Churchville Outfitters is a family-run operation, providing guided fishing expeditions out of Port Glasgow, Ontario and Lighthouse Cove Ontario. We operate 7 days a week starting May 15th until September 15th.
As licensed captains and guides, we are fully insured and comply with all laws and regulations set by Transport Canada & the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Whether you are an experienced fisherman pursuing a record breaking lunker, or you are looking to experience that magical feeling of a fish biting for the first time, Churchville Outfitters has the experience and expertise to guarantee you leave with pictures, fresh fish, and a piece of your summer that will never be forgotten.
Captain & Guides
Ben Schnekenburger
Ben was born and raised in Churchville, Ontario, a rural farming area on the outskirts of the nearby town of Rodney. Growing up just a short distance away from Lake Erie had him fascinated by the water and the outdoors from a young age. At 19 years old, he purchased his first boat and has rarely missed a day on the water since.
When conditions are too rough to venture out onto Lake Erie, Ben can often be found on Rondeau Bay casting for largemouth, on Lake St Clair trolling for musky, or on the Detroit River jigging for walleye. Living only a short drive from these world-renowned fisheries, Ben has taken advantage of the opportunity to target and catch multiple species and has developed a repertoire of different techniques and presentations along the way.
After nearly 8 years of working as an environmentalist for the Ontario Clean Water Agency, he decided to change gears and turn his passion into a full-time profession, sharing his expertise of the local Lake Erie fishing scene, which boasts some of the best walleye and rainbow trout fishing in the world.
“There’s just something about gathering and providing clean healthy fish and preparing it for my friends and family to enjoy! “
Mick Schnekenburger
Mick’s passion for adventure and desire to fish new waters has taken him all over North America, earning him a very impressive backgound pursuing some of the most prestigious species the world has to offer. During his travels, he quickly developed a skill for fly-fishing and was invited to join the Backcountrypoolz fly-fishing team. He spent 3 years learning and strengthening his talents chasing bull trout and cutty throughout Alberta, British Columbia and Montana. Ultimately he couldn’t deny his love for big water fishing and went on to spend 2 years trolling the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans
Mick is well versed with more experience than most. He is focused on dedicating his time to sharing his techniques and tricks pioneered by combining various styles of fishing, creating which he believes are some of the best kept secrets on the water.
Clay Rodrigue
Clay was born on the banks of Lake Erie, just two minutes from the local dock. He spent his childhood jumping ponds for largemouth bass and casting across the inner Rondeau Bay. With a deep, early love of fishing, it was clear from the start he was destined to run a charter boat.
He began as a first mate at the young age of 14 and learned quickly. Before the captain's arrival, he sets the stage for a day of adventure. Rods and tackle are meticulously prepared, knots are tied with precision, and terminal tackle is inspected for strength and security. The boat shines, dock ropes are tied with ease, and every detail is accounted for.
As the journey begins, he becomes the captain's second pair of eyes, scanning the horizon for signs of changing weather, water conditions, and potential hazards. His focus is unwavering, yet he responds to questions with politeness and professionalism.
When the spread is set his attention turns to the rod tips, monitoring every subtle movement. His peripheral vision is finely tuned, and even with his back turned, he can detect the slightest change in the rod's hum, signaling a bite.
With lightning-fast reflexes, he's the first to react when a fish strikes, His skill is evident in the way he handles the catch, ensuring the hooks aren't buried in the twine and the rod is quickly returned to the water.
Beyond fishing expertise, he's a master of fish photography, capturing the perfect shot with an eye for lighting and composition. His dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of his work.
As the day comes to a close, he ensures a smooth entry into the harbor and begins processing the catch with precision and care. Knives are sharp, bowls are clean, and ice is ready. Every fillet is handled with pride, precision cut to perfection, and presented with finesse.
Today he’s one of the best in the business and among the youngest captains on the Great Lakes known for unwavering focus and a commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience.