Welcome to Central Coast Angling, your premier destination for Lake Michigan salmon fishing charters and guided fishing trips on the Manistee River! Based in beautiful Traverse City, Michigan, this charter offers the perfect blend of lake and river fishing—delivering unforgettable experiences for anglers of all skill levels. Captain Robert Hinds, a lifelong Northern Michigan local and seasoned Manistee River fishing guide, leads each trip with passion, patience, and professional know-how. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, Captain Bob knows these waters like the back of his hand. Whether you're casting lines in a remote inland lake or trolling deep water for Kings, you're in expert hands from start to finish. Your fishing journey begins aboard a sleek 22’ Skeeter center console powered by a 250 HP Yamaha engine. Designed for versatility and comfort, this boat is fully equipped for both nearshore and inland excursions. It comfortably seats up to three anglers, making it ideal for small groups seeking a focused, personal charter. Depending on the season, your adventure could take you to the mighty Lake Michigan in search of King Salmon, Lake Trout, Coho, Whitefish, and Herring, or down the scenic Manistee River to chase Steelhead, Chinook, and Coho Salmon. Interested in something quieter? Ask about Michigan inland lake fishing for Perch, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass. Each trip is tailored to match seasonal fish behavior and your personal fishing goals. Captain Bob’s charters are all about learning, catching, and having a great time. Beginners are welcome and families are encouraged—Traverse City fishing charters for families and beginners are a specialty! Your catch will be cleaned and filleted at no extra charge, so bring a cooler. Snacks and drinks are provided on half-day trips, and full-day adventures include a shoreside lunch and cold beverages.Whether you're here for the fall salmon fishing trips on Lake Michigan from Manistee, fly fishing on the Manistee River, or just want a relaxing day on the water, Central Coast Angling delivers. Book your Michigan trout and salmon guide today and find out why these waters are legendary! Let Central Coast Angling show you the best of what Northern Michigan fishing has to offer—book now for a personalized, action-packed day you won’t forget.

About Our Company

Experience Lake Michigan’s top fishing action with Captain Bob Hinds and Central Coast Angling! Don’t miss your chance to reel in salmon, trout, and more—book your Lake Michigan charter today!

Central Coast Angling is a trusted fishing charter based in Traverse City, Michigan, operated by lifelong local Captain Bob Hinds. With over 30 years of hands-on experience across Lake Michigan and the region’s inland lakes, Captain Bob brings unmatched knowledge of the local fisheries. His trips are known for their professional, easygoing atmosphere, catering to both beginners and seasoned anglers. The charter specializes in targeting species like Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, and panfish, using light tackle and time-tested techniques adapted to the season and location. Central Coast Angling offers a variety of trips, including full-day salmon and trout fishing on Lake Michigan, river-based salmon runs on the Manistee, and family-friendly inland lake outings. Each trip is designed to match the client’s experience level and goals, with expert instruction and quality gear provided. Captain Bob is committed to helping guests make the most of their time on the water, offering small-group trips for up to three anglers to keep things focused and flexible. Whether you're chasing big water salmon or enjoying a quiet morning catching panfish, Central Coast Angling delivers reliable, locally guided fishing experiences across Northern Michigan.

<h2>Plan your Lake Michigan salmon trip between July and early September for peak Chinook action. Central Coast Angling offers guided trips with gear, local expertise, and quality service.</h2>

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Catch salmon on Lake Michigan at the perfect time! Learn when to reel in the biggest catches and enjoy an incredible fishing experience.

Discover The Best Season To Reel In Salmon On Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan

If you're planning to fish for salmon on Lake Michigan, timing is everything. The most consistent action occurs from late May through September, when both Chinook (King) and Coho Salmon are active in various parts of the lake. Early summer kicks off the season, with Coho showing up in good numbers along the southern and central portions of Lake Michigan. As water temperatures rise and baitfish become more concentrated, salmon begin to feed heavily, offering strong opportunities for trolling with downriggers and planer boards. The prime season for Chinook Salmon is generally mid-July through late August, with peak size and catch rates typically arriving in August, just before the fish move toward river mouths for staging. During this time, Captain Bob Hinds of Central Coast Angling focuses on structure, thermoclines, and bait pods to stay dialed in. Trips are kept small (up to 3 anglers) for more personalized fishing and a hands-on approach, perfect for both newcomers and experienced anglers. Central Coast Angling provides all the gear you’ll need, including premium rods, reels, tackle, and bait. The boat—a 22’ Skeeter center console—is outfitted with twin sonar systems, GPS, downriggers, and a livewell to keep bait fresh throughout your trip. Half-day and full-day trips are available, with beverages and snacks included on shorter trips and lunch offered on full-day charters. For guests interested in timing their trip for success, July through early September is your window to experience the strongest salmon fishing Lake Michigan has to offer. Whether you're after numbers or that trophy King, this season brings dependable bites and memorable catches.

Best Time of Year to Catch Salmon on Lake Michigan

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Lake Michigan Fishing Photos – Central Coast Angling Gallery

Captain Bob Hinds is the owner and guide behind Central Coast Angling, one of Northern Michigan’s most trusted fishing charter services. A lifelong resident of the region, Captain Bob has spent over 30 years exploring the waters of Lake Michigan, the Manistee River, and surrounding inland lakes like Torch Lake and Bass Lake. His easygoing, professional approach makes every outing enjoyable, whether you're a first-timer or an experienced angler. With a passion for helping others succeed on the water, Captain Bob specializes in small-group, hands-on fishing experiences that showcase the very best of what Michigan’s freshwater fisheries have to offer. Central Coast Angling began as a local passion project and quickly evolved into a respected charter service through Captain Bob’s dedication and word-of-mouth referrals. Over the years, Bob has built a loyal following of repeat customers—from families seeking family-friendly fishing charters to serious anglers looking for Lake Michigan salmon fishing trips. His deep knowledge of seasonal patterns, fish behavior, and safe boating practices has helped hundreds of clients enjoy productive days on the water. Whether on a relaxed inland trip with the kids or targeting trophy Lake Trout offshore, Captain Bob brings patience, skill, and genuine hospitality to every trip. Captain Bob is known not only for his knowledge of the local lakes and rivers but also for his contributions to Michigan’s fishing community. He actively promotes conservation practices, responsible harvesting, and ethical angling. His trips are designed with education in mind, helping guests understand local species like Chinook and Coho Salmon, Brown and Rainbow Trout, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass. His specialty lies in adjusting techniques based on location and season—whether trolling deep waters for salmon or jigging the Manistee River during the fall runs. With a focus on delivering consistent, memorable results, Bob’s charter is a favorite among those searching for Lake Michigan fishing charters that are both high-quality and approachable. Guests fish aboard a fully rigged 22’ Skeeter center console designed for performance and comfort. The boat is powered by a 250 HP Yamaha engine, reaching speeds up to 55 mph—ideal for covering water efficiently on big lake days or navigating tight spots on inland lakes. It comfortably accommodates up to three anglers plus the captain, providing an intimate, focused fishing environment. The vessel is equipped with dual Lowrance GPS/fishfinder units, downriggers, rod holders, and a live well system to keep bait and catch fresh. While there is no enclosed head (bathroom), the charter is designed for convenience and ease of access, making it a strong choice for anglers of all ages. The open deck layout offers 360-degree fishability and easy casting room, while the smooth ride ensures comfort even in changing lake conditions. Whether you’re headed out for trophy salmon or teaching your kids how to jig for perch, Captain Bob’s boat is equipped and ready for the job.

Lake Michigan Fishing Guide Map and Territory Overview

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Michigan Fishing License

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Things To Do in Michigan

<h3>Common Questions:</h3> What fish can you catch on a Lake Michigan fishing charter?With Central Coast Angling, Captain Bob Hinds targets King and Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Whitefish, and more depending on the season. When is the best time to fish Lake Michigan for salmon?Peak salmon fishing typically runs from late May through September. Captain Bob tracks seasonal runs and adjusts trips for maximum success. How long are the fishing trips with Central Coast Angling?Trip options include 3-hour inland lake trips, 5-hour half-day Lake Michigan charters, and longer full-day packages tailored to your fishing goals. Is gear included on the charter?Yes, all rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included on every Central Coast Angling trip. Just bring appropriate clothing and a cooler for your catch. Can beginners or kids join the fishing trips?Absolutely. Captain Bob offers beginner-friendly inland lake trips and patient instruction for families, kids, and first-timers. Do I need a fishing license for Lake Michigan?Yes. Michigan requires a valid fishing license for all anglers aged 17 and older. Be sure to purchase one before your trip. Where do Central Coast Angling trips depart from?Most trips launch from Traverse City or nearby ports along Lake Michigan and the Manistee River, depending on the trip type and season. Can we keep the fish we catch?Yes, you can keep legal-sized fish. Captain Bob offers free cleaning and filleting—just bring a cooler with ice if you plan to take fish home. What should I wear on the boat?Dress in layers, especially early in the season. Waterproof shoes or boots are a plus. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Are deposits refundable if we cancel?Booking deposits are non-refundable. Weather cancellations made by the captain will be rescheduled or refunded at his discretion.

Best Time of Year to Catch Salmon on Lake Michigan

Summary

Plan your Lake Michigan salmon trip between July and early September for peak Chinook action. Central Coast Angling offers guided trips with gear, local expertise, and quality service.

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