Top-Rated Detroit River Walleye Charter | 5 Hours

Detroit River Walleye Jigging Adventure

Get ready for some serious walleye action on one of the Great Lakes' most productive fisheries. The Detroit River isn't just another fishing spot—it's walleye central during spawn season, and our 5-hour charter puts you right in the thick of it. We're talking fast-paced fishing that'll have your arms tired and your cooler full. Plus, you never know when a monster musky or prehistoric sturgeon might crash the party. With launch points that change based on conditions, we're always chasing the hottest bite to make sure you get the most out of your time on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

This isn't your lazy Sunday afternoon fishing trip. When walleye are spawning on the Detroit River, things happen fast. You'll be working vertical jigs in prime structure areas where these fish stack up like cordwood. The current here is what makes this fishery so special—it brings in fresh water, lots of baitfish, and keeps the walleye active and feeding. We fish up to 4 anglers on this charter, which means everyone gets plenty of action without feeling crowded. The boat stays busy, and that's exactly how we like it. Depending on weather and where the fish are biting best, we might launch from different spots along the river. That flexibility is key to staying on productive water all day long. Fish cleaning service is available if you want to skip the messy work and just focus on the fishing fun.

Jigging Techniques & Gear

Detroit River walleye fishing is all about reading the current and working your jig just right. We'll be using leadhead jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics, bouncing them along the bottom structure where walleye like to hang out. The key is feeling that subtle tap and setting the hook before they spit it out. Don't worry if you're new to jigging—it's one of those techniques that clicks pretty quick once you get the rhythm down. The current does a lot of the work for you, and we'll coach you through the nuances. We provide all the tackle you need, from the right weight jigs for the conditions to a variety of colors that work best on this stretch of water. The Detroit River has specific spots where the fish congregate, and after years of running charters here, we know exactly where to find them based on the season, water temperature, and current flow.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Walleye are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These golden-sided fighters are some of the best eating fish you'll ever pull from freshwater. During spawn season on the Detroit River, walleye move into shallow areas and become incredibly aggressive. They'll hit jigs hard and fight with surprising power in the current. Most of the walleye you'll catch here run between 2 and 6 pounds, with plenty of keepers in the 15 to 20-inch range. What makes this fishery special is the sheer numbers—limits come fast when conditions are right, and it's not unusual to catch 30 or 40 fish in a single trip. The spawning period runs from late March through early May, depending on water temperature, and that's when these fish are at their most predictable and catchable.

But walleye aren't the only game in town. The Detroit River is famous for its bonus species, and musky are probably the most exciting surprise you might encounter. These apex predators follow the walleye schools, looking for an easy meal, and sometimes they'll grab your jig instead. Detroit River musky can push 40 inches or more, and when one hits, you'll know it immediately. They're bulldogs in the current and will test your drag and your nerves. Sturgeon are another possibility, especially later in the season. These prehistoric giants can live for decades and grow massive—we're talking fish that can hit 6 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds. They're catch-and-release only, but landing one is a memory that'll last a lifetime. When a sturgeon takes your bait, it's like hooking into a submarine that suddenly decides to move.

Time to Book Your Spot

The Detroit River walleye bite is legendary for a reason, but the best spots fill up fast during prime season. This 5-hour charter gives you plenty of time to work different areas, adapt to changing conditions, and put some serious fish in the boat. Whether you're an experienced angler looking for consistent action or someone newer to the sport who wants to learn proven techniques, this trip delivers. The combination of reliable walleye fishing with the potential for trophy bonus species makes every cast interesting. Don't wait too long to book—the spawn season window is limited, and the fish won't wait around for you to make up your mind. Contact Captain at Savage Pursuit Guide Service now to reserve your dates and get ready for some of the best walleye fishing the Great Lakes region has to offer.