Captain Zachary, a licensed captain aged 32, hails from New Buffalo, Michigan, located in the southwestern region of the state. His passion for fishing began early, inspired by his father, Donald, who introduced him to the sport and motivated him to pursue a career as a top-tier fishing guide. Starting at just 12 years old, Zach gained valuable experience working as a deckhand, honing his skills in catching salmon, trout, and walleye across Lake Michigan and the adjacent waterways in Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan.
Zach's deep connection to the water led him to enroll at the College of Charleston, where he studied Anthropology and Archaeology, specializing in Marine Archaeology. During his studies, he contributed to the Maritime Research Division in South Carolina, focusing on the recovery, documentation, and preservation of underwater historical artifacts and prehistoric marine fauna. It was also during this period that he earned his Divemaster and rescue diving certifications in Utila, Honduras, establishing himself as a professional scuba diver.
After earning his degree, Zach returned to the Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan areas to assist with his father’s environmental cleanup business while developing his own fishing guide enterprise. In the summer of 2020, Zach experienced Lake St. Clair for the first time, pursuing musky fishing, a moment that profoundly impacted his life. Shortly after this memorable trip, he faced a heartbreaking loss: his father Don, who had been the driving force behind his aspirations as a professional fishing guide, succumbed to mental health struggles. Don was a remarkable individual and a self-made man who embodied the American dream for his family. As an avid and skilled walleye fisherman, Don affectionately named their close-knit friend group “The Wolfpack,” which now serves as the foundation and inspiration for Captain Zach’s fishing guide service.
The “Wolfpack” concept reflects the core philosophy Zach embraces in his guiding approach: fostering a supportive community where members help one another grow in expertise, knowledge, and passion for fishing. Musky fishing, though often physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging, offers an exhilarating reward that quickly captures the hearts of those who pursue it—just as it did for Captain Zach. His goal is to provide clients with an enjoyable, educational fishing experience featuring memorable moments, skill-building opportunities, and a welcoming environment, all while chasing trophy-sized fish.
Captain Zachary’s journey ultimately brought him to Detroit, Michigan, where he launched his fishing guide service focused on musky and walleye fishing. He offers guided trips utilizing various techniques, including casting, trolling, and jigging on Lake St. Clair and its connected waters. The guide service officially began in the summer of 2021, with musky fishing trips starting in June 2022 and walleye excursions commencing in March 2023. Clients can expect flexibility in choosing their starting location for a day on the water.
Many satisfied customers have praised their experiences, describing their outings as extraordinary and the best guided trips they’ve ever had. With outstanding service, enjoyable and memorable adventures, families and fishing enthusiasts alike look forward to returning for their next journey with Captain Zach.
You can cancel your booking at no cost if done at least 14 days prior to your scheduled trip, and the amount will be credited back to your account. If you cancel within 14 days of the trip, your deposit will be non-refundable and given to the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or failure to show up will result in the full trip cost being charged to your payment method.
We provide all necessary gear for the trip. However, we suggest bringing along sunglasses, sunscreen, clothing suitable for the weather, and any personal equipment you wish to use.
Experience the excitement of jigging during the spring walleye run on the Detroit and St. Clair River systems, widely regarded as one of the most effective methods for targeting walleye. This fishing technique typically involves using a 1000-2500 series spin casting reel spooled with 8-12LB test braid, often opting for high-visibility braid connected to a barrel swivel. From there, a 1-3 foot section of 8-12LB fluorocarbon leader is added. Anglers have varied preferences for rods, but the most favored are 5’9” to 6’3” long, medium to medium-heavy power, fast-action, one-piece rods.
Jig heads commonly range from 5/8 to 1.5 ounces, chosen based on river conditions and the angler’s ability to stay vertical and maintain contact with the bottom. These jig heads are typically paired with a 4-inch soft plastic minnow or worm, often enhanced with a stinger hook to secure wary fish. For increased attraction, many anglers tip their jigs with a live emerald shiner, adding both flash and a natural scent.
The vertical jigging experience is not only highly rewarding due to the significant catch rates but also incredibly enjoyable, leading to many happy anglers. The abundance of life in these river systems means that while targeting walleye, it’s common to encounter a variety of other species, including musky, pike, smallmouth bass, white bass, catfish, and even sturgeon, making every trip very diverse and exciting.
Trips are available from mid to late March through the end of May. The pricing includes up to three clients at $100 per additional person (4th, 5th). A $150 deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your trip.
Experience premier fishing adventures aboard the 2019 Ranger 621 FS, a sleek 21-foot bass boat powered by a robust 350 hp Mercury engine. Perfectly designed for serious anglers, this boat offers exceptional speed and maneuverability, allowing you to reach prime fishing spots quickly and efficiently. The Wolfpack Fishing Charters & Guide Service ensures a well-equipped and expertly maintained vessel, enhancing your comfort and safety throughout your trip. Without onboard restrooms, the focus remains on maximizing fishing time and performance. Expect a thrilling day on the water, targeting bass with confidence and enjoying the ultimate fishing experience tailored for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
