At Dawn Guide Service LLC
At Dawn Guide Service

Before you Book

What to bring on every charter
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Current MI Fishing License Required for everyone 17 and older.
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Fish are cleaned and bagged (Carp and Bowfin will not be cleaned)
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Sunglasses and hats
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Sunscreen
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Dress in layers and always bring a raincoat
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Bring drinks and snacks/sandwiches. (No Glass or Hard Liquor)
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Closed toe shoes, crocks, or similar (no Flip-flops)
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Cooler to take home your Fish
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If doing a spearfishing trip it is up to the individual to bring all gear needed including a towel. I will gladly talk you through what you need, where to get it, or provide rentals if you let me know at booking. I understand gear breaks and I will have some extras on the boat.
What you need to know for a Spearfishing trip.
Equipment:
You are responsible for bring your own equipment (besides an Intro to Spearfishing Trip where equipment is provided.) We do offer equipment rental. It is imperative that you contact us in advance to discuss what equipment you may need to rent. A 5mm open-cell wetsuit is recommended in the Great Lakes. We recommend 75-100cm spearguns. Pole spears are always welcomed on the boat.
Experience:
Be honest with your experience and your dive depths so you can have an enjoyable day. Fish can be found anywhere from 10' to 50'+. Brand new divers/spearfishers must begin with an Intro to Spearfishing Charter before participating in other spearfishing trips with us. While die hard Spearos will want to check out an At Dawn Immersion for a full 2 day Michigan experience.
Safety on the water:
Safety is always the top priority. Divers will use the buddy system and one-up, one-down diving. We are excited to introduce new spearos to the sport and are committed to making your day both safe and enjoyable. Michigan law prohibits spearguns with loaded bands on the boat.
Questions?
If you have any questions about preparation, equipment, or expectations, please reach out prior to booking. We’re happy to help you plan your next adventure.
What to expect with an Underwater Spearfishing trip
A Great Lakes underwater spearfishing day starts late, often after sunrise to ensure we head toward the best conditions rather than a fixed location. Conditions on the Great Lakes can change quickly, so flexibility is key. We monitor weather, waves, currents, visibility, and water temperature closely to ensure the day will offer favorable conditions.
Once on the water, the pace is steady and deliberate. Travel times can range from short runs to over 10 miles depending on the port and the plan for the day. Many fish can be found in shallow water less than 20 feet. Fish can also be found deeper in 50+ feet. We will target what you are comfortable diving and will never expect you to over exert yourself for a fish. During the ride, we review dive plans, safety procedures, and expectations for the day. Every diver is paired with a buddy, and one-up, one-down diving is mandatory. One of us will be in the water with the group helping find fish, carry the fish, and even make you a better spearfisherman.
Dives may take place on natural or artificial structure, weeds, rock reefs/ledges, drop-offs, historic shipwrecks, or anywhere the fish are. Visibility can vary from limited to over 50ft crystal clear. Visibility can also be striated, meaning the top 10ft could look like chocolate milk and underneath be much clearer, making each dive unique.
Time spent on the boat is up to you. We are here to get you in the water and on fish. On the boat time is spent resting, hydrating, warming up, and adjusting plans as conditions evolve.
If you become fatigued, the trip can transition seamlessly to rod and reel trolling. The boat is always rigged, ensuring the day remains productive and enjoyable. We plan for 8 hours in the water diving and have some exciting tricks up our sleaves if needed.
By the end of the day, most trips wrap up tired, satisfied, and with a deeper appreciation for the scale, challenge, and reward of diving the Great Lakes. No two days are the same. That’s why we spend so much time in the water.
























