Get Ready for your Astoria Fishing Charter
Getting the most fun out of your fishing trip starts with knowing what to expect once you’ve booked. My goal is to make sure you feel confident about your trip so you can focus on enjoying yourself and looking forward to your adventure. Whether you’re a planner or a fly by the seat of your pants sort of person, my goal is to make sure you’re ready to go when you get to the dock.
Once you book
You will receive a confirmation e-mail with your trip date and choice. You will also have confirmation that your deposit was received. I will also include information on what to bring. If you want to be ready early, keep reading. Do not feel nervous about contacting me if you have any questions.
A few days ahead
You will receive a second e-mail with information including our departure location and departure time. Weather, tides, and recent fish activity can change our departure time and location. I will do my best to communicate ahead of time if there is a chance that changes are needed. There will also be information on parking and if there are any specific instructions for your trip.
The night before
Make sure to check for any last minute messages from me about changes for your trip. Get all of your supplies packed and ready. Plan to get to bed early and get plenty of rest. If you get seasick, make sure to take your Meclizine before bed and avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol.
Use your favorite navigation app to check the time to get to our departure point. Set your alarm with enough time so that you can get there about 20 minutes early. This will let us get a good start chasing the fish!
The day of your trip
This is when the fun begins! I will have the boat ready for you. Make sure to arrive a little bit early so that everyone can use the bathroom before we leave. There will be a quick safety briefing and everyone will get situated on the boat. Life vests will be provided for everyone to wear during the trip.
Now it’s time to make memories!
Departure Locations
What to Bring
Fishing Licenses and Tags
You are responsible for having the correct licenses and tags for any planned fishing. Licenses and tags for Oregon and Washington can be purchased online. The pages for your trip list the recommended licenses and tags.
Dress for the Weather, and Then Some
Our area is known for cool, wet winters and springs with generally dry and sunny summer and fall days. With that said, even on a sunny day the winds can kick up. The wake from another boat can throw spray on you. Dressing in layers with a waterproof exterior can help you enjoy yourself, even if conditions turn rough
Lotion type Sunscreen
A lotion type sunscreen is recommended, even if it’s going to be cold out. The water reflects sun back at you, even on a cloudy day. Please avoid spray-on sunscreens. These can drift onto our fishing gear and repel fish.
Food, Drink, and Snacks!
There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee while waiting for an even hotter fish to bite. Sharing snacks is a great way to reinforce old friendships and build new ones. Trips usually last through lunch time so make sure you bring a few things to eat and plenty of water. Food and drinks are not provided as part of your trip.
Medications
Please bring any prescription or non-prescription medications that you take or carry regularly. Seasickness medication such as Meclizine is highly recommended. If you need things like insulin, asthma inhalers, or emergency allergy medication please make sure to bring these with you. It’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.
Prepare for Parking
Some of the places we launch from will require additional fees for parking. There is a mix of cash and/or cards accepted at these locations so bring both. I will generally let you know ahead of time if payment for parking is required. The current fees in our area are between $5 and $10 for the day.
What’s Provided
Fishing Equipment
The boat will be stocked with fishing gear for the type of fishing we are planning. This will include rods, reels, bait and lures.
I use Talon fishing rods for most of my fishing trips along with Daiwa Lexa Reels. The reels are in both right and left handed versions.
Ice and Bags for Fish
Keeping your catch fresh is a top priority. One of the best parts of the trip happens afterwards. You get to sit down, share a meal, and tell your friends all about your adventure. After cleaning, your fish will be placed in bags to help you get it home. If you’re traveling from a distance, I recommend Gezellig Seafoods in Astoria. They can vacuum seal, freeze, and even ship your catch back.
Safety Equipment
Life jackets, first aid kit, radio, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment will be on board. If anyone on the trip weighs less than 90 pounds please let me know ahead of time. This lets me have the correct life jackets on board.