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.
Adventure brief
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.
Shelter Bay, located along the southern shore of Lake Superior near Au Train, Michigan, offers a rugged and thrilling setting for anglers of all ages. Known for its deep, clear waters and dramatic rocky coastline, this spot is an outdoors lover’s playground away from crowded tourist hubs. Kimar's Charters provides a distinctive 4-hour fishing experience designed for families and anglers looking to maximize their time on the water without breaking the bank. The vessel cuts through the cold, fresh Lake Superior water as you troll for native lake trout and other prized species.
What sets Kimar’s apart is their introduction of the “pump rod” technique, adding a fresh twist to the chase and increasing your chances of landing a memorable catch. All necessary equipment is thoughtfully provided, removing any guesswork and allowing participants to focus entirely on the rhythm of casting and reeeling. The crew’s local knowledge ensures you’re not just drifting aimlessly, but positioned strategically to capitalize on seasonal fish movements and underwater structures.
Shelter Bay's shoreline is dotted with intriguing basalt cliffs formed by ancient lava flows, offering a stunning geological backdrop that changes color in the shifting light. The area has a rich history tied to native Ojibwe culture and the early European settlers’ fishing heritage, giving each outing a subtle cultural context.
Kimar’s Charters plays a vital role in supporting local outdoor recreation, providing access to one of Michigan’s less-exploited fishing spots. Their family-friendly approach and deep lake expertise make them a standout among Lake Superior’s charter options. Whether you’re novice or experienced, this trip offers a genuine chance to connect with the wild lake environment and test your angling skills in one of America’s great freshwater playgrounds.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Snapshot
A compact route that moves from dock transit to nearshore deep‑water trolling and back over a four‑hour span.
Shelter Bay dock
Depart and prepare at the dock; this is the launch point for the trip.
Transit to trolling grounds (3–7 miles)
A short run of roughly 3–7 miles puts the boat over the primary fishing areas where trolling begins.
Deep‑water trolling (100–200 ft)
Trolling with downriggers and wire lines in 100–200 feet of water; anglers can also try the pump rod that pays out over 500 feet of steel wire.
Return to Shelter Bay dock
Conclude fishing and return to the dock within the scheduled four‑hour window.
Anyone 17 and over must carry a Michigan fishing license (seasonal or 1‑day). Bring warm clothing, a hat, sunglasses, soft‑soled shoes, food and drinks, and a cooler with ziplock bags for fillets; all fishing equipment is provided.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-15T00:56:05.880Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.