AU TRAIN FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Four Hours at Shelter Bay: Deep‑water trolling, a 500‑ft ‘pump rod,’ and a family‑friendly opener to Lake Superior fishing
A concise, 4‑hour fishing trip out of Shelter Bay operated by Kimar's Charters — an economical option that covers nearshore deep‑water trolling and the signature pump‑rod experience.
Four Hours at Shelter Bay: Deep‑water trolling, a 500‑ft ‘pump rod,’ and a family‑friendly opener to Lake Superior fishing.
Shelter Bay delivers a compact, high‑intensity fishing outing: a four‑hour trip that takes anglers several miles offshore to troll in 100–200 feet of water using downriggers and wire lines. The short itinerary and hands‑on techniques make it a good fit for families and budget‑minded anglers looking for a taste of deep‑water sportfishing, including a chance to try the unique pump rod that releases over 500 feet of steel wire line.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
All equipment provided — try the pump rod
The trip supplies all fishing gear and gives riders the opportunity to use the distinctive pump rod, a heavy‑duty pole that pays out more than 500 feet of steel wire before sinking to bottom — reeling one in is a defining challenge of the day.
Trolling in deep water 3–7 miles from the dock
Fishing typically begins within 3–7 miles of the Shelter Bay dock, with trolling conducted in depths of roughly 100–200 feet using downriggers and wire lines — the core of the trip’s strategy for catching larger lake species.
A short, budget‑friendly family outing
At four hours in duration, Shelter Bay is positioned as an accessible, lower‑commitment option for families and anglers watching cost who still want a taste of deep‑water trolling and hands‑on excitement.
What the day feels like
How the four hours unfold
Expect a brisk, focused outing: you board at the Shelter Bay dock, transit a few miles offshore, and spend the bulk of the trip trolling in 100–200 feet of water with downriggers and wire lines. Between conventional trolling and the standout pump‑rod experience — which lets out over 500 feet of steel line — the rhythm alternates between the steady work of line management and sudden bursts of action when fish strike.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and the single regulatory note that affects most adults.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your fishing license (anyone 17 and over), warm clothing, sunglasses, hat, soft‑soled shoes, food and drinks, and a cooler plus ziplock bags for fillets. All fishing equipment is provided by the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Shelter Bay fishing trip?
The trip duration is four hours.
Where do we fish and how far offshore do we go?
Fishing starts within about 3–7 miles of the Shelter Bay dock; trolling takes place in roughly 100–200 feet of water using downriggers and wire lines.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes — anyone 17 and over must have a Michigan fishing license. You may purchase a seasonal license or a one‑day license via the Michigan DNR e‑license site.
Is gear provided or do I need to bring my own rods and tackle?
All fishing equipment is provided by the operator.
What personal items should I pack for the trip?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, soft‑soled shoes, food and drinks, and a cooler with ziplock bags for any fillets.