Fishing Charters in Illinois
Browse fishing charters in Illinois that can help you catch chinook salmon.
Eyeronick Sport Fishing
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Xtreme Fun Charters
Chicago, Illinois
Unforgettable boat rentals in Chicago. Explore stunning shores, cruise the skyline, and create lasting memories. Book your boat rental adventure today!
Schools Out Sport Fishing
Waukegan, Illinois
Salmon and Trout fishing in the Chicagoland and Milwaukee region on Lake Michigan. Book today aboard School's Out Sport Fishing.
Dem Jigs
Streamwood, Illinois
Our hook collection features Mustad and Gamakatsu hooks trusted by anglers at every level—from weekend fishermen to tournament competitors. Built for strength, sharpness, and reliability, these hooks are designed to perform across nearly every fishing application. Whether you’re rigging soft plastics, flipping heavy co
Addiction Charters
Lindenhurst, Illinois
Chicago Lake Michigan Illinois charter fishing with Addiction Charters is the best King Salmon fishing around Chicago on Lake Michigan
Ness Charters
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service
Chillicothe, Illinois
River Valley Charter Service LLC, provides guided fishing charters on the Illinois River in Central Illinois for walleye, sauger, crappie, and white bass. We also offer river tours, for eagle watching and other wildlife viewing.
Prime Time Fishing
Waukegan Illinois salmon and trout fishing charter
Last Cast Ii
Lake Michigan Fishing, North Point Marina, Last Cast Charters, IIllinois Fishing, Trout, Salmon, Stealhead, Lake Trout, Coho, King Salmon, Brown Trout, Chicago Fishing, IL Fishing.
Double K Charters
Kingfin Charters
Lake Michigan Fishing Charters, Fishing Charters, Waukegan Fishing Charters, Lake Michigan
Shawnee Expeditions
Lake Kinkaid muskie musky walleye crappie bass fishing guide scott Donovan. Shawnee national forest fishing trip for walleye.
Best Time to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon can be caught year-round in Winthrop Harbor. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Chinook Salmon
Chinook salmon fishing out of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, is a Lake Michigan experience. The best time to target these powerful fish is during the late summer and early fall as they stage near the harbor in preparation for their spawning run. Trolling is the most popular method, using downriggers and planer boards to present spoons, flasher/fly combinations, and crankbaits at various depths. A local tip is to pay attention to water temperature breaks, as Chinook often congregate in these areas. Also, monitor the local fishing reports for updates on recent catches and productive areas. Winthrop Harbor offers excellent boat launch facilities, but be prepared for potentially crowded conditions, especially on weekends. The Chinook in this area are known for their size and fighting ability, so be sure your gear is up to the challenge.
How to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon Fishing Regulations in Illinois
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day in aggregate with other salmon and trout
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
The daily limit is 5 fish, but no more than 3 may be of the same species (Chinook, Coho, Rainbow, Brown, Pink, or Brook Trout). This regulation applies to Lake Michigan and its tributaries.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Illinois state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for Chinook Salmon in Winthrop Harbor?
Anglers often have success with spoons, dodgers with flies, and crankbaits when targeting Chinook Salmon in Winthrop Harbor. Natural bait like alewives can also be effective, especially when trolled.
When is the peak season for Chinook Salmon fishing near Winthrop Harbor?
The best time to target Chinook Salmon is typically from late summer through the fall as they stage near the harbor before spawning. Early morning and late evening hours often produce the best results.
What are the regulations for keeping Chinook Salmon in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can fish for Chinook Salmon year-round. The daily bag limit is 5 salmon and trout in aggregate, and there is no size limit.
Do I need a fishing license to target Chinook Salmon in Winthrop Harbor?
Yes, a valid Illinois fishing license is required to fish for Chinook Salmon in Winthrop Harbor and throughout the state. Make sure to check for any additional local regulations or endorsements.
More Chinook Salmon Fishing in Illinois
Other Species to Fish in Winthrop Harbor
Ready to Catch Chinook Salmon in Winthrop Harbor?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.