Tyee Charters

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring and wear?

We provide all your fishing equipment and gear. You will need to bring a lunch, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothes and a desire to have fun and catch fish! If you forget anything, don’t worry as we usually have some spares on the boat.

You can look forward to seeing many marine mammals such as seals, sea lions and occasionally dahls porpoises and orca whales. If rain is predicted (and this is Seattle!) please bring rain gear, but keep in mind the cabin is covered so you can go inside anytime. We recommend dressing in layers as the temperatures can vary.

Will we still go if the weather is bad?

If the water is too rough for safety we will reschedule or cancel. However, if it is raining we will fish. The boat has a covered cabin so you can get out of the rain if necessary. Around here we can’t let a little rain stop us!

If something comes up and I can’t go, do I get my deposit back?

Cancellations although rare are sometimes inevitable. We will work with you to the best of our ability but rescheduling is our preferred policy. If you must cancel you are required to give us at least 7 days notice for a full refund.  Last minute cancellations will be charged in Full.  Arbitration and Collection is conducted by Lane Powell and Associates LLC.

Do you have a refrigerator for our drinks?

We have a box for fish and a cooler for your drinks and food.

Is it better to fish in the morning or in the evening?

As we all know, fishing is variable! We have had success in both the morning and afternoons.

What time does the boat depart?

The morning trips depart at daybreak and the afternoon trips depart around 2:00PM. If you have the entire boat reserved we will gladly adjust the departure time to suit your needs.

How far in advance do you need to book?

We recommend reserving your trip as soon as you have a date in mind. The weekend trips typically fill up first. Based on past years, we recommend reserving your date one month in advance. If you can be flexible, we will do our best to accommodate you even on short notice.

Do you keep what you catch?

You may keep up to the legal limit and we will clean, filet and bag up your fish.

How do you get your fish home?

We provide free bags for your fish. If you would like your fish prepared for shipping, we suggest Pike Place Fish. A reputable business that will professionally package your fish and use gel packs to ship fish fresh. They can also smoke and vacuum pack your fish. We are glad to assist you with the packaging/shipping process.

How far out do we go to fish?

Puget Sound is protected water with no ocean swells. You will be fishing within sight of land, usually within a mile or less of shore. The average travel time to the fishing grounds is 5 to 30 minutes.

How old do you have to be to fish?

All ages are welcome. We have taken people from 1 week old to 95 years old.

How long does the trip last?

Standard trips last six to seven hours from check in time till you return to the dock. We offer 4 hour trips for those so inclined. Private charters can be structured to meet your time schedule.

Do you need a fishing license?

All people over the age of 15 need to purchase a fishing license. We are a licensed dealer and carry one-day licenses on the boat. The cost is $8 per person whether you are a resident or non-resident of Washington.

What is the maximum number of people on the boat?

We limit the number of people to five in order to provide the best possible experience. If you have reserved the boat for a private charter you can expect to have only your party on the boat.

Is there a first mate or deck hand?

We operate with a Captain only. The boat is equipped with autopilots and our design of fishing gear allows the captain to assist you.

What fishing techniques do you use?

We offer a unique method for trolling with downriggers. When we troll we use Sage 10- and 12-foot light action rods and large salt water fly reels. While this combination may sound a bit odd, we feel that this gives the angler the ultimate fight.

Tyee Charters