Walleye
Detroit River Walleye Charter with Captain Matt
Reel Finatic Charters LLC — fishing charters on Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River, operating out of St. Clair Shores, Michigan.
The Detroit River is one of the most productive walleye fisheries in North America. Every spring, millions of walleye push up out of Lake Erie and stage in the river's deep channels and current seams to spawn, and for a few short weeks the stretch of water between Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair holds more walleye per mile than almost anywhere else on the continent. Reel Finatic Charters LLC runs guided walleye trips on that water and on Lake St. Clair, operating out of St. Clair Shores, Michigan.
A Detroit River walleye charter is a working fishery, not a sightseeing cruise. The current is heavy, the boat traffic is real, and the fish move day to day with water temperature, wind and flow. That is exactly why fishing with a captain who is on this water constantly matters — Captain Matt Marfuta has been fishing Southeast Michigan for more than three decades and has won tournaments on walleye, muskie and bass.
When to fish the Detroit River for walleye
The famous run starts as the water climbs out of the thirties in late March and holds strong through April and into May. This is the window for numbers, and it is when most guests book. Fish are stacked in the channels and a good day can be fast and physical.
Once the run breaks up, walleye spread out into Lake St. Clair and the lower river. Late spring and summer trips shift to open-water tactics, and the fish are often heavier and in better condition than the spawning fish. Fall brings another strong bite as walleye feed hard ahead of winter — cooler, quieter days with fewer boats and excellent fish.
Techniques we use
Vertical jigging is the signature Detroit River presentation. You hold a jig tight to the bottom in current while the boat drifts at the speed of the water, feeling for the subtle tick of a walleye inhaling it. It is a technique that rewards attention, and Captain Matt will coach you on boat position, jig weight and hookset all day long — beginners pick it up fast.
When the fish spread out we switch to handlining, trolling crankbaits and worm harnesses, or pulling bottom bouncers on Lake St. Clair flats. Electronics do a lot of the work: we idle over structure, find the pods of fish, and then fish them with the presentation that matches the conditions instead of forcing one method.
What a day on the water looks like
You meet Captain Matt at the launch ramp he texts you the day before, based on where the fish are and the forecast. Gear is already rigged and on board, so you step on and go. After a quick safety rundown we run to the first spot and get lines in the water.
Through the day Matt explains what he is reading on the electronics, why he is moving, and how to adjust your presentation. He nets fish, reties, changes baits and keeps the mood light. Eating-size walleye are cleaned and bagged for you at the end of the trip, and you get photos of your catch to take home.
Trips run 5, 8 or 10 hours, with a combo option if you want to mix walleye with another species. Three anglers are included and a fourth can be added. Bring food, drinks, weather-appropriate layers, sunglasses and your fishing license.
What's included
- All rods, reels, tackle and bait
- Michigan-licensed captain and safety gear
- Fish cleaning and bagging on eating species
- Photos of your catch
- Coast Guard-inspected, fully equipped boat
Every angler needs a valid fishing license — see Michigan and Ontario license info. Full trip lengths and pricing are on the rates page.