Plan a Fishing Trip to Traverse City, MI

11 guidesBest months: April, May, September, June

What's Biting in Traverse City Right Now

Largemouth Bass
Excellentfreshwater
Spinning, Baitcasting, Fly Fishing
Walleye
GoodVarious
Northern Pike
GoodVarious
Crappie
Goodfreshwater
Jigging, Live Bait Fishing, Casting
Catfish
Goodfreshwater
Bottom Fishing, Jug Fishing, Rod and Reel
Perch
Goodfreshwater
Jigging, Live Bait, Spinners
Steelhead
GoodVarious
Lake Trout
GoodVarious
Yellow Perch
GoodVarious
Muskie
Fairfreshwater
Casting, Trolling, Figure Eight Retrieve
Muskellunge
FairVarious
Smallmouth Bass
Fairfreshwater
Casting, Fly Fishing, Jigging

What to Bring

Check with Traverse City guides about what gear is provided. Here's a recommended packing list:

Essentials

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Hat or visor
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Non-marking shoes or deck shoes

Food & Personal

  • Water and drinks (stay hydrated)
  • Snacks or lunch
  • Cooler for your catch
  • Motion sickness medication (if needed)
  • Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
  • Valid fishing license (confirm with captain)

For inshore / freshwater Fishing

  • Bug spray
  • Rain gear
  • Light rain jacket

Michigan Fishing License

License: Resident or Non-resident Fishing License

Check the Michigan Fishing Guide for exceptions on specific bodies of water.