Isle Royale Fishing Charters
Experience Remote & Rugged Trophy Lake Trout Fishing On Lake Superior
Isle Royale National Park is more than a fishing trip—it’s an adventure into one of Lake Superior’s most pristine and productive fisheries. Situated about 40 miles from the mainland, this remote and rugged island chain offers breathtaking scenery, trophy-sized fish, and an unmatched wilderness experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Isle Royale delivers unforgettable memories on every trip.
From jigging for massive lake trout to the occasional surprise catch of a rainbow trout or salmon, the waters surrounding Isle Royale are a treasure trove for anglers seeking big fish and big thrills. Our next available trip is in 2026, so don’t wait to start planning your charter!
Why Isle Royale Draws Anglers Nationwide
Isle Royale is the least visited National Park in the lower 48 states, but it’s also the most revisited—and for good reason. With 99% of its area designated as wilderness and no roads or vehicles, the park offers unparalleled solitude and natural beauty.
For anglers, the draw is the incredible fishery. The cold, clear waters of Lake Superior around Isle Royale provide the perfect environment for lake trout to grow to trophy sizes, often exceeding 30 pounds. Strict conservation measures and the island’s remote location ensure these waters remain rich with opportunity, offering some of the best trout fishing anywhere in the world.
Species We Target Around Isle Royale
Lake Trout: The undisputed star of the show, lake trout in these waters are not only abundant but also grow to impressive sizes. Trophy fish are a real possibility, making every outing an adventure.
Rainbow Trout: These acrobatic fighters are a welcome surprise, with their vibrant colors and hard runs adding excitement to any trip.
Salmon: Though less common, occasional salmon catches add variety and a thrilling challenge for anglers.
The Best Time to Fish Isle Royale
The fishing season at Isle Royale runs from late spring to early fall, with opportunities evolving throughout the year:
Spring (May–June): As the ice melts and waters warm, lake trout are active in shallower depths, making jigging highly effective.
Summer (July–August): As temperatures rise, lake trout move into deeper waters, and trolling becomes the go-to method for reaching these giants.
Fall (September–October): Cooler waters bring trout closer to shore, creating ideal conditions for jigging and casting. This is one of the best times to target trophy fish.
The Allure of Coaster Brook Trout Continues
Fishing for coaster brook trout near Isle Royale National Park has long been a dream for anglers drawn to the allure of these large, colorful fish. Known for their vibrant markings and impressive size, coasters are a unique strain of brook trout that thrive in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior. Historically, Isle Royale has been a hotspot for targeting these prized fish, with its rugged shoreline and pristine habitat providing an ideal environment for their growth and reproduction.
However, recent regulatory changes have shifted the landscape for anglers. Fishing guides and charter operators are no longer permitted to target coaster brook trout within Isle Royale National Park waters. This rule aims to protect the fragile population of these native fish, ensuring their long-term survival in an increasingly pressured ecosystem. While the restriction limits direct pursuit of coasters, anglers can still enjoy the incredible lake trout fishery around the park, occasionally encountering coasters as incidental catches while targeting other species. These changes highlight the importance of conservation and the shared responsibility of anglers to preserve the unique fishery of Isle Royale for generations to come.
Tactics and Gear for Isle Royale Fishing
Fishing these waters is as rewarding as it is challenging. Here are some tried-and-true methods:
Jigging: This is the bread and butter for targeting lake trout, especially during spring and fall. Vertical jigging with spoons or soft plastics mimics baitfish and triggers aggressive strikes.
Trolling: Essential during the summer months, trolling with downriggers helps you reach lake trout holding in deeper, cooler waters. Flashers and spoons are particularly effective.
Casting: A fun alternative near rocky shorelines, this technique can yield rainbow trout and even the occasional salmon.
Beyond the Fishing: The Isle Royale Experience
While fishing is the highlight, Isle Royale offers so much more. Between catches, you’ll be immersed in the island’s rich history, from ancient copper mining sites to shipwrecks that rest beneath the clear waters. Wildlife sightings, including moose and bald eagles, are common, and the island’s rugged beauty provides a backdrop that enhances every moment on the water.
Whether it’s hiking the miles of trails, visiting historic lighthouses, or simply soaking in the solitude, Isle Royale is a place where adventure meets serenity.
Plan Your Isle Royale Fishing Charter Today
In 2025, Angling Adventures is proud to offer guided trips to Isle Royale aboard our custom-equipped “Game Changer” vessel. Designed for comfort and safety, it’s the perfect platform for exploring the island’s waters and reeling in trophy fish.
We offer customizable itineraries to match your goals, whether you’re here to fish, visit historic lighthouses, or take in the island’s incredible scenery.
Don’t miss the chance to fish one of the most unique and productive fisheries in the world. Spaces for our Isle Royale trips are limited, and they fill up quickly. Whether you’re chasing trophy lake trout or exploring untouched wilderness, Isle Royale is a destination you’ll never forget.
Call us at (715) 923-2025 to secure your spot and experience the ultimate Lake Superior adventure with Angling Adventures!
Charter Pricing
Isle Royale fishing charters are regulated by the National Park Service and are rules subject to change. These trips are often limited and fill in advance (typically one season ahead), so please call Captain Brandon for pricing and availability if interested!
“I have spent many hours on the water with guides in a personal and professional capacity and Brandon is by far one of the well versed, knowledgeable, detail orientated, and safety minded captains out on the big waters. There are not enough words to describe how well tailored of an experience AAGS can provide at one of the most under valued rates in any area.”
– Blake L.
Book A Trip Today
Reserve your Isle Royale fishing charter with Captain Brandon Sislo! Booking your trip is a breeze with our online calendar, or use the form to ask questions or call us directly at the number below. We appreciate your interest in fishing with us!
CALL/TEXT: (715) 923-2025
Trip Details
What To Bring
We provide all top notch fishing gear needed for all of our trips! Pack your food & drinks for the day, appropriate clothing/rain gear, a cooler if you plan to take any fish home, and a paper copy of your fishing license (see below). If you have a favorite rod or bait you want to bring that’s fine with us, just let us know ahead of time!
Cancellation Policy
Security deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations made within 7 days of the trip, as well as no-shows, will be charged the full trip amount. If the Captain determines it’s unsafe to proceed with the trip, your deposit can be transferred to a rescheduled date. Trips that are cut short due to sea sickness must still be paid in full.
Meeting Locations
Because we have a variety of nearby launches, we’ll be in contact with you 24-48 hours before your trip to finalize the last minute details! This gives us the ability to watch our weather and depart from the port that will set us up for the best possible success! If you have any questions prior to your trip please reach out to us directly!
Fishing Licenses
A paper copy of your fishing license with a Great Lakes trout stamp is required by law. You can purchase licenses online below:
Wisconsin DNR: We recommend the 2-day license which includes your Trout & Salmon stamp.
Michigan DNR: Daily license works! Make sure you choose the correct date of your charter.
Fish Cleaning
We include fish cleaning and bagging with every trip—except for ice fishing trips—so you can leave with your catch ready to enjoy.
Gratuities
Tips for your captain are not included in our trip rates. We work hard for our clients… and you’ll notice it for yourself! We appreciate your business and hope you’ll fish with us again.
