What to Expect
Departure Locations & Trip Length
Port Renfrew (May-September)
Departure location: Pacific Gateway Marina
Departure time: Generally 6:00 AM
Trip length: Full day (8 hours)
Port Renfrew charters are full-day trips designed to take advantage of some of Vancouver Island’s most productive fishing grounds.
East Sooke (December-March)
Departure location: Cheanuh Marina
Departure times: Vary depending on conditions available
Trip length: Half-day and full-day options available
Winter trips are scheduled with flexibility in mind and are planned around the best weather windows.
Experience Level
All experience levels are welcome.
Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler, our guides handle everything — from gear and setup to instruction and technique. Trips are tailored to your group’s experience level and goals.
Target Species
Port Renfrew
Chinook & Coho salmon
Pacific halibut
Lingcod
Dungeness crab
Target species depend on the season, regulations, and daily conditions. We have a strong success rate, but as with all fishing, no guarantees can be made. Safety and sustainability always come first.
East Sooke (December-March)
Winter “feeder” Chinook salmon
Halibut may be a possibility in early spring, depending on conditions and seasonal openings
Boats, Safety & Comfort
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. All charters operate aboard:
Transport Canada–certified vessels
Professional safety equipment
Heated cabin
Onboard head
Weather decisions are made by your captain in accordance with Transport Canada Small Vessel regulations.
What to Bring
Required
Printed BC Tidal Waters Fishing License
Salmon Conservation Stamp (if fishing salmon)
Recommended
Extra clothing / warm layers
Rain gear
Food and drinks for the day
Camera or phone
Sunglasses and hat
Sunscreen
Motion sickness remedies (if prone)
Cooler for transporting your catch
What We Provide
We supply everything needed for a successful day on the water, including:
Rods, reels, and tackle
Bait and fishing gear
Instruction and professional guiding
Basic fish cleaning and bagging
Weather & Sea Conditions
Trips generally run rain or shine
Winter trips are scheduled around weather windows
Conditions can change quickly on the West Coast
Safety always comes first, and decisions are made by your captain
Catch & Fish Handling
Guests may keep all fish caught in accordance with DFO regulations and limits.
Port Renfrew Processing Option
Portioning, vacuum packing, and flash freezing of your catch is available through a local licensed processing facility. If you’d like to use this service, let your guide know and they will arrange it for you.
Any fish transported home without licensed processing will be cleaned and bagged according to DFO regulations. Your guide is happy to explain these requirements in more detail.
Cancellation Policy
Deposits secure your reserved date and vessel. During peak season, deposits are non-refundable but may be transferred with sufficient notice. Charters cancelled due to weather may be rescheduled or refunded at the captain’s discretion.
Please review our full cancellation policy on the Rates page prior to booking.
If you have any questions before your trip or need help planning, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to help you choose the best option for your schedule and the season.
We look forward to fishing with you.