TomPatten Fishing Fishing Charter Prices

TomPatten Fishing: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish for Smallmouth Bass in Lake St. Clair?

While we operate from April through November, the timing depends on your goals. For heavy trophy Smallmouth, the pre-spawn window in May and the fall feeding period in October are unmatched. If you prefer high-action days with plenty of bites and warm weather, the summer months of June through August offer consistent success across the flats.

What is included in a TomPatten Fishing charter?

When you book with TomPatten Fishing, we provide a fully turnkey experience. Your trip includes the use of our high-performance Legend V21 boat, tournament-grade rods and reels, premium lures, and specialized tackle. We also provide life jackets and all necessary safety equipment. As your professional guide, Captain Tom provides expert instruction and navigation throughout your charter.

How much does a full-day fishing charter cost?

Our pricing reflects the premium nature of a private, tournament-grade trip. A full-day charter (8 hours) typically costs $650, while a half-day trip (4 hours) is $450. These rates cover up to two anglers, with a small additional fee for a third or fourth guest. Please check our booking calendar for real-time availability.

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?

No, you do not need to bring your own gear. We equip every guest with the same high-end rods, reels, and baits that Captain Tom uses in professional competitions. However, if you have a preferred setup you’d like to use, you are more than welcome to bring it along. We want you to be as comfortable as possible on the water.

Is a fishing license required for a Lake St. Clair guided trip?

Yes, all anglers aged 17 and older must possess a valid Michigan fishing license. Because Lake St. Clair shares a border with Canada, we often cross into Ontario waters to follow the best bite; in those cases, an Ontario fishing license and an Outdoors Card are also required. We recommend purchasing these online a few days before your trip.

Is fish cleaning and filleting included?

At TomPatten Fishing, we specialize in Catch and Release for Smallmouth Bass to preserve the world-class quality of the Lake St. Clair fishery. Because of this, we do not offer fish cleaning or filleting services. We are happy to take high-quality photos of your trophy catch before safely returning it to the water.

What should I bring on my Lake St. Clair fishing charter?

Aside from your license, we recommend bringing polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing—it is often cooler on the water than on land. You should also bring your own snacks and drinks; we provide a cooler with ice to keep your refreshments cold throughout the day.

Can I book a family-friendly fishing trip?

Absolutely! We take great pride in hosting family-friendly fishing adventures. Captain Tom is patient and enjoys teaching children and beginners the fundamentals of casting and reeling. Our Legend V21 is a stable, safe platform for younger anglers, and we customize these trips to ensure constant action.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?

Safety is our absolute priority. If Captain Tom determines that weather conditions (such as high winds or lightning) make it unsafe to be on the water, we will work with you to reschedule your trip to the next available date. If a reschedule isn't possible, we offer a full refund of your deposit.

How do I secure a booking with Captain Tom Patten?

Booking your Lake St. Clair fishing charter is easy. You can view our live availability and secure your date directly through our website’s booking portal. A deposit is required to hold your date, and we offer a 7-day cancellation window for a full refund. We recommend booking at least 3–4 weeks in advance for peak dates.