First-Timer's Guide
Never been on a fishing charter? No problem. Here's everything you need to know for an amazing first experience on the water.
No Experience Needed
Complete Beginners Welcome
We Teach You
Hands-On Instruction
All Gear Included
Just Show Up
Fun Guaranteed
Memories for Life
What to Expect on Your First Charter
Here's a step-by-step look at your fishing adventure from start to finish.
Arrival & Welcome
Meet your captain at the dock. We'll introduce ourselves, go over the day's plan, and answer any questions. Then we'll help you aboard and get settled in.
Safety Briefing
Before we leave the dock, we'll show you where life jackets are, how to move safely on the boat, and what to do in an emergency. Takes about 5 minutes.
Travel to Fishing Grounds
Sit back and enjoy the scenic ride. We'll travel 15-45 minutes to our fishing spots, watching for wildlife along the way. This is a great time for photos!
Fishing Instruction
We'll show you how to handle a rod, set the hook when you get a bite, and fight a fish. Don't worry — we'll be right beside you the whole time.
Fish On!
When a fish hits, we'll hand you the rod and coach you through the fight. You'll reel, we'll net. Then comes the photos with your catch!
Return & Fish Cleaning
After fishing, we head back to the dock. We'll clean and bag your fish so they're ready to take home or to a local restaurant for cooking.
What to Bring
You don't need to bring fishing gear — we provide everything. But here's what you should pack:
Essential
- Fishing License
Buy online at fishing.gov.bc.ca
- Photo ID
To verify your license
- Credit Card or Cash
For tips and any extras
Clothing
- Layers
It's cooler on the water than on shore
- Rain Jacket
Even if sunny — spray happens
- Non-Slip Shoes
Sneakers or deck shoes — no flip-flops
- Hat & Sunglasses
Polarized lenses help you see fish!
Nice to Have
- Sunscreen
SPF 30+ reef-safe preferred
- Camera
Phone is fine — we take photos too
- Snacks & Drinks
We have a cooler for your refreshments
- Cooler for Fish
To transport your catch home
What We Provide
Worried About Seasickness?
It's the #1 question from first-timers. The good news: most people do just fine, especially with a few simple precautions.
Take Motion Sickness Medication
Gravol, Dramamine, or Bonine work well. Take it 30-60 minutes BEFORE boarding, not after you feel sick.
Get a Good Night's Sleep
Being well-rested makes a huge difference. Avoid alcohol the night before.
Eat a Light Breakfast
An empty stomach makes seasickness worse. Eat something bland — toast, crackers, a banana.
Watch the Horizon
If you feel queasy, look at the horizon or distant shore — don't stare at your phone.
Why Campbell River is Easier
Unlike open ocean fishing, we fish in Discovery Passage and the surrounding islands. These protected waters have less swell and chop than offshore destinations.
- Protected waters = calmer conditions
- Never far from shore
- We can return early if needed
Pro Tip: If you're worried, try our 4-hour introductory trip first. It's long enough to catch fish but short enough to test how you feel on the water.
Which Trip is Right for First-Timers?
We recommend these options for your first fishing charter experience:
4-Hour Introductory Trip
- Perfect introduction to fishing
- Good for families with kids
- Tests how you feel on the water
- Still plenty of time to catch fish
Half-Day Charter
- 6 hours of prime fishing
- More fishing spots covered
- Higher chance of catching fish
- Our most-booked trip
Wildlife Combo Trip
- Fishing + whale/wildlife watching
- Great for mixed groups
- Eagles, seals, sea lions, whales
- Full-day adventure
First-Timer FAQs
Quick answers to the most common questions from new anglers.
Do I need to know how to fish?
Absolutely not! We teach complete beginners every week. Your captain will show you everything — how to hold the rod, when to set the hook, how to fight the fish. You don't need any prior experience.
Will I actually catch a fish?
While we can't guarantee fish (they're wild animals!), our catch rates are excellent. Campbell River is the Salmon Capital of the World for a reason. Most trips catch multiple fish. If you book during peak season (July-September), your odds are even better.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes! We welcome kids of all ages. We have child-sized life jackets and our captains are experienced with young anglers. Kids often catch the biggest fish — they have more patience than adults!
What if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe, we'll cancel and offer you a full refund or reschedule at no charge. Light rain doesn't stop us — in fact, fish often bite better when it's overcast! Our 27' boat has a heated cabin for shelter.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
If the fish meets size and limit regulations, yes! We clean and bag your catch for you. We recommend bringing a cooler to transport your fish home. If you're staying locally, many restaurants will cook your catch for you.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Our 27' Boston Whaler Conquest has a private marine head (bathroom) in the cabin. Our smaller 17' boats don't have facilities, but we can make quick stops at shore if needed.
What about tipping?
Tips are appreciated but not required. If you had a great experience, 15-20% of the charter cost is customary. Cash is preferred but not required.
Ready for Your First Fishing Adventure?
Join thousands of first-timers who've discovered why Campbell River is the Salmon Capital of the World. We'll take care of everything — you just bring the excitement.
