Trip planning
Quick List for Going on a Fishing, Cruising, Photography, Sight Seeing Trip.
□ Hat
□ Sunscreen (even on cloudy days the reflection off the water can increase sunburn)
□ Sunglasses
□ Spring and Summer: T-shirts, long sleeved shirts, hoodie, windbreaker, short and long pants.
□ Fall and Winter : Extra layer clothes such as a wind breaker, rain jacket, hoodie, gloves, Fleece long
john pants, weather appropriate.
□ Food and beverages (no glass bottles please, see policy on alcohol below)
□ Fishing licences (Ask your guide for what is appropriate if you don't have any)
□ Hat
□ Sunscreen (even on cloudy days the reflection off the water can increase sunburn)
□ Sunglasses
□ Spring and Summer: T-shirts, long sleeved shirts, hoodie, windbreaker, short and long pants.
□ Fall and Winter : Extra layer clothes such as a wind breaker, rain jacket, hoodie, gloves, Fleece long
john pants, weather appropriate.
□ Food and beverages (no glass bottles please, see policy on alcohol below)
□ Fishing licences (Ask your guide for what is appropriate if you don't have any)
□ Camera (Waterproof is recommended, see camera advice below.)
□ Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
□ Prescription for motion sickness if you are prone to it.
□ Small backpack to store your gear as space is very limited.
Please Don't Bring
□ Pets (Please do not bring pets unless cleared with captain prior to the day of
departure.)
□ Non-prescription drugs, hard liquor, see policy below.
□ Electronic equipment, stereos etc. See policy below.
□ Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
□ Prescription for motion sickness if you are prone to it.
□ Small backpack to store your gear as space is very limited.
Please Don't Bring
□ Pets (Please do not bring pets unless cleared with captain prior to the day of
departure.)
□ Non-prescription drugs, hard liquor, see policy below.
□ Electronic equipment, stereos etc. See policy below.
What's the best time of year to fish in Vancouver?
Fishing can be done year round in Vancouver as it is usually an ice free port and the ocean and rivers are usually ice free. The peak season for Salmon and Sturgeon overlap from July to December however fish can be caught year round and sometimes the greatest number of sturgeon can be caught in November to January weather permitting. See the following chart for detailed season information. Click this Link to Fishing Calendar
Fishing can be done year round in Vancouver as it is usually an ice free port and the ocean and rivers are usually ice free. The peak season for Salmon and Sturgeon overlap from July to December however fish can be caught year round and sometimes the greatest number of sturgeon can be caught in November to January weather permitting. See the following chart for detailed season information. Click this Link to Fishing Calendar
What does it cost to go sport fishing In Vancouver?
Prices vary from Company to Company and boat to boat and depend on the size and amenities of the boat and season, fuel costs etc. A minimum charge of $600 is common for 4 hours plus $100+ per additional hour and there may be additional charges for fuel and provincial sales tax (7%) and federal goods and services tax (5%). Always check with the Charter company to confirm the total costs. Click this Link to trip prices page
Prices vary from Company to Company and boat to boat and depend on the size and amenities of the boat and season, fuel costs etc. A minimum charge of $600 is common for 4 hours plus $100+ per additional hour and there may be additional charges for fuel and provincial sales tax (7%) and federal goods and services tax (5%). Always check with the Charter company to confirm the total costs. Click this Link to trip prices page
How far in advance should I make a reservation with Fraser Legends Fishing?
Photo expeditions can be run any time when the weather is suitable and rivers and harbours are ice free (which is most of the year.)
Fishing seasons vary with regulations and weather conditions. The most popular seasons depend on the fish being sought after with the summer and fall (August to November) being the most popular for all fish species. High charter demand and fall tournaments for salmon and especially sturgeon can require the boats from multiple charter companies so booking a reservation as far in advance as possible is highly recommended. October to early November is often the very best time to catch a large sturgeon and though the weather can be cold and wet the trips may book up early. Therefore, booking during the fall may require up to a year in advance to get a suitable date. Even if dates are full, you can request to be on a notification list as cancellations are always possible
How do I make a reservation with Fraser Legends Fishing?
Please contact Fraser Legends Fishing Charter by phone (1 778 870 3241) or e-mail (mailto:peterk12@live.com) to make an advance reservation. All trip reservations require a minimum credit card, cash PayPal deposit of 50% which will be applied to the fee for the day of the charter. Full payment must be made at least 72 hours before the start of the charter by credit card, cash or traveler cheque.
Photo expeditions can be run any time when the weather is suitable and rivers and harbours are ice free (which is most of the year.)
Fishing seasons vary with regulations and weather conditions. The most popular seasons depend on the fish being sought after with the summer and fall (August to November) being the most popular for all fish species. High charter demand and fall tournaments for salmon and especially sturgeon can require the boats from multiple charter companies so booking a reservation as far in advance as possible is highly recommended. October to early November is often the very best time to catch a large sturgeon and though the weather can be cold and wet the trips may book up early. Therefore, booking during the fall may require up to a year in advance to get a suitable date. Even if dates are full, you can request to be on a notification list as cancellations are always possible
How do I make a reservation with Fraser Legends Fishing?
Please contact Fraser Legends Fishing Charter by phone (1 778 870 3241) or e-mail (mailto:peterk12@live.com) to make an advance reservation. All trip reservations require a minimum credit card, cash PayPal deposit of 50% which will be applied to the fee for the day of the charter. Full payment must be made at least 72 hours before the start of the charter by credit card, cash or traveler cheque.
Is my reservation guaranteed? What about a cancellation?
Fraser Legends Fishing Charters will do our best to make every scheduled trip possible. In the interests of safety the Captain of any charter trip may cancel or shorten any trip where he/she feels that safety is or may be compromised due to weather, or there is known or suspected mechanical failure or water hazards. Cancellations may also result due to client behaviour before or during a trip or unforeseen health issues of the staff or clients. Cancellations due to client behaviour are not refundable.
Cancellations made at least 30 days in advance of the scheduled trip will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled trip will receive a 50% refund of the deposit. Cancellations made less than 72 hours prior to departure cannot be refunded.
Fraser Legends Fishing Charters will do our best to make every scheduled trip possible. In the interests of safety the Captain of any charter trip may cancel or shorten any trip where he/she feels that safety is or may be compromised due to weather, or there is known or suspected mechanical failure or water hazards. Cancellations may also result due to client behaviour before or during a trip or unforeseen health issues of the staff or clients. Cancellations due to client behaviour are not refundable.
Cancellations made at least 30 days in advance of the scheduled trip will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled trip will receive a 50% refund of the deposit. Cancellations made less than 72 hours prior to departure cannot be refunded.
How do we get to the launch site?
The launch site will vary depending on the season and what you are fishing for. Your captain will tell you the location and you can also find it on the Pick Up and Locations Page. If you come to the Lonsdale Quay North Vancouver pick up location, then transportation costs to the final launch site can be included for up to 4 people, usually at 1/2 the cost for a taxi or rental car.
What should I bring on the charter?
Fishing Licences; Fishing licence fees are used to manage and enhance fisheries in British Columbia and are required for both salt water (also called "tidal") and freshwater (also called "non-tidal") fishing areas for anyone 16 years and older. The type of licence depends on the persons age, where you want to fish, the type of fish, and the number of days you want to fish. Seniors usually qualify for a discount and children under 16 generally do not require a fishing licence or species tags however what ever they catch will count to the total limit for an accompanying adult who must have a licence.
If you don't have a licence and species tag(s) we will advise you on what licences to buy and may be able to help you buy them on Government Web Sites. Typical one day fishing licence fees range from approximately CDN$10.00 to CDN$30 plus fees for specific fish. You can purchase them on line at;
Tidal (Federal Government Licence) https://recfish-pechesportive.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/nrls-sndpp/index-eng.cfm
Non-Tidal (Provincial Government Freshwater licences) http://www.fishing.gov.bc.ca/
Specific types of fish may require additional licence tag fees. (Sturgeon tag is required for non-tidal water, it is not required for tidal water fishing. Ask your trip Captain for advice on licences)
The launch site will vary depending on the season and what you are fishing for. Your captain will tell you the location and you can also find it on the Pick Up and Locations Page. If you come to the Lonsdale Quay North Vancouver pick up location, then transportation costs to the final launch site can be included for up to 4 people, usually at 1/2 the cost for a taxi or rental car.
What should I bring on the charter?
Fishing Licences; Fishing licence fees are used to manage and enhance fisheries in British Columbia and are required for both salt water (also called "tidal") and freshwater (also called "non-tidal") fishing areas for anyone 16 years and older. The type of licence depends on the persons age, where you want to fish, the type of fish, and the number of days you want to fish. Seniors usually qualify for a discount and children under 16 generally do not require a fishing licence or species tags however what ever they catch will count to the total limit for an accompanying adult who must have a licence.
If you don't have a licence and species tag(s) we will advise you on what licences to buy and may be able to help you buy them on Government Web Sites. Typical one day fishing licence fees range from approximately CDN$10.00 to CDN$30 plus fees for specific fish. You can purchase them on line at;
Tidal (Federal Government Licence) https://recfish-pechesportive.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/nrls-sndpp/index-eng.cfm
Non-Tidal (Provincial Government Freshwater licences) http://www.fishing.gov.bc.ca/
Specific types of fish may require additional licence tag fees. (Sturgeon tag is required for non-tidal water, it is not required for tidal water fishing. Ask your trip Captain for advice on licences)
Washrooms:
Shore based washrooms are available at some docks and shore based rest stops or restaurants. Check with your Captain as to whether your boat has an on board washroom. Scheduled or “unscheduled” shore breaks may be taken upon request for stretching and washroom breaks. (Don’t be afraid to ask your Captain even if the fishing is “really, really good!”)
Equipment: If you wish to bring your own fishing equipment please notify the captain in advance as storage space on the boat is limited. Otherwise the boat provides all equipment, bait, ice, and a guest cooler/refrigerator. You need to bring your own food and beverages. (Please do not bring glass beverage containers/bottles onto the boats as breaking glass can result in cuts or injuries)
Shore based washrooms are available at some docks and shore based rest stops or restaurants. Check with your Captain as to whether your boat has an on board washroom. Scheduled or “unscheduled” shore breaks may be taken upon request for stretching and washroom breaks. (Don’t be afraid to ask your Captain even if the fishing is “really, really good!”)
Equipment: If you wish to bring your own fishing equipment please notify the captain in advance as storage space on the boat is limited. Otherwise the boat provides all equipment, bait, ice, and a guest cooler/refrigerator. You need to bring your own food and beverages. (Please do not bring glass beverage containers/bottles onto the boats as breaking glass can result in cuts or injuries)
Food: It's a good idea to obtain all your food and beverages the night before as there are only a few stores open in the early morning. If you're staying at a hotel or resort, they can often provide a picnic lunch for you. Shore side Bistros and Pubs may be available on some trips so check with your Captain when registering to see if you want to schedule a shore meal break. Special trips may be made to include beach side wiener roasts or picnics where you bring your own food.
Alcoholic Beverages: We do not supply alcoholic beverages. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters wants you to have the best experience possible and has a policy of limiting alcoholic beverages brought on board by the guest to the equivalent of 3 – 12 ounce (330 ml) servings of beer or wine per adult over 19 years of age per trip. No hard liquor (whisky, brandy, vodka etc), or non-prescription drugs or marijuana are permitted for health and safety reasons. Your Captain may cancel the trip at any time with no refund if he or she feels there has been an exceedance of these limits or health or safety may be compromised due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or non-prescription drugs.
Smoking/Non-Smoking: We always recommend a “non-smoking trip” however the captain may prohibit smoking at certain times especially during fueling or engine start up procedures. By law you may not smoke in an enclosed area such as the cabin of the boat. Smoking is permitted on exterior decks and it is requested that for everyone’s sake, that you refrain from smoking as much as possible during your trip.
Alcoholic Beverages: We do not supply alcoholic beverages. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters wants you to have the best experience possible and has a policy of limiting alcoholic beverages brought on board by the guest to the equivalent of 3 – 12 ounce (330 ml) servings of beer or wine per adult over 19 years of age per trip. No hard liquor (whisky, brandy, vodka etc), or non-prescription drugs or marijuana are permitted for health and safety reasons. Your Captain may cancel the trip at any time with no refund if he or she feels there has been an exceedance of these limits or health or safety may be compromised due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or non-prescription drugs.
Smoking/Non-Smoking: We always recommend a “non-smoking trip” however the captain may prohibit smoking at certain times especially during fueling or engine start up procedures. By law you may not smoke in an enclosed area such as the cabin of the boat. Smoking is permitted on exterior decks and it is requested that for everyone’s sake, that you refrain from smoking as much as possible during your trip.
How long should we go out for? What time do the boats go out?
Private charter photo and sight seeing/family trips can be any length subject to daylight and weather conditions and the start and return times are flexible according to your schedule but are usually 4 to 8 hours long. So common start times are 08:00 (am) and 13:00 (1:00 pm).
Fishing trips are more dependent on weather and tides and your trip captain will try and get you to the most productive spot as soon as possible. Showing up at the dock on time is important as the more time on the water the greater the chance of catching more fish. If you book a 4 hour trip, the boat(s) will likely depart by 08:00 and return by 12:00 so that an afternoon charter can leave by 13:00 (1:00 pm) to return by 17:00 (5:00 pm). Winter times may limit the amount of daylight and return times will be before 16:00 (4:00 pm) to arrive back at the dock before dark.
What's the difference between a share boat and a private charter?
A private charter is a boat that will only take you and your guests out for the fishing or photo expedition and offers you the most flexible trip according to your schedule and the share of the fishing experience. A private charter would not be cancelled unless the clients choose to, or there are weather, mechanical or medical issues beyond the control of the captain. (Note: Regulations require that only one fishing rod per person may be used on rivers. )
A share boat is a trip where different people book the trip by purchasing a spot. The maximum number of people are the same and the share of the fishing (who gets to fight the first fish etc.) or cruise/photo experience route and timing will depend on the order of who booked first unless another agreement made between the members of the share group at the start of the trip. A share trip may be cancelled if too few people book onto the trip
Should we take the kids fishing?
Fishing is an experience for all ages and a great family experience. We recommend the shorter trips of 4 hours with children between the ages of 8 to 12 years old. The trips can be adjusted so that smaller fishing gear can be used. Some freshwater trips may involve using simple casting gear and saltwater trips can have bottom fishing which is active and fun with a better chance of catching a fish. Family river and lake cruises can combine fishing with beach breaks, wiener roasts or exploring and the summer trips to Kilby beach for swimming during July and August on the Harrison River are ideal for this.
Longer trips, either trolling for salmon or still fishing for sturgeon are better suited for adults and children over 10 years old, as more patience is required in waiting for fish to bite to be successful. The gear is heavier and the fish can be quite powerful. (See the "Fishin Stories" page for articles submitted by kids)
What's the weather going to be like? Will it be rough?
Much as we would like to, Fraser Legends Fishing Charters does not control the weather! However, your trip captain will try to find the calmest water possible. The boats will have a covered cabin to protect from excessive sun or rain. If motion sickness is a problem, we recommend taking any motion sickness medications prior to embarking on the trip. Trips shortened due to motion sickness cannot be refunded. It is the captain’s decision if and when to return to port due to weather, water or health conditions.
What Clothing should we wear?
Summer can be hot and winter cold however at any time, the air over water is almost always cooler than on land, so always dress according to the weather with at least one layer warmer than you would on shore. Space on the boats is limited so it is best to dress in layers with an outer wind breaker for sunny/cloudy days and rain gear and a warm “hoodie” for days where it might rain and gloves (wool gloves with removable finger covers are recommended from late October to the end of March). Hats, sunglasses and sun screen are recommended for every trip regardless of the season as the reflection of light on the water and wind can dry out skin and speed up sunburns. Pack a small backpack for your extra gear as space is always limited.
Should I bring a Camera?
Creating your own trip Legend and being able to prove you caught that big one requires a camera. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters recommends that if you bring your camera that it is waterproof as wind, waves, boat spray and rain provide ample opportunities to get your camera wet. Salt water trips can be especially damaging to non-water proof cameras. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters is not responsible for any damage to cameras brought on board by clients, however caused. If you want to book a special still or video photographer this can be arranged. We recommend NORDICA Photography .
What about electronic equipment such as stereos?
For safety reasons Fraser Legends Fishing Charters does not recommend bringing any electronic equipment on board. Guests may bring personal stereo equipment such as IPODs with personal ear buds however at certain times, the Captain may require that they be stowed away for safety reasons so that instructions can be heard. Boats are by nature "wet places" so electronic equipment can be easily damaged. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters is not responsible for any damage to any electronic equipment brought on board by clients, however caused.
Any Other Questions?
If you have any other questions, please feel free to call at 1-778-870-3241 or e-mail at mailto:peterk12@live.com
Private charter photo and sight seeing/family trips can be any length subject to daylight and weather conditions and the start and return times are flexible according to your schedule but are usually 4 to 8 hours long. So common start times are 08:00 (am) and 13:00 (1:00 pm).
Fishing trips are more dependent on weather and tides and your trip captain will try and get you to the most productive spot as soon as possible. Showing up at the dock on time is important as the more time on the water the greater the chance of catching more fish. If you book a 4 hour trip, the boat(s) will likely depart by 08:00 and return by 12:00 so that an afternoon charter can leave by 13:00 (1:00 pm) to return by 17:00 (5:00 pm). Winter times may limit the amount of daylight and return times will be before 16:00 (4:00 pm) to arrive back at the dock before dark.
What's the difference between a share boat and a private charter?
A private charter is a boat that will only take you and your guests out for the fishing or photo expedition and offers you the most flexible trip according to your schedule and the share of the fishing experience. A private charter would not be cancelled unless the clients choose to, or there are weather, mechanical or medical issues beyond the control of the captain. (Note: Regulations require that only one fishing rod per person may be used on rivers. )
A share boat is a trip where different people book the trip by purchasing a spot. The maximum number of people are the same and the share of the fishing (who gets to fight the first fish etc.) or cruise/photo experience route and timing will depend on the order of who booked first unless another agreement made between the members of the share group at the start of the trip. A share trip may be cancelled if too few people book onto the trip
Should we take the kids fishing?
Fishing is an experience for all ages and a great family experience. We recommend the shorter trips of 4 hours with children between the ages of 8 to 12 years old. The trips can be adjusted so that smaller fishing gear can be used. Some freshwater trips may involve using simple casting gear and saltwater trips can have bottom fishing which is active and fun with a better chance of catching a fish. Family river and lake cruises can combine fishing with beach breaks, wiener roasts or exploring and the summer trips to Kilby beach for swimming during July and August on the Harrison River are ideal for this.
Longer trips, either trolling for salmon or still fishing for sturgeon are better suited for adults and children over 10 years old, as more patience is required in waiting for fish to bite to be successful. The gear is heavier and the fish can be quite powerful. (See the "Fishin Stories" page for articles submitted by kids)
What's the weather going to be like? Will it be rough?
Much as we would like to, Fraser Legends Fishing Charters does not control the weather! However, your trip captain will try to find the calmest water possible. The boats will have a covered cabin to protect from excessive sun or rain. If motion sickness is a problem, we recommend taking any motion sickness medications prior to embarking on the trip. Trips shortened due to motion sickness cannot be refunded. It is the captain’s decision if and when to return to port due to weather, water or health conditions.
What Clothing should we wear?
Summer can be hot and winter cold however at any time, the air over water is almost always cooler than on land, so always dress according to the weather with at least one layer warmer than you would on shore. Space on the boats is limited so it is best to dress in layers with an outer wind breaker for sunny/cloudy days and rain gear and a warm “hoodie” for days where it might rain and gloves (wool gloves with removable finger covers are recommended from late October to the end of March). Hats, sunglasses and sun screen are recommended for every trip regardless of the season as the reflection of light on the water and wind can dry out skin and speed up sunburns. Pack a small backpack for your extra gear as space is always limited.
Should I bring a Camera?
Creating your own trip Legend and being able to prove you caught that big one requires a camera. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters recommends that if you bring your camera that it is waterproof as wind, waves, boat spray and rain provide ample opportunities to get your camera wet. Salt water trips can be especially damaging to non-water proof cameras. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters is not responsible for any damage to cameras brought on board by clients, however caused. If you want to book a special still or video photographer this can be arranged. We recommend NORDICA Photography .
What about electronic equipment such as stereos?
For safety reasons Fraser Legends Fishing Charters does not recommend bringing any electronic equipment on board. Guests may bring personal stereo equipment such as IPODs with personal ear buds however at certain times, the Captain may require that they be stowed away for safety reasons so that instructions can be heard. Boats are by nature "wet places" so electronic equipment can be easily damaged. Fraser Legends Fishing Charters is not responsible for any damage to any electronic equipment brought on board by clients, however caused.
Any Other Questions?
If you have any other questions, please feel free to call at 1-778-870-3241 or e-mail at mailto:peterk12@live.com
