sailboats in bayfield

Superior Charters & Yacht Sales

Lake superior sailing charters.

Dates for 2024 are booking quickly - Make your plans today!

Apostle Islands Captained & Bareboat Charters

At Superior Charters, we offer both captained and bareboat charters for your sailing vacation on Lake Superior. These options give both the novice and experienced sailor a tailored vacation to fit their abilities, skills and needs. Learn more about captained and bareboat charters, visit our FAQs pag e .

Check Out Our Guests' Favorite Sailboats

• Key Hole 2 Cabins
• Users Sleeps 6

South Twin – 33′ Jeanneau Sailboat

Learn more about South Twin and book a fun Lake Superior cruise. Check out our 33′ 2014 Jeanneau sailboat, complete with standing headroom throughout and lots of storage.

• Key Hole 3 Cabins
• Users Sleeps 8

Clear Air – 37’ Jeanneau Sailboat

Book the Clear Air, our 37’ 2012 Jeanneau sailboat, for an unforgettable Apostle Islands boat rental. Take her for a spin!

• Key Hole 4 Cabins

Liberty – 40′ Lagoon Catamaran

Added to our fleet in 2019,  Liberty  is a modern and comfortable take on a catamaran. Learn more about it and start planning your next sailing trip aboard Liberty !

• New to the Fleet!

Windeavor – 41’ Jeanneau Sailboat

Book Windeavor, this brand new Jeanneau for your next family vacay! This newly styled Sun Odyssey 410 has walk-around decks and a spacious interior.

Don't see the boat you're looking for?

Not an experienced sailor book a captained charter with us, four person package.

Carefree captained trip on your very own private 39′ sailboat! This trip is ideal for four people and has two private cabins and a shared bathroom for the guests.

• Clock 3 Days

Six Person Package

Carefree captained trip on your very own private sailboat! This trip is ideal for six people and has three private cabins and a shared bathroom for the guests.

Looking for Something Else?

View our additional sailing & yacht services.

Sailing School Courses  • Yacht Management  • Yacht Sales  • Brokerage Boats

A Sailing Charter Fleet That Stands Alone

Join the thousands of skippers and crew that come back year after year. discover chartering in the apostle islands with superior charters..

Superior Charters offers the largest selection of sailboats for charter available at one harbor in the United States. We are located in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Family owned and operated since 1979, Superior Charters has built a reputation of providing impeccably maintained yachts and superior service so you can have the best possible experience while booking your charter, taking a sailing course, or letting us manage your yachts and sales.

Situated among the 22 islands of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Superior Charters & Yacht Sales offers a unique sailboat cruising experience on Lake Superior by offering almost 30 sailboats to choose from to make your charter exactly how you imagined. Whether you are new to sailing or an experienced cruiser, the crew and staff at Superior Charters will help you create an enjoyable and carefree sailing and boating experience!

So, what are you waiting for? Reserve your next charter and sail into a dream getaway on the water!

Why Choose Superior Charters?

Family Owned & Operated

In-Depth Knowledge & Experience

Passionate About Our Business

High Level of Customer Service

Our Guests Have Excellent Experiences on our Charters!

Please allow me a moment to thank Superior Charters. Our family has just completed a five day charter aboard Liberty. Sailing Liberty was everything we hoped it would be. The safety equipment, navigational aids. B&G electronics, equipped galley, deck grill, and numerous other additions aboard this beautiful Lagoon 40 did not disappoint. Our expectations were high, and Lake Superior's Apostles Islands exceeded with abundant beauty and natural wonder. Last, but not least, was Superior Charters staff. Cara, Alec, and Bravo were consummate professionals. You are blessed to have them on your Team. Thank you for enabling an unforgettable memory.

We have been chartering with Superior Charters for several years. As before we had a great experience with the team. The boat was ready on time and in great shape. We moved up to a larger boat this year and did a short checkout sail with Dave. He was very helpful and made the process a snap. Sailing the Apostles is a fantastic experience.

We have chartered with Superior Charters for the last three years and have known Cindy Alpha and Cindy Bravo for a long time. Superior Charters is a first class organization with first class people running it. If you want to enjoy sailing, learn to sail or just take a sailboat ride, Superior Charters is the way to go. First class all the way.

Had a wonderful experience with Superior Charters...Clean, modern yacht; easy check-in and check-out; nice people. I will definitely charter here again - probably next month!

Our experience with Superior was top notch. Everything was perfect, from initial phone discussions to figure out what would be best for us (novices), to the friendly staff, to the clean boat, to the simple check in and check out process.

Just finished my fifth charter with Superior a little over a week ago. This is a well run, professional charter company. The boats have always been in good shape. Friendly. Reliable. Superior's check-out captains are reliable and ready to answer any of your questions.

Our boat was in excellent condition. The staff was professional. Booking the boat and trip was easy and their communication was excellent. They have an unusually large fleet of boats to choose from and they are all fairly new. Giving you the option to clean the boat yourself to save money is nice. If you are looking to charter a nice boat this place is a no brainer.

We chartered two sailboats from Superior Charters for our Wedding Reception!!! Our friends and family got to experience going out into the islands on sailboats, something me and my new husband love doing. Everyone at Superior Charters was AMAZING in helping our dream wedding come true. Thanks to their dedicated maintenance and cleaning staff the boats are perfect, and if something isn't right, they always go out of their way to fix any issues. They helped us figure out so many of the detailed logistics and also worked with us on timing and schedule to make for a wonderful experience for our guests. Our wedding day was absolutely perfect! THANKS SUPERIOR CHARTERS :)

We did a 3 night charter sail with Captain Christine. It was everything I hoped it to be and more! We had never been sailing so were not sure what to expect. Christine was patient with our lack of knowledge and let us be involved as much or as little as we wanted with the sailing experience. We had all types of weather and made the best of them all. The ability to pull up to an island and row up to the dock and hike was perfect along with jumping off the back of the boat into the water for a swim!!! It's the perfect social distancing trip. I can't say enough about it - we will definitely be back.

Sailing adventures from Bayfield, Wisconsin in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

True North Sailing Charters in Bayfield,  Wisconsin is committed to providing guests with a unique and safe Apostle Islands sailing experience. Help hoist the sails or sit back and relax as we navigate the gorgeous waterways of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands under sail. We look forward to helping create magical moments with you and sailing into the sunset!

Sailing Adventures

Sailing trips depart from our slip location in Bayfield, Wisconsin

or Schooner Bay Marina.

Bayfield Adventure Sail

A 2 hour, 15 minute sail out of Bayfield, Wisconsin aboard "Starling" a 33' Cheoy Lee Clipper.  Set sail on Lake Superior and enjoy the sights of the North or West Channel, LaPointe, Madeline, Basswood and the surrounding islands.

Enjoy the original teak decks, two sitka spruce masts and the elegant lines that make for a classic maritime experience.  Meet at our dock located in Bayfield.

$85  per person  

$25 Children's Discount

(Private Boat Options Available) 

Apostle Islands Excursion

A 5 Hour sailing experience in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.  Trip routes are dependent on wind and weather conditions that day as well as your preference but possibilities include visiting the sandstone shorelines, sand-spits and lighthouses in the surrounding area on Hermit, Oak, or Long Island.  Half day trips depart from our Bayfield location.

Typically we use our catamaran, Piper on half day trips. The shallow draft allows us to access secluded beaches and explore remote island coastlines. The spacious shaded solon leads to the forward trampolines that are great for sun bathing and watching the water rush past beneath you. 

$695  

Full Boat Reserved 

(Includes up to 6 guests)

Full Day in the Islands

A Full Day Sailing Adventure in the Islands. Trips depart from Schooner Bay Marina just north of Bayfield. and depending on wind and weather conditions as well as your preference set sail for Stockton, Raspberry or Manitou Islands.  Visit the historic fishing camp, Stockton Island hiking trails, or the remote Raspberry Island Lighthouse.  

Typically we use our catamaran, Echo on full day trips. The shallow draft allows us to access secluded beaches and explore remote island coastlines. The spacious and protected cock pit area insures a dry and comfortable sail in all conditions. The deck is a great spot as well for sun bathing and hanging out.

$1095 

Full boat reserved

(Includes up to 6 guests) 

Multi Day Apostle Islands Expedition

Sleep aboard and explore the Apostle Islands with the newest boat to our fleet named Echo, a Gemini Legacy 35 catamaran. Trips depart from Schooner Bay Marina just north of Bayfield. This adventure offers a prolonged scenic experience in a comfortable and stable multi-day vessel. Explore the Apostle Islands' rugged sandstone sea caves, unique lighthouses, and pristine remote beaches.

The trip includes opportunities for snorkeling, paddle-boarding, dinghy excursions, beach combing and islands trail hikes. Board Echo the night before at 7pm and sleep aboard in Schooner Bay Marina. The following morning the captain will join your group as you set sails into the islands where you stay one night at anchorage among the islands before returning the next day. 

$1995 

Two Days and Two Nights

If we are not able to go out due to weather or if you do not think it would be a good experience (due to rain, cold, etc.) you have the option to either reschedule or have a full refund.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT TRUE NORTH SAILING

Our experience was amazing! Very relaxing! Captain Abe was very knowledgeable and even let us help him during our sailing tour. We would definitely recommend them to everyone!

It was a very pleasant time. Dusty was so helpful. The boat was in great shape. I could not have asked for anything more.

Our family of four enjoyed our sail outing tremendously. The skipper is kind and helpful, the lake and islands are beautiful, and sailing is too fun. Half of us helped crew the boat, and half of us just sat back and took it all in. Highly recommend.

Sailing Gift Cards! l Deals

Looking for an unforgettable gift for friends or family? True North Sailing Charters has got you covered. Our gift cards are the perfect way to give the gift of adventure and relaxation. Our sailing trips are a unique way to experience the beauty of the Bayfield area.  We offer a range of options for every type of sailor. Recipients can choose from a variety of trips, including day trips, sunset sails, and even overnight journeys.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF ADVENTURE

Step aboard one of our sailing yachts and feel the outside world melt away. Close your eyes. Feel the sun on your face. Breathe in the fresh Lake Superior air. Listen to the wind fill the sails and feel the waves slap against the hull.

A sailing tour offers a unique and special experience you won’t find anywhere on land. See Bayfield, Wisconsin and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore from a new perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I reserve a private tour? Yes! Private tours are available for up to six guests. Enjoy a romantic escape, plan the perfect anniversary, or create a one-of-a-kind family adventure. For larger groups, check out our group sailing charters. Choose your destination, and go!
• What about bad weather? Lake Superior is known for beautiful weather. Still, there may be the rare case where the weather takes a turn on the day of your charter. If it were up to us, every sailing day would be amazing. On days when it isn’t, we do our best to wait out the weather to see if it clears. Our boats will sail in light rain and other “safe weather”. Ultimately, all departures are at the sole discretion of the Captain. In cases where poor weather risks safety and we absolutely must cancel a scheduled charter, voyages will be rescheduled.
• What should I wear? On Lake Superior, the wind can add a chill to the air. Be sure to check the weather forecast on the day of your sail, and consider bringing a light jacket just in case. Storage for personal gear is available in the cabin. Light-colored clothing with long sleeves can help reduce the effects of the sun. Guests may wish to bring sunscreen along for their trip. Correct footwear is important while sailing. Decks can become wet with sea spray; we recommend comfortable, fast-drying shoes with good traction. White or light-colored soles are preferable, as dark soles can leave marks on the yacht.
• Will I get seasick? Seasickness is a reaction to unfamiliar motion while aboard a vessel. While most of our guests do not experience seasickness, a small percentage of people may be prone to seasickness. In our experience, this often includes people susceptible to other forms of motion sickness. If you do get seasick, it’s OK! Alert a crew member and we can help you overcome it. To help reduce your chances of becoming seasick: Stay above deck and breathe fresh air Look to the horizon, instead of into a phone or book Avoid the restroom and cabin area Get plenty of shade and avoid direct sunlight Sail on a full stomach, and avoid foods that may upset you

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[email protected]

OUR LOCATION

232 S 1st Street

Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814

HOURS OF OPERATION

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Daily

Open Seasonally May - October

seagull bay

A lakeside motel.

Welcome To the blog

Take the stress out of planning your Bayfield getaway. On the blog, you'll get the inside scoop of where to go, what to see, and what to do. 

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Book your room, seasonal guide, bayfield, wi – the 7 best sailing charters in the apostle islands.

Shut your eyes, take a deep breath, and imagine – clear blue water. The rise and fall of the waves. The sound of your sailboat gliding through the pristine waters of Lake Superior. You feel the warm sun and a light spray of water on your face as you relax on the bow.

Gaze at old-growth forests. Study century-old lighthouses and sea caves carved out of sandstone. Admire the cozy harbor towns that line the south shore of Lake Superior.

Sailing on the big waters of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is an experience you don’t want to miss.

It’s one thing to enjoy Lake Superior views from the mainland. But it’s another to ride on its waters. To feel the wind pushing back your hair. To breathe in its air.

For many, the cost and upkeep of owning a boat are out of reach. The cost of registration, insurance, gas, and more add up quickly. Not to mention the hassle of towing and storing the boat – in both summer and winter.

Plus, it’s one thing to cruise around on a motorized boat and another to sail.

Sailing requires unique skills. There are sails to hoist and helms to man. You must understand wind direction and knot tying – all while learning Lake Superior’s weather patterns, nautical navigation, and boat safety.

It doesn’t make sense to own a boat for many of us whether it’s propelled by wind or gas. But don’t worry, there are still several ways to have a true Lake Superior sailing adventure.

Sailing Trips for Adults, Couples, and Families

Are you looking to sail for a couple of hours at sunset? Spend an entire day on Lake Superior? Or indulge in an overnight excursion? Looking to snuggle with a loved one or have a hands-on sailing adventure? Here are the 7 best charters and sailing experiences to choose from.

• True North Sailing Charters offers sailing adventures that launch out of the Bayfield Harbor into Chequamegon Bay. Choose from half and full-day excursions that go deep into the Apostle Islands. Their seasoned crew offers hands-on sailing instruction for those wishing to give it a go on their own – and comfort to those wishing to sit back set their eyes on the horizon, and take in the beauty of Lake Superior. Overnight trips are available upon request. Seagull Bay guests enjoy a 10% discount off of all sailing trips when they use promo code “SEAGULLBAYSAILS.”
• Dreamcatcher Sailing offers hands-on day and overnight sailing excursions. Sail to an island and hop aboard a dinghy to explore the shorelines, sandstone cliffs, and sea caves. Looking to experience a happy hour like never before? Ask about their popular Happy Hour Cruises.
• Animaashi Sailing Company . Animaashi means to “sail away,” in Ojibwe. Join U.S. Coast Guard Retired Chief Petty Officer, Paul Bratti, as he shares his knowledge and love of the water. Enjoy half-day, full-day, or evening sails.

Learn to Sail on Lake Superior

Looking to take your sailing adventure one step further? Check out these sailing charters that offer classes for beginner to advanced sailors. Or if you’re a captain without a ship sailboat rentals are available.

• Lake Superior Tall Ships provides “educational excursions and programs aboard their schooner, Abbey Road. Enjoy an “unplugged” adventure as you learn to sail on Lake Superior and unlock a new set of life skills.
• Superior Charters . Let the sailboat be your classroom and your sleeping quarters while you earn your bareboat certification in as little as 3 days. Not ready to take on the title of sailboat captain? No worries. They offer captained multi-day sailing trips within the Apostle Islands. Can’t find the sailing adventure you’re looking for? Ask for a customized itinerary.
• Apostle Islands Charters . Bareboat and captained charters are available to fit your needs and experience level. Sit back and relax as one of their captains takes you on the waters of Lake Superior. Have sailing experience? Be the captain of your private sailboat and curate a unique sailing adventure of your own.
• Northern Breezes Sailing hosts 3-5 day vacation sailing classes. Learn sailing basics or take part in advanced offshore classes to other destination places in Lake Superior. The American Sailing Association has named Northern Breezes the sailing school of the year!

Blessing of the Fleet

Not ready to stretch your sea legs? Then we invite you to join fishermen, sailors, boaters, and kayakers in the Blessing of the Fleet.

For more than 60 years, boats have paraded through Bayfield’s Harbor to receive a blessing of safe passage and a prosperous season on Lake Superior.

This year’s service is on Sunday, June 5th at 1 pm. Onlookers can set up camp chairs or find a park bench at Memorial Park in Bayfield to witness this time-honored tradition.

Seagull Bay Is the Perfect Place for Sailors

Whether you set sail for a few hours or a few days, Seagull Bay Lakeside Motel is here to anchor your sailing vacation.

We know how important it is for you to experience Lake Superior up close and personal. Our motel and properties adorn the banks of Lake Superior. You’ll enjoy views of the Apostle Islands from your balcony or the lawn.

Our convenient location gives you easy access to the Brownstone Trail. Here you can take a 10-minute walk to the Bayfield City Dock to meet your captain. Or drive 5 minutes to Pike’s Bay Marina to catch your charter.

We offer a variety of lodging accommodations to fit groups of any size. And our affordable prices ensure that your Bayfield sailing adventure is one you won’t forget.

And don’t forget that True North Sailing Charters is offering Seagull Bay guests 10% off when you use the promo code “SEAGULLBAYSAILS.”

Come to Bayfield and sail on its “tall waters.” BOOK NOW at Seagull Bay.

Your hosts,

Mollie, Isaac, Axel, Ridge, and Banks.

QUICK LINKS:

True North Sailing Charters

Dreamcatcher Sailing

Animaashi Sailing Company

Lake Superior Tall Ships

Superior Charters

Apostle Islands Charters

Northern Breezes Sailing

Blessing of the Fleet – Bayfield

June 26, 2022

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Superior Charters and Yacht Sales - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Superior Sailing

Bayfield, WI

What to Eat

You have lots of choices while sailing in the Apostle Islands. Here are some suggestions:

Dine ashore at one of the many fine restaurants in nearby Bayfield or on Madeline Island, the only inhabited island in the archipelago. 

Grill ashore and picnic at one of the many public spots among the outer islands.

There is a fully galley with stove, icebox, and gas grill at the back of the boat. Plenty of storage for dry food items, so it's just like being at home. Your Captain will gladly help with the stove and meals. He is also available for meal planning prior to your trip.

Come Sailing with your own Captain in the Apostle Islands

What to Wear

Plan to dress in layers...this time of year cotton is OK for warm days, but a good windbreaker is a must:

Underwear changes, socks

2 pairs of pants

2 pairs of shorts

3 t-shirts and 2 long sleeve shirts

sweatshirt or sweater

windbreaker

2 pairs of tennies or boat shoes

1 pair of sandals, tevas, and/or water shoes

 rain gear with pants and a hat or hood

sun hat and sunglasses – it’s bright on the water

sleeping bag, and pillow, if needed

towel and toothbrush, etc.

We have plenty of sunscreen, motion medicine, first aid stuff, etc.

We will actually get you into the Sea Caves!

Here at PMG Charters and the Georgeson household, Captain Peter and Captain Ashley are looking forward to being able to take firstmate, Paxton on the ice for the first time in his life.  As we watch the windsled transport islanders over to Madeline Island, we can only hope for cold temperatures to harden up the ice enough to make the caves safe to access.  Once the caves open up people will be flowing into town by the 1000s.  It might be good to book hotel rooms now and hope the caves will be open when you arrive.  If not there are a ton of other outdoor activities in the area to make your trip memorable. 

Please check to make the caves are open before venturing out from Meyers Beach on the park's facebook page.

The park is actively checking conditions and updating their reports.

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Apostle Islands

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• Sailboat Guide

Bayfield 25

Bayfield 25 is a 25 ′ 0 ″ / 7.6 m monohull sailboat designed by Ted Gozzard and built by Bayfield Boat Yard Ltd. between 1975 and 1984.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Originally this model was called the BAYFIELD 23. In 1975 it is advertised as the BAYFIELD 23/25. A year later it is called the BAYFIELD 25.

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Five Must Do Activities in Bayfield this Spring

As the icy grip of winter loosens its hold and the world outside begins to awaken from its slumber, Bayfield emerges as a gem on the shores of Lake Superior, offering a plethora of activities to indulge in during the spring season. From invigorating outdoor adventures to cultural delights, there's something for everyone to relish. So, lace up your hiking boots, dust off your bike, and get ready to explore the charm of Bayfield in springtime.

1. Hiking Trails Amidst Nature's Canvas

Spring in Bayfield is a symphony of colors and scents as the flora bursts into life. With trails catering to all skill levels, such as the stunning Apostle Islands National Lakeshore trails, hikers can marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior and witness the rejuvenation of nature up close. Don't forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless!

2. Discover Bayfield in Bloom  

Admire over 50,000 blooming daffodils, a vibrant mosaic of roadside lupine & rolling orchards of apple blossoms bursting into rosy color during our week-long celebration of spring. Special events include a live broadcast of Garden Talk with Larry Meiller, Garden Tours and the annual Blessing of the Fleet. Bayfield in Bloom runs from May 31 - June 8, 2024.

3. See a Live Show at The Backstage

After a day of outdoor escapades, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Bayfield by catching a show at the renowned Big Top Chautauqua's Backstage. The eclectic lineup caters to diverse tastes, promising an evening of entertainment and enlightenment. Experience the magic of live performances in an intimate setting, leaving you with memories to cherish long after the curtains close.

4. Artistic Inspiration at Local Galleries

Delve into Bayfield's creative spirit by exploring its eclectic art galleries dotted throughout the town. Wander through quaint streets adorned with galleries showcasing a myriad of artistic styles, from traditional to contemporary. Admire the works of talented local artists, and perhaps even find the perfect piece to adorn your own home. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or simply appreciate beauty in its various forms, Bayfield's art scene is sure to captivate your senses.

5. Culinary Delights: Savoring Whitefish

No visit to Bayfield is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures, and spring is the perfect time to sample the local delicacy – whitefish. Treat your taste buds to a feast of flavors as you relish fresh-caught whitefish prepared to perfection by local chefs. Whether grilled, smoked, or pan-seared, this Lake Superior delicacy never fails to tantalize. Pair it with seasonal sides featuring farm-fresh produce for a meal that celebrates the essence of spring in Bayfield.

Kati Anderson

Kati Anderson is the Public Relations Manager for the Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau. 

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Bay City man shot by cops in gunfight after threatening to kill ex heads to prison

• Updated: Mar. 19, 2024, 11:10 p.m. |
• Published: Mar. 19, 2024, 3:00 p.m.

A screenshot of a video provided by Michigan State Police of a suspect Jonah E. Doyle-Joseph, 21. The video shows Michigan State Police Trooper Joshua Stinson's body-worn camera as he and K9 Murph track a suspect in Bay City on Nov. 6, 2022, and the exchange of gunfire that ensued when they located their target. Stinson was unharmed, while suspect Doyle-Joseph suffered a gunshot wound above his right hip. (Video Provided By Michigan State Police) Video Provided By Michigan State Police

• Cole Waterman | [email protected]

BAY CITY, MI — It began with a Bay City man going to his ex-girlfriend’s job in the middle of the night and threatening to kill her. It ended with him shot by police and, more than a year on, heading to prison for the next several years.

Bay County Circuit Judge Joseph K. Sheeran on Monday, March 18, sentenced 23-year-old Jonah E. Doyle-Joseph to five concurrent prison terms, the longest 38 months to 10 years. Sheeran also sentenced him to two flat two-year terms, which are concurrent with each other but consecutive to the other stints.

The judge gave Doyle-Joseph credit for 498 days already served on the two-year counts, but none on the longest term.

Doyle-Joseph in February pleaded no contest to assault with intent to great bodily harm less than murder, carrying a weapon with unlawful intent, carrying a concealed weapon, third-degree fleeing and eluding police, assaulting or resisting police, and two counts of felony firearm.

In exchange, the prosecution dismissed a life-offense charge of assault with intent to murder and a third count of felony firearm.

Doyle-Joseph’s convictions stem from an incident that began just after midnight on Nov. 6, 2022, when Bay County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Bayfield Assisted Living & Memory Care, 3932 Monitor Road in Monitor Township, after a 22-year-old woman employee called 911 to say her ex was sending her threatening text messages.

The woman said Doyle-Joseph texted her he was in Bayfield’s parking lot and was going to kill her, according to police reports.

Bay County Central Dispatch advised deputies Doyle-Joseph had a history of domestic violence and had a handgun registered to him. The woman caller also said Doyle-Joseph was driving a silver Mercedes-Benz.

Deputies arrived at the facility and saw the Mercedes-Benz in the lot with its lights off. As they approached, the car turned on and drove off toward Wilder Road. Deputies pursued it as it blew through stop signs and stop lights, with speeds reaching as high as 100 miles per hour.

Deputies ended the pursuit due to the high speeds. Not long after, they found the Mercedes-Benz abandoned along Bangor Street south of Wilder Road within Bay City’s limits. The vehicle’s two passenger side tires were flat.

Michigan State Police Trooper Joshua Stinson responded to assist deputies along with a police K-9 unit, which began tracking the missing suspect’s scent.

Footage from Stinson’s body-worn camera shows him arrive on the scene and get filled in on the situation from a sheriff’s deputy.

For several minutes, the footage shows Stinson follow the K-9 unit as he tracks a scent, going through numerous yards. At one point, Stinson lifts Murph over a fence to continue the search.

The footage is often hard to make out due to the poor lighting. Eventually, the trail leads Stinson and Murph to a backyard in the 1000 block of Marleen Drive.

“Let me see your hands,” Stinson yells. “Don’t you (expletive)ing shoot me! Don’t you shoot me! Don’t you (expletive)ing shoot!”

Immediately afterward, a barrage of gunshots is audible. There is a brief lull, followed by two more shots.

Stinson is then heard repeatedly yelling at the suspect to show his hands, while the suspect states he’s been hit. Stinson, panting, yells for fellow police and EMTs to come to his location.

In his own statement, Stinson wrote he spotted Doyle-Joseph lying on the ground. Stinson jumped the yard’s fence to approach Doyle-Joseph, telling him not to shoot him, he wrote.

Doyle-Joseph, though, began digging in his jacket’s pocket when he was only a few feet from the trooper. He pulled a gun and opened fire.

“When he fired the first couple of shots at me,” Stinson wrote, “I remember the muzzle flash to be bright red and big as if it was a firework or a muzzleloader going off. I was forced to rely upon the muzzle flash to take aim at the suspect as he was shooting at me.”

Stinson fired several shots, one striking Doyle-Joseph just above his right hip. Neither Stinson nor the K-9 were injured.

Police found a semiautomatic pistol near Doyle-Joseph, a flashlight on it with a strobe light effect engaged, their reports state.

Doyle-Joseph was given aid at the scene then taken to McLaren Bay Region hospital for additional treatment. Police determined the Mercedes-Benz he was driving was registered to a Pennsylvania woman.

The woman who initially called police said she had broken up with Doyle-Joseph three days prior. He had wanted to pick up a cellphone from her at Bayfield, sending her text messages that the phone better not be locked when he arrived for it, she told police.

Investigators ruled Stinson’s shooting of Doyle-Joseph justified.

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