, but both love to hit fast-moving baits and lures! These big fish are great fighters, so bring your strength and stamina on this trip! You'll be fishing off of Captain Steve's 43' Tiara 4300. She's powered by a pair of twin 550-horsepower Detroit diesels and outfitted with state-of-the-art Raymarine electronics. This includes radar, chart plotter, CHIRP down-imaging fish finder, two marine radios and autopilot. We use a combination of both Shimano and Okuma rod and reels, Magnum Metalz downriggers and holders, and a FishHawk speed/temp probe. On the day of your trip you will need to bring a valid Michigan Fishing Licence, a pair of sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen and soft-soled shoes. Captain Steve also recommends you bring any beverages and snacks you'd like to enjoy onboard (cans only), a cooler for your catch (fish cleaning is provided), and multiple layers of clothing (temperatures can fluctuate) as well as rain gear just in case! Get out there and have a blast. Read More

Lake Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Luxury Lake Michigan Trout & Salmon

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in Thompsonville
Fishing in Thompsonville
Fishing in Thompsonville
trip description for Spring Steelhead Slam in Thompsonville

From November to May large numbers of Steelhead migrate from Lake Michigan into a number of rivers along the west coast of Michigan. After spawning in the late spring these fish return to the big lake and repeat the process for 8-10 years. These chrome fish are very aggressive as they have to maintain their bodyweight, and are usually plenty willing to crush an egg fly or spawn sack! Alex and his guides target these magnificent fish on some of the most productive rivers south of Traverse City, Mi with both fly and spinning techniques. Once spring hits and the weather starts to warm we find fish in deep holes, on gravel, and in runs. Customers have success fly fishing with both nymphs and streamers, while spin fisherman use spawn bags and spinners. The weather can be variable this time of year but the exhilaration of landing a beautiful Steelhead makes it worth the effort! A hot lunch is served streamside on full day trips. Please inform your guide of any food allergies or requests. Read More

River Fishing Trip near Traverse City

Spring Steelhead Slam

NEW
1 - 2 People From $550
See All Trips in Traverse City

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Traverse City

What are the best fishing trips in Traverse City?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 14 trips in Traverse City, and the most popular trips in the area are Traverse City Smallie Special guided by Butch and Traverse city smallmouth bass trip guided by Owen.

Our guides in Traverse City are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2780 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a charter include Elk Rapids, South Boardman and Thompsonville.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Traverse City? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Traverse City.

What types of fishing trips are common in Traverse City?

Lake fishing is the most popular in Traverse City as well as river fishing and nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Traverse City are: 1. brown trout, 2. coho salmon, 3. chinook salmon, and 4. steelhead.

The most common fishing techniques in Traverse City are light tackle fishing, artificial lure fishing, and live bait fishing but fly fishing and trolling are popular as well.

How much does a Traverse City fishing trip cost?

in Traverse City prices can range anywhere from about $340 to $852, but the average price for a half day trip in Traverse City is $499. The average price for a full day trip in Traverse City is $638.

What month is best for fishing in Traverse City?

The most popular season for fishing in Traverse City is fall, and most anglers book their trips 104 days in advance.

Do I need a Traverse City fishing license and what are the bag limits in Traverse City?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Traverse City, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Traverse City. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Traverse City.

Popular Types of Fishing In Traverse City

Traverse City fishing charters offer a variety of options for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Traverse City include lake fishing, river fishing, and ice fishing.

Lake fishing charters are popular for catching salmon, trout, and walleye. River fishing charters are great for catching steelhead, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Ice fishing charters are perfect for catching perch, bluegill, and crappie.

Traverse City fishing charters often visit landmarks such as the Old Mission Peninsula and the Boardman River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, there's a Traverse City fishing charter that's perfect for you.

The Best Places To Fish In Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its abundance of lakes and rivers, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Here are some of the best places to fish in Traverse City, whether you're looking to go on a fishing charter or cast your line from shore:

1. Boardman River: This river is known for its trout fishing and is a popular spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.

2. Grand Traverse Bay: This bay is home to a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and bass. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the bay.

3. Long Lake: This lake is known for its walleye and pike fishing, and is a great spot for ice fishing in the winter.

4. Lake Leelanau: This lake is home to a variety of fish, including bass, pike, and walleye. Fishing charters are available for those looking to explore the lake.

5. Torch Lake: This lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing charters. It's home to a variety of fish, including lake trout, salmon, and bass.

6. Platte River: This river is known for its salmon and steelhead fishing, and is a popular spot for fly fishing enthusiasts.

7. Green Lake: This lake is known for its bass and pike fishing, and is a great spot for ice fishing in the winter.

8. Crystal Lake: This lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for fishing charters. It's home to a variety of fish, including lake trout, salmon, and bass.

Other Things To Do In Traverse City

While Traverse City fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant Michigan city. Take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, where you can visit wineries, orchards, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. For a taste of local culture, check out the Dennos Museum Center, which features exhibits on Native American art and contemporary art. If you're looking for outdoor adventure, head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can hike, bike, or even sandboard down the dunes. And don't forget to indulge in Traverse City's famous cherry pie and other local culinary delights.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Casey was an awesome guide!

    Rodney A. with Casey R. of South Boardman, Michigan

  • ★★★★★
    My daughter and I had a great time fishing with Butch. She had never caught a smallmouth before. Not only did she catch more than me she caught the biggest (4.40 lbs). Weather wasn't ideal with slick water and overcast most of the time but he still managed to put on some good fish. Our best 5 went a little over 16.5lbs. Was a good trip and I would recommend Butch as he has a lot of guide/tournament experience in the area. We went in the West Bay out of Traverse City.

    Terry K. with Butch D. of Traverse City, Michigan

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip Captain Jim really knew what he was doing. We limited out in about 3 hours.

    Michael L. with Jim C. of Elk Rapids, Michigan

  • ★★★★★
    Zach was very personable and a very good guide. I fought several large salmon. We only got one in the boat but we had dozens of opportunities. I am going again.

    Tay B. with Zach G. of Custer, Michigan

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