Captain Troy Gilleylen retired in 2023, after 25 years of Law Enforcement service from the Battle Creek City Police as the Deputy Chief of Police and Bomb Squad Commander. In his retirement he continues to work in safety and security fields when he is not spending time with family, on the lake, or in the woods hunting.

Captain Troy Gilleylen is a certified USCG master captain. He has been fishing Michigan lakes since childhood. Growing up in Kalamazoo, MI, not far from Lake MI, provided him the opportunity to learn how to safely navigate and fish Lake Michigan over the last several years. Learning by fun fishing, tournament fishing, to first mating with various charter captains, and now venturing on his own to operate a charter business.

Why Fish With Us?

At Big Gills Charters, we believe a great fishing trip starts with safety, preparation, and hard work. Captain Troy takes pride in providing a safe, professional, and welcoming experience for anglers of all skill levels. We work hard every trip to find fish and give our guests the best opportunity for success, but we also know the experience is about more than what ends up in the cooler. Whether it’s your first time on Lake Michigan or you’ve been fishing for years, our goal is simple: keep you safe, work hard for you, and make sure you leave with memories worth coming back for.

Captain Gilleylen is happy that you have shown interest in viewing his site and looks forward to having you as a guest on his boat. He strives to work hard, but most importantly, operates a safe fishing mission.

‘As Jesus passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fisherman. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him.’ Mark 1:14-20, Matthew 4:18-22

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