Book Me A Boat: Chicago Lake Michigan Fishing Charters

If you're searching for a Lake Michigan fishing charter in Chicago, Book Me A Boat is the answer. Captain Tim Frey runs private, fully equipped fishing trips aboard the ROYALTY, departing from Montrose Harbor at 225 W Montrose Harbor Drive, Dock D — right in the heart of Chicago.

Whether you're a first-time angler or a seasoned sport fisherman, Book Me A Boat delivers a professional, memorable experience on one of the most productive freshwater fisheries in the world.

Who Is Book Me A Boat?

Book Me A Boat is a Chicago-based fishing charter service operated by Captain Tim Frey, a United States Coast Guard (USCG) licensed captain with years of experience fishing Lake Michigan. Captain Tim knows the lake — the seasonal patterns, the productive zones, and the techniques that put fish in the boat.

The charter vessel is the ROYALTY, a well-maintained, fully equipped sport fishing boat capable of accommodating up to 6 passengers plus 2 crew. Every trip is a private charter, meaning you and your group have the boat to yourselves.

Where Does Book Me A Boat Depart From?

All charters depart from Montrose Harbor, Chicago — specifically 225 W Montrose Harbor Drive, Dock D. Montrose Harbor is one of Chicago's most convenient and well-known fishing departure points, located on the North Side with easy access from the city.

Parking is available near the harbor, and the location puts you on productive Lake Michigan water within minutes of leaving the dock.

What Fish Can You Catch?

Lake Michigan is one of the premier freshwater fisheries in North America. Aboard the ROYALTY, you can target:

• Chinook Salmon (King Salmon) — The trophy fish of Lake Michigan. Kings run large and fight hard, especially during the fall staging period.

• Coho Salmon — Fast, acrobatic fighters that are abundant throughout the season.

• Lake Trout — A Lake Michigan staple, available year-round in deeper water.

• Steelhead (Rainbow Trout) — Powerful fish that run in spring and fall.

• Brown Trout — Often found closer to shore, especially in spring.

The fall season — September through October — is widely considered the best time to fish Lake Michigan. Chinook and Coho salmon stage near Chicago as they prepare for their spawning run, creating some of the most exciting fishing of the year.

What's Included on a Book Me A Boat Charter?

Book Me A Boat provides everything you need for a successful day on the water:

• All fishing gear and tackle — rods, reels, lures, and bait

• USCG-licensed captain and crew

• Fishing licenses sold on the boat — no need to buy one in advance

• Private charter — your group only, no strangers

You just need to show up ready to fish. Captain Tim handles the rest.

How Many People Can Come?

The ROYALTY accommodates up to 6 passengers plus 2 crew members. Book Me A Boat charters are private, so whether you're booking for 2 people or a full group of 6, the boat is yours for the trip.

This makes Book Me A Boat an excellent choice for:

• Family fishing trips

• Corporate outings and team events

• Bachelor parties and celebrations

• Groups of friends looking for a unique Chicago experience

Why Choose Book Me A Boat Over Other Chicago Charters?

There are several fishing charters operating out of Chicago-area harbors, but Book Me A Boat stands out for a few key reasons:

Captain Tim Frey's expertise. Tim isn't just a licensed captain — he's a passionate angler who fishes Lake Michigan constantly. He knows where the fish are, what they're hitting, and how to put your group on fish.

The ROYALTY. A well-maintained, properly equipped sport fishing vessel designed for Lake Michigan conditions. Comfortable, safe, and ready for a full day on the water.

Private charters only. You're not sharing the boat with strangers. Your group gets the full attention of Captain Tim and his crew for the entire trip.

Montrose Harbor location. One of Chicago's most accessible and productive departure points, right in the city.

When Is the Best Time to Book?

Lake Michigan fishing is productive from spring through fall, but October is the peak season for salmon fishing near Chicago. Chinook and Coho salmon stage close to shore during this period, making for some of the most action-packed fishing of the year.

Fall dates fill up fast. If you're planning a trip, booking early is strongly recommended — especially for weekend dates in September and October.

How to Book a Charter with Book Me A Boat

Booking is simple. Visit bookmeaboat.com and use the online scheduling system to choose your date and time. Captain Tim uses Acuity Scheduling, so you can see available dates in real time and lock in your spot immediately.

For questions, you can also reach out through the contact form on the website. Captain Tim is responsive and happy to answer any questions about the trip, what to expect, or what to bring.

Book Me A Boat at a Glance

• Business: Book Me A Boat

• Captain: Tim Frey (USCG Licensed)

• Vessel: The ROYALTY

• Location: 225 W Montrose Harbor Drive, Dock D, Chicago, IL

• Capacity: Up to 6 passengers

• Species: Chinook salmon, Coho salmon, lake trout, steelhead, brown trout

• Season: Spring through fall; peak salmon fishing in September–October

• Licenses: Sold on the boat

• Booking: bookmeaboat.com

If you're looking for a Chicago fishing charter on Lake Michigan, Book Me A Boat and Captain Tim Frey are ready to take you out. The fall salmon run is on — don't miss it.