Walleye Fishing in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

FAQ'S

What type credit cards do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.

What time do we start?

Normally we start at 7:00 am on most trips. However, as August approaches it gets light later so we prefer 7:30am then in the Fall 8:00 am until after the time change.For afternoon and evening fishing we like to start at 4:00 pm. We will work with you for alternate times if necessary.

Do we need a fishing license?

Yes, you will need to buy a license. Licenses are available at Holiday Stores, Wal-Mart, Gander Mountain, and bait/tackle shops at all of our locations. They can also be purchased over the Internet on the Michigan DNR Website at http://www.dnr.state.mi.us. Youths under 17 don't need a license.

What should I bring?

On the boat you should consider bringing the following:

• fishing license
• food
• beverages
• sunglasses
• camera (with film)
• rain gear
• camcorder
• medications

Please no large coolers to bring onboard. Small coolers for your food and drink are ok. We supply bags for your catch to be taken off the dock in.

Should I bring my own equipment?

No. But you can if you choose to. We provide top quality equipment for our customers to use, however some folks like to use their own equipment and in most cases as long as it's proper for the situation you are welcome to bring it along.

Do you guarantee that we will catch some fish?

Uncle Ducky Charters has rarely been skunked, so the likelihood of drawing a blank is slim. Like any reputable charter company though, we guarantee our trips. If we don't hookup with any fish, then your next trip is free. The captain may nullify this guarantee under certain circumstances. If the fishing conditions are extremely poor and not conducive to catching fish, the customer will be offered an option of either a rescheduled trip or no guarantee to catch fish. The guarantee is only in effect if the customers allow the captain to choose the most effective tactics and locations.

Do you have a restroom on board?

On our 24’ Stamas and our 26’ Penn Yan we have a private restroom.
Who cleans the fish?
We do.

Can we catch and release the fish?

Yes

Is it customary to tip the crew?

Tipping is considered customary in most service industries including charter fishing. Gratuities are never expected though, rather they are a way to complement the captain and crew for exemplary service.

What if someone gets seasick?

We really try to avoid conditions that could cause even those with the weakest of stomachs to get motion sickness. Many times if it is too rough then we will offer you an alternate date. There are several over the counter drugs available to treat motion sickness and also some powerful prescription drugs that work well. We do recommend that they be taken at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Sea sickness has been a rarity rather then a common occurance.

Can we drink "Alcohol" on the boat?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are permitted, however drunkenness is not. Also, at least one designated driver must remain sober on the boat. If alcohol is abused on the boat, the Captain has the authority to end the trip immediately. You will still be charged in full. Illegal Drugs are not permitted.

How do we find your boat?

Upon receipt of your deposit, I send out a trip planning packet that covers all the details of your charter(s) including meeting places and times with directions and maps included. We also make lodging recommendations.

Is lodging included?

Yes and No.If you are on a package trip with us then yes it is included. If not please ask us to arrange it for you.

What if the weather is too bad to fish?

If the weather or conditions are unfishable, we try to contact our clients as soon as possible to hopefully save them from a wasted trip. In any case, if a trip is called off by the captain due to bad weather, the customer can reschedule the trip at their convenience; even the next year (or years afterwards).

Do you mix parties together?

No. Well sometimes. On rare occasions when two parties both request a mixed party and the dates work out, then it's possible. Otherwise, you have the boat and our services to yourself.

How many people can we take along?

As indicated on the Charters and Rates Page. Normally the Crestliner is for 1-3, The Stamas4-5, and the Penn Yan 5-6.

What if we have a large group that has more than 6 people?

No problem. We can hadle groups up 10 15 people. This would have to be scheduled well in advance usually.

What happens if we catch our limit? Can we catch additional fish on the captain's limit?

We do not recommend this practice.

What happens when one person catches their limit, can they still reel in more fish?

Generally, customers take turns catching fish. However since the vast majority of our fishing involves trolling, which is a genuine team effort, each fish caught, collectively, belongs to everyone on the boat. So therefore, the limit is actually a boat limit.

Can customers run lines and set the hook?

Customer participation is encouraged in all facets of the charter.

How do you fish, trolling or casting?

The vast majority of our charters involve trolling tactics. For Walleyes, trolling accounts for 95% of our effort, however we do jig, drift and cast on occasion.

How old do kids have to be to go on a charter?

Generally 6 and over. However, we do require that an adult, and preferably two adults be along on trips with youngsters under the age of 6.

What type fishing do you suggest for youngsters?

If they are under about 12 years old they generally like to catch a lot of fish. I suggest fishing on an inland lake where we will target Bass, Pike, and BlueGill. The equipment is more their size and the action is faster. However, if they are with older brothers, sisters, or friends then they do fine on the Lake Superior trips.

What do you catch on inland lakes?

Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Perch, Crappie, BlueGill, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Splake and Lake Trout.
Normally we vertical jig. In very shallow water we also cast spoons. Sometimes we also will troll if the customer requests it. This is the best method for steelhead and salmon.

Home Page