Lake Michigan fisherman looking for tips

First of all, my apologies if I'm posting this in the wrong area...I figure my question is related to DIY so thought it might be appropriate here...my apologies if I'm in the wrong area. My three teenage kids and I are heading down from Milwaukee the last week in July. We've got a condo booked just next to the pier at Royal Palms and thought I'd make an inquiry via the forum.

I've fished freshwater my entire life - here in WI, MN, Lake MI, Lake Erie, Mississipi River pools, and NW Ontario...open water and thru the ice. I've 'watched' surf fisherman in the past, have seen fishing shows re ocean pier fishing, etc. But as we all know, seeing is one thing...doing is another. Our goal is to have fun, enjoy the beach (my kids' only 2nd time seeing the ocean) and possibly do a little casual fishing as well. Based on some of the pics I've seen out here, it appears that the catches cover a wide range of species - probably not surprising given that, well, it IS the ocean afterall. I've got rods/reels I plan on bringing down - those I use for salmon on Lake MI, muskies, etc (30lb power pro). Looking for a bit of guidance from the veterans re lb test and basic info re how I should rig up for some surf fishing or should we decide to go off the pier next to the condo unit. Kinda feel like I'm flying blind here - so my apologies for the rambling message. Any general thoughts someone could share re basic set ups, baits/rigs, what we could specifically target from surf or pier would be appreciated. Not making this about 'catching', per se - just interested in trying this out for the first time and would like to be somewhat prepared to at least give it a shot. Will be getting a non-res short term lic as well - any tips on specifics I should get with that? Here in WI we need to have a standard res license AND salmon/trout stamp for going on Lake MI...same thing for you down there re other species? Want to make sure we're playing by the rules re what ever we hook into. Sorry for the long post, thanks or any input - Kevin

Welcome to the forum. You will find the answers you need if you use the "search" feature at the top right of the page and type in "surf fishing tackle". One of the the best threads is "1st timer". Also, check the "What's Biting When" sticky under Q&A Pier fishing questions. The search feature is your best friend---there's a wealth of information there. Best of luck to you and the kids.

Welcome and have fun. haywire was right the search will tell you everything you need. Your rods and reels will be fine but, if you go on the pier you might want to go with Mono. make sure you wash the salt off every time so by the time you get ready to use in Wi it will not have rusted. Good Luck

You can buy your license online, I dont believe wisconsin has a reciprocal license so it will be a little more pricier than you would expect, but you still have to get it if you want to fish. + 1 on washing the reels they will rust

Also think about taking your gear on and off the pier. It gets longer as the day goes on at least seems that way. But with your crew you might make it. Check the limit of rods you can use at one time this may prevent you from taking more than needed. Ask questions and watch others. Good luck

Thanks for your help, everyone... Very much appreciated and Very much looking forward to it...we had a high of 67 outside of Milwaukee today, 40s tonight...crazy weather stretch for us, looks to be one speed down by you guys - hot:-)!

I would recommend fishing early and late in the day to avoid heat and crowds. Alot of fresh water gear will work, but do not let them get sandy or wet. Wash them after each use with fresh water, gently.

Fresh shrimp will catch you something, so make sure to locate some. Not frozen shrimp. You will want mono leaders most likely, as most fish in the ocean have teeth that will slice through braid instantly or are leader shy. 30# mainline braid is more than enough for casual fishing. Good luck

What length are your rods, and size of reels?

If you choose to fish on the pier you only need the out of state pier license plus pay the daily fee. If you fish from land or boat, you will need a saltwater fishing license. Both available on line, get them in advance. My experience is if you just want to catch some fish, the pier usually will suffice.