Frequently Asked Questions

  • DEPOSIT

    A $100 deposit is required to reserve your trip and will be charged at the time of booking.

    CANCELLATIONS

    • More than 14 days before your trip
      Your deposit will be refunded.

    • Within 14 days of your trip
      Your deposit may be applied toward a rescheduled trip within the same calendar year. If not rebooked within that timeframe, the deposit will be forfeited.

    • Less than 24 hours before your trip
      You will be charged 50% of the total trip cost, including the deposit.
      Example: A $600 trip = $300 charge ($100 deposit + $200 additional).

    • No call / no show
      You will be charged for the full trip amount.

    RUNNING LATE

    If you are running late, please contact your captain as soon as possible.

    We cannot guarantee that your trip can be modified, extended, or discounted. If you are unable to arrive within a reasonable time, the above cancellation policies will apply.

    EMERGENCIES

    We understand that unexpected situations happen. Please notify your captain as soon as possible.

    We will make every effort to reschedule your trip; however, if we are unable to do so, the above cancellation policies will still apply.

    INCLEMENT WEATHER & OTHER CAPTAIN CANCELLATIONS

    Your safety is our top priority. Trips may be canceled at the captain’s discretion due to unsafe weather conditions.

    • If your trip is canceled due to weather, we will work with you to reschedule.

    • If rescheduling is not possible, you will receive a full refund.

    If the captain must cancel for other reasons (mechanical issues, illness, family emergency, etc.), you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

  • You bet! Some of our best fishing happens in the rain. We fish in most weather conditions as long as it’s safe to do so.

    Unsafe conditions typically include things like lightning, high winds, or rough water.

    Weather-related cancellations are always at the captain’s discretion. Please refer to our cancellation policy above for more details.

  • While it’s rare, we can’t control Mother Nature—so there’s always a chance the fish just aren’t biting.

    That said, with a 95%+ catch rate, you’re very likely to hook into fish during your trip!

    • All fishing equipment - All fishing equipment is provided. If you’d like to bring your own gear, chat with your captain to coordinate.

    • Fish cleaned and packaged - If you’re planning on keeping your catch, we’ll clean it and bag it for you. We recommend bringing a cooler and ice to transport your meat home.

    Safety First!

    • US Coast Guard Licensed Captain - Your captain will always hold a current and valid US Coast Guard license. All captains and crew are trained in First Aid/CPR/AED and participate in a randomized drug testing.

    • Life Jackets - Our boat is equipped with life jackets for every passenger on board in the event of an emergency. Children age 6 and under are required to wear a life jacket at all times while underway. While we carry child size life jackets on board, it’s recommended that they bring their own for a more comfortable and safe fit. You’re also welcome to bring your own life jacket. All personal life jackets must be Coast Guard approved (Type I or Type II).

    • Michigan DNR Inspected & Certified Vessel - Our vessel has been inspected and certified by the Michigan DNR to run fishing charters.

    • Licensed and Insured local business - We are a registered local business and hold all required licensing to run fishing charters in Michigan. Additionally, our business and vessel are properly insured.

  • To make the most of your trip, please bring the following:

    • Michigan Fishing License (required for all guests age 17+)
      Must be purchased prior to departure if you plan on fishing.

    • Kids Life Jacket
      Children ages 6 and under are required to wear a life jacket at all times while underway. We recommend bringing your child’s own for proper fit and comfort. Must be a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I or Type II.

    • Sun Protection
      Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, sun shirts, etc.

    • Weather-Appropriate Clothing
      Layers are recommended. It’s often cooler on the water than on land—and we do fish in the rain!

    • Snacks, Drinks & Cooler
      We recommend bringing ice for your catch and a small to medium-sized cooler, as space on board is limited.

    • Camera
      Waterproof or floating cases are highly recommended.

  • We want every guest to feel safe, comfortable, and prepared for their time on the water.

    Accessibility Needs

    Please let us know in advance of your trip if you or anyone in your group has accessibility needs or requires assistance while boarding or on the boat.

    We are committed to providing the best experience possible and will do our best to accommodate your needs within the capabilities of the vessel. Advance notice allows us to plan ahead and ensure a smoother, more comfortable trip.

    Medical Conditions

    If you or anyone in your group has a medical condition the captain should be aware of in case of an emergency, please inform the captain when you arrive for your trip.

    Examples may include (but are not limited to):

    • Insulin dependency

    • Severe allergies (including need for an EpiPen)

    • Cardiovascular conditions

    • Endocrine or autoimmune disorders

  • Yes—guests are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages on board, but a few important guidelines must be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

    • All guests consuming alcohol must be 21 years of age or older.

    • Beer and wine are preferred. Hard liquor is discouraged for safety reasons.

    • Cans or plastic containers are strongly recommended. Please avoid glass bottles whenever possible.

    • Drink responsibly. Safety is our top priority. Guests who become overly intoxicated may pose a risk to themselves and others.

    • Recreational drugs are strictly prohibited. This includes both legal and illegal substances, including cannabis, in any form.

    If a guest’s level of intoxication becomes a concern, the captain reserves the right to end the charter early and return to shore. In this situation, the trip will be terminated for the entire group, and no refunds (partial or full) will be issued.

    We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us provide a safe, fun, and memorable experience on the water! description

  • For the safety and comfort of all guests:

    • Tobacco smoking is not permitted on board the boat.

    • Recreational drugs are strictly prohibited. This includes both legal and illegal substances, including cannabis, in any form.

    These policies help us maintain a clean, safe, and family-friendly environment for everyone on board.

  • Yes. If you are 17 years or older and plan to fish, you are required to have a valid Michigan fishing license prior to departure.

    Additionally, a valid license is required in order to keep any fish you catch, in accordance with Michigan fishing regulations.

  • Our standard fishing trips are 4 hours long. We offer three trip times each day: morning, mid-day, and evening.

    For more details on trip options and availability, please refer to our rates page.

  • Trip start times typically run around 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 5:00 PM.

    However, your captain will confirm the exact meeting time prior to your trip based on the season, target species, and current conditions to ensure the best possible experience on the water.

  • We trailer our boat—so we go where the fish are!

    Our home waters are the Grand Traverse Bays, and that’s where the majority of our trips take place. Depending on conditions, we may also fish nearby inland lakes or other Great Lakes waters when opportunities are favorable.

    Your captain will determine the best fishing location and meeting spot based on the season, target species, and current weather conditions to ensure the best possible experience.

    You can learn more about our fisheries on our home page.

  • Yes - A $100 deposit is required at the time of booking.

  • Yes! We proudly offer a 10% discount for veterans as a thank you for your service. Please let us know at the end of your trip, and we’ll apply the discount when processing your payment.

    We also host specialty events and promotions throughout the season.

    The best way to stay up to date on current discounts and upcoming events is by following us on Facebook and Instagram.

  • We accept cash and credit/debit cards.

    Please note: a 3.3% transaction fee will be applied to all credit card payments. This fee will be charged at the end of your trip when you make your final payment.

  • The remaining balance is due at the end of your trip.

    We can charge the card used for your deposit, use a different card, or accept cash—whichever is most convenient for you. If you’d prefer to pay in full ahead of time, please give us a call.

  • Gratuities are always appreciated but never required. If you enjoyed your experience and would like to tip your captain, cash is preferred.

    If paying by card, you’ll also have the option to add a tip during checkout.

  • Yes! You can buy gift cards here.