Tips for Making the Most of Your Salmon Fishing Trip

What can you do to make the most of your salmon fishing trip? What should you do to minimize
the odds of problems when chartering a salmon fishing trip? For more information, visit https://www.vancouversalmonfishing.ca

When a marina, travel agent or salmon fishing charter has more than one ship, they run the vessels through a rotation to fairly distribute the work and payments. If you want a particular salmon fishing vessel or captain, you have to ask for it. To guarantee that you can book that particular person or vessel, book early.

Ask for the list of what is included in the bill, such as sales taxes, marina charges, fuel surcharges, gratuities if any, the cost of ice or filleting your catch and other services. Ask for a list of available services so you can budget for them, such as when you want someone else to gut, gill and vacuum pack the fish for you.

Charter prices usually include bait, tackle and filleting your catch, but you want to know before you go so that you don't pay a low price up front and get a surprise bill when you start to unload.

Not all fishing boats allow beer, and nearly all prohibit hard liquor on board for safety reasons. Know the rules on alcohol before you throw a few beers or containers of hard cider in the cooler containing your lunch. Cigarettes are typically allowed on deck, though cigars are usually not allowed. Know the rules before you book the boat.

It is also wise to ask for the rules on cancellations and schedule changes. Some salmon fishing charters will cancel when weather is rough and give you a refund, while others say we'll only let you reschedule for a later time slot or different date with us. Cancellations due to bad weather or rough seas are typically refunded in full, while cancellations due to a delayed flight, personal schedule change or illness are less likely to be granted and unlikely to be refunded in full in those cases. Cancellations with at least thirty days in advance are likely to be refunded, while short term notice rarely will.

To Ensure You Have the Right Gear

Salmon fishing charters often offer gear as part of the cost of the trip. Some require you to rent a rod and reel from the landing. Note that tackle is rarely included in the rental price. The conventional rod and reel combo is rated for a twenty to forty pound test line. If you're fishing for the bigger species of salmon, you will want to bring your own salmon fishing gear or pay for the heavier duty stuff. Even boats that provide gear will let you bring your own rod and reel.

If you are going to spool your reel with spectra or braided line, you will need swivels. It is advisable to bring several torpedo sinkers, bait hooks, circle hooks if you will be rock fishing.

To Make Sure You Are Prepared

Water is a massive heat sink. It absorbs heat from the air, moderating temperatures. This is why those living by the ocean experience cooler summers and warmer winters than those inland. When you're out at sea, it is usually five to ten degrees Celsius cooler than it is on land during the summer. Dress with or bring layers with you when you go out. And remember that conditions can change rapidly from cool to warm, so bring clothing that will keep you comfortable. In the summer, short and a T-shirt are reasonable, but you'll want to bring a hoodie or windbreaker. Don't forget the sunscreen and sunglasses, since the water reflects both the glare and sunlight's UV rays back at you.

In cooler weather, wear long pants and long sleeves while bringing a jacket to keep you warm. Water resistant is a necessity, while water proof is even better. Bring water or hydrating beverages with you on the trip. Even standing all morning on a deck in the cool breeze will leave you dehydrated over time. Non-slip shoes are a necessity on deck, which rules out sandals and flip flops. For your safety, flat shoes are necessary.

This means none of the women on the trip should be wearing pumps or platform shoes. Deck boots are ideal and are often available for rent or purchase near the marina, but rain boots will suffice.

And don't forget to have your fishing license before you go fishing, though many salmon fishing charters offer you the means to acquire a fishing license there. Know your fishing limits as well as the capacity of your cooler or the boat's storage. Don't bring personal weapons on board, whether you have a permit for them or not. Neither ship captains nor local law will let you try to shoot that annoying sea gull or massive fish just below the surface.

What can you do to make the most of your salmon fishing trip? What should you do to minimize the odds of problems when chartering a salmon fishing trip.