Spring
Coho Rush
Fast-paced salmon close to shore as warming water draws baitfish.
About the Association
Nestled along the Illinois–Wisconsin border in Winthrop Harbor, IL, the North Point Charter Boat Association operates from one of the premier freshwater marinas on the Great Lakes. With more than 1,500 slips and easy access to deep water, the marina has become a gateway to some of the best salmon and trout fishing on Lake Michigan. Located just an hour north of Chicago and less than an hour south of Milwaukee, North Point Marina combines the convenience of a major metropolitan destination with the atmosphere of a true fishing harbor. From early sunrise departures to summer evenings spent along the docks, the marina has long been a gathering place for anglers, captains, and families who share a passion for life on the water.
Since the marina opened in the late 1980s, North Point has grown into one of the most respected charter fishing hubs on the Great Lakes. The North Point Charter Boat Association was formed by professional captains dedicated to providing safe, professional, and productive fishing experiences across the Illinois and Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan. Over the decades, the harbor has earned a reputation for consistent salmon and trout action, attracting tournament anglers, seasoned captains, and first-time fishermen alike. Its proximity to deep water and migratory fish routes has helped establish Winthrop Harbor as one of the Midwest's most dependable ports for charter fishing, especially during the legendary spring coho salmon run that brings boats from across the region.
3 Seasons of Great Fishing Action
Fishing out of North Point Marina evolves throughout the season, offering a different experience from spring through fall. Early spring is famous for fast-paced coho salmon fishing close to shore as warming water draws baitfish into the harbor area. As summer arrives, anglers begin targeting larger chinook, steelhead, and lake trout further offshore in deeper water. By late summer and early fall, mature king salmon stage along the shoreline before their spawning runs — some of the most exciting battles of the year. Cooler autumn temperatures bring excellent trout fishing and quieter days on the water, giving anglers a final opportunity to experience Lake Michigan at its best before the season winds down.
Summer
Offshore Depths
Chinook, Steelhead & lake trout in deeper water.
Late Summer — Fall
King Salmon Run
Trophy king salmon staging along the shoreline.
Autumn
Quiet & Rewarding
Excellent trout fishing before the season winds down.
Charter Captains of North Point
Every captain in the North Point Charter Boat Association is a licensed professional committed to safe, memorable, and productive days on Lake Michigan.
