About Stormforce Sport Fishing
Storm Force Sportfishing offers fully guided salmon and trout fishing charters on Lake Michigan, launching from North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor, Illinois. Whether you're chasing a cooler full of coho or battling drag-screaming king salmon, we deliver a high-energy, tournament-style experience that’s accessible to everyone—from seasoned anglers to first-timers.
Our boat, the Storm Force, is a professionally maintained 36’ Tiara sportfishing vessel with over 800 horsepower. It’s built for speed, safety, and comfort—giving us the ability to reach deeper, more productive waters that other boats can’t. This means more time fishing and less time waiting.
We pride ourselves on offering a safe, clean, and action-packed charter experience. With top-of-the-line tackle, modern electronics, and expert guidance from Captain Blake Keulen, our mission is simple: to give every guest the best day possible on the water.
Meet Captain Blake
I’m Captain Blake Keulen, a third-generation Great Lakes fisherman and USCG-licensed charter captain. I’ve been fishing Lake Michigan my entire life and guiding charters professionally for over 14 years. I grew up working alongside my father and other respected captains, learning the ins and outs of salmon, trout, and the patterns that define Great Lakes fishing.
From rigging lines to reading the water, this is more than a job—it's a passion. Whether you want to do it all yourself or just reel in the catch, my goal is to create a safe, exciting, and memorable fishing trip for you and your crew.
Our Gear and Vessel
The Storm Force is equipped with:
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Crusader fuel-injected engines
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Garmin radar, GPS, and fish finders
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Computer-controlled autopilot
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USCG-approved safety equipment
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A professionally cleaned and maintained private restroom
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Cell phone on board for communication and safety
Our tackle collection rivals most pro shops. We use only premium rods and reels from Shimano, Okuma, Ugly Stik, and Penn to ensure that every trip is set up for success—no matter what’s biting.
May - June
This is prime time for fast action and full coolers. Coho salmon dominate the bite, and it’s common to hit daily limits. If you’re looking for fast-paced salmon fishing, this is the window.
July - August
A mixed bag of trophy fish. This is when the big kings, lake trout, and steelhead show up. King salmon and lake trout can range from 5 to over 30 pounds. Steelhead, known as the acrobats of Lake Michigan, often leap several feet out of the water when hooked—an unforgettable sight.
September - October
The final stretch of the season, when giant lake trout begin to spawn on the reefs. Brown trout, steelhead, and late-run kings also move in. It’s a great time to stock up before winter and enjoy the last of the open water.
What Our Guests Are Saying
"Best charter on the west side of the lake. Blake stops at nothing to put fish in the boat. Highly recommend Blake and Storm Force Sportfishing if you are looking for an enjoyable experience on Lake Michigan."
Dylan T.
"Best Charter on the lake!!! Captain Blake absolutely crushed it today! If you’re looking for a great charter fishing experience or to have fun with friends and family while catching a cooler full of fish, then Captain Blake is your guy! I’ll be back for sure. Thanks for the great memories and a ton of salmon.
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Alexa B.
"Blake and Hunter provided the very best experience for my family and I. They were fun, informative, and we caught a LOT more fish than we needed. The next time I’m in the area I will be booking another charter with them 100%."
Corie M.
"Had a fantastic time with these 2 young fellows. They know how to keep the reels going and the fish coming in. Captain Blake has been well trained by his dad Captain Shawn and we were pleased with his first mate Hunter. Loved our time with them. Great 2 days with these 2 guys and family. Will see you next year. Highly recommend booking a trip with them!"
Cindy S.
"had the best experience on storm force sportfishing. captain Blake was amazing and knowledgeable. he and helper Hunter were great at answering questions and interacting with my group. highly recommend them and will definitely be returning many times myself."
Tim S.
"had a great time on Saturday ! Capt. Blake was very knowledgeable and took care of everything so we could have an amazing fishing experience ! highly recommend and can't wait to go back out on the Storm Force !"
Thomas W.
"Blake did an excellent job with our trip. He found the fish quickly, we hit our limits, zero equipment problems or tangles. He's got a very nice boat with storage and a stereo. Blake did all the hard work for us and even provided some good conversation, couldn't ask for a better outing"
Mike K.
"We just got off the boat. Blake and Jordan did a fantastic job we limited out in just 3 1/2 hours what’s great job they did"
Lonnie M.
"Captain Blake was awesome. Friendly, informative, great boat / equipment, and we caught our limit. I couldn't ask for a better day. Thank you Capt. Blake!"
Jeff M.
"Had the best day today, the fishing was excellent and Captain Blake was the best guy to fish with. Thank you so much Blake!"
Suzette E.
"Amazing trip! Captain Blake is an awesome person to talk with and his helping hand Hunter was also super knowledgeable. I definitely found my new go to business! FISH ON!"
Brandon D.
"Blake is a great captain. We had a great time. We will go back."
Travis A.
"Great day great Captain thanks for having us Blake you were awesome...."
Xavier N.
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Book your trip today and experience some of the best fishing in Illinois.