Business Details
Traverse City Fishing Charters with 92% Catch Rate
Big Kahuna Charter has established itself as a premier fishing charter service in Traverse City, Michigan, with over 35 years of combined experience among its captains. Our team of tournament-winning captains and first mates leverages deep local knowledge of East Grand Traverse Bay to deliver an exceptional fishing experience, consistently achieving a 92% catch rate in 2025. We specialize in half-day and full-day charters targeting Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Steelhead, and Salmon, utilizing time-tested techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. Our fleet includes comfortable, well-maintained vessels like the 37' Chris Craft Big Kahuna, designed to accommodate up to six anglers with amenities such as handicap accessibility and onboard seating.Safety remains our top priority, with all captains licensed by the United States Coast Guard and vessels inspected by the Department of Natural Resources. We pride ourselves on providing personalized service, from flexible booking options to professional fish cleaning and packaging, ensuring every client's needs are met. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition on national networks like NBC, CBS, and Fox, as well as multiple Big Jon Salmon Classic tournament wins. Whether you're a seasoned angler or introducing children to fishing, our family-friendly environment creates lasting memories while pursuing trophy fish in sheltered, productive waters.
Services
Fishing Charters
Trophy Fishing
Family-Friendly Trips
Targeted Fishing
Fish Cleaning Services
Boat Rentals
Guided Tours
Corporate Outings
Group Charters
Evening Fishing Trips
Highlights and features
- We offer 35 years of combined experience in Traverse City fishing charters.
- Our team maintains a 92% catch rate in 2025.
- Family-friendly environment for anglers of all ages.
- Safety is our priority with US Coast Guard licensed captains.
- State-inspected and insured vessels for reliability.
Associations and certifications
- United States Coast Guard
- Department of Natural Resources
What people say
92% catch rate
Expert captains
Family-friendly
Beautiful boats
Memorable experience
Services
Fishing Charters
Big Kahuna & Pisces offers half-day and full-day fishing charters on East Grand Traverse Bay. Our experienced captains guide guests to prime fishing spots targeting Lake Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead. With a 92% catch rate in 2025, we provide all necessary gear and expertise for a productive, enjoyable outing.
Trophy Fishing
Specializing in trophy fish, we target large Lake Trout, Brown Trout, and Chinook Salmon in sheltered Traverse Bay waters. Our captains use proven techniques and advanced equipment to maximize chances of landing record-breaking catches, with fish up to 30 pounds reported in 2025.
Family-Friendly Trips
We welcome anglers of all ages with accessible boats and patient instruction. Our captains accommodate children with safety gear and tailored techniques, creating memorable experiences while introducing younger generations to the thrill of fishing on Michigan's Great Lakes.
Targeted Fishing
Guests can focus on specific species through seasonal adjustments in lures, depth, and location. Whether pursuing Steelhead in spring or Chinooks in fall, our captains adapt strategies to target preferred fish, leveraging 35+ years of local expertise for optimal results.
Fish Cleaning Services
We professionally clean and package your catch at no extra charge. Guests receive neatly prepared fish ready for transport, with recommendations for local amenities like ice and coolers to preserve their fresh catch after each charter.
People
Captain Hunter Alpers
Charter Captain
Captain Hunter Alpers brings 17 years of fishing expertise to Big Kahuna, combining deep local knowledge with a passion for angling. His dedication ensures memorable trips for all guests.
Captain Sonny Alpers
Charter Captain
With 27 years as captain, Sonny Alpers remains a cornerstone of our team, known for his 'Go Fish' philosophy and unmatched ability to locate trophy fish in Traverse Bay.
Rachel Alpers
Booking Coordinator
Rachel Alpers manages reservations and guest relations, ensuring seamless booking experiences and addressing client needs with personalized attention and local insights.
Questions
What charter fishing rates do you offer?
Our half-day charters start at $590 for up to 6 guests. Full-day pricing and group rates are available upon request.
What fish can I catch during my charter?
Target species include Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon, with seasonal variations affecting availability.
Are your boats accessible for disabled guests?
Yes, our vessels feature handicap accessibility, including ramps and designated seating areas for comfortable fishing experiences.
Do you provide fishing gear and licenses?
We supply all necessary tackle and equipment, but guests must obtain valid Michigan fishing licenses before boarding.
How do I book a charter trip?
Book through our website or contact Rachel Alpers directly via phone or email to check availability and reserve your preferred date.
What is your 2025 catch rate performance?
Big Kahuna maintains a 92% catch rate in 2025, reflecting our captains' expertise and strategic fishing techniques.
