About Us

Michigan Charter Boat Association

The Michigan Charter Boat Association (MCBA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing a safe, ethical, and professional charter boating industry across the state of Michigan. Representing licensed charter captains and operators on the Great Lakes and inland waterways, MCBA works to promote high standards of safety, education, and stewardship of Michigan’s valuable aquatic resources.

All MCBA member captains hold United States Coast Guard licenses for operation on the Great Lakes, and all member vessels meet state inspection requirements, ensuring a reliable and professional experience for customers. Beyond supporting charter operators, MCBA actively advocates for responsible fisheries management, supports education and research and collaborates with agencies and stakeholders to protect the long-term health of the Great Lakes.

Through leadership, advocacy, and education, MCBA remains committed to strengthening Michigan’s charter industry while preserving the waters that make it possible.

Each year, the Michigan Charter Boat Association (MCBA) proudly awards scholarships to students pursuing degrees in Fisheries Biology, investing in the future of Great Lakes research, conservation, and sustainable fisheries management. These scholarships support individuals who are committed to understanding aquatic ecosystems and advancing science-based solutions that protect Michigan’s world-class fisheries.

By assisting the next generation of fisheries biologists, MCBA helps ensure the long-term health, productivity, and stewardship of the Great Lakes. This commitment reflects the association’s dedication not only to today’s charter industry, but also to the education, research, and conservation efforts that will preserve these vital resources for future generations.

Our member captains are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and safety in the charter industry.

2025 Board of Directors

Capt Karl Burnside

President 

thumbsupcharter@yahoo.com

Little Lady

Capt Holly Engel

Vice President

holly.engel014@gmail.com

Best Chance

Capt Tony Radjenovich

Treasurer

leelanautical@gmail.com

Leelanaut

John Giszczak

Secretary

fishstraycat@gmail.com

Stray Cat

Directors/Term

Vacant
Lake St. Clair & Lake Erie

2025 
Volunteer?

Capt. Paul Vanderwall

Southern Lake Michigan-2026

paulvanderwall1965@gmail.com

Alure

Capt. Jeff Panich

North Lake Huron-2025
fishcopcharters@yahoo.com

Fish Cop

Capt. John Milbourne

Central Lake Michigan-2026

Johnmilbourne@ymail.com

Tuna Time

Capt. William Dunk

Southern Lake Huron-2025
Fishon1066@hotmail.com

On Point

Capt. Bruce Shane

Northern Lake Michigan-2026
rigandrollcharters@gmail.com

LuSea

Capt. Jim LaBeske

Upper Peninsula-2025
jlabeske@gmail.com

Hook & Heuver

MCBA State Affairs, Drug Program

Capt. Denny Grinold

State Affairs
info@michigancharterboatassociation.org

Old Grin

Capt. Mark Williams

Drug Program Coordinator / Legislative Affairs Director-2026
Capt.mwilliams@gmail.com

Silver Addiction

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