Do I need fishing experience?

No experience needed. Fishermen of all skill levels are welcome. If you’re a novice, Capt. Jim will work closely with you to help you bring in the big ones.

What kind of fish will we catch in Northern Lake Michigan?

• Lake trout, salmon and steelhead are our primary species
• Whitefish are also available in the spring

How big are the fish we will catch?

The fish will range between 5 and 35 pounds, with the average fish being 8 to 12 pounds and 20 to 36 inches long.

How long will we be fishing?

• Half-day charters can be anywhere from three to six hours
• The length of the charter can be influenced by the distance traveled from port to the fishing grounds

Do you clean our fish?

Yes, we clean and bag your catch, included in the cost of your charter

How do I make a reservation with Plumber’s Helper?

Call Capt. Kim at 231-357-3413. Book your charter as soon as possible as our scheduled fills quickly

How do I pay for my fishing charter?

• We ask for a $100 deposit when your charter is booked, paid by check or credit card
• The balance is due on the day of your charter by check or cash
• If paying the balance with a credit card, a 3% bank fee will be applied

Is my deposit refundable?

If the captain determines the weather isn’t safe or there are other extenuating circumstances, such as an illness, your deposit is fully refundable.

Should we leave a tip and how much?

A gratuity is always appreciated. Tips average between 10 and 20 percent.

Do you offer discounts?

We often offer early and late season discounts, as well as military discounts. Ask Capt. Kim when you book your charter.

Where can I get a Michigan fishing license and what is the cost?

The cost for a one-day license is $10 for Michigan residents, $11 for non-residents

Licenses can be acquired online at www.mdnr-elicense.com or in person at area sports stores and tackle shops (Dunham’s, Walmart, Meijer, Bill & Carol’s West Side Grocery)

How many people can we bring on the boat?

All Coast Guard licensed charter boats are allowed a maximum of six (6) passengers.

Can we bring our children or elderly family members?

We love having children on the boat. We offer special techniques so the very young, and the elderly, can have a great time bringing in fish.

Can I join in with another fishing charter group?

Our charters are mainly private; however, we can try to arrange a split charter with another small group, provided there are no more than six people total. The cost will be prorated accordingly.

What do I need to bring on a Lake Michigan fishing charter?

• Fishing license (required for those 17 and older)
• Appropriate clothing for the weather
• Soft-soled shoes
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• Food and beverages
• Cooler to transport your fish home (medium, approx. 38 qts.)
• Phone or camera to capture the memories

Do I need to bring any fishing tackle?

No. We provide the best tackle and equipment available, which is why your success is guaranteed.

Can you pick us up at ports other than Bay Harbor?

If our schedule allows, we can often pick you up at the following ports (a surcharge may apply):

• Petoskey State Marina
• Bay Harbor Yacht Club
• Harbor Springs public boat dock
• Charlevoix State Dock

Call ahead to find out if a pick-up is available on the day you want to fish and what the surcharge will be.