These are the primary reasons you hire a guide. Although there are conditions that can affect a fishing trip which are out of the guide's control, guides have a wealth of knowledge about the area they fish in. Your guides are working as hard as they can to make your trip successful; fish just don't jump in the boat on their own. Keep an open mind and have fun.
How many years or experience does he/she have?
The Salmon Depot has been running charters out of Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin for over 25 years. Now located in Sturgeon Bay, our experienced USCG licensed captains and first mates are true fisherman and really enjoy being on the water. We have two separate crews, so you can be assured your guides will be fresh.
What types of trips do they offer?
We offer half-day and full-day trips. We run a flexible schedule in order to meet your needs.
Does the guide provide equipment/bait/food?
The Salmon Depot is equipped with the finest navigation, safety and fishing equipment available. All tackle is provided.
Coffee, soda, water, and snack foods are provided on your trip. Arrangements can be made to provide lunch aboard, if you wish. You are encouraged to bring your own beverage and food. Alcohol is allowed in moderation.
Does the guide offer lodging?
We would be happy to assist you in finding lodging if you need it.
How many people do they take out at one time?
The Salmon Depot is an USCG Inspected Vessel. We can carry up to 13 passengers, plus 2 crewmembers, but we do run private trips for 1 or 2 people. We limit our group trips to 13 fishermen.
What are the fees?
See Rates Listing - We can reserve your trip with a credit card or $200 deposit. The deposit is refundable up to 10 days prior to your reservation or in cases of inclement weather as determined by the captain.
Do they offer trips for individuals?
We offer half-day trips for individuals at a cost of $125.00 per person. We will place individuals with a group.
What is your season?
The Salmon Depot operates from mid-April through the end of October.
When is the best time to fish?
It's always a good time to fish!
Our season in Sturgeon Bay starts in mid-April when we fish mainly in shallow water, targeting brown trout. In early June we start fishing 2-5 miles out from the harbor for Chinook (king) salmon and rainbow trout (steelhead). Fishing improves as the temperature of the lake water warms during June. Salmon fishing typically peaks in mid-July, although August and September fishing also can be excellent. While fish will bite all day long, the best fishing times are very early mornings at sunrise and evenings at sunset.
What you should expect of your guide or captain?
Good fishing guides or charter captains understand that this is your trip. They should not spend all their time fishing and ignoring you. Guides should take time to explain the fishing methods, bait, location of fish, and different species to you. Good captains will have a lot of patience and be willing to help and spend time with beginners as well as seasoned pros.
Most of all, good professional captains will have a great attitude toward you and your party. They should not pretend they are God and boss you around. In general, captains want you to have a good time and catch fish. Sometimes, though, fish just will not bite no matter what is offered as bait. You have a good fishing trip when you feel comfortable and safe, enjoy the company of the captain/crew, learn a new trick or two, and catch a few fish.
Good captains are worth every penny you spend on then. They can make or break your fishing trip. If you are visiting a new lake, hire a guide. Did you know that most professional tournament fishermen hire guides to take them fishing on the lake the day before the tournament? They do.
Charter captains are great people and excellent teachers, as long as you hire the right ones. When you experience a good captain it is a good idea to tip him or her and the crew. They work hard to insure you have a good time. We ask that you show your appreciation.
