Meridia

Monster Hunters Charters

Status: enriched

Captain Mike has been guiding anglers through Upstate New York's diverse fisheries for 38 years, building deep knowledge of the Hudson River's striped bass runs, Lake Ontario's trophy salmon and steelhead populations, and the Mohawk River's fall muskie and pike action. His operation spans spring spawning runs on the Hudson, summer lake fishing on Ontario for king salmon and coho, and autumn pursuits of aggressive muskies and pike. With experience across multiple species and water types—from river sight-casting to open-water trolling—he tailors trips to all skill levels and seasonal opportunities.

Details

  • Species: Lake Trout, Steelhead, Silver Salmon, Striped Bass, King Salmon, Brown Trout, Musky, Northern Pike
  • Tags: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, First-Time Anglers, Center Console, Spin Fishing, Trolling, Spring, Summer, Autumn, Streamer, Topwater, Live Bait, Family Friendly, Full Day, Charter, Gear Provided, Flies / Lures Provided, Freshwater

Waters Serviced (1)

DestinationType
Hudson Riverriver

FAQ — Monster Hunters Charters

Raw guide data (JSON)
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  "organizationId": "7e9e2073-f7e6-4dec-ba48-88d6991bab29",
  "name": "Monster Hunters Charters",
  "guideName": "Captain Mike",
  "slug": "monster-hunter-charters",
  "bio": "Captain Mike has been guiding anglers through Upstate New York's diverse fisheries for 38 years, building deep knowledge of the Hudson River's striped bass runs, Lake Ontario's trophy salmon and steelhead populations, and the Mohawk River's fall muskie and pike action. His operation spans spring spawning runs on the Hudson, summer lake fishing on Ontario for king salmon and coho, and autumn pursuits of aggressive muskies and pike. With experience across multiple species and water types—from river sight-casting to open-water trolling—he tailors trips to all skill levels and seasonal opportunities.",
  "yearsExperience": 38,
  "descriptionShort": "Monster Hunters Charters operates out of Wynantskill, NY, offering year-round guided trips across the Hudson River, Lake Ontario, and the Mohawk River. Captain Mike targets striped bass, salmon, steelhead, lake trout, brown trout, muskie, and pike with both conventional and fly tackle, rotating seasonally to match fish migrations and peak conditions.",
  "descriptionLong": null,
  "editorialPitch": "Captain Mike rotates through Upstate New York's premier fisheries with 38 years of seasonal expertise—striped bass explosions on the Hudson in spring, trophy salmon on Lake Ontario in summer, and aggressive muskies on the Mohawk come fall.",
  "fishinessRating": 4,
  "rating": null,
  "reviewCount": 0,
  "vertical": "guide_service",
  "isOutfitter": false,
  "hasMultipleGuides": false,
  "guideType": "multi_species",
  "tripStyle": "serious_angler",
  "fishingTypes": [
    "striped bass fishing",
    "salmon fishing",
    "steelhead fishing",
    "lake trout fishing",
    "brown trout fishing",
    "muskie fishing",
    "pike fishing",
    "inshore",
    "offshore",
    "flats fishing",
    "backcountry"
  ],
  "bestFor": [
    "freshwater",
    "advanced",
    "intermediate",
    "beginner",
    "families",
    "groups",
    "trophy-fish"
  ],
  "hasGoogleMaps": true,
  "qualityTier": "good",
  "thinData": false,
  "possiblyClosed": false,
  "city": "Wynantskill",
  "stateProvince": "NY",
  "countryCode": "US",
  "country": null,
  "timezone": "UTC-4",
  "canonicalUrl": "https://monsterhunterscharters.com/",
  "tripAdvisorUrl": null,
  "googleMapsUrl": "https://maps.google.com/?cid=13623407461622177826&g_mp=CiVnb29nbGUubWFwcy5wbGFjZXMudjEuUGxhY2VzLkdldFBsYWNlEAIYBCAA",
  "openMonths": [
    4,
    5,
    7,
    8,
    9,
    10,
    11
  ],
  "peakMonths": null,
  "fishingSeasonsNarrative": "My guiding year with Monster Hunters Charters is a journey through the diverse fisheries of Upstate New York, dictated by the seasons and the migrations of our target species. Spring brings us to the Hudson River for the powerful Striped Bass, as they make their way upriver to spawn. Summer transitions us to the vast waters of Lake Ontario, where we pursue trophy King Salmon, along with Steelhead, Coho, Lake Trout, and Brown Trout. As the leaves begin to turn, our focus shifts to the Mohawk River in the fall, a prime time for tackling the aggressive Muskie and Northern Pike. Each season offers a unique experience, from the explosive runs of salmon to the hard-fighting striped bass and the toothy predators of the fall.",
  "meetingPoint": null,
  "providesGear": true,
  "gearNotes": "All rods, reels, and tackle are provided. The guide offers trips for all skill levels and is family-friendly, suggesting a well-equipped operation with rental or loaner gear available.",
  "kidFriendly": true,
  "skillLevel": "all levels",
  "cancellationPolicy": null,
  "licenseInfo": null,
  "whatToExpect": "Trips rotate seasonally through three primary fisheries: spring striped bass on the Hudson River near Albany and Cohoes, summer salmon and trout on Lake Ontario, and fall muskie and pike on the Mohawk River. Days are customized to conditions and target species, with both conventional and fly-fishing options available. All gear is provided, and the operation welcomes families and anglers of all skill levels.",
  "status": "enriched",
  "profileTier": "standard",
  "pipelineId": 303,
  "createdAt": "2026-06-08T18:23:26.780Z",
  "updatedAt": "2026-06-08T18:23:26.780Z",
  "credentials": [],
  "geom": {
    "type": "Point",
    "coordinates": [
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  },
  "tags": [
    {
      "slug": "beginner",
      "name": "Beginner",
      "tagType": "ability"
    },
    {
      "slug": "intermediate",
      "name": "Intermediate",
      "tagType": "ability"
    },
    {
      "slug": "advanced",
      "name": "Advanced",
      "tagType": "ability"
    },
    {
      "slug": "first-time-anglers",
      "name": "First-Time Anglers",
      "tagType": "best_for"
    },
    {
      "slug": "center-console",
      "name": "Center Console",
      "tagType": "boat_type"
    },
    {
      "slug": "spin-fishing",
      "name": "Spin Fishing",
      "tagType": "fishing_style"
    },
    {
      "slug": "trolling",
      "name": "Trolling",
      "tagType": "fishing_style"
    },
    {
      "slug": "spring",
      "name": "Spring",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
      "slug": "summer",
      "name": "Summer",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
      "slug": "autumn",
      "name": "Autumn",
      "tagType": "season"
    },
    {
      "slug": "streamer",
      "name": "Streamer",
      "tagType": "technique"
    },
    {
      "slug": "topwater",
      "name": "Topwater",
      "tagType": "technique"
    },
    {
      "slug": "live-bait",
      "name": "Live Bait",
      "tagType": "technique"
    },
    {
      "slug": "family-friendly",
      "name": "Family Friendly",
      "tagType": "theme"
    },
    {
      "slug": "full-day",
      "name": "Full Day",
      "tagType": "trip_format"
    },
    {
      "slug": "charter",
      "name": "Charter",
      "tagType": "trip_format"
    },
    {
      "slug": "gear-provided",
      "name": "Gear Provided",
      "tagType": "trip_inclusion"
    },
    {
      "slug": "flies-provided",
      "name": "Flies / Lures Provided",
      "tagType": "trip_inclusion"
    },
    {
      "slug": "freshwater",
      "name": "Freshwater",
      "tagType": "water_type"
    }
  ],
  "faqs": [
    {
      "id": "8e68bbf7-3a5c-4df4-9bdf-b30632400f5c",
      "question": "Do I need a fishing license for the Hudson River Striped Bass trip?",
      "answer": "NOTE - There is a no-fee recreational marine fishing registry for the Hudson River. For more information, go to www.dec.ny.gov or call 1-866-933-2257 to register. Everyone 16yrs of age and older must register prior to fishing.",
      "category": "fishing",
      "sortOrder": 0
    },
    {
      "id": "829ed89b-f92d-416b-a752-59a782489315",
      "question": "What are the rates for the Hudson River Striped Bass half-day trips?",
      "answer": "We offer 2 half-day trips daily: A Half Day Morning Trip: 6am-11am...$500, A Half Day Evening Trip: 2pm-7pm...$500.",
      "category": "booking",
      "sortOrder": 1
    },
    {
      "id": "f1b01ead-9389-4e3a-bb85-1811591a96ad",
      "question": "What are the rates for Lake Ontario Salmon & Steelhead fishing?",
      "answer": "$100/hr for 1-4 passengers minimum of 5 hours. Two-day charters are encouraged in case of bad weather. Call us @ 518-892-6852 for rates, details, and lodging suggestions.",
      "category": "booking",
      "sortOrder": 2
    },
    {
      "id": "e6ef6c29-bbc5-48b2-a61a-52aac69db214",
      "question": "Where are you located for Lake Ontario Salmon fishing?",
      "answer": "We are located at Oak Orchard Harbor, 14357 Ontario St, on the beautiful Oak Orchard River, Kent, Orleans County NY 14477.",
      "category": "trip",
      "sortOrder": 3
    },
    {
      "id": "86183eb6-4bb5-41c2-b5de-f317dc34df9d",
      "question": "Where are you located for Hudson River Striped Bass fishing?",
      "answer": "During the spring months of April/May, we will be fishing for Striped Bass on the Hudson River and will be docked at Albany Yacht Club. Their address is 75 Broadway, Rensselaer, NY.",
      "category": "trip",
      "sortOrder": 4
    },
    {
      "id": "eca7d8c9-c832-4a7e-8a2f-de05558e9789",
      "question": "What is the boat and its capacity?",
      "answer": "She is a meticulously well maintained 1992, 24 ft Thompson, Hardtop Fisherman. She comfortably fishes 6 Adults (2 crew and 4 passengers) and is powered by a 260 hp 5.7L V8 MerCruiser inboard/outboard. We also have a 2007, 15 hp Honda 4 stroke outboard kicker motor.",
      "category": "boat",
      "sortOrder": 5
    },
    {
      "id": "dd6eda2a-47c3-406c-aabd-73199a58f715",
      "question": "What equipment does the boat have?",
      "answer": "Fully equipped with the following: Garmin S/D 9 and Garmin S/D 7, 4 power Scotty downriggers, Big Jon duel otter boat planers with triple tree rod holders. We also run a full line of professional grade Okuma rods and reels, and all the latest in premium grade tackle. We boast a fully enclosed propane heated wheelhouse for foul weather. She has comfortable seating and an extra-large commercial grade ice chest for keeping your catch fresh. There is access to a bathroom or porter potty at all of our docks and we also carry a donicker on board if needed.",
      "category": "gear",
      "sortOrder": 6
    },
    {
      "id": "edae8b74-2b93-46d9-849a-39c89e607381",
      "question": "How many anglers can the boat fish?",
      "answer": "She comfortably fishes 6 Adults (2 crew and 4 passengers).",
      "category": "boat",
      "sortOrder": 7
    }
  ],
  "destinations": [
    {
      "slug": "hudson-river-ny",
      "name": "Hudson River",
      "type": "river",
      "primary": true,
      "confirmed": true,
      "relationship": "in_region",
      "distanceMeters": null
    }
  ],
  "primaryDestinationSlug": "hudson-river-ny",
  "accommodations": [],
  "species": [
    {
      "slug": "lake-trout",
      "commonName": "Lake Trout",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
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        8,
        9
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Lake Trout are a consistent summer catch on Lake Ontario, providing a great option for anglers seeking a robust fight.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "steelhead",
      "commonName": "Steelhead",
      "category": "anadromous",
      "availableMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "We target Steelhead on Lake Ontario during the summer months, offering a thrilling fight on these acrobatic fish.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "silver-salmon",
      "commonName": "Silver Salmon",
      "category": "anadromous",
      "availableMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Coho Salmon are another exciting summer target on Lake Ontario, known for their spirited runs and aerial displays.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "striped-bass",
      "commonName": "Striped Bass",
      "category": "saltwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        4,
        5
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        4,
        5
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "In the spring, we target Striped Bass on the Hudson River as they migrate upstream to spawn. This is a prime time to hook into these powerful fighters.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "king-salmon",
      "commonName": "King Salmon",
      "category": "anadromous",
      "availableMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Lake Ontario is renowned for its trophy King Salmon, which we pursue throughout the summer months. It's an angler's paradise for these powerful game fish.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "brown-trout",
      "commonName": "Brown Trout",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        7,
        8,
        9
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "Brown Trout are also available on Lake Ontario during the summer, offering another fantastic angling opportunity.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "musky",
      "commonName": "Musky",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "The fall months on the Mohawk River are prime time for targeting the elusive and powerful Muskie, a true trophy for any angler.",
      "notes": null
    },
    {
      "slug": "northern-pike",
      "commonName": "Northern Pike",
      "category": "freshwater",
      "availableMonths": [
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "peakMonths": [
        9,
        10,
        11
      ],
      "seasonalityNotes": "In the fall, the Mohawk River also provides excellent opportunities to catch aggressive Northern Pike, known for their voracious strikes.",
      "notes": null
    }
  ],
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  "avgRating": null,
  "imageUrl": null,
  "photos": []
}