Lake Erie Sunset Cruise & Fishing | It's Called Fishin'

Sunset Fishing on Lake Erie's Island Chain

Ready for a laid-back evening on the water? Our Lake Erie Sunset Island Fishing Charter is the perfect mix of relaxation and angling action. We'll cruise around the Bass Islands, Green Island, Rattlesnake Island, and Kelley's Island as the sun dips low, casting its golden glow across the lake. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to wet a line for the first time, this 21⁄2-hour trip is all about soaking in the views and maybe landing a few fish along the way.

What to Expect on the Water

As we push off from the dock, you'll feel the day's stress melt away. Our spacious boat has plenty of room for your group of up to six, with comfy seating and an onboard toilet for convenience. We encourage you to bring your favorite snacks and drinks – and yes, moderate alcohol is allowed if you want to toast the sunset with a cold one. For those who'd rather not lug a cooler, we offer a stocked cooler with ice and beverages for a small extra fee. Just let us know when you book.

The beauty of this trip is its flexibility. We'll tailor the experience to your group's interests, whether that means more focus on fishing or more on sightseeing. As we navigate around the islands, keep your eyes peeled for local landmarks and wildlife. You might spot the historic Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial on South Bass Island or catch a glimpse of nesting eagles along the shoreline.

Fishing Lake Erie at Sunset

Fishing as the sun goes down can be some of the most productive time on Lake Erie. As the light fades, many fish species become more active, moving into shallower waters to feed. We'll set you up with all the gear you need – rods, reels, and bait – and show you the ropes if you're new to fishing.

We might try a few different techniques depending on what's biting. Trolling is a popular method, where we'll drag lures behind the boat as we cruise. Or we might anchor up near some structure and do some casting. The beauty of fishing these island waters is the variety – you never know what might end up on the end of your line!

Top Catches This Season

While we can't guarantee what'll be biting on any given day, Lake Erie is known for some awesome fishing. Here's a rundown of some species you might encounter:

Walleye: Often called the "gold" of Lake Erie, walleye are prized for their tasty fillets. They tend to feed more actively in low light, making our sunset trip prime time for hooking into one of these hard-fighting fish. Look for their distinctive gold-flecked sides and sharp teeth when you reel one in.

Yellow Perch: These smaller cousins of the walleye might not put up as much of a fight, but they make up for it in numbers and flavor. It's not uncommon to catch a whole mess of perch when you find a school. Their light, flaky meat is perfect for a fish fry.

Smallmouth Bass: The rocky areas around the islands are prime smallmouth territory. These bronze beauties are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water when hooked. Even a modest-sized smallie can give you a run for your money on light tackle.

Sheepshead (Freshwater Drum): Don't let their ugly mugs fool you – these fish can be a blast to catch. They grow to good sizes in Lake Erie and put up a solid fight. While not as prized for eating as some other species, they're still fun to catch and release.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing as the day winds down. The water takes on a mirror-like quality, reflecting the vibrant colors of the sunset. The daytime boat traffic dies down, leaving you with a sense of peace and connection to nature. Even if the fish aren't biting, the views alone are worth the trip.

Our guests often tell us this charter is the highlight of their visit to Lake Erie. It's a chance to see the islands from a different perspective and experience the lake's beauty in a way you just can't from shore. Plus, there's always the chance of hooking into "the big one" – Lake Erie is known for producing some monster fish, especially walleye.

What You'll Need

We provide all the fishing gear, so you don't need to worry about bringing rods or tackle. Just come dressed for the weather – remember, it can get cooler out on the water, especially as the sun goes down. A light jacket or sweatshirt is always a good idea, even on warm days. Don't forget sunglasses to cut the glare off the water, and a hat can be helpful too.

If you're planning to keep fish (and regulations allow), we recommend bringing a small cooler. We'll take care of cleaning your catch, but you'll want a way to keep it fresh on the way home. And of course, don't forget your camera or phone to capture those epic sunset shots!

Time to Book Your Spot

Our Lake Erie Sunset Island Fishing Charter is a customer favorite, and spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. We adjust our departure times throughout the year to make sure you get the full sunset experience, no matter when you visit. It's an easy trip to fit into your schedule – perfect for after a day of island hopping or exploring the mainland.

Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, wanting a relaxing evening with friends, or hoping to land a trophy walleye, this charter offers something for everyone. The combination of world-class fishing, breathtaking scenery, and the tranquil beauty of a Lake Erie sunset is hard to beat.

So why wait? Grab your crew, pack some snacks, and get ready for an evening on the water you won't forget. Book your Lake Erie Sunset Island Fishing Charter with It's Called Fishin' today, and let's make some memories on the lake!