What You Should Know
Before You Go

Just like in every business, there are good and bad. We believe that you the customer should enjoy your trip and get the experience that you have paid for. Here are a few pointers to help you make an informed choice, in whatever charter service you book.

BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER!
Most larger boats have DIESEL engines which are louder to operate and generate a greater amounts of fumes which have an ill effect on the customer.  These vessels have difficulty reducing their trolling speed enough to fish effectively. Ref.http://www.ehow.com/list_6060095_health-effects-dieselexhaust_.html

ARE THEY COMMERCIALLY LICENSED?
New Transport Canada Law

PROFESSIONAL OR WEEKEND WARRIORS?
Does the operator treat his business as a profession and are whether you are treated well, so that you enjoy your outing and return for more fishing adventures.

IS THE STAFF AND OPERATOR LICENCES?
The operator is required to have a Small Commercial Vessel Operator Proficiency Certificate (SVOP) , a Masters Limited or higher. Mates are required to have Marine emergency Duty Class 3 or higher. Marine First Aid is also required. These are all Transport Canada requirements designed for your safety.

WEATHER?
Ask the question “what about the weather”? On your charter day take a look around. Are other boats going out? On questionable weather days! You need to ask yourself, why is my Captain taking me out? Because generally on high wind and waves thefishing is not good and the customers are prone to motion or “sea sickness”! This is not a good experience! And you may never enjoy chartering again. This hurts everyone in our industry!

PRICING?
It is very simple! The bigger the boat the bigger the price. The smaller the boat the smaller the price. If a bigger boat is asking a lesser price you need to ask yourself why? Cheaper is not always better! They all have fixed costs and expenses like we all do!

FISHING?
What kind of gear do they provide? Does your Captain work an area with active fish or are you on a boat ride? Does your Mate work hard and change lures? Do they help and guide you so that you land your fish? Or are they just dragging lines? You can have good and bad fishing days but even on bad days the Captain or Mate should make a good effort to catch fish. Does the Captain or Mate even care about fishing? Don’t be affaid to ask questions. After your trip check out what other charters have caught.

REMEMBER!
Ask questions.
Visit the Operator.
Tour the vessel.
Ask for references.
Check the weather.
Check social media for updated info

OM A PERSONAL NOTE
“I Captain Dolly from Salmon Express get weary of hearing from other people about their bad adventures with other operators and I hope that I have helped you in asking the right questions. And to make an informed decision for your next charter adventure. Enjoy the season and here’s to a great fishing season!”