Traverse City
Bass Fishing Charters
Experience world-class smallmouth bass fishing on Grand Traverse Bay with Captain Butch Derickson.
Captain Butch
Licensed USCG Captain
Captain Butch Derickson
With over 10 years on these waters, your guide knows every contour, ledge, and structure in Grand Traverse Bay. As a dedicated smallmouth bass fishing guide, whether you're chasing numbers or hunting a trophy, your next personal best could be one cast away.
All trips are private — just your group on the boat. We fish rocky points, deep ledges, and shallow flats depending on the season and conditions. Spring through fall produces consistent action, with the May and June spawn being some of the most exciting fishing of the year. All rods, reels, tackle, and lures are provided. No fishing experience necessary — all skill levels are welcome aboard.
Safety First
USCG Licensed & Fully Insured.
Local Expert
Specializing in Grand Traverse Bay.
Choose Your Adventure
All trips are priced per group (max 2 anglers). No hidden fees.
Angler Stories
"Highly Recommend Butch after a great day on the water. Despite tougher conditions he went above and beyond to help me catch my new PB smallmouth."
Adam B.
"Butch is a great guide. We caught fish when other people around us didn't. Very knowledgeable and helpful. My daughter and I had a great time."
Shannon S.
"Cpt Butch is one of the top charters I've ever went on...and I go all over the place! He didn't have us on a time limit."
Jonathan J.
Ready to Cast Off?
Dates fill up fast, especially during the spring spawn (May/June). Reach out today to secure your spot on the boat.
Grand Traverse Bay is one of Michigan's premier smallmouth fisheries — clear water, rocky structure, and fish that love to fight. Whether it's your first time or your twentieth, every trip brings something new. We operate out of Traverse City and fish both the East and West Arms of the bay depending on where the fish are biting.