McCormick's River Guide Service
Species Targeted:
I offer a multi-species guide service. However, I specialize in Walleye, Perch, Northern Pike, Bass, and Flathead Catfish. I am out fishing on a daily basis so I am always on the hottest bite for that time of season. Every trip with me is an experience. Depending on the time of year and the species of fish you are looking to catch, I can teach you some of the finer details behind jigging, bottom bouncers, casting, and trolling with crawler harnesses and crankbaits. I have been fishing the Upper Mississippi waters for over 20 years. So whether it is spring, summer, fall or winter, give me a call for your next fishing adventure.
I fish from a Tracker Tundra 18 foot boat equipped with Lowrance HDS GPS sonars and a Motorguide xi5 trolling motor, providing perfect client presentation from either bow or stern casting platforms. Rods and reels can be provided if desired, but feel free to bring your favorite lucky rod, reel and tackle.
SPRING
Perch and Walleye (March-April)Perch and Walleye season starts on the world famous Mississippi River each year in mid march (perch) mid April (walleye). Millions of perch and walleye swim up the river each spring to spawn and are very hungry along the way. March and April is the best time to have the catch of a lifetime, with 100 fish days and 13-15 inch perch and 25-33 inch walleyes being very common.. This is by far the best chance at getting a bag limit of huge perch or a trophy sized walleye throughout the entire year. The last few springs, daily limits of perch and multi-8-13 lb walleye days were very common. Day and night trips are available.
With open season on these fish all year and no change in limits, fishing for them when they are on HOT bite is a bonus of fishing on the mighty Mississippi. Bass limit 5, Walleye limit of 6 and Bluegill limit of 25. Walleye have just finished up spawning and are all schooled together and on the chew. May is also great for Bluegill fishing, these fish are very active prior to and during spawn. Bass up to 6 lbs. and 25-33 inch walleye are common.
SUMMER
Walleye, Catfish, Panfish, Perch and Bass (June-Aug)The bite remains HOT on the river for the above species. The location and techniques may be different, but my knowledge of the river and experience will get you a good bag of fish.
FALL
Walleye, Crappie, Bluegill, Perch, Northern Pike, Bass (Aug - first ice)Fall is a great time to load up on all fish as they feed for the winter
WINTER
Walleye, Crappie, Bluegill, Perch, Northern Pike, Bass Ice Fishing (Dec.-Mar.)There comes a time of year when it's time to put away the boat and soon tackle a new adventure. The fishing at this time of the year can be spectacular. I will show you the most productive ways to set up and catch fish during this season. As a bonus, we prepare a great shore lunch on the ice to make the trip complete. If you have never ice fished, you deserve to give yourself a winter treat! Sleeper shanty rentals available, also 4 person pop-up shack.
Guided Fishing Charter Rates
- 1/2 day (4 hours) - $125 pp/$300 minimum
- Full day (8 hours) - $150 pp/ $400 minumum
- I can accommodate larger groups upon request
Guided Fishing Charter Rates
- Full day (8 hours) $150pp
- ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
- $100 deposit required
- 7 day cancellation policy
- Bad weather? We will reschedule or gladly refund your deposit
- Start time is determined by the captain unless a different time is previously agreed upon
- Advance reservations are recommended, but last minute bookings can be made
- Gift certificates available
What You Should Bring:
- Seasonally appropriate clothing
- Cameras & camcorders
- Hat and Sunglasses
- Sunscreen/Bug Spray
- Lunch / snacks / beverage
- Fishing License (Required)
- Large cooler for all the fish you will catch
- Positive attitude and a desire to learn and have a good time
The best dates go quickly, so book your trip of a lifetime now!
Waters Guided
- Lake Onalaska, La Crosse County
- Mississippi River Pool 4
- Mississippi River Pool 5 and 5a
- Mississippi River Pool 6
- Mississippi River Pool 7 and 8
- Mississippi River Pool 9
