Top-Rated Detroit River Beginner Fishing Charter

Published Date: October 3, 2025
Fishing

Detroit River
$475 price range

Summary

Spend a morning on the Detroit River learning the ropes of fishing with Big EZ Charters. This 5-hour trip is perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at catching walleye and other local fish. Your experienced captain will show you the techniques, and all the gear is provided – just bring yourself and be ready to learn. The boat leaves at 7 AM, giving you prime fishing time on the water. With room for up to three guests (and options to add more), it's a great way to get out with friends or family. You'll get hands-on experience with different fishing methods and learn about the river's ecosystem. By the end of the trip, you'll have new skills and hopefully some good catches to brag about. It's a laid-back introduction to fishing that lets you enjoy being out on the water while picking up a new hobby.

Top-Rated Detroit River Beginner Fishing Charter

Beginner's Catch

Walleye Fishing fun on Detroit River

Catfish Hooked up on the Detroit River

River fishing at its finest

13 pink salmon and chub mackerel fish caught in michigan

Walleye season in full swing

Catch Your First Walleye on the Detroit River

Ready to wet a line in one of the Midwest's top fishing spots? Big EZ Charters has you covered with this beginner-friendly morning charter on the Detroit River. Whether you're new to fishing or just new to the area, Captain EZ will show you the ropes and put you on some fish. This 5-hour trip is perfect for learning the basics while experiencing the thrill of hooking into some hefty walleye. No gear? No problem. We've got everything you need to start reeling 'em in.

What to Expect on the Water

Rise and shine, anglers! We'll meet up bright and early at 7 AM to catch the prime morning bite. The Detroit River's known for its world-class walleye fishing, and you'll see why as we cruise to some local hotspots. Don't worry if you've never held a rod before - our experienced captain will walk you through everything from baiting hooks to setting the hook when a fish strikes. We'll focus on techniques that are easy for beginners to grasp but still effective for landing some nice fish. The river's pretty forgiving, so you'll have plenty of chances to practice your cast and get a feel for working different lures. By the end of the trip, you might just be hooked on fishing for life!

Fishing 101: Gearing Up

One of the best parts of this trip? You don't need to bring a thing (except maybe a sandwich and some sunscreen). We provide all the gear you'll need, from rods and reels to the latest lures that the walleye can't resist. You'll learn how to use spinning gear, which is perfect for beginners. We'll show you how to tie knots, set up your rig, and work different presentations like jigging and trolling. The Detroit River's got some current, so you'll get hands-on experience with reading the water and adjusting your technique. Don't be surprised if you pick up some local lingo too - by the end of the day, you'll know your "jig heads" from your "crawler harnesses"!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Walleye are the star of the show on the Detroit River, and for good reason. These golden-eyed predators are not only fun to catch but also delicious to eat (if you choose to keep a few for dinner). Walleye typically range from 2 to 5 pounds, but don't be shocked if you hook into a 10-pounder - the river's known for producing some real trophies. They've got a soft bite, so you'll learn to feel for that subtle "tap-tap" on your line. Spring is prime time for walleye, but we catch them year-round.

Lake sturgeon are another exciting possibility on the Detroit River. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow over 6 feet long and live for decades. While we catch and release these gentle giants to help conserve the population, hooking into one is an unforgettable experience. Sturgeon fishing is best in late spring and early summer when they move into the river to spawn. If you're lucky enough to land one, get ready for an epic battle - these fish don't give up easily!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

The Detroit River isn't just a fishery - it's a slice of urban angling paradise. Where else can you cast a line with the Detroit skyline as your backdrop? The river's got a character all its own, and you'll get to soak it in while learning a new skill. Our guests love the hands-on approach - by the end of the trip, you'll have handled the rod, set hooks, and (hopefully) reeled in some nice fish. It's a confidence booster, especially for folks who've always wanted to try fishing but weren't sure where to start. Plus, there's nothing like the rush of your first catch, whether it's a scrappy smallmouth or a hefty walleye. Fair warning: fishing can be addictive, and you might find yourself planning your next trip before this one's even over!

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to try your hand at some Detroit River fishing? This 5-hour morning charter is the perfect introduction to one of the best walleye fisheries in North America. At $475 for up to three people (with room for more at $100 each), it's a great value for a personalized fishing experience. Remember, all the gear is provided, so you just need to show up ready to learn and have fun. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby, entertain the kids, or just enjoy a morning on the water, this trip fits the bill. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak walleye season, so don't wait to book. Get in touch with Big EZ Charters today and take the first step towards becoming an angler. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite pastime on the Detroit River!

Learn more about the species

Lake Sturgeon

Lake sturgeon are living dinosaurs of the Detroit River, sometimes reaching 6 feet and 100 pounds. These ancient fish have a shark-like body covered in bony plates instead of scales. You'll find them cruising the river bottom, using their whisker-like barbels to sniff out food. Spring's the best time to hook one, when they move into shallower water to spawn. Anglers chase sturgeon for the thrill – they're powerful fighters and a rare catch. We'll use heavy tackle and fish the deep holes with natural bait like worms or cut fish. Patience is key – sturgeon can be slow to bite. My local tip? Focus on areas with a mix of sand and gravel bottoms near drop-offs. It's mostly catch-and-release, but the photo op with these prehistoric giants is worth it.

Walleye

Walleye are a prized catch on the Detroit River, known for their tasty white meat and challenging fight. These golden-olive fish usually run 15-25 inches, with some topping 30 inches. They're bottom-dwellers, hanging out near rocky areas and drop-offs. Early morning or evening is prime time, as walleye have light-sensitive eyes giving them an edge in low light. We'll target them with jigs or live bait rigs, slowly working the bottom. Spring and fall are peak seasons when they're most active. Anglers love walleye for their delicious fillets and the satisfaction of outsmarting these wily fish. My go-to trick? Try a brightly colored jig tipped with a minnow – the flash and smell combo is hard for walleye to resist. Remember, they've got sharp teeth, so bring your pliers for unhooking.

About the Lund Fishing Boat

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Mercury 225

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 15

Rise and shine, early birds! We're setting out at 7 AM for a five-hour fishing adventure on the Detroit River. Perfect for newcomers to the sport, this laid-back charter gives you a chance to try your hand at catching walleye and other local fish. Don't worry if you've never held a rod before - our experienced captain from Big EZ Charters will show you the ropes and share some handy techniques. We've got room for three eager anglers, and we'll provide all the gear you need. No need to stress about bringing your own equipment or having prior experience. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a snack or two. By the end of the morning, you might just be hooked on a new hobby. The price is $475 for the group, with an extra $100 per person if you want to bring along more friends. Once you book, we'll fill you in on where to meet and any other details you'll need for a fun day on the water.

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