Tips and tricks for First time Charter guests on Lake Michigan

Here are some tips and things to know if you’re a first‑time guest on a Lake Michigan Fishing Charter  — so you can make the most of your day, stay safe & comfortable, and hopefully haul in something great.

 

Before You Go

1. Book & Confirm Details Early

   • Make sure you know your departure and return times.  “8‑hour” or “5‑hour” trips dock‑to‑dock, meaning travel + fishing.

   • Ask what’s included: tackle, bait, cleaning and packing fish, ice, etc. Find out deposit rules, cancellation due to weather, etc. (Some charters require a deposit and have policies in place for cancellations.)

2. Fishing License & Regulations

   • Ensure you have the proper fishing license (state, and species‐specific if needed). For example, Illinois requires a fishing license with a Great Lakes salmon stamp in many cases.

   • Know the limits and size restrictions for the fish you hope to catch — it helps to go in informed.

3. Weather & Timing

   • Lake Michigan is large, and weather can change quickly, especially offshore. Be ready for wind, mist, cooler temps, etc.

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What to Bring / What to Wear

1. Clothing

   • Layers: It might feel warm at the dock but much cooler or windier once you’re out on the water. A light jacket or fleece is smart.

   • Waterproof / windbreaker gear in case of spray or sudden weather changes.

   • Non‑slip, comfortable shoes. Boat decks get wet. Closed‑toe is safer.

2. Sun Protection & Extras

   • Sunglasses (polarized are helpful), hat, sunscreen. Preferably lotion style sunscreen, not spray.

   • Bring snacks and water. Even though the focus is fishing, you’ll likely be out several hours.

   • Maybe motion sickness meds or ginger candies, if you’re prone to seasickness. Doctor Prescribed patch is best.

3. Cooler(s) & Catch Handling

   • A cooler with ice to take home your catch.

   • Also a smaller cooler/bag for snacks or drinks can help keep things organized.

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During the Trip

1. Listen & Learn

   • Pay attention to what the captain and first mate teach you.

   • What the captain or crew tell you about where to stand, how to handle gear, and safety speeches.

2. Stay Safe

   • Be mindful of rods, hooks, gear swinging or dropping.

   • Watch footing — deck surfaces can become slippery.

3. Maximize Fishing Time

   • Be punctual. Arrive a bit earlier than departure time to get settled.

   • Ask the crew any questions you may have.

   • If you want to take photos or videos, have your camera/phone ready, charged, maybe in a waterproof case or bag.

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After the Trip

1. Fish Cleaning & Transport

   • Make sure fish are cleaned, bagged, iced properly if you’re keeping them.

2. Tipping

   • It’s customary to tip the mate/captain. A average tip range is ~15‑20% of the charter cost depending on service and how much effort was involved.

3. Food & Rest

   • After a long day on the lake, you might be tired. Plan something relaxing afterwards. Maybe bring a change of clothes if you expect to get wet or cold.

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Mindset & Expectations

• Fishing can be unpredictable. Even the best guides and the best equipment can’t guarantee a big catch every time. Keep realistic expectations: part of the fun is being out on the lake, learning, and enjoying the experience.

• Be flexible: sometimes being patient, switching up tactics, or moving spots can be what it takes. Good captains often try multiple things.