Matt Barlow

Erie Escape Fishing Charters was founded on a lifelong love of fishing and a desire to share the experience of Lake Erie with others. Our guide is passionate about helping guests create unforgettable memories, whether it’s their first time on the water or they’re seasoned anglers looking for a great day of fishing. Specializing in walleye, perch, and steelhead, we know where to find the action and how to make every trip rewarding. One of our favorite moments was taking a family with kids aged 9–13 on their very first fishing trip. Watching them reel in their first walleye and seeing the joy on their faces reminded us why we love what we do — every catch is a memory waiting to be made. We offer a variety of trips designed to fit different schedules and preferences. From half-day walleye fishing to Night Bite trips starting at 9 PM, or full-day combo charters targeting multiple species, our trips are flexible and fun for all skill levels. For those who prefer a relaxing evening on the water, our sunset cruises offer a peaceful way to enjoy Lake Erie’s views. Our boat, a 26-foot Sentury Dual Console Family Cruiser, is equipped for both fishing and comfort. With twin Yamaha 200hp outboards, it’s built for speed, stability, and a smooth ride, accommodating up to six guests. Safety and comfort are always a priority so you can focus on making memories while we handle the details. We operate out of the Lorain Harbor Boat Club, giving quick access to prime fishing waters. Guests are encouraged to bring personal food, drinks, sunscreen, hats, and bug spray, as well as a valid Ohio fishing license, which must be purchased in advance. Our rates are structured for both small groups and families. Whether you’re looking for a quick outing or a full-day adventure, Erie Escape offers trips that combine expert knowledge with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. At Erie Escape Fishing Charters, our mission is simple — to deliver a great day on Lake Erie filled with fun, relaxation, and plenty of fish. We take pride in creating experiences that leave our guests with stories to share and reasons to come back again.

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<div>the fishing started off hot today. we got to our first spot around 7 am. I slowed the boat down to mark fish and low and behold the screen was lit up! we dropped our gear and immediatly started slamming walleye. early in the morning our best leads were 60 back unassisted. later in the day, the fish pushed deeper so we had to use 2 oz weights to get our bait down deep enough. once we got it dialed in, it was controlled chaos!!! 30 walleye hit the ice and we fun fished for another 30 minutes. my guests were very new to fishing for walleye but by the end of the trip they were setting lines, detecting bites, netting fish and the list goes on. they looked like seasoned pros out there!!!</div>

<div>bandits/flickers/worm burners and spoons</div>

Nine Sauger caught during fishing cruises in Medina

Middie group

Two people enjoying a fishing cruise in Medina

A scenic view of Medina, showcasing a successful fishing cruises and fishing trip.

Pike-Perch fish caught by two people in Medina

Book now with Erie Escape Fishing Charters in Lake Erie for a family-friendly fishing adventure guided by a local favorite! Join our top-rated charter boat for an unforgettable experience chasing Walleye, Perch, and more with an expert guide who knows where the fish are biting.

Erie Escape Fishing Charters offers fun, family-friendly fishing trips on Lake Erie, targeting walleye and yellow perch during peak fishing seasons. Led by an experienced local captain, our trips are perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy a safe, exciting day on the water with expert guidance and proven techniques. Whether you're chasing your first catch or your next trophy, we’ll help you make lasting memories. Book your Lake Erie fishing adventure today and experience some of the best walleye and perch fishing in the region!

Erie Escape Fishing Charters was founded on a lifelong love of fishing and a desire to share the experience of Lake Erie with others. Captain Matt Barlow is passionate about helping guests create unforgettable memories, whether it’s their first time on the water or they’ve been fishing for years. His goal is simple: make every trip rewarding, relaxing, and fun. With a focus on Walleye, Perch, and Steelhead, Captain Matt knows how to find the action and guide guests to great catches. One of Captain Matt’s most memorable moments was taking a family with kids aged 9–13 on their very first fishing trip. Watching them reel in their first Walleye and seeing their excitement reminded him why he loves what he does. It’s not just about the fish—it’s about creating memories that last. Whether it’s a Night Bite trip starting at 9 PM or a peaceful sunset cruise, every outing is designed with guests in mind. Trips with Erie Escape Fishing Charters are flexible, approachable, and tailored for all experience levels. From quick half-day Walleye runs to full-day combo charters targeting multiple species, Captain Matt’s easygoing style and local knowledge make each trip enjoyable. Families, first-timers, and experienced anglers all feel welcome aboard. The boat—a 26-foot Century Dual Console Family Cruiser—is equipped for both fishing and comfort. With twin Yamaha 200hp outboards, it offers a smooth, stable ride and space for up to six guests. Captain Matt operates out of the Lorain Harbor Boat Club, giving quick access to Lake Erie’s prime fishing waters. At Erie Escape Fishing Charters, safety and comfort always come first—so you can focus on making great memories.

Lake Erie Family-Friendly Fishing Charter Guide

Book a full-day Lake Erie fishing trip targeting perch and walleye. Expert guides, gear included. Reserve your spot now!

Lake Scaler

Lake Erie Perch & Walleye: Full-Day Adventure

Experience top-rated night walleye fishing on Lake Erie. 4-hour premium trips with expert guides. Book your adventure today!

Night Bites

Lake Erie Night Walleye: 4-Hour Premium Trip

Join our expert-guided offshore Walleye fishing trip on Lake Erie. Perfect for families and all skill levels. Book now!

Erie Catch

Top-Rated Lake Erie Walleye Fishing Charter

Experience a serene 2-hour sunset cruise on Lake Erie. Book your private tour for breathtaking views and memories.

Sunset Sail

Lake Erie Sunset Cruise: 2-Hour Private Tour

Explore Lake Erie attractions with Erie Escape Fishing Charters. Discover family activities, dining, parks, and more in Lorain, Ohio.

Things To Do

Things To Do in Ohio

<h3>Common Questions:</h3><h3> </h3>What fish can you catch on a Lake Erie fishing charter?With Erie Escape Fishing Charters, you can target Walleye, Yellow Perch, and Steelhead—Lake Erie’s most popular and rewarding species. These trips are great for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. When is the best time to fish for walleye in Lorain, Ohio?The peak walleye season runs from late May through early September. Captain Matt Barlow knows the local waters and migratory patterns to put you on the fish fast. Are fishing charters in Lorain family-friendly?Absolutely! Erie Escape specializes in family-friendly fishing trips. Captain Matt is great with kids and enjoys helping first-timers reel in their first big catch. How long are your fishing trips?Trips range from half-day outings to full-day adventures, and there’s even a popular Night Bite charter that starts at 9 PM for anglers who want to fish under the stars. What’s included in the charter trip?All rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fish cleaning are included. Just bring your food, drinks, sunscreen, and a valid Ohio fishing license. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?Nope! Erie Escape provides everything you need to fish. Just show up ready to have fun and catch fish. Where do Erie Escape trips depart from?Trips launch from the Lorain Harbor Boat Club, offering fast access to Lake Erie’s top fishing zones. Can I book a private charter for my group?Yes! The boat comfortably fits up to six guests, and private charters are perfect for families, friends, or small corporate outings. What kind of boat does Erie Escape use?You’ll fish aboard a 26-foot Sentury Dual Console Cruiser, powered by twin Yamaha 200hp engines—designed for both comfort and performance. Are deposits refundable if I cancel?Booking deposits are non-refundable, but Captain Matt will work with you to reschedule if possible due to weather or unforeseen issues.

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

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