Hey there, angler! Ready for some world-class fishing on the big lake? Captain Nick Hagadone here, and I can't wait to get you out on Lake Superior for a full day of chasing salmon and trout. We'll be cruising on my 27' Pursuit, fully rigged and ready to put you on the fish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this 8-hour trip is the perfect way to experience the best fishing Lake Superior has to offer. So grab your license, and let's hit the water!
We'll meet bright and early at 6 am, just as the sun's starting to peek over the horizon. That's prime time for fish activity, and we want to make the most of it. My boat can handle up to six people comfortably, but today we're keeping it cozy with a group of four. Don't worry about gear - I've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all ready to go. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a lucky hat!
As we head out, I'll fill you in on the day's game plan. Lake Superior's a big place, but I know just where those fish like to hang out. We'll be targeting coho and chinook salmon, lake trout, and the prized steelhead. The fishing grounds we'll hit depend on the season and what's biting, but trust me, I've got the inside scoop on where to find the action.
Alright, let's talk strategy. On Lake Superior, we mix it up depending on what's working. We might start with some trolling, dragging lines behind the boat to cover more water. I'll set you up with downriggers, planer boards, or dipsy divers - all the tools of the trade to get our lures right where the fish are feeding.
If the fish are hanging deeper, we might switch to jigging. It's a more hands-on technique where you'll really feel those bites. And hey, if you're new to this, don't sweat it. I'll show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time. The key is to stay flexible and adapt to what the lake's giving us that day.
"We had a great time! Thanks Nick!" - Donald
Folks like Donald here keep coming back because there's nothing quite like fishing Lake Superior. It's not just about the fish - though believe me, hooking into a chrome steelhead or a chunky lake trout is a rush like no other. It's about the whole experience: the vastness of the lake, the fresh air, the camaraderie on the boat. And let's be honest, the bragging rights when you land that trophy catch don't hurt either!
Coho Salmon: These silver bullets are a favorite among Lake Superior anglers. Typically weighing in at 2-5 pounds, cohos are known for their acrobatic fights and delicious, orange-pink flesh. We target these guys primarily in the spring and fall when they're most active near the surface. There's nothing quite like watching your rod tip suddenly dive as a school of cohos hits your lures!
Steelhead Trout: If you're after a true test of skill, steelhead are your fish. These lake-run rainbow trout are prized for their powerful runs and leaping ability. We find them in Lake Superior year-round, but spring and fall are peak seasons when they move closer to shore. Landing a 5-10 pound steelhead is an accomplishment any angler can be proud of.
Lake Trout: The kings of Lake Superior, lake trout can grow to monster sizes. We're talking 20-30 pounders, with some true giants pushing 40+ pounds. These deep-water dwellers put up a stubborn fight, often making long, powerful runs. Summer is prime time for lakers, when we'll target them in deeper water using downriggers. The satisfaction of bringing up a big lake trout from the depths is hard to beat.
Chinook Salmon: Also known as king salmon, these are the heavyweights of the salmon world in Lake Superior. While not as common as cohos, landing a chinook is always a highlight. They can reach weights of 10-20 pounds or more, and their strength is legendary. Late summer and early fall are the best times to target these bruisers as they start their spawning runs.
So there you have it, folks - a full day of top-notch fishing on the greatest of the Great Lakes. From the rush of the first bite to the pride of posing with your catch, this trip has it all. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer or just enjoy a day on the water, I've got you covered. Lake Superior's calling, and the fish are waiting. What do you say we get out there and make some memories? Give Waypoint Charters a call, and let's get your adventure on the calendar. Trust me, you won't regret it!
June 24, 2024
Coho salmon are a feisty, mid-sized catch in Lake Superior, typically running 8-12 pounds. These silvery fish with dark blue-green backs are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water. We usually find them in the cooler, deeper parts of the lake, especially near river mouths and along shoreline drop-offs. Late summer through fall is prime time, as they start their spawning runs. Anglers love coho for their spirited battles and excellent table fare – their bright orange meat is a real treat. When targeting coho, I always tell folks to try trolling with flashy spoons or small plugs. Keep your gear in the top 30 feet of water early and late in the day, then go deeper as the sun gets high. If you see birds working the surface, there's a good chance coho are feeding below.
Lake trout are the gentle giants of Lake Superior, often weighing 15-40 pounds with some monsters pushing 70. These deep-water natives have a gray-green color with light spots, giving them a unique, almost prehistoric look. You'll find them in the coldest, deepest parts of the lake, typically suspended over rocky structure or following schools of cisco. Spring and fall are best, when they move into shallower water. Lakers are prized for their size and rich, oily meat – perfect for smoking. They're not the fastest fighters, but their sheer power and stamina make for an exciting battle. When targeting lake trout, I always tell folks to fish low and slow. Try jigging with large soft plastics or trolling with downriggers. A local trick: use big, gaudy lures – lake trout aren't picky, and they love an easy meal.
Sockeye salmon, also known as red salmon, are a unique catch in Lake Superior. These compact powerhouses usually weigh 4-8 pounds and run 18-24 inches long. Look for them in cooler, deeper waters, often near underwater structures or dropoffs. They're most active in late summer and early fall as they prepare for their spawning run. Sockeye are prized for their rich, bright red flesh – some of the best-eating fish you'll find. They're feisty fighters too, known for their quick runs and acrobatic leaps. When targeting sockeye, I recommend trolling with small, brightly colored lures or spoons. A local tip: keep your gear in the top 30 feet of the water column early and late in the day, then go deeper as the sun rises. If you see birds working the surface, there's a good chance sockeye are feeding below.
Steelhead are the adrenaline junkies of Lake Superior – these sea-run rainbows are known for their explosive strikes and airborne antics. Typically 24-30 inches long, they can push 15 pounds or more. Look for them near shorelines and river mouths, especially in spring and fall during their spawning runs. They'll hit flies, spinners, and live bait with equal enthusiasm. What makes steelhead special is their fight – pound for pound, they're some of the hardest-fighting fish in the lake. They're also beautiful, with silvery sides and a distinctive pink stripe. When hooking into a steelhead, be ready for anything – they'll run, jump, and generally try every trick to throw the hook. My go-to rig is a small jig tipped with a waxworm, drifted under a float. Let it swing naturally in the current, and hang on tight when that float goes under!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Volvo
Maximum Cruising Speed: 37
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 350
We had a great time! Thanks Nick!