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Top-Rated Afternoon Salmon Charter on Lake Michigan

  • Published Date: September 13, 2025
  • Fishing
  • $675 - $900 price range

Summary

Ready for some afternoon salmon action on Lake Michigan? Join Captain Chris and the High Life Sport Fishing crew for a 6-hour trip out of Kenosha. You'll head out at 1 PM on the High Life II, a well-equipped boat with twin 700HP engines and all the comforts you need. The captain knows where the fish are biting, targeting both Chinook and Coho salmon. All gear is provided, and they'll even clean your catch. With room for up to 6 guests, it's perfect for a group of friends or family. You'll cruise to proven hotspots, enjoying the fresh air and scenery while trolling for those big lake salmon. The trip runs Fridays through Sundays, giving you flexibility to plan around your schedule. At $775 for the charter, it's a great value for a private fishing experience. Don't worry about the details - just show up ready to fish and have a good time on the water.
Top-Rated Afternoon Salmon Charter on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan Salmon Pursuit

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A person fishing in Kenosha

Salmon day = best day.

A person fishing in WI

Hooked on salmon.

Two people fishing in Kenosha

Salmon season is open!

Fishing in WI

Fresh catch, fresh vibes.

Fishing in WI

Silver flash caught!

Five Chinook Salmon, Great Barracuda, and Spotted Weakfish caught fishing in WI

Upstream adventure.

Two people fishing in Kenosha

Salmon: mission accomplished.

Angler fishing in Kenosha

Rod in hand, heart full.

Chinook Salmon caught during fishing in Kenosha

Nothing like a salmon bite.

A rainbow trout caught while fishing in Kenosha

Adventure on the water.

A person fishing in Kenosha

Salmon day = best day.

A person fishing in WI

Hooked on salmon.

Two people fishing in Kenosha

Salmon season is open!

Fishing in WI

Fresh catch, fresh vibes.

Fishing in WI

Silver flash caught!

Five Chinook Salmon, Great Barracuda, and Spotted Weakfish caught fishing in WI

Upstream adventure.

Two people fishing in Kenosha

Salmon: mission accomplished.

Angler fishing in Kenosha

Rod in hand, heart full.

Chinook Salmon caught during fishing in Kenosha

Nothing like a salmon bite.

A rainbow trout caught while fishing in Kenosha

Adventure on the water.

A person fishing in Kenosha

Salmon day = best day.

A person fishing in WI

Hooked on salmon.

Two people fishing in Kenosha

Salmon season is open!

Fishing in WI

Fresh catch, fresh vibes.

next-image

Afternoon Salmon Fishing on Lake Michigan

Ready for some epic afternoon salmon action on Lake Michigan? Our Extended Half Day trip out of Kenosha is perfect for anglers who like to sleep in or have morning commitments. We'll hit the water at 1 PM and fish hard for 6 hours, targeting trophy Chinook and Coho salmon. The 'High Life II' is a seriously comfortable ride – you'll appreciate those twin 700HP engines and the A/C when we're cruising to the hotspots. Plus, with a private bathroom on board, you can stay hydrated without worry. Captain Chris knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you on the fish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need.

What to Expect on the Water

This ain't your average fishing trip. We're talking about world-class salmon fishing right here in Kenosha. As soon as we clear the harbor, Captain Chris will have lines in the water. We use a mix of downriggers, dipsy divers, and planer boards to cover all depths where salmon might be hanging out. You'll learn the art of trolling – it's not just dragging lures behind the boat. We're constantly adjusting based on water temp, depth, and what the fish finder's telling us. Keep your eyes peeled for diving birds or bait balls on the surface – that's often where the big boys are feeding. And when that reel starts screaming? Hold on tight, 'cause Chinooks fight like freight trains!

Top-Notch Gear and Tactics

On the 'High Life II', we don't mess around with subpar equipment. We're running top-of-the-line Shimano reels paired with custom rods that can handle anything Lake Michigan throws at us. Our lure selection is always dialed in for what's working that week – maybe J-plugs one day, spoons the next. We've even got some secret weapons that Captain Chris has perfected over the years. Don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing. We'll show you how to set the lines, read the fish finder, and most importantly, how to fight and land these bruiser salmon when they hit. By the end of the trip, you'll be talking like a pro about "bank reels" and "temperature breaks".

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon, or "Kings" as we call 'em, are the heavyweight champs of Lake Michigan. These brutes can top 30 pounds and will test every bit of your fishing skills. They're known for blistering runs and acrobatic jumps that'll have your heart pounding. Late summer and early fall is prime time for Kings, when they start staging for their spawning run. Nothing beats the rush of a big Chinook peeling line off your reel!

Coho Salmon might be smaller than their Chinook cousins, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and fight. These silver bullets are lightning fast and love to jump. They usually run in the 5-10 pound range, making them a blast on lighter tackle. Cohos tend to school up, so when you find 'em, it can be non-stop action. Spring and early summer are typically best for Cohos, but we catch 'em year-round in Kenosha.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing Lake Michigan out of Kenosha. Maybe it's the way the sun sets over the water as we're heading back to port. Or the camaraderie that builds when everyone's working together to land a big fish. Our regulars tell us it's the perfect mix of serious fishing and laid-back fun. Plus, with fish cleaning included, you can start dreaming about that salmon dinner as soon as it hits the deck. And let's be real – where else can you have a shot at a 20+ pound fish this close to home?

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to tangle with some Lake Michigan salmon, our Extended Half Day Afternoon trip is calling your name. At $775 for up to 6 people, it's a steal for a private charter on a top-notch boat. Remember, we only run these Friday through Sunday, so spots fill up fast. And with our free cancellation policy (just give us 7 days' notice), there's no reason not to lock in your date now. Whether it's a family outing, a day with the boys, or even a unique client entertainment idea, this trip delivers. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the thrill of Kenosha salmon fishing. Give us a call or book online – the 'High Life II' is ready when you are!

Learn more about the species

Chinook Salmon

Chinook, or King Salmon, are the big dogs of Lake Michigan. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds, with some topping 40. They're deep-water prowlers, usually hanging out 50-100 feet down near structure or thermoclines. Late summer to early fall is prime time, when they're fattening up for their spawning run. Chinooks are prized for their hard-fighting spirit - when one hits, you'll know it. They'll run deep, testing your arms and your gear. The meat is rich and flavorful, great for grilling or smoking. To boost your chances, try running flashers with flies or cut bait about 5-15 feet behind downriggers. Keep your line tight and be ready for that sudden, powerful strike. Landing a big King is an rush you won't soon forget.

Chinook Salmon

Coho Salmon

Coho, or silver salmon, are the acrobats of Lake Michigan. Smaller than Chinooks, they usually run 5-10 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. These guys love to jump and run, making for an exciting catch. You'll find them in the upper water column, often within 30 feet of the surface. They're most active in spring and early summer, chasing baitfish near shore. Cohos are known for their orange-red flesh, which is milder and less oily than Chinook - perfect for those who prefer a more delicate flavor. To target Cohos, try trolling with smaller spoons or plugs at varying depths. A local trick: use bright, flashy lures on sunny days, and switch to more subdued colors when it's overcast. Keep your drag set light to handle those sudden runs and jumps. Fresh Coho makes for some fantastic fish tacos!

Coho Salmon

About the High Life Sport Fishing

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: 454 chevys

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 700

Ready for some afternoon salmon action? Join Captain Chris on the High Life II for a 6-hour fishing trip on Lake Michigan. Leaving at 1 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, this private charter takes up to 6 people out to chase Chinook and Coho salmon. The boat's got twin 700HP engines to get you to the hotspots fast, plus A/C and a bathroom on board for comfort. All the gear you need is provided, and the crew will even clean your catch. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, you'll enjoy the fresh air and scenic views while trolling for fish. At $775 for the group, it's a great way to spend an afternoon on the water. Just remember to give a week's notice if you need to cancel.
High Life Sport Fishing

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Experience nearly 40 years of Lake Michigan fishing with High Life Sport Fishing Charters in Kenosha, WI! Book your next unforgettable trip today and fish with one of the top-rated captains on the Great Lakes!

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