Prepare for Your Trip

Whether this is your first trip or one of the many, it is always good to come prepared and plan ahead.

What to wear:

Layers.
Depending on the season of your trip or the time of day, temperatures can fluctuate greatly. Dress for the coldest temperatures and remove or add layers as needed.

Closed toe, soft sole footwear.
When a fish is on the line and you need to reel, you don’t want to be slipping and sliding on deck with worn out shoes. (Trust us, that’s not a fishing story you want to tell.)

Hat and sunglasses are a good idea.
While it is beautiful to see the sunshining over Lake Huron, your eyes will thank you for a break from the rays.

What to bring:

Daily fishing license.
This is required for every person 17 years of age and older. To learn more about obtaining a license, visit the Michigan DNR website. You can also get a daily license at Clems Bait and Tackle, a local bait shop.

Camera or cell phone.
You want to be able to capture that catch you reel in.

Cooler.
You will want to be able to transport your catch home.

Snacks and beverages.
Be sure to bring the snacks and the beverages of your liking (except for glass containers and liquor). (There is nothing worse than being hangry.)

Sunscreen.
You probably already know why.

What to expect:

Arrival to the Presque Isle Harbor
When you arrive to the Presque Isle Habor, there is ample parking available in the lot. Betty Jane is located in slip 44 on B dock. The B dock is the center dock, directly in front of the bath house. Betty Jane will be ready to go at the scheduled time; be sure that your party arrives on time to make the most of your scheduled time.

Casting off
Depending on the current weather conditions as well as time of year, your initial boat ride time will vary. If conditions are favorable, you can expect a 10 to 15 minute boat ride to get to the fishing location. Occasionally, you can expect a 45 to 60 minute boat ride to a location where we can run off shore. After this ride, the remainder of the time will be spent catching fish.

Reeling in the keep
To give you the full experience of charter fishing, your group will have the option of helping the Captain first hand. There is nothing more rewarding to experience the full success of catching the fish.

Back at harbor
After Betty Jane is safely tucked back into her slip, you will have additional opportunities for capturing pictures of your catch before the cleaning begins. Since there is not a cleaning station at Presque Isle Harbor, Captain Will and the crew will take the fish to an off-site location to prepare for you. Your group is welcome to join in the cleaning crew or enjoy a break at the market across the street, which hosts a deli and ice cream shop. After your catch returns, your adventure is complete.

Book the next trip
We hope that you enjoyed the adventure and time on the lake as much as we do. Consider booking again with Big Bear Charters and share with your friends the fun you and encourage them to give it a try with Big Bear Charters.