Guide Certification - Josh Miller, Majestic Michigan

What the License Covers

Michigan DNR issued Josh an Inland Sportfishing Guide license, which identifies him as a certified guide qualified to lead fishing trips on inland waters. The license number 124063507 appears on the certification Josh carries, along with his credentials used to purchase the license. When you book a trip with Majestic Michigan Outfitters, you're fishing with a guide who has met Michigan's requirements for leading anglers on rivers and lakes.

The license itself does not dictate which species you'll target or which water you'll fish—that depends on the season, what's running, and what you want to catch. Josh uses his knowledge of Michigan's regulations and local conditions to match you with the right target and technique for the day.

Fishing the Manistee and Muskegon Rivers

Josh bases his trips out of Brethren and Croton, with the Manistee and Muskegon Rivers as his primary waters. These rivers hold a range of species and draw anglers year-round because the fishing is reliable and the scenery is compelling. You could be targeting steelhead in early spring, salmon through the fall, or brown and rainbow trout when conditions are right.

Full-day Manistee River steelhead trips run eight hours and cost $550. If you're chasing salmon instead, a full day is $600 and includes the same eight-hour commitment aboard the 15-foot drift boat. Both trips offer fly fishing or conventional spinning options, so you can fish the way you prefer. Half-day salmon trips are also available if you want a shorter experience.

For anglers interested in trout rather than steelhead or salmon, Josh offers a full-day Manistee River trout trip for $550. You'll have eight hours on the water targeting wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The drift boat accommodates two anglers, which means plenty of casting space and personal attention from your guide.

Beyond the River: Lakes and Different Techniques

Fishing does not stop at the river. From May through September, Josh offers eight-hour summer bass and bluegill trips on local lakes for $450. If you've always wanted to try fly fishing but have not had the chance, this is a productive way to learn the technique on species that respond well to it.

For something completely different, spearfishing is available during the winter months. From December through mid-March, Josh runs eight-hour spearfishing trips in a heated dark house shanty. You will use a seven-tine spear to target northern pike and muskie, with Josh using decoys to attract fish to your location. Contact Josh directly before booking to confirm availability and get details about this specialized trip.

All trips include quality gear. Your rods, reels, and a selection of lures matched to the season are provided. When live bait is the right choice for the day, it will be on hand as well. You will fish from a well-maintained 16-foot drift boat—or 15-foot Hyde drift boat on some trips—designed for shallow drafts and a smooth ride on Michigan waters.

What You Need to Bring and Know Before You Go

One important detail: you must have a Michigan fishing license. This is separate from Josh's guide certification and is required for each person in your group. You can purchase a Michigan license directly from the DNR or through authorized retailers before your trip. It takes only minutes and ensures you are legal to fish.

Fish species have their own regulations—some have minimum sizes, slot limits, or seasonal closures. Josh knows these rules and will remind you of them during your trip. If you want to double-check anything beforehand, visit the Michigan DNR website or ask Josh when you confirm your booking.

Pack polarized sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock (non-spray works best on a boat). Bring bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the day, and wear layered clothing so you can adjust as the temperature changes. The morning chill burns off, and wind on the water is a real factor, so dress in layers you can shed or add as needed.

Josh runs his trips with a welcoming, straightforward approach. Whether you're booking your first guided fishing experience or you are a seasoned angler looking for new water and expert local knowledge, the goal is the same: a productive day outside in one of Michigan's best fishing regions.