Salmon Fishing - Lake Michigan

Fishing The Zone For Brown Trout Milwaukee #2

2009-10-30T07:19:35.890-05:00

By Captain Jim Hirt Let me explain how to be more productive by following some basic rules and using basic tools. Activity and habits of fish are dictated by many variables. A rather basic approach will put you on fish and keep you there. I will cover how to find the most productive zones by species Article number one covered Chinook now let's look at Brown Trout as it applies to Lake Michigan and other big water ecosystems. Get caught up by reading article number one titled Fishing The Zone For Salmon Milwaukee #1. This information is necessary to understand the following article. Zones By Species Lake Michigan Milwaukee is an outstanding fishery with many options for anglers. The most popular targets of anglers here are Chinook salmon, Coho Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Lake Trout. Allow me to offer environmental preferences for each of these. Breaking each fish down by preferences is the best way to find steady consistent action on any fish. Brown Trout Zone By Temperature Big browns are common in the estuary created in the Milwaukee area by three rivers. Brown Trout are a warm water species, so look for them in temperatures above 55 degrees. They will tolerate colder water and temperatures above 65 however my biggest browns over twenty pounds have come at near 55 degrees. Keep your baits in 55-degree temperature and you will increase your odds on big fish. When I am catching small fish, I know the water is too warm for a trophy. It is time to adjust the tackle to colder water. A temperature gauge is a tool a trout fisherman cannot be without. Location And Forage The principal types of forage for trophy fish in Lake Michigan are the Alewife and Goby. Look for pods of forage for consistent action. I have caught browns in water as shallow as 5 feet and out to 100 feet. Most consistent action however is in shallow water or the top 25 feet where warm water has accumulated. Early spring in the months of March April And May we find are consistently the best for browns. Over the years 90% of this species are caught when the water is below their preferred temperature. The reason for outstanding spring fishing for this fish is the cold water of Lake Michigan concentrates the fish. The Lake temp is in the mid to high thirties and this causes the fish to stay near the warmer water of the river mouths and harbor gaps. Later in the season the browns disperse along the shoreline. Finding a temperature break is the key to finding fish. A break is defined as a major or minor change in water temperature. At times a small change of a degree or two will hold fish but I have found the greater the change the better the concentration of fish. Presentations For Lunker Browns First light of the day is the best time to catch this quarry. They seem to be more sensitive to light than other types of fish. Light up a Vulcan or Reaper Magnum Glow spoon sold by Badger Tackle before first light for fish in the box ahead of the rest of the pack of anglers. A stealthy approach is necessary for the biggest fish. In definition stealth is a presentation that avoids being notice. Several are used for trolling. I would skip the downriggers as a presentation for browns. I have found this to be the least productive of presentations I have tried. The most successful for me is leadcore. A weighted line with a Seaguar fluorocarbon leader is attached to a Church Walleye Planer board. The planer board is run well off to the side of the boat out of the travel path. Leadcore is graduated to allow five feet of depth for every color. Five colors will run lures approximately 25 feet down 10 colors fifty feet and so on. This allows you to fish any depth you want. Hot Lures Define The Day Let's wrap this up with my favorite lures. Magnum spoons are my first choice. Use Glow in dark for before first light and in heavy overcast. When fishing in very bright conditions or with the presence of small baitfish go to regular or small lures. My magnum spoons are about five inches long, regular four inches and small three inches. The two m[...]

Fishing The Zone For Salmon Milwaukee #1

2009-10-28T11:00:18.489-05:00

By Captain Jim Hirt Let me explain how to be more productive by following some basic rules and using basic tools. Activity and habits of fish are dictated by many variables. A rather basic approach will put you on fish and keep you there. I will cover how to find the most productive zones by species. What Is A Zone I define a zone as a location where greater concentrations of the target species are found. You may use, as I do, this system for any type of fishing or in fact hunting. The basics are simple. What does your target want? Focus on what you know and do research to find out more. Zone Rules Pick the type of quarry you are after and make a list of the known environmental preferences for that species. Armed with that information you will have the guidelines or rules to become more successful. Breaking the rules will put you in water with less of the target fish Environmental Preferences The top of the most important list and what I look for is food and temperature. When you are in a zone with the correct temperature and good forage you will increase your chances. Other important factors are cover, habitat, maturity of fish, light intensity, water depth, weather, current flow, current intensity, oxygen level and fishing pressure. Your ability to measure, monitor and locate the ideal set of fishing preferences for your target is key. Zones By Species Lake Michigan is an outstanding fishery with many options for anglers. The most popular targets of anglers here are Chinook salmon, Coho Salmon, Rainbow trout, Brown Trout and Lake Trout. Allow me to offer environmental preferences for each of these. Breaking each fish down by preferences is the best way to find steady consistent action on any fish. Chinook Salmon Zone And Presentations Big Chinook Salmon are a cold water species, so look for them in temperatures below 50 degrees. The exception is when they come into spawn. At this point in their life temperature is not important. Keep your baits in 45 to 52 degree temperature and you will increase your odds on big fish. When I am catching small fish, I know the water is too warm for a trophy. It is time to adjust the tackle to colder water. A temperature gauge is a tool a salmon fisherman cannot be without. The principal forage for these bruisers is the Alewife. Look for pods of forage for consistent action. The baitfish will hold Chinook in any area. Keep your fish locator cranked up on the gain to show baitfish along the bottom. I have caught them in water as shallow as 10 feet and out to 300 feet fishing near the bottom. There is no limitation on the depth they like. Key in on temp for success. Clear water and sunny conditions are the enemy. This scenario will turn off most fish. However, some fish can be had when certain presentations are used. A stealthy approach is necessary for the biggest fish. In definition stealth is a presentation that avoids being notice. Several are used for salmon trolling. Downriggers are a popular method to run tackle with many variations possible. In sunny conditions increase your downrigger leads to 100 feet or more. By running long leads you work water undisturbed by noise and turbulence of the boat. Leadcore is another good choice. A weighted line with a Seaguar fluorocarbon leader is attached to a Church Walleye Planer board. The planer board is run well off to the side of the boat out of the travel path. Leadcore is graduated to allow five feet of depth for every color. Five colors will run lures approximately 25 feet down 10 colors fifty feet and so on. This allows you to fish any depth you want and is a killer for huge kings. Chinook live four and a half years and it makes sense that they will be the biggest at the end of their life cycle. These monsters will be the most aggressive and easiest to get in the months of July thru September. I have produced Kings over twenty pounds in April, although this is the exception to the rule. Weather is as big of a factor as any and when the conditions are favorable you can expe[...]

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 9/29/09

2009-09-29T13:17:46.142-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

Gale force winds will change everything. The water temperature will be the key to finding fish on your next trip out. As of Sunday morning the warm water is in and the fish were out. A temperature break was in 100 to 140 feet of water. The best action for Chinooks was 55 to 120 down. Magnum spoons the best option for all size fish.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been improving and the best is yet to come. Fish them at first and last light of the day for a few Chinook and Brown Trout. Shore and boat anglers are getting some fish with Vulcan magnum size Glow spoons and j-plugs before sunrise.

Patterns and program 110 to 140 feet
The temperature break to 52 degrees is at least 100 feet down. The deepest we have caught fish is 125 feet down with the majority of our fish coming 75 to 110 feet down. This is my recommendation for location after the gale force wind. Head out 60 degrees from the north gap and set up in 40 feet of water. Check the down temperature and key on 52 degrees. Use Fish Fry Magnum Glow Spoons at first light working lines at all depths.

You will find action on mostly Rainbows with five, six, eight and ten color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers 65 to 120 down are taking all size Chinooks. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 9/21/09

2009-09-21T21:56:19.770-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

The warm water is in and the fish are out. A temperature break has set up in 110 to 195 feet of water. The best action for Chinooks is 75 to 120 down. Magnum spoons are taking all size fish. Shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat angler's is picking up with reports of four-year-old kings.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been improving and the best is yet to come. Fish them at first and last light of the day for a few Chinook and Brown Trout. Shore and boat anglers are getting some fish with Vulcan magnum size Glow spoons and j-plugs before sunrise.

Patterns and program 110 to 195 feet
The temperature break to 52 degrees is at least 100 feet down. The deepest we have caught fish is 150 feet down with the majority of our fish coming 75 to 110 feet down. Head out 60 degrees from the north gap and set up in 110 feet of water. Use Fish Fry Glow Spoons at first light on the bottom in 110 feet

You will find action on mostly Rainbows with five, six, eight and ten color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers 65 to 120 down are taking all size Chinooks. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 9/14/09

2009-09-15T13:20:54.702-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

East wind continues and the fish have adjusted to the warm water. A temperature break has set up in 110 to 195 feet of water. The best action for Chinooks and Rainbow Trout is 75 to 120 down. Church Tackle lighted 8 inch Revelators with green or white flies or magnum spoons are taking all size fish. Shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat angler's is picking up with reports of four-year-old kings. Lake Trout are part of every catch with some in trophy size.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been improving and the best is yet to come. Fish them at first and last light of the day for a few Chinook and Brown Trout. Shore anglers are getting some fish with Vulcan regular size Glow spoons before sunrise or live bait.

Patterns and program 110 to 195 feet
The temperature break to 52 degrees is at least 100 feet down. The deepest we have caught fish is 120 feet down with the majority of our fish coming 75 to 110 feet down. I start off the south gap in 100 feet of water and work east. Use Fish Fry Glow Spoons at first light on the bottom in 110 feet

You will find action on mostly Chinooks or Rainbows with five, six, eight and ten color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers or leadcores 25 to 120 down are taking all size Chinooks and eight to ten pound Rainbows. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 9/9/09

2009-09-09T11:54:38.545-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

East wind continues and the fish have marched out to deeper water. A temperature break has set up in 110 to 195 feet of water. The best action for Chinooks and Rainbow Trout is 25 to 120 down. Church Tackle lighted 8 inch Revelators with green or white flies or magnum spoons are taking all size fish. Shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat angler's remains very slow.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been very slow but the reports are it is getting better. Fish them at first and last light of the day for a few Chinook and Brown Trout. Shore anglers are getting some fish with Vulcan regular size Glow spoons before sunrise or live bait.

Patterns and program 110 to 195 feet
The temperature break to 52 degrees is at least 100 feet down. The deepest we have caught fish is 120 feet down with the majority of our fish coming 25 to 110 feet. I start off the south gap in 100 feet of water and work east. Use Fish Fry Glow Spoons at first light on the bottom in 110 feet

You will find action on mostly Chinooks or Rainbows with five, six, eight and ten color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers or leadcores 25 to 120 down are taking all size Chinooks and eight to ten pound Rainbows. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 8/31/09

2009-08-31T12:37:53.928-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

If you were waiting for east wind it has arrived. A temperature break has set up in 80 to 125 feet of water. The best action for Chinooks and Rainbow Trout is 25 to 70 down. Church Tackle lighted 8 inch Revelators with green or white flies or magnum spoons are taking all size fish. Shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat anglers has slowed to a crawl.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been very slow. Fish them at first and last light of the day for Brown Trout. I have not had or heard of any spawning Chinooks they should be in soon. Shore anglers are getting some fish with Vulcan regular size Glow spoons before sunrise or live bait.

Patterns and program 80 to 125 feet
The temperature break to 50 degrees is at 40 feet down. The deepest we have caught fish is 70 feet down with the majority of our fish coming 25 to 50 feet. I start off the main gap in 80 feet of water and work northeast. The last couple of days I have seen more 4-year-old Chinooks gathering for their run up the river.

You will find action on mostly Chinooks or Rainbows with five, six, eight and ten color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers or leadcores 25 to 70 down are taking all size Chinooks and eight to ten pound Rainbows. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 8/24/09

2009-08-24T16:26:41.554-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt
West wind has not changed the fish location or attitude. A lot of cold water has moved the fish high in the water column. Shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat anglers remains steady and consistent. Anglers are enjoying some big Chinook with all sizes and species active. Most presentations are working magnum spoons have been best. This father and son duo of Jack and Tom Hansen were excited to land this 18 pound 4 ounce Chinook on a Reaper Magnum Big Joe Silver spoon.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been most productive at first and last light of the day. Magnum spoons trolled or jigged are working. Shore anglers are getting fish with Vulcan regular size Glow spoons before sunrise or live bait.

Patterns and program 30 to 60 feet
The temperature break to 42 degrees is at 20 feet down in most areas. The deepest we have caught fish is 40 feet down with the majority of our fish coming above 25 feet. I start off the main gap in 40 feet of water and work northeast. The last couple of days I have seen more 4-year-old Chinooks gathering for their run up the river.
You will find action on mostly Chinooks with two, three and five color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers or leadcores 10 to 40 down are taking all size Chinooks big Coho, Browns and Lake Trout. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 8/19/09

2009-08-19T16:21:09.984-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

West wind continues to provide shore, gap and near shore action for pier and small boat anglers. Steady and consistent action has been the norm for all species especially big Chinooks. Most presentations are working and anglers are enjoying action on Chinooks, Coho and Brown Trout.

Patterns and program for the harbor and gaps.
The areas around the harbor break walls and gaps have been most productive at first and last light of the day. Magnum spoons trolled or jigged are working. Shore anglers are getting fish with Vulcan regular size Glow spoons before sunrise or live bait.

Patterns and program 30 to 60 feet
The temperature break to 42 degrees is at 20 feet down in most areas. The deepest we have caught fish is 40 feet down with the majority of our fish coming above 25 feet. I start off the main gap in 40 feet of water and work northeast. The last couple of days I have seen more 4-year-old Chinooks gathering for their run up the river.

You will find action on mostly Chinooks with two, three and five color leadcore with Badger Tackle Vulcan and Reaper Magnum spoons. Downriggers or leadcores 10 to 40 down are taking all size Chinooks big Coho, Browns and Lake Trout. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.1 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 8/10/09

2009-08-10T13:47:14.555-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

West wind is providing 45 degree water near shore with steady and consistent action for all species. Most presentations are working and anglers are enjoying action on Chinooks, Coho and huge Lake Trout. We had a Laker over twenty pounds this past week. Set up in 40 feet and run spoons 15 to 35 feet down for some of the best fishing of the season.

Patterns and program 40 to 80 feet
The temperature break to 50 degrees is at 20 feet down in most areas. The deepest we have caught fish is 60 feet down with the majority of our fish coming above 45 feet. I start off the north gap in 40 feet of water and work northeast.

You will find steady action on mostly Chinooks with three, five and six color leadcore with Vulcan Magnum spoons. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Vulcan Magnum Lizard Silver spoons 30 to 40 feet down. Downriggers or leadcores 30 to 45 down are taking all size Chinooks big Coho and all size Lake Trout. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 8/03/09

2009-08-03T22:30:28.375-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

Anglers are enjoying action on Chinooks, Coho and Rainbows lots of Rainbows to 12 pounds and some Lake Trout. Action is in 65 to 110 feet. Set up at 60 feet and run spoons 15 to 50 feet down for Rainbows and Coho. The four year old kings some over 19 pounds are coming near the bottom in 65 feet on magnum Reaper Spoons.

Patterns and program 65 to 110 feet
Out in the deeper water east of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow and Coho. I start off the north gap in 60 feet of water and work east. I fished the water closer to shore with some success however the deeper water has been better.

Steady action on Rainbows with three, five and six color leadcore continues to be the better part of our catch. Once again small Vulcan spoons are best for Rainbows. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Vulcan Magnum Lizard Silver spoons 40 to 50 feet down. Downriggers or leadcores 30 to 50 down are taking three year old Chinooks big Coho and all size Lake Trout. Magnum Reapers on the deep lines are getting the job done. Check the down temperature and look for 50 degrees. The temperature changes with wind direction today it is 49 degrees at 40 feet. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 7/27/09

2009-07-27T22:20:12.107-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

Chinooks over twenty pounds are becoming part of most every trip with Coho to 10 pounds and Rainbows lots of Rainbows to 11 pounds. Action is in 70 to 110 feet. Set up at 70 feet and run spoons 15 to 50 feet down for Rainbows and Coho. The big kings are coming 30 to 50 down on all size Vulcan and Reaper spoons. Bryan Pallen of Fargo ND. was excited to catch this 10.3 pound 27 inch Coho on a Vulcan Blue Dolphin Glow spoon

Patterns and program 70 to 110 feet
Out in the deeper water east of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow and Coho. I start off the north gap in 70 feet of water and work east.

Steady action on Rainbows with three, five and six color leadcore continues to be the better part of our catch. Once again small Vulcan spoons are best for Rainbows. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Reaper Magnum Peacock spoons 30 feet and down. Downriggers or leadcores 30 to 50 down are taking Chinooks big Coho and all size Lake Trout. Magnum Reapers on the deep lines are getting the job done. Check the down temperature and look for 50 degrees. The temperature changes with wind direction today it is 49 degrees at 40 feet. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Vulcan Magnum Silver Lizard, Magnum Silver Sky, Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver, and Magnum Fish n Chip. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.6 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 7/21/09

2009-07-21T08:44:37.997-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

The fishing has become predicable and productive during the past week. Good numbers of Chinook, Coho and Rainbows lots of Rainbows to 16 pounds. Action is in 60 to 120 feet. Set up at 55 feet and run spoons 10 to 25 feet down for Rainbows 40 to the bottom for salmon. All size spoons are working magnum spoons have been my best producer for salmon the last five days.

Patterns and program 60 to 120 feet
Out in the deeper water northeast of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow and Coho. I start off the north gap in 60 feet of water and work northeast.

Steady action on Rainbows on two, three and five color leadcore continues to be the better part of our catch. Once again small baits are best for Rainbows. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Reaper Magnum Peacock spoons 30 feet and down. Downriggers or leadcores 35 to 90 down are taking Chinooks big Coho and all size Lake Trout. Magnum Reapers on the deep lines are getting the job done. Check the down temperature and look for 50 degrees. The temperature changes with wind direction. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.7 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 7/13/09

2009-07-13T22:01:28.788-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

The fish are Now on thermocline on Lake Michigan out of Milwaukee. Action is in 120 to 260 feet. Set up at 120 feet and run spoons 10 to 25 feet down for Rainbows. Thirty to 100 down for Lakers and salmon. Magnum spoons have been my best producer for salmon the last five days.

Patterns and program under 45 feet
Fishing near shore has improved for Brown Trout. Use small spoons Like the Vulcan regular size Vulcan Silver Sky or the Vulcan OL Sherbet. The baitfish are about Two inches and small spoons are best. Water has warmed up to over 64 degrees and Browns are along the shoreline to the north of Milwaukee's north gap. You can also try inside the green can and south along the shoreline.

Patterns and program 120 to 260 feet
Out in the deeper water east of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow, Lake Trout and Coho. I start off the north gap in 120 feet of water and work east.

This has been a mixed bag fishery. We had a Grand Slam twice over the last four days. Steady action on Rainbows on two, three and five color leadcore continues to be the better part of our catch. Once again small baits are best for Rainbows. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Reaper Magnum Peacock spoons 50 feet and down. Downriggers or leadcores 35 to 90 down are taking Chinooks big Coho and all size Lake Trout. Magnum Reapers on the deep lines are getting the job done. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.7 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 7/8/09

2009-07-08T09:42:17.251-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

The fish are starting to set up on thermocline on Lake Michigan out of Milwaukee. Action is in 100 to 260 feet. Set up at 100 feet and run spoons every 10 feet from 90 feet and up. Magnum spoons have been my best producer for the last five days.

Patterns and program under 45 feet
Fishing near shore has been very slow except for Brown Trout. Use small spoons Like the Vulcan regular size Vulcan Silver Sky or the Vulcan OL Sherbet. The baitfish are about Two inches and small spoons are best. Water has warmed up to over 60 degrees and Browns are along the shoreline to the north of Milwaukee's north gap. You can also try inside the green can and south along the shoreline.

Patterns and program 100 to 260 feet
Out in the deeper water east of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow, Lake Trout and Coho. I start off the north gap in 100 feet of water and work east.

This has been a mixed bag fishery with steady action on Rainbows on two and three color leadcore. Once again small baits are best for Rainbows. Coho over 7 pounds are common on Reaper Magnum Peacock spoons 50 feet and down. Downriggers or leadcores 35 to 90 down are taking Chinooks big Coho and smaller Lake Trout. Magnum Reapers on the deep lines are getting the job done. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 6/30/09

2009-06-30T17:24:41.438-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

The fish are scattered on Lake Michigan out of Milwaukee. Action is in 76 to 270 feet. Set up at 50 feet and run spoons every 10 feet from top to the bottom. Magnum spoons have been my best producer for the last five days.

Patterns and program under 45 feet
The west wind has moved the warm water out and near shore fishing should pick up for shore anglers and boat anglers around the harbor break wall gaps. I fished this area for about an hour on Sunday and picked up one Chinook about twenty pounds 27 down on a Magnum Reaper Peacock spoon. West wind is forecasted for the next two days and this spot is worth a look if you are coming out soon.

Patterns and program 70 to 270 feet
Out in the deeper water northeast of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow, Lake Trout and Coho. I start off the Water Filtration Plant in 50 feet of water and work north and east.

Our fish came on Magnum Reaper spoons for Chinook and Lake Trout on downriggers or leadcores 35 to 90 down or OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies for Coho. Experiment with lengths of the fly leader to the dodger or flasher. Start with 2 times the length of the attractor. I use Church Walleye Planner Boards for all my lead cores.

The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight 50 to 120 down to get Lakers. The Rainbows have been 15 to 45 down in 240 feet of water on regular size Vulcan or Reaper spoons.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!!

Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 6/23/09

2009-06-24T13:20:13.241-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

Late June the action on Lake Michigan out of Milwaukee has moved offshore. The surface temperature is up to 61 degrees and the fish are deeper and scattered. Go deep and fish for Chinook, Coho, Rainbow and Lake Trout. Photo is Debbie Boettchel and her 19.5 pound Chinook.

Patterns and program under 45 feet
Around the harbor break wall gaps as the water clears after the recent storms anglers are taking Coho Chinook and Browns. This is a all spoon bite for Chinook and Browns on downriggers. Run them long behind the ball and staggered every 10 feet from top to bottom. The Coho are coming on Church Walleye Planner Boards with OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies are my go to bait for Coho. Our best spoons have been the blue and green Magnum Reaper Peacock or the Reaper Magnum Fish n Chip. When the wind and waves keep you in, the near shore will produce. Water temp are up to 63 degrees or more on top in most areas look for the 52-degree temps down for best action.

Patterns and program 200 to 275 feet
Out in the deeper water northeast of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow, Lake Trout and Coho. Good numbers on all species with the best action on Coho. I start off the Water Filtration Plant in 175 feet of water and work north and east.

Our fish came on Magnum Reaper spoons for Chinook and Lake Trout on downriggers or leadcores 15 to 60 down or OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies for Coho. Experiment with lengths of the fly leader to the dodger or flasher. Start with 2 times the length of the attractor. The standard presentation for Coho is Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 1-ounce weight.

The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight 50 to 120 down to get Lakers. The Rainbows have been 15 to 45 down in 240 feet of water on regular size Vulcan or Reaper spoons.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Report 6/15/09

2009-06-15T22:29:52.948-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

Mid-June the action on Lake Michigan out of Milwaukee heats up. The surface temperature is up to 50 degrees and the fish like the warmer water. Go deep and fish for Chinook, Coho, Rainbow and Lake Trout.

Patterns and program under 40 feet
I have not fished in close to shore during the past week. Reports from other anglers that did fish in tell me that there are fish to catch near shore. Around the harbor break wall gaps anglers are taking Coho Chinook and Browns. This is a all spoon bite for Chinook and Browns on downriggers. Run them long behind the ball and staggered every 10 feet from top to bottom. The Coho are coming on Church Walleye Planner Boards with OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies are my go to bait for Coho. Our best spoons have been the blue and green Magnum Reaper Peacock or the Reaper Magnum Fish n Chip. When the wind and waves keep you in, the gaps will produce. Water temp are up to 55 degrees in most areas.

Patterns and program 65 to 150 feet
Out in the deeper water northeast of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Rainbow, Lake Trout and Coho. Good numbers on all species with the best action on Coho. I start at the Water Filtration Plant in 65 feet of water and work north and east.

Our fish came on Magnum Reaper spoons for Chinook and Lake Trout on downriggers or leadcores 30 to 60 down or OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies for Coho. Experiment with lengths of the fly leader to the dodger or flasher. Start with 3 times the length of the attractor. The standard presentation for Coho is Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight. The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight 70 to 130 down to get Lakers. The Rainbows have been 45 down in 120 feet of water on regular size Vulcan or Reaper spoons.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 6/8/2009

2009-06-09T07:35:44.857-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

June has started with decent fishing for Chinook, Coho and Lake Trout. Deep and shallow water are all producing.

Patterns and program under 40 feet
There are two different options for fishing, which should produce for all big and small boat anglers. Around the harbor break wall gaps we are taking Coho Chinook and Browns. This is an all spoon bite for Chinook on downriggers. With Coho coming on Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight. OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies are my go to bait for Coho. When the gaps are slow move out northeast. Switch the presentation to five and eight color leadcore on boards or downriggers 25 to 48 down with all spoons. Our best spoons have been the blue and green Magnum Reaper Peacock or the Reaper Magnum Fish n Chip. When the wind and waves keep you in, the gaps will produce. Water is still cold at 48 degrees and fish may be scattered.

Patterns and program 65 to 140 feet
Out in the deeper water northeast of Milwaukee is the best fishing for Chinook, Lake Trout and Coho. Our fish came on Magnum Reaper spoons for Chinook, Lake Trout or OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies for Coho. Experiment with lengths of the fly leader to the dodger or flasher. Start with 3 times the length of the attractor. The standard presentation for Coho is Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight. The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight 70 to 100 down to get Lakers.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. I tried plugs with no action. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 6/1/2009

2009-06-01T15:31:36.425-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

May ended with decent fishing for Chinook, Coho and Lake Trout. You may have to move around to get a respectable cooler of fish. Deep and shallow water are two different fisheries. Water Temperatures are coming up and this should improve the action on all species.

Patterns and program under 60 feet
There are two different options for fishing, which should produce for all big and small boat anglers. Around the harbor break wall gaps we are taking Coho Chinook and Browns. This is an all spoon bite for Chinook on downriggers. With Coho coming on Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight. OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies are my go to bait for Coho. When the gaps are slow move out east. Switch the presentation to five and eight color leadcore on boards or downriggers 25 to 48 down with all spoons. Our best spoons has been the blue and green Magnum Reaper Peacock or the Reaper Magnum Fish n Chip. Action has been in 50 to 60 feet. When the wind and waves keep you in, the gaps will produce. Water is still cold at 46 degrees and fish may be scattered.

Patterns and program 100 to 140 feet
Out in the deeper water South and East of the main gap Milwaukee is the best fishing for Lake Trout and Coho. Our fish came on Magnum Reaper spoons for Lake Trout or OO dodgers or 6-inch flashers and medium blue or green flies for Coho. Experiment with lengths of the fly leader to the dodger or flasher. Start with 3 times the length of the attractor. The standard presentation for Coho is Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight. The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight 70 to 100 down to get Lakers.

Some of our best producing spoons have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. I tried plugs with no action. Run the boat speed at 1.9 to 2.3 MPH. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 5/27/2009

2009-05-27T08:42:40.351-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

May fishing for Lake Trout has been steady and predictable with a few Chinooks to 18 pounds. We have been out over this Memorial Day weekend. Water Temperatures are coming up and this should improve the action on all species.

Patterns and program under 35 feet
Here are two different options for fishing, which should produce for all big and small boat anglers. Around the harbor and in the break wall gaps mostly Browns. This is an all small spoon bite. Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight is taking browns from 3 to 10 pounds. Downriggers at all depths are also working. Slide Divers are also producing. Our best spoon has been the red and white Nestor Wobbler Sunburn Glow, Vulcan Bloody Nose Glow and Vulcan OL Sherbet. When the wind and waves keep you in, the gaps are options. The water flowing into Milwaukee harbor is 67 degrees the lake is 48.

Patterns and program 80 to 110 feet
Out in the deeper water South and East of the main gap or Northeast of Milwaukee has held the best fishing for Lake Trout and Chinook 10 to 18 pounds. No action on Coho this weekend. Our fish came on Magnum and 3 inch spoons. Two, three, four, five and eight color leadcore or downriggers 12 to 48 down had action. The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight to get fish.

Some of our best producers have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. For small spoons the Vulcan Dolphin Green Silver and combinations of silver spoons with green or blue accent colors. I tried plugs with no action. Run the boat speed at 2.1 to 2.4 MPH.

Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 5/19/2009

2009-05-19T13:37:58.530-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

May fishing is improving and action on Chinooks has been good. We have been out everyday for the six days. Tons of baitfish around and this should crank up the action.

Patterns and program under 35 feet
Here are two different options for fishing, which should produce for all big and small boat anglers. Around the harbor and in the break wall gaps mostly Browns with some Chinook and post spawn Rainbows. This is an all small spoon bite. Church Walleye Planner Boards with 25-foot leads and 3/8-ounce weight is taking browns from 3 to 10 pounds. Downriggers at all depths are also working. Slide Divers are producing very well set to #3 with 35 feet of line out. Our best spoon has been the red and white Nestor Wobbler Sunburn Glow, Vulcan Bloody Nose Glow and Vulcan OL Sherbet. When the wind and waves keep you in the gaps are options.

The water flowing into Milwaukee harbor is 66 degrees the lake is 46.

Patterns and program 45 to 60 feet
Out in the deeper water South and East of the main gap Milwaukee has held the best fishing for Chinook 10 to 18 pounds and Lake Trout. All our fish came on Magnum spoons. Two, three, four and five color leadcore or downriggers 12 to 45 down had action. The water is very clear and you must run the spoons 50 to 100 behind the downrigger weight to get fish.

Some of our best producers have been Reaper Magnum Peacock Silver and Magnum Fish n Chip on sunny days. Try the Reaper Magnum Glow spoons on overcast cloudy days. Run the boat speed slow in the 1.8 to 2.1 MPH for the cold water. I tried plugs and flasher flies with no action. Vulcans, Nestor Wobblers and Reapers are sold only on the web at http://www.badgertackle.com

Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Lake Michigan Salmon Fishing Report

2009-05-11T10:46:09.914-05:00

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 5/11/2009
By Capt. Jim Hirt

May fishing is good. On the overcast days the number of fish are better. We have been out every other day for the last week. Mostly Browns with some Lake Trout and Coho. The Browns are coming on Vulcan Bloody Nose Glow spoons inside and outside the harbor, with Coho on small spoons like the OL Sherbet. We fished in the rain Saturday and action was good. The water flowing into Milwaukee harbor is 64 degrees the lake is 44. We have been fishing the temp breaks in front of the harbor gaps marking fish at all depths. Picked up a couple of fish in 30 feet of water on the Filtration Plant reef also. Our best presentations are Church Walleye planer boards with 25 foot leads behind the boards and downriggers 20 to 25 feet down.

The fish have been very picky for spoon color and size. Some of our best producers have been Vulcan Bloody Nose, OL Sherbet, Orange Slush and Reaper Cheese Weasel sold at http://www.badgertackle.com also Michigan Stinger silver orange spoons. Inside the harbor and depending on wind direction the north and south gaps are producing fish. The fish at the north gap came on small spoons. Silver blue spoons worked best for us running 60 feet behind the ball on downriggers 8-15 feet down. Our best boat speed was 2.4 mph. Slide Divers are producing very well set to #1 with 35 feet of line out. Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!!

Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Milwaukee Fishing Lake Michigan Salmon Reports 5/3/2009

2009-05-04T10:42:23.371-05:00

By Capt. Jim Hirt

April fishing is good to ok could be better.

Most of our charter trips are catching 4 to 7 fish. Mostly Browns with some Lake Trout, Rainbows and Chinooks. The 4 year old Chinooks are coming on Reaper Magnum Fish Fry Glow spoons inside the harbor. We fished clear skies Saturday wind was west. The water flowing into Milwaukee harbor is 54 degrees. We have been fishing the temp breaks in front of the river mouth and harbor gaps marking fish at all depths. Picked up a couple of fish in 30 feet of water on the filter also.

Our best presentations are Church Walleye planer boards with 25 foot leads behind the boards and downriggers 20 to 25 feet down. The way I set up a planer board is with 20 lb. mono to a 1/4-ounce bead chain sinker. Use 6 feet of 15 lb. Seaguar fluorocarbon leader from the sinker to a size #1 Cross Lock snap and lure. The fish have been very picky and this changes day to day. Some of our best producers have been Vulcan OL Sherbet, Orange Slush and Reaper Cheese Weasel sold at http://www.badgertackle.com also Michigan Stinger Natural Born Killer and most of their silver orange spoons.

Inside the harbor and depending on wind direction the north and south gaps are producing fish. The fish at the north gap came on small spoons. Silver blue spoons worked best for us running 60 feet behind the ball on downriggers 8-15 feet down. Our best boat speed was 2.2 mph. Slide Divers are producing very well set to #2 with 30 feet of line out. Have a great fishing season.

Let's go fishing!!

Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters. He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com

Copyright© 2009, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.

Fishing The Zone For Salmon Milwaukee #1

2009-04-15T22:13:20.683-05:00

By Captain Jim Hirt Let me explain how to be more productive by following some basic rules and using basic tools. Activity and habits of fish are dictated by many variables. A rather basic approach will put you on fish and keep you there. I will cover how to find the most productive zones by species. What Is A Zone I define a zone as a location where greater concentrations of the target species are found. You may use, as I do, this system for any type of fishing or in fact hunting. The basics are simple. What does your target want? Focus on what you know and do research to find out more. Zone Rules Pick the type of quarry you are after and make a list of the known environmental preferences for that species. Armed with that information you will have the guidelines or rules to become more successful. Breaking the rules will put you in water with less of the target fish Environmental Preferences The top of the most important list and what I look for is food and temperature. When you are in a zone with the correct temperature and good forage you will increase your chances. Other important factors are cover, habitat, maturity of fish, light intensity, water depth, weather, current flow, current intensity, oxygen level and fishing pressure. Your ability to measure, monitor and locate the ideal set of fishing preferences for your target is key. Zones By Species Lake Michigan is an outstanding fishery with many options for anglers. The most popular targets of anglers here are Chinook salmon, Coho Salmon, Rainbow trout, Brown Trout and Lake Trout. Allow me to offer environmental preferences for each of these. Breaking each fish down by preferences is the best way to find steady consistent action on any fish. Chinook Salmon Zone And Presentations Big Chinook Salmon are a cold water species, so look for them in temperatures below 50 degrees. The exception is when they come into spawn. At this point in their life temperature is not important. Keep your baits in 45 to 52 degree temperature and you will increase your odds on big fish. When I am catching small fish, I know the water is too warm for a trophy. It is time to adjust the tackle to colder water. A temperature gauge is a tool a salmon fisherman cannot be without. The principal forage for these bruisers is the Alewife. Look for pods of forage for consistent action. The baitfish will hold Chinook in any area. Keep your fish locator cranked up on the gain to show baitfish along the bottom. I have caught them in water as shallow as 10 feet and out to 300 feet fishing near the bottom. There is no limitation on the depth they like. Key in on temp for success. Clear water and sunny conditions are the enemy. This scenario will turn off most fish. However, some fish can be had when certain presentations are used. A stealthy approach is necessary for the biggest fish. In definition stealth is a presentation that avoids being notice. Several are used for salmon trolling. Downriggers are a popular method to run tackle with many variations possible. In sunny conditions increase your downrigger leads to 100 feet or more. By running long leads you work water undisturbed by noise and turbulence of the boat. Leadcore is another good choice. A weighted line with a Seaguar fluorocarbon leader is attached to a Church Walleye Planer board. The planer board is run well off to the side of the boat out of the trav[...]

Comments (0) - Read and Add your own Comments