Before your charter
Straight answers before you step aboard.
Fishing days are better when everyone knows what to expect. These are the questions most groups ask before booking a private charter.
Is Wi-Fi available on the boat?
Yes. Onboard Starlink Wi-Fi is included for guests at no extra charge, so you can share photos and videos with friends and family or post to social media. Connection availability and speeds can vary; uninterrupted service is not guaranteed.
Do you offer fall, winter and spring charters?
Yes. Private charters are available year-round by arrangement, subject to weather, scheduling, daylight and current regulations. Explore fall, winter and spring fishing, prawning and Dungeness crabbing, then ask Randy about dates and the best fit for your group.
Will we fish for salmon, prawns and crab on the same trip?
Not necessarily. Tell Randy which activities matter most before booking. The combination depends on your trip length, weather, local opportunities and current regulations. Six- and eight-hour trips offer more planning flexibility than a short outing, but no particular activity, catch or retained species is guaranteed.
Is there a fuel surcharge?
A fixed $25 fuel surcharge applies per boat, per trip—not per person. Displayed charter totals already include this charge; it is not added again. Existing bookings and agreed quotes are honoured without a new surcharge.
Is there a toilet on board?
A portable toilet is available in the closable cuddy for privacy. It is not a permanently installed marine toilet or a full washroom. Please discuss any comfort, mobility or washroom needs with Randy before booking; access to shore facilities depends on the trip location and conditions.
Where do the charters depart?
Trips depart from Sunshine Beach Marina in Nanoose Bay, conveniently located between Parksville and Nanaimo. The exact meeting location, parking instructions and departure time are provided when your trip is confirmed.
How many people can come?
Published charter pricing includes a private boat for up to four guests. Contact Randy before booking if your group has special circumstances or questions about passenger arrangements.
Do I need a fishing licence?
Yes. Every angler needs a valid BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence. A salmon conservation stamp is required if you plan to retain salmon. Licences are the responsibility of each guest and should be obtained before departure.
What can we fish for?
Depending on the season, location, conditions and current regulations, opportunities may include Chinook salmon, coho salmon, lingcod, halibut and other legal species. Specific opportunities can change throughout the season.
Is catching fish guaranteed?
No ethical guide can guarantee a particular catch. Randy uses his experience, current information and the available fishing time to give your group the best realistic opportunity. Weather, fish movement and regulations all affect the day.
Are beginners and families welcome?
Absolutely. Randy works with complete beginners, experienced anglers and family groups. Include the ages and experience levels of everyone in your inquiry so the day can be planned appropriately.
What should I bring?
Bring your fishing licence, salmon stamp if retaining salmon, layered clothing, weatherproof outerwear, non-slip footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen and any personal medication. Keep a cooler in your vehicle for transporting fish after the trip.
What is supplied?
Rods, reels, tackle, bait, navigation and fishing electronics, onboard safety equipment, instruction, fish cleaning and bagging are supplied. Breakfast sandwiches and a BBQ lunch are included on full-day charters.
What happens if the weather is unsafe?
Safety comes first. Randy monitors the marine forecast and local conditions. If conditions are not suitable for the planned trip, he will contact you to discuss the appropriate next step.
What safety standards and qualifications do you have?
Captain Randy holds SVOP, MED A3 and ROC-M credentials. The boat is commercially insured and equipped with updated VHF/GPS communication, life jackets, first-aid supplies, flares and fire extinguishers. We are always happy to discuss our Transport Canada documentation, vessel markings and onboard preparation before you book.
Can we bring alcohol?
Ask Randy directly before the trip. Any alcohol carried aboard must be handled responsibly, comply with applicable rules and never interfere with safety or the operation of the vessel.
How do I secure a date?
Send your preferred date, a second-choice date, group size and preferred trip. Randy will confirm availability and provide the deposit, cancellation and final booking details before your date is secured.
How should we transport our catch?
Bring a clean cooler in your vehicle. Legal retained fish can be cleaned and bagged after the trip. Guests remain responsible for their catch, licence records, transport and compliance with possession requirements.
Still have a question?
Send it directly to Randy. You will get a personal answer based on your group, dates and the kind of day you are planning.