Salmon Fishing on the Great Lakes

[Guest]

This is kind of off topic for this board, but since this is the only place I post about fishing I thought I'd mention it here.

4 of us are now scheduled to go out on August 1st to go salmon fishing on Lake Michigan on a charter. Since it's a charter I assume they'll take care of the details, but I was wondering if there is anything I should be aware of that I'm not familiar with now.

I've never fished the great lakes before, I've never fished for salmon before, I've never used downriggers before, and because this trip is VERY expensive, I want to make sure I'm not doing anything stupid that will cut into my fun. If I go out and I know I did everything I can to catch fish I know I'll have a great time.

[mahannah]

The charter boat should have all the equipment you'll need for fishing. You'll just need warm cloth, camera, lunch, beverage, etc.

Get ready for a great experience! I used to do a lot of Salmon fishing when I lived in Michigan. The power of those fish is amazing. The fight a big King puts up does not compare to any freshwater fish that I typically catch. There's nothing like reeling a fish in for 45 minutes and when the fish sees the boat, have him strip another 100 yards of line off your reel. If I lived closer I would have downriggers!

[traveler]

If you're booked with a reputable charter outfit, which I expect the "very expensive" should assure, the aswer is no. Bring the usual personal stuff, as recommended by your charter; jackets, rainjackets, food and beverage, camera. And a positive attitude helps a lot. You aren't expected to know beansabout the fishing techniques or equipment, although it's often more fun if you do. Read up on great lakes fishing a little before you go, it will make the day that much more interesting. Have a blast!

[Guest]

My only recommendation is that you contact the Captain a week before you go to see if he's "on" the fish.

The Great Lakes Salmon are constantly on the move and they stage in specific areas of the Lakes throughout the Summer--if your Captain is a Pro he'll have them "Dialed-in" and you'll be assured to have a great trip.

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Chells

[maxx rpm]

-How will you transport your fish? Depending on how many guys going, it will take a good sized cooler for them. The charters out of kewaunee fillet them, which takes less room.
-I would recommend some bonine pills, it can get choppy out there. If you get queasy out there, i would watch what you eat, a little less junk food.
-dark sunglasses
-i like to wear hightop shoes for more ankle support.
-be prepared to whimper as you reach a half hour fighting a big king, it is very tiring on the arms.
-Make sure you hold your fish well for the pictures.
-plan on spending a lot of money in the future to get your own rig going. It is sooo much fun you will be returning.