Guest Column

TO CHARTER OR NOT TO CHARTER

By: Jimmy Gretzinger Michigan Out of Doors TV Host

We here in Michigan are very fortunate. We have more access to water than just about anywhere in the world.

I have heard that you are never more than two hours from one of the great lakes here in our state. I have never tested that theory, but I like to think its true. So, with so much water and so many corners of our state to try, how does one actually enjoy walleye fishing on the Detroit River, and also Lake Gogebic in the far west end? The answer is charter boats. I grew up in Ludington, Michigan where it’s known as one of the larger ports for charter boats in our state. So, for me I just assumed each town was like the one I grew up in and that there were lots of folks that were itching to take you fishing. I quickly learned that isn’t the case but there are lots of folks around the state that would be willing to for a price. Price, that seems to be the sticking point for most folks. Charter boats are not cheap – but maybe they are not so bad when you look at the big picture. How much does it cost to go fishing? If you're dunking worms at Grandma's house off the dock, well that’s pretty reasonable. However, if you want to target salmon and steelhead, you need a lot of gear and a boat. Charter boats are a great way to lessen the cost of buying lots of gear, or at least learning what gear and boat to buy! I think charter boats are the best way to learn a body of water and learn the best tactics to target anything from UP trout to Saginaw Bay walleye. Most of the charter boat captains that I have met are just guys who simply love to fish. That love of fishing draws them toward taking buddies, friends of buddies, family, friends of family, etc. Before they know it, they are taking people fishing more than they are fishing themselves, and all the while, they are learning more and more about the fish and the water. The love and knowledge combo is the great mix to make a great charter boat captain. These kind of men and women who are captains are an endless supply of information for the folks on board. They may not share every secret, but they share quite a bit. So, if you’re looking to learn how to fish smallies on Burt lake, walleye on the bay, perch on Erie, muskies on St. Clair, or a king out of Grand Haven, a charter boat is the way to go. ■

HOOKED ON THE OUTDOORS: MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME

During the month of August, GreenStone Farm Credit Services hosted a Facebook contest titled “Hooked On The Outdoors” where any commenter had the chance to win a charter fishing trip for themselves and a guest with the Michigan Out-of-Doors TV crew. With great excitement, a slew of hopeful participants shared their favorite summer memories exploring the great outdoors. Justin Gekiere of Richmond, MI shared a photo of his boat out on the water and was randomly selected as the one lucky winner! The night before the charter trip, GreenStone Financial Services Officer Stevan Stoutenburg met up with Justin and his father Lou for dinner. After taking some time to connect, Stevan soon realized that Justin was an army veteran and served in Afghanistan at the same time as him. We continue to be amazed by the ways the outdoors brings people together! The next morning the crew set out on their voyage upon the “Silver Addiction” with captain Mark Williams at the helm. It was a cool and choppy morning on the water, but the fish were biting! Justin, the honoree, reeled in the largest salmon of the day with seven salmon being caught by the group. Thank you once again to Michigan Out-ofDoors TV for partnering to provide this opportunity!