Kessel Guide Service
Kessel Guide Service is an independent fishing guide service and is a member of Michigan River Guide Association. We are licensed and insured. The guide business was passed down by David Kessel who is known to most people as "Captain Dave" he was a river guide for over 40 years. The business was passed down to the oldest son Brian who is the proprietor, and later on he was joined by his younger brother Kevin. The Kessel boys have been fishing as long as they can remember. "The next generation where experience meets fun and memories ."
Brian Kessel
Brian is life long resident to the Baldwin area. He has either fished the Pere Marquette River or the Big Manistee River his whole life. He is married to his wife Kay and has two boys; he has passed do wn his love of fishing to both of his boys Brett and Matthew.
Kevin Kessel
Kevin is also a life long resident to the Baldwin area. He has also fished the rivers around him his whole life and is married to his wife DeLynn.
Operating Dates
January 1st to April 30th, steelhead fishing on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee river.
August lst to October 20th, salmon fishing on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee River.
October 20th to December 31st, steelhead fishing on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee river.
Services Provided
We offer salmon and steelhead fishing on the Pere Marquette and Big Manistee River. Options of running plugs, spinners or spawn. All fishing tackle provided personal safety devices and personal guide.
Fly-fishing on the Pere Marquette River is also available.
Rates: Full day 8-10 hours or until customer reaches limit, $100 non-refundable deposit required to hold date for new clients.
Party of one = $250.00
Party of two = $350.00
Additional charge for flies $25 for one
$50 for two
- We hold a state license
- Riverside lunch is included in price
- Member of the Michigan River guide Association
- US Forest Service Approved
Customer Safety
A. Equipment Inspections
We do a safety check before each trip.
B.Safety Discussions
Upon customers entering the boat, we go over river conditions, personal flotation device locations and wading safety, etc.
C.First Aid and CPR
Brian Kessel, proprietor – currently certified as a Medical First Responder (MFR).
Kevin Kessel, guide- currently certified as a Medical First Responder (MFR).
Information provided to customers
A. Laws, Rules and Regulations
We promote catch and release. If a fish is kept, we do stress the release of females. All state and federal rules are complied with.
B. River Ethics
We never anchor, fish, or wade through a piece of water that someone else is fishing. When having to float through, I do everything I can to prevent disturbing another angler’s area of fishing.