Charters

• There are many fishing charter services on Lake Michigan. Charters offer half-day, full-day or evening trips. Some charter boats also have day and sunset cruises. Charter fishing trips typically include all the necessary tackle and gear. Amenities vary by boat, but many include fish finders, GPS systems and marine radios. For fishermen who need lodging, it is also possible to book local accommodations.
  
  

Fish Species

• Salmon is one of many game fish in Lake Michigan.salmon image by cherie from Fotolia.com
  
  Charter boats on Lake Michigan pursue coho salmon, steelhead, brown trout, lake trout and perch. Far Fetched Charters in Leland, Mich., offers guided trips for lake trout in May, salmon and steelhead trips in June. Coldwater Charters in St. Joseph, Mich., specializes in perch fishing.
  
  

Location

• There are charter fishing boats in Lake Michigan ports from the Upper Peninsula to Chicago. Charter boats can be found in Elk Rapids, Frankfort, Glen Arbor and New Buffalo in Michigan and East Chicago, Hammond, Michigan City and Portage in Indiana. Illinois marinas include Chicago, Wilmette and Winthrop Harbor. Anglers in Wisconsin can find charters in Egg Harbor, Sturgeon Bay and Two Rivers as well as Washington Island off Door County.
  
  

Services

• Some charter boats also offers fish cleaning, freezing and packaging services.
  
  

Rates

• Charter prices vary. Typically, rates are determined by the duration and number of passengers. A half day fishing trip can cost $295 and up per person; a full-day trip on Lake Michigan can cost $395 and up. Some charters require a deposit upon booking. Prices are based on 2010 rates.