Jeff Slaasted

Sam-I-Am II Charters is a premier Lake Michigan fishing charter operating out of the Racine, Wisconsin harbor. Guided by Captain Jeff and First Mate Sam, our full-time guide service is dedicated to providing an outstanding day on the water for anglers of all skill levels. With over 50 years of fishing experience, Captain Jeff intimately understands the seasonal patterns of the lake, allowing us to confidently guarantee an excellent catch on every single trip—or you do not pay! Whether you are searching for a highly productive Racine salmon fishing charter or a relaxing family-friendly fishing trip, we tailor each outing to your goals. We specialize in trolling for a wide variety of species, tracking down Coho Salmon in the late spring, powerful Chinook (King) Salmon during the peak summer months, and an abundance of Rainbow Trout (Steelhead), Lake Trout, and Brown Trout as the seasons shift. Your trip takes place aboard the 'Sam-I-Am II', a spacious 36-foot Trojan motor yacht fully restored in 2026. Designed with comfort and stability in mind, our vessel is perfectly suited for safely accommodating up to six guests. Powered by twin 330HP engines, the boat gets you to the best fishing grounds quickly. It is fully rigged with the latest navigational GPS, radar, fishfinders, and Bigjon downriggers to ensure a successful Wisconsin fishing charter. We also feature a private onboard toilet, refrigerator, and plenty of covered space, making it the ideal setup for beginners and families with children. From targeting heavy King Salmon to setting up shorter "first catch" trips for young anglers, Sam-I-Am II Charters provides a complete, professional experience. We supply all premium rods, reels, tackle, and lures needed for your Lake Michigan charter fishing trip. After returning to the dock, our crew will professionally clean and fillet your catch so it is ready for the grill. Join us for a private fishing charter Racine WI style. With our state-of-the-art equipment, seasoned crew, and guaranteed catch policy, Sam-I-Am II Charters is your top choice for Lake Michigan fishing trips.

EPSG:4269

The summer fishing season is in full swing out of the Racine harbor. Captain Jeff and First Mate Sam have been finding consistent success on our recent Lake Michigan fishing trips. Water temperatures are gradually rising, and that transition is creating highly productive fishing conditions off the coast of southeastern Wisconsin.

Current Catch and Conditions
Our latest Racine fishing report highlights a fantastic mixed bag. We are still boxing very solid numbers of hungry Coho Salmon holding in the top half of the water column. However, the standout feature of this past week has been the steady arrival of heavy Chinook (King) Salmon. We are also seeing occasional Lake Trout and fast-moving Rainbow Trout (Steelhead) intersecting with our trolling spreads, giving our anglers a great variety of species to take home.

Techniques on the Water
The Bigjon downriggers have been putting in serious work aboard the Sam-I-Am II. Running a mix of spoons and flasher-fly combinations at varying depths has been the most effective method for tracking down active schools. Captain Jeff has been closely monitoring the fishfinder, and making precise depth adjustments based on where the baitfish are schooling has been the key to maintaining a highly reliable bite throughout our morning and afternoon charters.

Looking Ahead
As we head further into the peak summer months, we expect the King salmon fishing Wisconsin offers to only improve. The weather patterns have been cooperative, and our 36-foot Trojan yacht continues to provide a smooth, highly stable ride for everyone on board.

If you have been keeping an eye on the Wisconsin salmon fishing report, right now is an ideal time to get out on the water. The bite is steady, the fish are healthy, and our crew is ready to put you on them.

Two anglers displaying large Chinook salmon catch at night in Racine Wisconsin

Lake Michigan King and Coho Salmon Trolling Report

Fishing charter boat with multiple salmon laid out on deck in Racine WI waters

Fresh caught salmon fillets in plastic bags on boat cleaning station in Racine WI

Fishing net on boat with rainbow over water in Racine WI

Fresh caught fish held up on fishing boat in Racine WI waters

Fishing charter boat with anglers on Lake Michigan near Racine WI

Fishing rod bent with catch on boat in Racine WI waters at sunset

Bow of boat on calm water at sunset near Racine WI

Research vessel deck with scientific equipment and sampling tools on Lake Michigan near Racine WI

Fishing charter boat deck with fresh caught fish laid out in Racine WI

Fishing boat on water in Racine WI with multiple fishing rods set up for charter fishing

Freshly caught fish held on fishing boat deck in Racine WI waters

View from back of fishing boat showing wake and fishing rods in rod holders on open water near Racine WI

Fishing rods mounted on boat rail with lines in water off Racine Wisconsin

Multiple coho salmon and rainbow trout hanging on fishing rack in Racine Wisconsin

Reserve your date with Sam-I-Am II Charters in Racine today and prepare for the catch of a lifetime on beautiful Lake Michigan! Secure your spot now to join our crew for a truly unforgettable day on the water.

Join Captain Jeff and First Mate Sam for a premier Lake Michigan salmon fishing charter out of Racine, Wisconsin. With over 30 years of angling experience, our expert local guides know exactly how to track down the area's most prized catches, including heavy King Salmon, active Coho Salmon, and beautiful Brown Trout. Whether you are an experienced angler looking to maximize your time on the water or searching for family-friendly trips tailored for children and beginners, the fully restored 36-foot Sam-I-Am II offers a safe, comfortable environment for everyone. We provide all the premium gear, tackle, and hands-on instruction you need to confidently guarantee an excellent catch. We pride ourselves on delivering highly productive, private fishing charters in Racine, WI, offering exceptional value and affordable prices for groups of up to six passengers. Instead of running on a strict dock-to-dock schedule, our crew works relentlessly to ensure your lines are in the water right where the fish are holding. From the first bite to the complimentary catch cleaning and filleting back at the marina, we handle all the hard work so you can simply focus on reeling them in. Do not miss out on this season's most rewarding bite—book your fishing trip today and let our seasoned crew guide you to a successful day on the lake.

Find quick answers to common questions about our Racine charter trips to ensure your day on the water is perfectly prepared.

Captain Jeff brings over 50 years of dedicated angling experience to every outing on Lake Michigan. His deep-rooted passion for the water began decades ago, evolving into a lifelong commitment to mastering the seasonal migrations of salmon and trout off the Racine coastline. By spending countless hours observing water patterns and baitfish movements, he has developed an intuitive understanding of the lake that allows him to locate active schools when others are still searching. Guests appreciate his patient, hands-on approach, as he finds genuine satisfaction in teaching new anglers the nuances of trolling while sharing stories from his long career on the Great Lakes. Beyond the technical side of the sport, Captain Jeff prides himself on fostering a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere aboard his vessel. He believes that a successful day on the water is defined not just by the catch, but by the shared enjoyment and the stories created among friends and family. Whether he is coaching a child through their first reel-in or sharing refined trolling strategies with a seasoned veteran, his goal is to ensure every passenger feels comfortable and confident. This professional, steady demeanor is why so many guests return year after year, viewing him as a trusted partner in their fishing traditions. His expertise is built on a foundation of constant adaptation and deep local knowledge. Captain Jeff keeps a sharp focus on real-time lake conditions, constantly monitoring water temperature shifts and current changes that dictate fish behavior. This dedication means he is always prepared with the right equipment and the most effective tactics for the specific conditions of the day. Choosing to fish with him means you are learning from a local veteran who respects the lake, understands the necessity of conservation, and is entirely focused on providing a high-quality, authentic Great Lakes fishing experience. The Sam-I-Am II serves as the perfect platform for this expert-led mission. This 36-foot Trojan yacht has been fully restored and equipped with the latest marine electronics, including precise sonar and high-end GPS systems that are essential for tracking fish across vast stretches of water. Designed for comfort and stability, the boat features an enclosed cabin and an onboard restroom, ensuring that the environment is safe and suitable for all guests, regardless of their experience level. With its spacious deck and professional-grade downriggers, the Sam-I-Am II is maintained to the highest standards, offering a reliable and smooth ride even when Lake Michigan gets lively.

Over Fifty Years Of Lake Michigan Angling Expertise

Planning a trip with Sam-I-Am II Charters? Learn everything about Wisconsin fishing licenses, stamps, and exemptions for your Lake Michigan fishing trip.

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Target Coho, King Salmon and trout on premium Lake Michigan charters. Book your guided trip today.

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Racine Fishing Charter Frequently Asked Questions What is included in a fishing charter with Sam-I-Am II Charters in Racine, WI?Your Racine fishing charter includes all the premium rods, reels, tackle, and lures needed for a highly productive day on the water. Captain Jeff and First Mate Sam also provide professional catch cleaning and filleting when we return to the dock, along with expert instruction for anglers of all skill levels. How much does a fishing charter cost in Racine, Wisconsin?Our private fishing charter rates are structured as a flat fee for the entire boat, accommodating up to six passengers. Our five-hour half-day Lake Michigan trips cost $675, and our popular six-hour package is $775. For those looking for the ultimate eight-hour full-day experience, please check our rates page or contact us directly for current pricing. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for a Lake Michigan fishing trip?No, you do not need to bring your own equipment. Sam-I-Am II Charters supplies top-quality downriggers, rods, reels, and tackle fully rigged for Lake Michigan trolling, so all you need to bring is your fishing license, weather-appropriate clothing, and food or drinks for the day. Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?Yes, complimentary catch cleaning and filleting are included with every Lake Michigan charter fishing trip. First Mate Sam will professionally prepare your salmon and trout at the marina, bagging the fresh fillets so they are completely ready for your grill or cooler. What is the best time of year to fish on a Racine salmon fishing charter?The best time depends on the species you want to target, but our seasonal trips run from May 10 through October 30. Late spring is incredible for fast-paced Coho Salmon fishing, while the peak summer months offer the most reliable King Salmon fishing Wisconsin has to offer. Are families and beginners welcome on Sam-I-Am II Charters in Racine?Absolutely, we specialize in providing a family-friendly fishing charter Racine families love. Our 36-foot Trojan motor yacht is incredibly stable and features an onboard toilet, making it safe and comfortable for children to catch their very first salmon or trout. Does Captain Jeff offer a guaranteed catch on your Lake Michigan fishing trips?Yes, Sam-I-Am II Charters operates under a strict guaranteed-catch policy. Our hardworking crew does not run a rigid dock-to-dock schedule; we focus entirely on putting you on the fish, and we guarantee an excellent catch on every trip, or you do not pay. What do I need to bring for my guided salmon-fishing trip on Lake Michigan?Guests should bring a valid Wisconsin Great Lakes fishing license with a Salmon/Trout stamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, and layered clothing for changing weather conditions. You are also welcome to bring a cooler with your preferred snacks and beverages to enjoy while fishing. What happens if the weather is poor for our Racine, Wisconsin guided fishing trip?Safety is our top priority aboard the Sam-I-Am II. If Captain Jeff determines the Lake Michigan conditions are unsafe for our salmon fishing trips, we will gladly help you reschedule your private charter or offer a free cancellation up to seven days prior to your trip.

Prime Lake Michigan Fishing Grounds In Racine

Great For Top Anglers

Best Spots

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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