Family Fishing Salmon Adventures - July 31st, 2024 Lake Michigan Fishing Report
- Ben Heinbokel

- Jul 23
- 2 min read
From start to finish, today was an absolute blast on our Lake Michigan fishing charter - non-stop fish stories, sore arms, and more laughs than we could count.
We had some young anglers on board who came ready to reel. No hesitation, no complaints - just pure determination and a healthy dose of competitive energy. After the first couple of kings hit the deck (with some serious hooting and hollering), mom and dad jumped in and showed the kids how it's done - landing a few solid fish in the 15 to 20lb range like seasoned pros.

The Epic Evening Salmon Bite
As dusk crept in, we all stood around like kids waiting for fireworks, counting down to the evening bite. And like clockwork - boom! Around 8:00 PM the riggers started popping, the divers were bucking like broncs at a rodeo, and the boards? Screaming back so hard, they were ripping like the fish had a vendetta.
By sunset, the chaos was real. Fish were hitting so fast we pulled the board rods just to focus on the madness down deep. Priorities, right?
Young Captain Takes the Helm
Then came the best part - one of the little guys asked if he could drive the boat. Obviously, we said yes (because we're awesome). He took the wheel with all the seriousness of a naval officer on a top-secret mission. One day, we'll let him in on the secret that the boat was actually on auto-pilot… but for now? He's the kid who "drove the Tiara with Captain Ben and found the fish for everyone." Let him have that one - it's a great story.

Why These Lake Michigan Fishing Trips Matter
These are the kinds of trips we live for. Families, firsts, big fish, and memories that are going to be retold at every BBQ from now until forever. Can't wait to see this crew back on the water with us again! Check out more photos from trips like this in our fishing gallery.
Captain's Lake Michigan Salmon Fishing Report - What Worked
Trolling Pattern
Cruised straight out and set up for a south troll - worked north and south
Started in 180-200 feet of water (FOW) and moved into 100-120 FOW
Set our baits based on the marks we were seeing on the fish finder
Winning Presentation for Lake Michigan King Salmon
Moonshine spoons - Always a go-to for Lake Michigan salmon
Silver Hoard/Ace-Hi plugs - Proven performers for kings
Dreamweaver flasher flies - Still the program that's been producing all season

Book Your Lake Michigan Salmon Fishing Adventure
Ready to create your own family fishing memories? Whether you're experienced anglers or first-timers like our young captains today, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable experience on Lake Michigan. Book your fishing trip today!
For more Lake Michigan fishing reports and updates, visit our fishing reports page or learn more about why families choose Net Dreams for their charter fishing adventures.




Comments