Algoma from a smaller boat

Ever since vacationing in Door County a couple of weeks ago, I’ve been chewing on the idea of driving over to Algoma for some salmon/trout action.

I have a crestliner fishhawk 1750 so I’m not going 10 miles out to chase the bigguns, and I’m not downrigger equipped, but I have a fair bit of experience pulling cranks for eyes on flatlines, boards, and leadcore.

My question is this: when is a good time, in general, to target salmon and trout in nearshore waters? Can a guy get enough action in areas within a few miles of the ports to make it a worthwhile trip?

Used to go out in late June through second week in July for salmon fishing out of Kewaunee. Fishing was good. Used a 16′ boat and frequently went out 2-3 miles. Though we were using downriggers, had a CB, and at least one other boat fishing with us. A lot of fish came out of 60-200 ft water. Then again it’s been at least 10 years.

You just had to follow the fish and weren’t required to go out past 1.5 miles to find the chinooks or cohos at that time. Rainbows(steelhead) were usually out 3-10 miles with an occational school in closer.

I’d wait a couple of weeks to get some kings right outside the harbor getting ready to run up the river. J-plugs and minnow baits usually work off boards or flat lines. Last weekend, a few were caught near the harbot but most were 80-120′ down over 150’+

Pick up a set of Dipsey Divers and use on your heavy rods. They take a spoon or fly down deep and off to the side. Also make sure you have the flares and safety gear for the big lake. Coast Guard likes to check out smaller rigs with out of state stickers. I use to run out of Manitowoc in a 12 footer many years ago.

Hey Jason when ya wanna go. I like fishing out of Algoma. I only have a 17 footer and make it out as long as the wind isn’t blowing.I’ve got the dipseys,and stuff.
Steve