CaptLevi

I would duplicate McFly's spread for salmon as a starting place and adjust as needed. For steelies I would run 2 divers, and 4 bird rods. Same for Browns. Lakers would be 3 riggers, 2 lead core, and a 1-2 pound drop weight rig.

I usually won't run sliders at dusk, dawn, or when the bite is hot. I want my main rigs in the water as quick as possible and usually catch enough fish at these times to warrant not using them. Once the fishing slows or if I am looking for a bite pattern I will use fixed sliders to help tell me what the fish will bite, and then to complement my spread by giving the look of a school of bait.

That depends on the species I'm pursuing. With salmon, I would probably start with 2 riggers and a diver at daylight, and probably cut back to 1 rigger and 2 lead core after 10 AM or so. With steelies , 1 rigger, a 2 color, and a high line. Lakers would be 3 riggers all day long. Brown would be all boards. But I would always let the fish tell me what to do of course!

I wonder if those who are pushing to bring the fish species in our Great Lakes back a more natural state are in favor of wiping out the comorant in Michigan. If I am correct, they are not an indigenous species either.

RDFISHIN, Not many charters will boost their prices. Unfortunately for us the consumer is not obligated to utilize our services. While chartering is a huge bargain compared to boat ownership, many will still opt to go golfing or the likes even though they may raise the green fees due to the gas price increase. Some charters may add a gas surcharge for long offshore fishing also although I and most others won't. My rates have actually decreased for a party of 4 or less this season. I may raise rates next season, but will honor my advertised prices for the 2006 season. If I do need to raise fees next year it will be as close to the actual raise in fuel costs as possible. I am aware of a few surcharging $50 a trip for excessive fuel costs when in reality it probably should be closer to $25-$35. Actually we will see an increase in the price of all goods and services for our everyday nessesities. Many folks in various industries (including charters) will actually attempt to profit from the rise in fuel costs. Steve is right on the mark. Our Government is profiting on oil sales more than any of the oil companies themselves. In Michigan we are even charged sales tax on the excise tax! We can't look at the dollar figures only. The oil companies are managing a meager 8% profit margin. In the business world that is an unacceptable figure for most corporations. Most demand 20% or higher. Microsoft, GM, McDonalds, and many others have enjoyed WAY higher profit earnings historically than oil but their price changes aren't so noticable on a day to day basis. I guess we are in for a ride, and it may not be too much fun!

Cut bait is awesome! I like pulling it on a Fishertackle Guppy behind a cowbell rig for lakers, on a 3 fly rig behind a large to medium sized rotator or flasher, or clean on those days where real stealth is required to box large fish. You can purchase cutbait rigs at most retail tackle stores.

I also prefer a larger or magnum size early in the season with a mixture of smaller spoons mixed in. I transition to a more small to medium size with a few mags mixed in later in the season.

Steve, I would guess that a lot has to do with the seemingly constant East wind we have been getting. The water against the shoreline is quite cold compared to usual. One thing you may have noticed. The Kings are taking high lines as well as lines set to 85'. Most of mine have been in the top 30'. Last weekend we marked lots of baitfish in the 100' - 120' range. So I guess I would think that it's just a fickle year and keep my fingers crossed that the sky isn't falling.

It is against the reg's for us to gas up with customers on board. Not very professional to do either. It takes some planning, but usually I can squeeze it in between charters if needed.

Are the strips in good shape? What was the price?

Same here. Folks can be as hands on as they desire on my charters with just a few exceptions due to liability restrictions. Others want to eat, drink, reel one in, nap, repeat. That's OK too!

Welcome aboard! I'm seachin for that trophy eye on the Detroit tommorrow! Yehaw, Cap gits to land a fish!

Welcome Erbyjoe! Hope you enjoy the site!

I've never been either so just a guess....New Buffalo?

Not now as I store in a different location than the marina where I slip. It offers no storage, but I could leave my boat there for free if I wanted. Right now I store inside so it is safe and secure.

Hi folks! I am CaptLevi, Levi Sanders to those who know me personally. I opertate Sportboat Charters out of St. Joseph. I guess I am moderating this area so no low punches....let's keep it a clean fight! Welcome aboard! .....and feel free to contact me about any issues I can help you with.

That's where Sporty will be this summer John. I am changing out to manual riggers for those outings to save the electric motors. You'll lookjust like Popeye by fall!

Capt.Mike, Yes your registration will be listed.......use: comm/freight Your U.S. Merchant Marine covers passenger for hire (someone correct me please if I'm wrong?) Are they just requesting your U.S.M.M.O. #? You will also need a sport trolling license. That is a catch 22. You cannot obtain it without a passing inspection and you can't pass the inspection without the sport trolling license. I would contact a local DNR office to expidite the Sport trolling Lisence in advance. Just let them know of your issue. You will also need to have a copy of your insurance policy. (not a binder). You can also call the DNR regional facility nearest you and ask to speak with someone in the law enforcement division for more specifics.

I'm gonna need to rig a sail on my charter boat if this keeps up! AAAARRRGGGG!!!!!!

My largest King was out of the Musk. River in '74. 36#. Out of the lake: Biggest king? But we had a limit allover 20# in Frankfort in '85. A few near 30#. All 15 caught in about an hour from setting the first line. We never got more than 4 lines set! Biggest Brown? 13# while night trolling for wally in Musk Channel '87. Largest walleye? 11.25 # same location in '88. Largest coho and lakers were actually landed by guests(but I set the lines and coached 'em!, doesn't that count for sumpin?).

Welcome aboard! This is a very nice and new site. I am sure you will enjoy your time here talking bout our common interest...........washing lures!

I used an at home study course. I also tested myself online at boatus/seatow site. I think that while it was probably a little more difficult, it allowed me to learn at my own pace without taking a week in a hotel.

Capt. John (Shades), It's about time you showed up. You will be a great asset to the site for sure. Your fishing prowess is indeed impressive. Anyone who has fished with you knows what I mean. Did any of you know that John was part of the team sittin in second at the South Haven tourney last year after day one and was just barely edged into third on the second day by Best Chance? And he is a co-founder and member in good standing in the Brotherhood of the Salmon St. Joe Chapter. I can't wait to put the hurts to some fish this season Bro!

That is sad. Who is surprised? :mad: :mad:

One tip: DO NOT unhook the strap and safety chain on your bunk trailer either IF you have recently been fishing in early/late season cold periods. The water on the bunks can freeze making a real neat slide for you rig.