Keweenaw Charter Fishing Co.

Splake, a hybrid of a lake trout and brook trout, are stocked in Lake Superior waters annually by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). They exhibit a preference for rocky shallow water habitats. Anglers can target splake throughout the season, with prime opportunities arising in early spring and again in the fall. October stands out as the best month for shallow water fishing, which is when splake return and congregate near stocking sites and carry out spawning motions. 

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Splake are readily accessible to small boats or shore casting during open-water periods. Ice fishing for splake is also popular during winter. Lake Superior splake average between 3 and 4 lbs, with some exceptional specimens exceeding 10 lbs. They rank highly for both sport and table fare and are a good candidate for selective harvest (ideal eating size is 3 to 4 lbs), given that they are stocked annually and are unable to successfully procreate. Keweenaw Charters likes to return larger individuals to provide others with an opportunity at a trophy catch.  

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Copper Harbor, Michigan, located on Lake Superior, boasts a renowned splake fishery, established in 1972. This unique fishing opportunity is not confined to Copper Harbor alone. MI DNR established other stocking sites for splake around Lake Superior, including Keweenaw Bay and Munising Bay. 

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When targetting splake, we use a variety of techniques, including casting lures, fly fishing, and bait fishing . We like to target these fish in depths from just a few feet to ten feet on rock and gravel structure. Most spring and fall splake fishing takes place nearshore within protected areas like Copper Harbor, where it is possible to get a boat out most days despite unpredictable weather. Choppy conditions and unfavorable weather actually benefit anglers, as splake become more aggressive.

Regardless of season or method, splake provide an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a thrilling light tackle fishing experience in the picturesque waters of Lake Superior.

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