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Top-Rated Michigan River Fishing Charter - 8 Hours
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Michigan
- $200 - $450 price range
Summary
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River Fishing Action
Early Morning Brown Trout Hit
Chrome footballs for the win.🥇 🎯🎣
Epic salmon run here in Michigan.
Wild Browns in Michigan Streams
Brown Trout Hooked on the Michigan River
Big Brown Trout, Small Stream
Michigan River, Monster Trout
Fly Rods and Trophy Browns
Brown Trout Bite Is On!
Hooked a Michigan Steelhead
Early Morning Brown Trout Hit
Chrome footballs for the win.🥇 🎯🎣
Epic salmon run here in Michigan.
Wild Browns in Michigan Streams
Brown Trout Hooked on the Michigan River
Big Brown Trout, Small Stream
Michigan River, Monster Trout
Fly Rods and Trophy Browns
Brown Trout Bite Is On!
Hooked a Michigan Steelhead
Early Morning Brown Trout Hit
Chrome footballs for the win.🥇 🎯🎣
Epic salmon run here in Michigan.
Wild Browns in Michigan Streams
Michigan's Ultimate 8-Hour Fishing Charter
Ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action on Michigan's pristine rivers? Strap in for an 8-hour adventure that'll have you reeling in memories (and hopefully some lunkers) with On Target Fishing Guide Service. Led by full-time pro Matt Brejcha, you're in for a day of world-class angling, whether you're chasing steelhead, battling smallmouth, or going toe-to-fin with mighty Chinook salmon. From newbies to seasoned anglers, this trip's got something for everyone – so grab your fishing buddy and let's hit the water!
What's the Deal?
Picture this: You're cruising down Michigan's scenic rivers in a tricked-out custom jet boat or drift boat, rod in hand, ready to tangle with some of the state's most prized game fish. Matt's got all the gear you need, so no worries if you're traveling light. And get this – when those winter steelhead are calling your name, we'll keep you toasty with on-board heaters. It's all about comfort while you're chasing that personal best.
The boat's set up for two anglers, but hey, if you've got a trio, we can make it work. More lines in the water means more chances at glory, right? Whether you're a local looking for a new honey hole or an out-of-towner aiming to see what Michigan fishing's all about, this full-day trip gives you the time to really dial in your technique and explore the best spots.
Rigging Up for Success
On this trip, we're not messing around with bargain bin tackle. You'll be working with top-notch gear that's matched to the species and conditions. Depending on what's biting, we might be float fishing for steelhead, tossing crankbaits for smallies, or trolling for salmon. Matt's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, like switching to fly fishing if that's what the fish are keying in on.
For you gear heads out there, we're talking about sensitive rods that'll telegraph even the softest bite, reels with butter-smooth drags for those long runs, and a selection of lures and bait that'll make any fish's mouth water. And don't sweat it if you're new to this – Matt's got the patience of a saint and will have you casting like a pro in no time.
Reel Talk from Happy Anglers
"Matt and Noah were amazing guides and turned two novices into fishing stars!! Matt's joy on the river makes the day fly by and he's great at helping you feel confident regardless of your skill level. I can't recommend them highly enough!!!" - Cindy
"Epic day on the water with Matt from On Target Fishing LLC! This guy knows his stuff—we were into fish all day and landed some absolute tanks. Over 20 hookups, top-tier guiding, and memories that'll last longer than the sore arms. If you're looking to get on fish, Matt's your guy!" - Ryan
"TOTAL FISHING FUN!
2 days on the White River, father & son trip. Matt put us on the fish for 2 days of Steelhead Trout fishing, caught like 30 fish, maybe 125-150 pounds worth.
WOW Experience" - Paul
Fish on the Line
Smallmouth Bass: These bronze bruisers are the ultimate pound-for-pound fighters. In Michigan's rivers, they grow big and mean, often topping 5 pounds. Spring through fall, these guys will crush topwater lures, making for some heart-stopping action. There's nothing quite like watching a football-with-fins explode on your bait!
Steelhead Trout: Chrome-bright and built like linebackers, steelhead are the bread and butter of Michigan's cold-water fishing. These sea-run rainbows make their way into the rivers from fall through spring, offering anglers a shot at trophy fish even when the snow's flying. Fighting a fresh steelhead in heavy current is an experience you won't soon forget.
Chinook Salmon: Known as "Kings" for a reason, these behemoths can top 30 pounds and will test every bit of your angling skill. They make their spawning runs in late summer and fall, turning rivers into highways of silver. Hooking into one of these monsters is like trying to stop a freight train – get ready for screaming reels and aching arms!
Brown Trout: Wily and selective, brown trout are the thinking angler's fish. Michigan's rivers hold some true giants, with fish over 20 inches not uncommon. They love to hang in deep pools and undercut banks, so precision casting is key. When a big brown decides to eat, it's often with a heart-stopping, water-shattering take.
Muskellunge: The "fish of 10,000 casts" isn't just a nickname – these toothy predators are the apex of freshwater game fish. Muskies can grow to jaw-dropping sizes in Michigan's waters, with 50-inch fish a real possibility. They're known for their boat-side follows and last-second refusals, but when they commit, it's an all-out war. Landing a musky is a badge of honor for any angler.
Time to Wet a Line
Look, whether you're dreaming of battling steelhead in the crisp morning air, or spending a lazy summer day picking apart ledges for smallmouth, this 8-hour trip with On Target Fishing Guide Service is your ticket to fish-filled adventures. Matt knows these waters like the back of his hand and is chomping at the bit to put you on some trophy catches.
Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the best of Michigan's river fishing. Grab your fishing buddy (or two), clear your schedule for a full day, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you grinning for years to come. The fish are waiting, the boat's ready, and Matt's raring to go. All that's missing is you. So what are you waiting for? Book your spot now and get ready for a day on the water you'll be bragging about for years to come!
Customer Reviews
Novice to Pro Angler
Cindy Solomon
July 4, 2025
Fish Frenzy Fandango
Epic day on the water with Matt from On Target Fishing LLC! This guy knows his stuff—we were into fish all day and landed some absolute tanks. Over 20 hookups, top-tier guiding, and memories that’ll last longer than the sore arms. If you’re looking to get on fish, Matt’s your guy!
Ryan Irland
May 7, 2025
White River Bonanza
TOTAL FISHING FUN! 2 days on the White River, father & son trip. Matt put us on the fish for 2 days of Steelhead Trout fishing, caught like 30 fish, maybe 125-150 pounds worth. WOW Experience
Paul Berman
May 1, 2025
Muskegon Masterclass
Matts the best there is on the muskegon. He will put you on fish and give you all the knowledge and details on why and how you're catching. Absolute blast and well worth it!
Connor Prokos
April 12, 2025
Learn more about the species
Brown Trout
Brown trout are wily and elusive, making them a favorite challenge for anglers. These spotted beauties average 1-5 pounds in our rivers, though lake-run browns can reach 10+ pounds. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and rivers, often tucked under cut banks or fallen trees. Browns are most active in spring and fall when water temps are in the 50s-60s. They're known for being selective feeders, so matching the hatch is key. The fight can be spectacular, with powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. Anglers prize browns for both the challenge and their tasty, orange flesh. To up your odds, try drifting nymphs or swinging streamers in deeper pools. My local secret: Focus on fishing during low light conditions - dawn, dusk, and overcast days - when big browns are more likely to venture out from cover.
Chinook Salmon
Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. In Michigan, we see them running rivers from late summer through fall, with fish typically in the 15-30 pound range. Some monsters can top 40 pounds! Kings prefer cooler, deeper waters and often hold near the bottom in holes and runs. These powerhouses are known for blistering runs that can strip 100 yards of line in seconds. Anglers target them for both the thrill of the fight and their rich, flavorful meat. Fall colors on spawning kings are a sight to behold too. For best results, try trolling with flashers and flies, or casting large spoons and crankbaits. My insider tip: Focus on fishing low-light periods early and late in the day when kings are most active. The dawn bite can be especially hot.
Muskellunge
Muskies are the apex predators of freshwater - think of them as freshwater sharks. These toothy monsters can grow over 50 inches and 40 pounds in Michigan waters. You'll find them lurking in weed edges, rocky points, and deep structure in lakes and larger rivers. Fall is prime time, when muskies feed aggressively before winter. They're notorious for following lures without striking, earning the nickname "fish of 10,000 casts." But when they do hit, it's explosive. Muskies are prized for their size, fight, and the challenge of catching them. To improve your odds, use large lures like bucktails or jerkbaits, and make long casts to cover water. My top tip: Don't give up if you see a follow - try a figure-8 at the boat to trigger a last-second strike. The adrenaline rush is worth the wait!
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that'll give you a run for your money. These bronze beauties typically range from 2-6 pounds, though trophy fish can top 8 pounds. You'll find them in clear, cool rivers and lakes, often hanging around rocky areas or submerged logs. They're most active in late spring through early fall when water temps are in the 60s-70s. Smallies are known for explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps - it's a blast watching them leap clear out of the water. To entice a bite, try working a tube jig or soft plastic crawfish imitation slowly along the bottom. My go-to trick is using a drop shot rig with a small finesse worm when the bite gets tough. Whether you're after a trophy or just want consistent action, smallmouth bass fishing is hard to beat.
Steelhead Trout
Steelhead are like rainbow trout on steroids. These sea-run bruisers spend a few years in the ocean before returning to rivers to spawn, packing on serious size and strength. Most run 5-10 pounds, but 15+ pounders aren't uncommon. We target them in rivers from fall through spring, with peak action usually in winter and early spring. Steelhead love to hold in deeper runs and pools, especially near current breaks. They're notoriously challenging to hook, but put up an incredible fight once you do. Anglers prize steelhead for their hard-charging runs and spectacular leaps. To improve your odds, try drifting eggs or yarn flies under a float. My local tip: Focus on fishing the "soft water" edges where fast and slow currents meet - that's often where steelhead rest on their upstream journey.
About the 18 ft Lowe Boat
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 115
Matt and Noah were amazing guides and turned two novices into fishing stars!! Matt’s joy on the river makes the day fly by and he’s great at helping you feel confident regardless of your skill level. I can’t recommend them highly enough!!!