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What does a trip look like?

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A day on the water with me typically starts early—unless you’re lucky enough to book one of my limited evening trips.

Please plan to arrive on time. If you’re running late, a quick courtesy message is always appreciated. When you arrive, the boat will already be in the water and ready to go. Be sure to reference the images on this page so you know exactly what to look for at the launch.
 

Lakes & Trip Types

I’ve fished all nine of Ohio’s muskie reservoirs, with guiding focused primarily on Leesville Lake, Salt Fork Lake, and Lake Milton, with select trips available on Piedmont and West Branch when conditions are right.

Trips are offered for:

  • Muskie (trolling, casting, and fly fishing — catch and release)

  • Trophy Saugeye – Leesville Lake only (March–April & September–November)

  • Numbers Saugeye – Salt Fork Lake (primarily December)

  • Crappie Trips – Leesville Lake only

Note: Saugeye and crappie trips are not catch and release. Harvest is allowed in accordance with Ohio regulations.
 

On the Water

Where and how we fish will change throughout the day based on season, weather, water conditions, angler experience, and current fish patterns. Depending on conditions and trip type, we may be casting, trolling, jigging, or fly fishing.

Trips may be run with or without Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS), depending on conditions and angler preference. FFS is a valuable tool when used appropriately, but success on the water ultimately comes from experience, decision-making, and the ability to adapt to what the fish are doing.

My goal as a guide isn’t just to put you on fish—it’s to help you learn repeatable techniques and patterns that you can take with you into your own fishing adventures.
 

Fish Care & Photos

All muskie charters are catch and release. Any fish caught will be photographed, shared on my social channels, and sent directly to you. If you’re interested in preserving a muskie memory, I’m happy to recommend a high-quality fish replica taxidermist.

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What to Bring

  • Food and drinks for the day

  • A valid Ohio fishing license

  • Sunscreen (don’t forget it)

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Please be sure to review the cancellation policy and waiver prior to your trip.

 

Trip Expectations

Muskies—and trophy saugeye—are not numbers fish. Muskie are often called the fish of 10,000 casts, and while I always work to give you the best possible opportunity, catching one fish in a day is considered a great trip. Some days are slow, and other days everything clicks—you just might find yourself on one of those rare days when the bite turns on.

You’ll return to the dock at the scheduled conclusion of your trip. If you’d like additional time on the water, please book an additional charter in advance.

I can’t wait to see you on the water.

What should I bring?

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  •  You MUST have an Ohio Fishing License. If you need to purchase a license click here to visit the ODNR website to see details for licenses and permits. 

  • Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather...Rain, Snow or Shine! Check the weather forecast here!

  • For casting trips, it's recommended to bring polarized sunglasses. 

  • Be sure to pack snacks and drinks for duration of the trip. No Alcoholic beverages permitted!

  • Don't forget the sunscreen.

Where should I stay? 

IF you are needing to stay...

Leesville

We have a cabin and a lake house right on Leesville Lake, Bowerton, Ohio. You MUST See its beautiful! 

Salt Fork

Salt Fork State Park has remote and full hook-up camping available. Hotels are close by in Cambridge, OH

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