Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to chase some trophy fish in one of the most stunning spots on Lake Superior? Fish of the Gitch has got you covered with our full-day guided trip through the Apostle Islands. We're talking 8 solid hours of fishing action, surrounded by the kind of scenery that'll make you forget to check your line (but don't worry, I'll remind you). Whether you're after hard-fighting Lake Trout, acrobatic Salmon, or the chance to tangle with a monster Walleye, this trip's got it all. So grab your lucky hat and let's dive into what makes fishing the Apostles so darn special.
First things first – we'll meet up bright and early at the dock in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Captain Lorin's got the boat prepped and ready to go, loaded with top-notch gear and enough coffee to wake the dead (trust me, you'll want some). As we cruise out into the islands, keep your eyes peeled for those iconic red cliffs and maybe even a bald eagle or two. Once we hit our fishing grounds, it's game on. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting – could be trolling for Salmon, jigging for Lake Trout, or maybe even some light tackle action for Walleye if they're in the mood. Don't sweat it if you're new to these methods; Cap's got years of experience and he'll have you fishing like a pro in no time.
Alright, let's talk shop. Fishing the Apostle Islands isn't your average day on the pond. We're dealing with deep, cold water and fish that can grow to monster sizes. For our Lake Trout and Salmon, we'll often be using downriggers to get our lures down where the big boys hang out. Think flashy spoons, cut bait rigs, and maybe even some dipsy divers if the fish are being stubborn. If we switch gears for Walleye or Brown Trout, we might bust out the jigs or crankbaits. And here's a local tip – don't be surprised if we toss out a few "bobber doggin'" rigs. It's a funky technique that works wonders up here. No matter what we're using, Cap's always got his finger on the pulse of what's working, so you can bet we'll be on the fish.
Look, I could tell you all day about how great the fishing is, but nothing beats hearing it straight from other anglers. We've had some real beauties hit the deck this year. Unfortunately, we don't have any specific customer reviews to share at the moment, but trust me when I say the smiles on our guests' faces tell the whole story. From 20-pound Lake Trout that fight like freight trains to Chinook Salmon that'll make your reel scream, every trip's got potential for that fish of a lifetime.
Lake Trout: These bad boys are the bread and butter of Apostle Islands fishing. Lake Trout in Superior can grow to ridiculous sizes – we're talking 30+ pounds for the real monsters. They love hanging out in deep water, often 100 feet or more down. In the spring and fall, you might find them cruising the shallows, but summer means going deep. When a big Laker hits, it's like hooking into a submarine. They're not known for acrobatics, but the sheer power as they dive for the bottom is something else. Plus, they make for some fantastic eating if you're into smoked fish.
Salmon: We've got a mix of Chinook (King) and Coho Salmon up here, and both species can put on one heck of a show. Chinooks are the heavy hitters, potentially topping 20 pounds or more. They're notorious for blistering runs and aerial acrobatics that'll have you hollering. Cohos are usually a bit smaller but make up for it with their aggressive strikes and feisty fights. Late summer into fall is prime time for Salmon, as they start staging for their spawning runs. There's nothing quite like the rush of a Salmon hitting a lure at full speed – it's the kind of moment that keeps you coming back year after year.
Walleye: Now, Walleye might not be the first fish you think of when it comes to Lake Superior, but let me tell you, we've got some absolute giants lurking in these waters. Superior Walleyes tend to grow slower but live longer than their inland cousins, which means they can reach trophy sizes. We're talking potential for 10+ pounders here. They're most active in low light conditions, so early mornings or overcast days can be prime time. Walleye have a subtle bite, but once hooked, they put up a determined fight with powerful head shakes. And if you're planning on a fish fry, there's no beating a fresh Walleye fillet.
Brown Trout: Brown Trout in Lake Superior are like the elusive ghosts of the fishing world. They're not as common as Lakers or Salmon, but when you hook into one, you're in for a treat. These fish are known for their intelligence and fighting ability. They'll often make several runs, diving deep and then charging back to the surface. Colors on Superior Browns can be stunning – we've seen fish with deep golden flanks and red spots that look like they're lit from within. Spring and fall are typically the best times to target Browns, as they move into shallower water. Landing a big Brown Trout is often the highlight of an angler's trip.
Steelhead: Last but definitely not least, we've got Steelhead. These are essentially Rainbow Trout that have adapted to life in the big lake, and let me tell you, they're a whole different animal from their river-dwelling cousins. Superior Steelhead are known for their acrobatics – expect multiple leaps and sizzling runs that'll test your drag system. They typically range from 5 to 10 pounds, but bigger ones aren't unheard of. Spring is the prime time for Steelhead as they make their spawning runs, but you can catch them throughout the summer too. Hooking into a chrome-bright Steelhead is like touching a live wire – it's an adrenaline rush you won't soon forget.
Alright, folks, let's wrap this up. An 8-hour trip with Fish of the Gitch in the Apostle Islands isn't just a fishing trip – it's a chance to experience one of the most beautiful and productive fisheries in the Midwest. You've got the potential for multiple species, all in a setting that'll have you reaching for your camera as much as your fishing rod. Captain Lorin knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got the skills to put you on fish, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line.
Remember, we're limited to 4 guests per trip, so don't wait too long to book. The big ones are out there waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on the chance to tell your own Apostle Islands fishing story. So what do you say? Ready to join us for a day on Superior you'll never forget? Give us a shout, and let's make it happen. The fish are calling, and it's time to answer!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250