Hi I am Captain Eric Hirzel and I have 41 years experience fishing on Lake Erie. I am credentialed by the USCG and currently hold a 50 ton Masters license. I specialize in 1 to 3 person customized trolling or casting charters for walleyes, perch, and steelhead on world famous Lake Erie using the latests techniques and equipment. I also offer jig fishing trips for walleye on the Detroit River in the spring or fall. I design your trip based on what you want....trophy opportunity, numbers, multi species, or instructional.
My Boat
My boat is a 2016 Starcraft STX2050 with 250 HP Mercury Pro XS for main power and a Minn Kota Terrova w/I-Pilot and 9.9 HP Mercury Pro Kicker trolling motors. I have 3 Lowrance HDS 9 Gen III touch screen sonar/GPS units, Hydrowave H2 system, and Cisco rod holders. Walleyes and steelhead are migratory so I cater to the needs of my customers to ensure they are on the hottest bite for their individual goals by staying mobile. I keep my boat on the trailer to be able to go to the optimum location to achieve customer goals.
Experience
I grew up on Lake Erie and have fished for walleyes, bass, perch, and steelhead since my childhood casting, jigging, and trolling from Maumee Bay to the Pennsylvania border. I've fished in and had success in several walleye tournaments including the Lake Erie Walleye Trail and Michigan Walleye Trail. I am also a volunteer captain and sponsor for the Walleyes for Wounded Heroes Marblehead event for the past 4 years.