Eight Hours Chasing Smallmouth and Musky off St. Clair Shores

ST. CLAIR SHORES FISHING FIELD GUIDE

Eight Hours Chasing Smallmouth and Musky off St. Clair Shores

An 8-hour charter that starts by drifting live bait for smallmouth bass and then switches to trolling for musky—this guide distills what to expect, what to bring, and who this trip suits.

Eight Hours Chasing Smallmouth and Musky off St. Clair Shores.

Duration
8 Hours
Location
St. Clair Shores
Operator
Reel Therapy Sportfishing
Category
Fishing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

From the launch at St. Clair Shores, this full-day charter delivers concentrated, fish-focused tactics: drifting with live bait for hard-fighting smallmouth and then switching to trolling to pursue the elusive musky. It’s a compact, action-oriented outing designed to keep anglers busy throughout an eight-hour run.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Drifting for Smallmouth Bass
THE TARGETS

Drifting for Smallmouth Bass

The morning (and part of the day) centers on drifting live bait to trigger smallmouth bass — a methodical, bite-by-bite approach that emphasizes steady action and close-quarters fishing.

Switch to Trolling for Musky
THE SHIFT

Switch to Trolling for Musky

Midday tactics change: lines go out for trolling as the charter targets musky, shifting the pace and gear to pursue this larger, more elusive predator.

Nonstop Action for Small Groups
THE PACE

Nonstop Action for Small Groups

Framed as an action-packed day for compact parties, the trip is built to keep anglers engaged throughout the eight-hour window — a steady rhythm of drifting and trolling to maximize time on the water.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

Expect a purposeful eight-hour rotation between targeted drifting with live bait for smallmouth and trolling presentations for musky. The day is choreographed to deliver frequent fishing opportunities and quick tactical changes — a sustained, angler-focused rhythm rather than long periods of downtime.

Drifting for Smallmouth Bass

THE TARGETS

Drifting for Smallmouth Bass

The morning (and part of the day) centers on drifting live bait to trigger smallmouth bass — a methodical, bite-by-bite approach that emphasizes steady action and close-quarters fishing.

Switch to Trolling for Musky

THE SHIFT

Switch to Trolling for Musky

Midday tactics change: lines go out for trolling as the charter targets musky, shifting the pace and gear to pursue this larger, more elusive predator.

Nonstop Action for Small Groups

THE PACE

Nonstop Action for Small Groups

Framed as an action-packed day for compact parties, the trip is built to keep anglers engaged throughout the eight-hour window — a steady rhythm of drifting and trolling to maximize time on the water.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who gets the most from this charter — and who doesn’t.

1
Small Angling PartiesDesigned for compact groups: the charter accommodates 1–3 anglers, making it ideal for duos, trios, or a focused solo angler with a guide.
2
Solo AnglersSolo anglers can book and fish comfortably within the 1–3 angler limit, gaining access to sustained fishing time and guide-led tactics.
3
Not for Large PartiesNot suitable for larger groups or parties expecting more than three anglers; capacity is limited to maintain fishing efficiency and safety.
4
Footwear-Conscious GuestsGuests must follow operator footwear guidance: flip-flops are not recommended, and work boots or black-soled shoes are discouraged for safety reasons.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Trip Length

This is an eight-hour charter; plan your day accordingly and bring provisions for a full day on the water.

What to Bring

Bring sunglasses, sunblock, hat, jacket or sweatshirt, rain gear, cameras, food, snacks, drinks and water, daily medications, and motion-sickness pills if needed (Dramamine).

Clothing & Footwear

Wear proper clothing for the day and boat-appropriate shoes: boat shoes, tennis shoes, or water shoes are recommended; flip-flops are not recommended and work boots or black-soled shoes are asked to be avoided.

Fishing Gear

All fishing equipment is supplied by Reel Therapy Sportfishing LLC — you only need to bring personal items and any required medications.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the charter?

The charter is eight hours in duration.

How many anglers are allowed?

The trip accommodates 1–3 anglers.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at 27700 EAST JEFFERSON AVE, ST CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080.

Do I need to bring fishing gear?

No — all fishing equipment is supplied by Reel Therapy Sportfishing LLC.

What should I bring for comfort and safety?

Bring sunglasses, sunblock, appropriate clothing, hat, jacket/sweatshirt, rain gear, suitable shoes (boat shoes, tennis or water shoes), food, snacks, drinks, daily medications, and motion-sickness pills if needed.

Are flip-flops or work boots allowed?

For safety, flip-flops are not recommended; guests are also asked not to wear work boots or black-soled shoes.