Captain Butch - Traverse City fishing guide

Traverse City Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guide

Local expertise on Grand Traverse Bay

Hiring a local guide can make the difference between a slow day and an unforgettable fishing experience. As a Traverse City smallmouth bass fishing guide, Butch brings years of experience on Grand Traverse Bay and surrounding waters.

His approach is simple: focus on smallmouth bass, fish ethically, and give anglers a great day on the water.

What Sets This Guide Apart

  • Exclusive focus on smallmouth bass
  • Deep local knowledge of Traverse City waters
  • Patient instruction and safety-first mindset
  • No pressure, no rushed trips

Techniques and Approach

Trips may include:

  • Casting to structure
  • Working drop-offs
  • Adjusting tactics based on conditions and season

The goal is always quality fishing, not quantity of species.

Traverse City Fishing Guide FAQs

Our charters are priced per group (up to 2 anglers): 4-hour trips are $440, 6-hour trips are $550, and 8-hour trips are $660. All trips include quality rods, reels, tackle, snacks, and bottled water.

Traverse City is served by Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) with direct flights from several major cities. It's also accessible by car, approximately 4 hours from Detroit and 5 hours from Chicago via US-31 or US-131.

Traverse City offers accommodations ranging from downtown hotels to lakefront resorts and vacation rentals. The downtown area and East Bay shore provide convenient access to the boat launch locations we use.

Beyond fishing, Traverse City is known for its wineries along the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, downtown shopping and dining, and beautiful beaches along Grand Traverse Bay.

Book Your Guided Trip

Ready to fish with a dedicated Traverse City smallmouth bass guide?

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