Fishing Charters in Michigan
Browse fishing charters in Michigan that can help you catch chinook salmon.


Northern Coast Outdoors
Traverse City, Michigan
Northern Coast Outdoors LLC offers guided fishing and hunting trips. Licensed and insured. Land consultation and management.


Michigan Charter Boat Association
Kaleva, Michigan
With over 25 professional captains, Ludington Charter Boat Association is your home for some awesome salmon fishing on Lake Michigan. Ludington is also known for the reefs and drop-offs near the port. The mature salmon return to the Ludington waters each summer prior to their spawning runs.


Hemlock River Guide Service
Crystal Falls, Michigan
Jeff Joseph can be your personal fishing expert for float trips on Upper Michigan Rivers. Professional fish guide at Hemlock River Guide Service in Crystal Falls.


Cf River Products
Frederic, Michigan


Mj Charters
Marquette, Michigan
Catch Trophy "Red Fin" Lake Trout on Spinning Tackle - Journey into the Heart of Lake Superior and Experince Fishing the way it was meant to be...


U P North Fishing Charters L L C
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
U.P. North Fishing Charters L.L.C. is a veteran-owned business and operates on a fully equipped Thunder Jet 210 Luxor Pro charter boat located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.


Pull Hard Fishing
Ludington, Michigan


Kc 1 Sportfishing
Muskegon, Michigan
Fishing on Lake Michigan for salmon and trout out of the beautiful port of Muskegon,


Margie J Sport Fishing Charters
Muskegon, Michigan
Muskegon Charter Boats - Muskegon sport fishing charter service for Salmon Coho Steelhead Brown Trout Lake Trout. Only charter boat to fish Muskegon for over 30 years. Family run with 3 generation catching fish for you. Located where the Muskegon to Milwaukee Lake Express Ferry is docked. Let our family take you sport fishing from the Salmon fishing port of Muskegon, Michigan with Margie J Sport Fishing Charters.


Steelhead Nation Outfitters River And Lake Michigan Charters
Wellston, Michigan
We FISH! As a Michigan-based business, we love to share our passion of the outdoors and our profound, deep love for the sport of fishing, especially Steelhead Fishing. 'Chromers' as they call them. If you are anything like us, this passion burns a joyous mark on your soul - for all of your life! We pride ourselves


Cast Away Guide Service
Baldwin, Michigan
Pere Marquette River fishing guide services for salmon, steelhead & trout, located in Baldwin, Mi. Experienced fly fishing guide for the PM.


Mike In The Keys
Lewiston, Michigan
Best Time to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon can be caught year-round in Petoskey. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Chinook Salmon
If you're looking for a Great Lakes Chinook adventure, Petoskey, Michigan, offers some prime territory. The fall salmon run up the Bear River is the highlight, drawing anglers from across the region. Kings stage off the mouth of the river before heading upstream to spawn. Early morning and late evening are usually the most productive times. Try drifting skein under a float or casting deep-diving crankbaits in the river. Lake Michigan itself can also be productive, especially during the summer months, when Chinooks are actively feeding. Trolling with spoons or flasher/fly combinations is a popular tactic. A public access point is located near the mouth of the Bear River, but be prepared for crowds during peak season. Remember to check the Michigan DNR website for current regulations and fish consumption advisories. Water temperatures and clarity significantly impact Chinook behavior, so adapt your presentation accordingly.
How to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon Fishing Regulations in Michigan
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day (in combination with other salmon and trout)
Size Limit
No minimum size limit
License Required
Michigan Fishing License
Specific regulations may vary by water body; check the Michigan Fishing Guide for details.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Michigan state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to target Chinook Salmon near Petoskey?
Chinook Salmon fishing is typically best during the fall months as they migrate upstream to spawn. Focus your efforts in rivers and near the mouths of rivers flowing into Lake Michigan.
What's the daily limit for Chinook Salmon in Michigan?
You can keep up to 5 salmon and trout in any combination, but be aware of specific regulations on certain rivers. There is no minimum size limit for Chinook Salmon.
What kind of bait or lures work well for Chinook Salmon in the Petoskey area?
Popular choices include spawn sacs, crankbaits, and spoons. Experiment with different colors and sizes to see what the salmon are biting on.
Do I need a license to fish for Chinook Salmon in Petoskey, Michigan?
Yes, you need a valid Michigan Fishing License to fish for Chinook Salmon and other species in Michigan's waters.
Are there any specific rivers near Petoskey that are known for Chinook Salmon fishing?
The Bear River and the Little Traverse Bay are popular spots to target Chinook Salmon during their spawning runs. Check local fishing reports for the most up-to-date information.
More Chinook Salmon Fishing in Michigan
Other Species to Fish in Petoskey
Ready to Catch Chinook Salmon in Petoskey?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



