Chinook (King) Salmon
Chinook Salmon, also known as King Salmon, are the most sought after species in Lake Michigan. People of all ages travel across the globe to find these amazing fighters. The King Salmon is native to the Ocean and was introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1960’s. No where in the world will you find as long a season for targeting these spectacular fish. King Salmon are around and plentiful near Muskegon Michigan.
This species can be caught year round however there are better times than others to target King Salmon. The Chinook Salmon or “King” as we call it has a life span of approximately 4-years but that is not relative when it comes to its size. The “King” is the largest salmon and the fastest growing fish in Lake Michigan. The mature adult 4-year “Kings” can typically weigh between 15 and 30 pounds. They are truly the best fighting fish on the lake. King Salmon viciously attack their prey which will result in pounding rods, screaming drags, and unforgettable memories. The Michigan State Record is over 46 pounds! King salmon are our main target. Muskegon Salmon fishing really lights up in May, slows in June and really takes off again in July, an continues to be very good all the way until the end of October.
Coho Salmon
The average adult Great Lakes Coho Salmon weighs eight pounds. Like the Chinook, Coho are native to oceans. They were introduced into the Great Lakes in 1873 but the first successful plantings weren’t until 1966. There was much excitement around anglers and fish managers when Coho made their first spawning run in the fall of 1967. Since that time, the Coho has become a popular sport fish; in fact, people come from all over the world to fish Michigan’s great Coho fishery. When they show up, they show up in large numbers. These fish can cause chaos on a charter boat, with possibilities of up to ten or more on at one time. Coho are also known as some of the best eating fish on the great lakes. Coho salmon can come in drones at any time. Typically the best time to find these fish are early in the spring.
Steelhead (Rainbow Trout)
Steelhead are some of the most famous fighters in the Great Lakes. While their size can vary anywhere from 2 pounds all the way up to 20 pounds, they are known for their crazy acrobatics. Steelhead tend to jump vigorously while hooked. Steelhead are typically found in the top 30 feet of the water column and can produce some exciting action for anglers of all ages aboard a charter boat. Steelhead are very common in June and later into September and October.
Lake Trout
The Lake Trout is the only native fish species you will target while Lake Michigan Charter Fishing. Lake trout prefer cold water and slow speeds. They are the eating machines of Lake Michigan. These fish grow extremely slow as well. Their size can vary anywhere from 2 pounds up over 25 pounds. A fish weighing 25 pounds may be over 30 years old! Trout are very easy to catch during the month of June, and can create a day full of action on a charter fishing trip!