Chicago Fall Fishing: Why October Is Your Best Shot at Salmon

If you've ever thought about going fishing on Lake Michigan, October is the month to do it. The summer crowds are gone, the water temperature drops into the sweet spot, and the salmon — Chinook and Coho — are staging close to Chicago in numbers that make every trip worth it.

This isn't just good fishing. This is some of the best freshwater fishing in the country, right in your backyard.

Why Fall Is Different on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan fishes differently in fall than any other time of year. Here's what changes when the calendar flips to October:

Water temperatures drop. Salmon are cold-water fish. As surface temps fall through the 50s, fish that spent the summer in deeper, cooler water start moving up and staging near shore. That means they're more accessible — and more aggressive.

The salmon are feeding hard. Before winter sets in, Chinook and Coho go on a feeding binge. They're chasing baitfish, hitting lures, and putting up a serious fight. Fall salmon aren't the sluggish, post-spawn fish you might find later in the season — they're in prime condition.

The crowds thin out. Summer is busy on Lake Michigan. By October, the recreational boaters are mostly gone, the water is calmer on average, and the fish have less pressure on them. That's a combination that produces great days on the water.

The Species You'll Target in October

Chinook Salmon

Chinook — also called King Salmon — are the trophy fish of Lake Michigan. They grow big, fight hard, and October is right in the middle of their fall staging period near Chicago.

A mature Chinook can run 20 to 30 pounds. When one hits your line, you'll know it immediately. These fish make long runs, strip drag, and test your gear. Landing a Chinook is an experience you don't forget.

Coho Salmon

Coho are smaller than Chinook but pound for pound, they might be even more fun to catch. They're acrobatic fighters — they jump, they run, and they don't give up easily.

October Coho near Chicago are typically in excellent condition. They school up in numbers, which means when you find them, the action can be fast and furious.

Lake Trout

Lake trout are available year-round on Lake Michigan, but fall is a particularly good time to target them. As the water cools, they move into shallower depths and become more active. If the salmon aren't cooperating on a given day, lake trout are almost always a reliable backup — and they're great eating.

What to Expect on a Fall Charter

A typical fall charter out of Montrose Harbor starts early. Captain Tim and his crew have the ROYALTY rigged and ready before you arrive. You'll head out onto Lake Michigan as the sun comes up over the city — and if you've never seen the Chicago skyline from the water at sunrise, that alone is worth the trip.

Once you're on the fish, the crew handles the rods, the downriggers, and the net. Your job is to hold on and enjoy the fight. Whether you're an experienced angler or you've never held a fishing rod, the crew will walk you through everything.

Here's what's included on every charter:

• All fishing tackle and gear

• Downrigger and trolling equipment

• Fishing licenses (sold right on the boat)

• Fish cleaning at the end of the trip

• Up to 6 passengers per charter

All you need to bring is yourself, snacks, drinks, and a cooler for the catch.

Why Fish with Captain Tim Frey?

Captain Tim has been fishing Lake Michigan for decades. He holds a USCG captain's license and carries full insurance — so you're in safe, experienced hands from the moment you step aboard.

More importantly, he knows these waters. He knows where the fish are in October, how they're moving, and what they're hitting. That local knowledge is the difference between a good day and a great one.

The ROYALTY departs from Dock D at 225 W Montrose Harbor Drive — right in the heart of Chicago. No long drives, no remote marinas. You can be on the water in minutes from the city.

Tips for Your Fall Charter

Dress in layers. October mornings on Lake Michigan can be cold, especially once you're moving. Bring a waterproof outer layer and dress warmer than you think you need to.

Bring sunglasses. Even on overcast days, the glare off the water is real. Polarized lenses are ideal.

Eat before you go. A full stomach helps with any motion on the water. Light snacks are fine to bring along.

Don't worry about experience. Captain Tim's crew has put first-timers on fish more times than they can count. You don't need to know anything about fishing to have a great time.

Book Before October Dates Fill Up

Fall charters book fast — especially October. Once the word gets out that the salmon are running, open dates disappear quickly.

If you've been thinking about getting out on the water this fall, now is the time to lock in your spot. Book your October charter today and see for yourself why Chicago anglers call fall the best time of year to fish Lake Michigan.