Frequently Asked Questions

Lake Michigan Fishing Charters Boat Near A Lighthouse

When choosing a Lake Michigan fishing charter, there are many considerations that you must go through when deciding to hire a charter.


Things To Consider When Choosing A Fishing Charter

Price: Although price is a concern with every decision you make, going with the cheapest rarely ever pays off, especially when hiring a guide. Professional charters and guides put their name and reputation on the line every day and spare no expense in the boat, rods, reels, and tackle they use on a daily basis.

Location: Like any body of water there are different locations at different times that make certain ports better. Location is key this is why we move our boats to the south in the spring, as Winthrop Harbor, IL has consistently produced the highest catch rate on coho and steelhead for spring fishing than any other port for the month of May. Starting in June we move our vessels to our northern port of Algoma, WI as over the last 35 years has produced the highest catch rates on both steelhead and king salmon than any other port according to DNR records.

Boat size: Lake Michigan is a huge lake, choosing a large boat for your day excursion can make the difference in having a great trip or one that you would just as soon forget. The size and layout of your charter boat chosen will help you achieve the comfort level you expect. Safety is always a top priority at Kinn's every spring all our boats are inspected by US Coast Guard. Safety is no place to cut corners when choosing your guide.

WHY FISH WITH KINN'S SPORT FISHING?

We feel we provide our clients with the greatest value in overall experience when considering all of the above price, location, and boat size. This is proven on a daily basis as our company has the highest return cliental rate in our industry! Our allegiance to our clients is never taken for granted and we will try and fulfill your charter to highest level obtainable.

HOW EARLY SHOULD I BE TO THE BOAT PRIOR TO THE CHARTER?

We recommend being at the boat at least 15 minutes prior to your starting time on your invoice.

CAN WE DRINK OR SMOKE ON THE CHARTER?

As long as you are of legal age to do so. There is zero tolerance for illegal substances on the boat, any overindulgence will force your charter back to the dock for both safety of you and our crew.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?

Refunds are available only if poor weather conditions make our fishing trip impractical.

SHOULD WE TIP OUR CREW?

Tips should be earned not expected, we feel extra effort warrants gratuity. In general tipping of 15 - 20% of your charter is appropriate and are split between crew members.

CAN WE USE A CREDIT CARD TO PAY FOR OUR TRIP?

Credit cards may be used for deposits only, as we have no way of processing credit cards on boats. Final balances need to be paid with check or cash.

Is there a restroom (head) on the charter boats?

Yes, all of our boats have stand up restrooms (heads) aboard.

What do we do if there is bad weather on lake Michigan?

In the case that bad weather dictates your trip to be un fishable, we can either refund or reschedule your charter to another date for you.

Are gift certificates available for your fishing charter?

Yes, we do offer gift certificates for Kinn’s Sport Fishing, dates can be determined at another time.

Are fishing licenses required to fish on lake Michigan?

Yes they are required and included on all of our fishing packages, if you have opted to book a half day charter you can purchase a 2 day license on board or you can go online and purchase them through the state website.

How many people are allowed on the charter?

We are mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard and are allowed 6 customers aboard our charter boats.

Are food and drinks provided?

We do have water aboard all of our boats, we do not provide any food. Customers are allowed to bring a cooler with snacks and drinks aboard your charter to enjoy.

Do you clean the fish?

Your Captain and or first mate will take care of cleaning your catch at the end of each charter. Please make sure to have a good (yeti type) cooler in your vehicle to store your fish after your trip.

How far do you go on a charter?

A lot depends on the time of the year or season you are fishing. Many times in the spring and fall we will be fishing very shallow water, summer fishing on average we are fishing 2-6 miles off shore.

Is there an age limit to go on lake Michigan?

We do not have an age limit on our charter boats, however most children over age 10 make the most out of the fishing trips, all children need to be accompanied by an adult.

Does Kinn’s Sport Fishing accommodate corporate trips?

Yes, we do have 10 charter boats in our fleet and offer corporate trips all season.

OUR LOCATIONS:

Algoma WI
(800) 446-8605

Sturgeon Bay WI
(800) 446-8605

Winthrop Harbor IL
(800) 446-8605

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