Questions?
General
When is the best time to fish for (fish species)?
I try to plan my schedule around the yearly cycle of the fish movement through out the state. Like anything outside, Mother Nature is ultimately in control and sometimes the fishing isn't as great as expected. That is why it's called fishing though and not catching. What you can guarantee is we will try and put you on the most fish no matter what you booked.
What is the booking procedure?
First you will need to pick out which trip works for what you want. Contact me with all the details
including all your contact information. I can be reach with any method September - March. All other
months, text and email is best.
Second, $100 will be needed to secure that date. Please send the $100 dollars in with a completed
booking form that I will send ya. Your conformation is a deposited check and your date is booked.
Unless plans need to change, I typically don’t make any calls on the trip til the day before to confirm
the trip. We will discuss time and meeting place the day before. If you are traveling far distances, please call me the day before your trip before you leave
home if the weather looks bad. Please fill out the booking form completely as it helps me keep track of the 100+ trips a year.
Before the trip, I will need full payment of either cash or personal check before the trip. I take cash and checks. I can take credit cards but there is a 5% fee to use a card. If you are on the rivers, please bring cash as sometimes cell service does not allow me to take a card.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, you will need a current DNR fishing license. You can either buy a day license or a year license.
You can either stop at a sporting goods store or buy one online here. Make sure to have your license
the night before. Stores are not always open early.
http://www.mdnr-elicense.com/Welcome/Default.aspx (Make sure you buy a Michigan FISHING license)
Where can I stay the night?
Here is a list of hotels and campgrounds near by. Please look them up to see if they will work for you. I have never stayed at any of these.
For Fishing on the Bestie:
Crystal Lake Resorts
Harbor Lights
Hotel Frankfort Resort
Lake Michigan Charters
Crystal Lake Resorts
Harbor Lights
Hotel Frankfort Resort
R and R resort
For Fishing the Big Manistee
Pine Creek Inn (Wellston)
High Bridge Cabins (Wellston)
Lazy Bear Cabins (Wellston)
Northwoods Lodging (Brethren)
For Pere Marquette Fishing:
Comfort Inn (ludington)
Best Western Inn (Ludington)
KOA Campground (Branch Township)
What does Chrome Seekers provide?
I provide all rods, bait, and tackle. If you would like to bring a rod for the river, feel free to do so.
What do you need to bring?
What happens if we need to cancel a trip?
If you need to cancel the date 15 or more days before the trip your deposit will be refunded or used
for another date. If another date is not possible, I will refund your money. If for any reason a trip
needs to be canceled within 15 days, your deposit will be put towards a trip on a future date or
forfeited unless we can book that same year. Please pick your date wisely and write it down on the
calendar. If you cancel within 2 days, I will expect full payment still.
What your stance on Alcohol and Drugs?
Beer and liquor are allowed on the trip. Any signs of belligerence will not be tolerated and the trip will
be over. Absolutely no drugs are allowed on my boat including Marijuana of any kind as it’s still illegal by the
federal government. If drugs are found, the trip will be over immediately. Also, no bananas are
allowed on the boat or they will be thrown overboard.
How much should I tip?
Although a tip is never necessary, it is always appreciate. The typical tip averages between
15-30% of the cost of the trip. A tip shows your appreciation for how hard the captain/crew worked for
you. It also helps get us a little more through out the winter months and makes us available for future
trips for you. If the captain never changed a lure or switched spots, the guide would not deserve a tip.
Remember, though, no matter how great a guide/captain is, sometimes the fish just don’t want to bite and a
tip should never be based on how many fish were caught but rather how hard the captain worked for
you.
What happens if the weather is nasty?
If for any reason, weather related, we can’t go fishing; I will refund all your money if another date can’t
be worked out. Trips will only be canceled when the weather becomes dangerous so be prepared for
any weather. We fish through most weather so make sure you are prepared for the trip. It can be cold
while on the water so make sure your prepared for any weather we may fish in. Please dress in
layers for your comfort. Its better to have to much cloths, then not enough.
If the captain wants to cancel the trip but you still want to go, you will not receive a refund if the trip is
cut short due to dangerous weather.
I try to plan my schedule around the yearly cycle of the fish movement through out the state. Like anything outside, Mother Nature is ultimately in control and sometimes the fishing isn't as great as expected. That is why it's called fishing though and not catching. What you can guarantee is we will try and put you on the most fish no matter what you booked.
What is the booking procedure?
First you will need to pick out which trip works for what you want. Contact me with all the details
including all your contact information. I can be reach with any method September - March. All other
months, text and email is best.
Second, $100 will be needed to secure that date. Please send the $100 dollars in with a completed
booking form that I will send ya. Your conformation is a deposited check and your date is booked.
Unless plans need to change, I typically don’t make any calls on the trip til the day before to confirm
the trip. We will discuss time and meeting place the day before. If you are traveling far distances, please call me the day before your trip before you leave
home if the weather looks bad. Please fill out the booking form completely as it helps me keep track of the 100+ trips a year.
Before the trip, I will need full payment of either cash or personal check before the trip. I take cash and checks. I can take credit cards but there is a 5% fee to use a card. If you are on the rivers, please bring cash as sometimes cell service does not allow me to take a card.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, you will need a current DNR fishing license. You can either buy a day license or a year license.
You can either stop at a sporting goods store or buy one online here. Make sure to have your license
the night before. Stores are not always open early.
http://www.mdnr-elicense.com/Welcome/Default.aspx (Make sure you buy a Michigan FISHING license)
Where can I stay the night?
Here is a list of hotels and campgrounds near by. Please look them up to see if they will work for you. I have never stayed at any of these.
For Fishing on the Bestie:
Crystal Lake Resorts
Harbor Lights
Hotel Frankfort Resort
Lake Michigan Charters
Crystal Lake Resorts
Harbor Lights
Hotel Frankfort Resort
R and R resort
For Fishing the Big Manistee
Pine Creek Inn (Wellston)
High Bridge Cabins (Wellston)
Lazy Bear Cabins (Wellston)
Northwoods Lodging (Brethren)
For Pere Marquette Fishing:
Comfort Inn (ludington)
Best Western Inn (Ludington)
KOA Campground (Branch Township)
What does Chrome Seekers provide?
I provide all rods, bait, and tackle. If you would like to bring a rod for the river, feel free to do so.
What do you need to bring?
- Michigan Fishing License
- Dramamine (I highly suggest you take this is you get sea sickness or have never been on Lake
- Michigan before)
- Warm clothing
- Dress warm
- Polarized Sunglass
- Headlamps for fishing in the dark
- Camera
- Lunch, snacks or drinks
- Sun tan lotions/ Mosquito repellent
- Small cooler for you to take home your fillet fish that stay in your car
- Waders (only required if you have a 3rd person on the river. They are not required if you have only 2 people)
What happens if we need to cancel a trip?
If you need to cancel the date 15 or more days before the trip your deposit will be refunded or used
for another date. If another date is not possible, I will refund your money. If for any reason a trip
needs to be canceled within 15 days, your deposit will be put towards a trip on a future date or
forfeited unless we can book that same year. Please pick your date wisely and write it down on the
calendar. If you cancel within 2 days, I will expect full payment still.
What your stance on Alcohol and Drugs?
Beer and liquor are allowed on the trip. Any signs of belligerence will not be tolerated and the trip will
be over. Absolutely no drugs are allowed on my boat including Marijuana of any kind as it’s still illegal by the
federal government. If drugs are found, the trip will be over immediately. Also, no bananas are
allowed on the boat or they will be thrown overboard.
How much should I tip?
Although a tip is never necessary, it is always appreciate. The typical tip averages between
15-30% of the cost of the trip. A tip shows your appreciation for how hard the captain/crew worked for
you. It also helps get us a little more through out the winter months and makes us available for future
trips for you. If the captain never changed a lure or switched spots, the guide would not deserve a tip.
Remember, though, no matter how great a guide/captain is, sometimes the fish just don’t want to bite and a
tip should never be based on how many fish were caught but rather how hard the captain worked for
you.
What happens if the weather is nasty?
If for any reason, weather related, we can’t go fishing; I will refund all your money if another date can’t
be worked out. Trips will only be canceled when the weather becomes dangerous so be prepared for
any weather. We fish through most weather so make sure you are prepared for the trip. It can be cold
while on the water so make sure your prepared for any weather we may fish in. Please dress in
layers for your comfort. Its better to have to much cloths, then not enough.
If the captain wants to cancel the trip but you still want to go, you will not receive a refund if the trip is
cut short due to dangerous weather.
Lake Michigan Questions
What are your rates?
5 Hr or limit (Morning / Afternoon Trips)
$475 - 3 People
$550 - 4 People
$600 - 5 People
$650 - 6 People
8 Hr or Limit (Morning or Afternoon)$600 - 1 - 2 People
$700 - 3 People
$750 - 4 People
Last light bite (3.5 Hours) - Only offered Monday - Friday
$400 - 4 People
$450 - 5 People
$550 - 6 People
Betsie Lake Jigging Trip5 Hour - Betsie Bay Jigging Trips (Morning)
$350 1 - 4 People
(Only 4 people recommended as more lines in the water spook fish depending on date)
Any 2 Trips booked will receive $50 off their second trip for the year on a 3 person
charter.
Where do you fish?
I will be run trips out of beautiful Frankfort, Michigan with amazing views of the
Sleeping Bear Sand dunes.
How many people can you take?
I recommend only 4 people as anymore can be tight. But, if you don't care about that I can take up to 6 people.
When does the trips leave?
Trips typically leave 5AM and at 4:30 Pm. Captain will call you the day before to confirm time. If time is adjusted its no later then 6 AM or as early at 4:15
Should I take Dramamine before the trip?
If you think you should take it, you probably should. If you never have been on a boat on Lake
Michigan or the ocean, you probably should take it. It is very rare that we fish close enough to
the dock to drop off sick people. Once we come in, the trip will be over. We do not refund to
bring someone in.
5 Hr or limit (Morning / Afternoon Trips)
$475 - 3 People
$550 - 4 People
$600 - 5 People
$650 - 6 People
8 Hr or Limit (Morning or Afternoon)$600 - 1 - 2 People
$700 - 3 People
$750 - 4 People
Last light bite (3.5 Hours) - Only offered Monday - Friday
$400 - 4 People
$450 - 5 People
$550 - 6 People
Betsie Lake Jigging Trip5 Hour - Betsie Bay Jigging Trips (Morning)
$350 1 - 4 People
(Only 4 people recommended as more lines in the water spook fish depending on date)
Any 2 Trips booked will receive $50 off their second trip for the year on a 3 person
charter.
Where do you fish?
I will be run trips out of beautiful Frankfort, Michigan with amazing views of the
Sleeping Bear Sand dunes.
How many people can you take?
I recommend only 4 people as anymore can be tight. But, if you don't care about that I can take up to 6 people.
When does the trips leave?
Trips typically leave 5AM and at 4:30 Pm. Captain will call you the day before to confirm time. If time is adjusted its no later then 6 AM or as early at 4:15
Should I take Dramamine before the trip?
If you think you should take it, you probably should. If you never have been on a boat on Lake
Michigan or the ocean, you probably should take it. It is very rare that we fish close enough to
the dock to drop off sick people. Once we come in, the trip will be over. We do not refund to
bring someone in.
River Questions
Where do you fish?
For steelhead I mainly fish the Big Manistee at Tippy Dam and the Bestie river. On Rare occasion depending on the river
conditions, I might move to the Muskegon river for steelhead. If you would like to fish somewhere else, we can arrange that.
During salmon season, I start off on the Bestie River. Towards the end of September and maybe October, I then move up to the Big Manistee
below Tippy to finish off the season. River conditions and fish movement might change things up. I
will always contact you the day before your trip to work with you if something changes.
AM and PM Trips are available. I recommend morning trips. Afternoon trips are available but during peak times fishing can be very spotty due to conditions.
Rates
Full Day (8 hours)
$450 (1-2 people) Lunch Included
3/4 Day (6 Hours) Recommended on all morning salmon trips)
$375 (1 -2 people) Lunch Included
Half Day (4 hours)
$300 (1-2 People) ( Available in December - March 10th and May 10 - August)
Can we keep the fish?
I like to practice catch and release for future generations. It’s good to “Limit your kill, rather than kill
your limit.” If you would like to keep fish I would be happy to fillet it for you since this is your trip. Also,
some fish will be kept for bait for future trips. I reserve the right to any eggs from any fish for future
guide trips if I am low.
How many people can you take?
For the Betsie I can fit two other people on my boat comfortably. A 3rd person can be included for $75. I have a 15" Stealthcraft drift boat that best fish 1- 2 guys. A third can be added if you would like. If you have a 3rd person I highly suggest he has waders so we can spread out.
For the Big Manistee and other larger rivers, I have a Smokercraft Jet Sled. I can fish 2 people comfortably. A 3rd person can be fished during salmon season but is not recommended for steelhead as I only have a 40/60 HP Jet Engine.
Do I need waders?
Waders are nice to have when fishing the smaller river but they are not needed. They do help spread fisherman out so if you have them already, I would bring them.
When does the trip start?
Trips start anywhere from 5:30 AM to 6:30 Am in the morning and 2:00 to 300 pm in the afternoon
For steelhead I mainly fish the Big Manistee at Tippy Dam and the Bestie river. On Rare occasion depending on the river
conditions, I might move to the Muskegon river for steelhead. If you would like to fish somewhere else, we can arrange that.
During salmon season, I start off on the Bestie River. Towards the end of September and maybe October, I then move up to the Big Manistee
below Tippy to finish off the season. River conditions and fish movement might change things up. I
will always contact you the day before your trip to work with you if something changes.
AM and PM Trips are available. I recommend morning trips. Afternoon trips are available but during peak times fishing can be very spotty due to conditions.
Rates
Full Day (8 hours)
$450 (1-2 people) Lunch Included
3/4 Day (6 Hours) Recommended on all morning salmon trips)
$375 (1 -2 people) Lunch Included
Half Day (4 hours)
$300 (1-2 People) ( Available in December - March 10th and May 10 - August)
Can we keep the fish?
I like to practice catch and release for future generations. It’s good to “Limit your kill, rather than kill
your limit.” If you would like to keep fish I would be happy to fillet it for you since this is your trip. Also,
some fish will be kept for bait for future trips. I reserve the right to any eggs from any fish for future
guide trips if I am low.
How many people can you take?
For the Betsie I can fit two other people on my boat comfortably. A 3rd person can be included for $75. I have a 15" Stealthcraft drift boat that best fish 1- 2 guys. A third can be added if you would like. If you have a 3rd person I highly suggest he has waders so we can spread out.
For the Big Manistee and other larger rivers, I have a Smokercraft Jet Sled. I can fish 2 people comfortably. A 3rd person can be fished during salmon season but is not recommended for steelhead as I only have a 40/60 HP Jet Engine.
Do I need waders?
Waders are nice to have when fishing the smaller river but they are not needed. They do help spread fisherman out so if you have them already, I would bring them.
When does the trip start?
Trips start anywhere from 5:30 AM to 6:30 Am in the morning and 2:00 to 300 pm in the afternoon
Walleye Fishing on the Detroit River
How much for a trip
5 Hr or limit (Morning / Afternoon Trips)
$450 1 - 4 People
$500 - 5 People
$550 - 6 People
Any 2 Trips booked will receive $50 off their second trip of the year that is a 4
person charter or more.
Custom Trips are available upon request.
Where do you fish?
For 2020, I will be at Motor City Marina.
When does the trips start?
Trips leave on a daily schedule at 7 AM and 2 PM
Where can I stay the night?
I have not stay at any of these hotels so I suggest doing research on the them before making
reservations.
Sleep Inn (Flat Rock)
Le Quinta (South Gate)
Red Roof Inn (Taylor mi)
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, you will need a current DNR fishing license to fish. You can either buy a day license or a year
license. You can either stop at a sporting goods store or buy one online here. Make sure to have your
license the night before. Stores are not always open early and websites do crash. You will not be
allowed to fish if you don’t have a license.
http://www.mdnr-elicense.com/Welcome/Default.aspx
What does Chrome Seekers provide?
I provide all rods, bait, and tackle.
What do you need to bring?
Michigan Fishing License
Dramamine (I highly suggest you take this is you get sea sickness or think you may)
Warm clothing (dress in layers)
Polarized Sunglass
Camera
Drinks, Lunch or snacks
Sun tan lotions/Mosquito repellent
Small cooler for your fish
How many people can you take?
My prices are set for up to 1-6 people. I will not be able to take more then 4 people but I can
recommend other charter services who will take care of you. Multiple boats available if booked in
advance.
Should I take Dramamine before the trip?
If you think you should take it, you probably should.
What your stance on Alcohol and Drugs?
Beer and liquor are allowed on the trip. Any signs of belligerence will not be tolerated and the trip will
be over. Absolutely no drugs are allowed on my boat including Marijuana as it’s still illegal by the
federal government. If drugs are found, the trip will be over immediately. Also, no bananas are
allowed on the boat or they will be thrown overboard.
5 Hr or limit (Morning / Afternoon Trips)
$450 1 - 4 People
$500 - 5 People
$550 - 6 People
Any 2 Trips booked will receive $50 off their second trip of the year that is a 4
person charter or more.
Custom Trips are available upon request.
Where do you fish?
For 2020, I will be at Motor City Marina.
When does the trips start?
Trips leave on a daily schedule at 7 AM and 2 PM
Where can I stay the night?
I have not stay at any of these hotels so I suggest doing research on the them before making
reservations.
Sleep Inn (Flat Rock)
Le Quinta (South Gate)
Red Roof Inn (Taylor mi)
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, you will need a current DNR fishing license to fish. You can either buy a day license or a year
license. You can either stop at a sporting goods store or buy one online here. Make sure to have your
license the night before. Stores are not always open early and websites do crash. You will not be
allowed to fish if you don’t have a license.
http://www.mdnr-elicense.com/Welcome/Default.aspx
What does Chrome Seekers provide?
I provide all rods, bait, and tackle.
What do you need to bring?
Michigan Fishing License
Dramamine (I highly suggest you take this is you get sea sickness or think you may)
Warm clothing (dress in layers)
Polarized Sunglass
Camera
Drinks, Lunch or snacks
Sun tan lotions/Mosquito repellent
Small cooler for your fish
How many people can you take?
My prices are set for up to 1-6 people. I will not be able to take more then 4 people but I can
recommend other charter services who will take care of you. Multiple boats available if booked in
advance.
Should I take Dramamine before the trip?
If you think you should take it, you probably should.
What your stance on Alcohol and Drugs?
Beer and liquor are allowed on the trip. Any signs of belligerence will not be tolerated and the trip will
be over. Absolutely no drugs are allowed on my boat including Marijuana as it’s still illegal by the
federal government. If drugs are found, the trip will be over immediately. Also, no bananas are
allowed on the boat or they will be thrown overboard.
