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Do I Need a Fishing License?
Yes, a valid State of Illinois Fishing License with a Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp is required for everyone who will be fishing during your charter: https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html.
The Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp is required to fish both Salmon and Trout during your charter. If you are purchasing a license just for this charter, a 24HR Sport Fish License along with a Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp is all you need.
We recommend printing a copy of your license along with taking a screen shot of the license as a backup. No license is required for children under the age of 16.
What Do I Need to Bring?
Being prepared and comfortable is critical to having a good day fishing on Lake Michigan.
Captain Jim recommends you consider bringing the following for your charter:
- (Required) Valid State of Illinois Fishing License with a Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html
- Sunglasses and hat (with leashes)
- Clothing that is comfortable and quick-dry.
- Layers are also important as temperatures can change on the water.
- While shorts and t-shirts are commonly worn during summer trips, consider packing lightweight long pants and long sleeve shirts to provide cover if the sun gets intense.
- Shoes with good grip. Deck shoes and any lace-up rubber sole shoes are good choices. Flip flops and shoes that slip on are not recommended as they can be dangerous on a wet deck.
- Check the weather and pack a rain jacket and pants accordingly. If inclement weather is forecasted, a change of socks and shoes is also a good idea for the car ride home.
- Camera or phone to take photos of your fishing adventure. Consider a leash or waterproof holder, just in case.
- Food and Beverages – Feel free to pack snacks, lunch, and beverages that you think will make your fishing trip more enjoyable. Alcoholic beverages are allowed on board with caveats. *No glass bottles or containers. *Intoxication will not be tolerated and will cause your trip to be cut short.
What if the Weather is Bad?
Are Kids Allowed to Fish?
Do I Have to Provide My Own Life Jacket?
No, we have a complete complement of life jackets in various sizes for adults and children on the boat. If you have your own life jacket, you are welcome to bring and wear it as long as it is deemed safe by Captain Jim.
Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?
Does Jawzon Fishing Charters Accept Credit Cards?
What if I Have to Cancel My Fishing Trip?
What Kind of Fish Will We Catch?
Lake Michigan is home to upwards of 150 kinds of fish. Between natural repopulation and annual restocking, the fishing is good on Lake Michigan. The most common fish you will pursue on Jawzon are: Brown, Steelhead, Lake Trout, and Salmon (King and Coho).