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Fishing License Requirements In Vancouver Island

Book a full-day offshore salmon fishing trip on Vancouver Island. Troll prime spots with expert guide Wayne Sarak.

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World-Class Salmon Charters on Vancouver Island

Experience world-class offshore halibut fishing on Vancouver Island. Join Full Melt Charters for an unforgettable 5-hour adventure.

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Premium Halibut Fishing on Vancouver Island

Experience world-class offshore halibut fishing on Vancouver Island. 8-hour trip with top guide. Book your premium adventure now!

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Premium Halibut Fishing Off Vancouver Island

Experience world-class offshore salmon fishing on Vancouver Island with Full Melt Charters. Book your adventure today!

Salmon Rush

Top-Rated Salmon Trolling on Vancouver Island

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Small Vessel Registry – Wayne Sarak's Full Melt Charters

Book a world-class offshore halibut fishing experience on Vancouver Island. Expert-guided trip with stunning views. Reserve now!

Halibut Hunt

Expert-Guided Halibut Fishing on Vancouver Island

<ul><li>Captains Licence</li><li>Guide Certification</li></ul>

Salmon trolling<ul><li>Trolling for Chinook and Coho salmon in Sooke and nearby Vancouver Island waters, documented across recent trip reports.</li><li>Use of electric downriggers to work lures at different depths, which guests have singled out for technique tips.</li></ul>Offshore halibut fishing<ul><li>Dedicated halibut trips that place bait near the seafloor, offered as beginner-friendly outings on the Vancouver Island offshore grounds.</li><li>Trips that travel farther offshore to reach deeper halibut habitat.</li></ul>Family and beginner trips<ul><li>Trips open to the whole family and children of all ages, with guests describing Wayne as great for novices and for top anglers alike.</li></ul>

Learn more about Wayne Sarak a Salmon and Halibut Trips in Sooke, BC in Full Melt Charters

Wayne Sarak - Full Melt Charters

Chinook Salmon

What a great day on the water, couldn't ask for more action! Summer fishing in Sooke BC is always a treat, and this early morning trip with Marie-Hélène and their crew was no exception. We set out from the Crab Shack Store, where we stock up on tackle and can grab some fresh seafood after a successful day. The weather was cooperating nicely, with partly cloudy skies throughout our time on the water. Conditions in the Sooke Land District were prime for what we had planned. It's always a pleasure to showcase what Full Melt Charters can offer in these waters.

With our gear rigged and ready, we headed offshore for some serious salmon action. Our target was Chinook, and we weren't disappointed. We employed a mix of techniques to maximize our chances. Trolling is a staple method out here, allowing us to cover more water and entice those big fish. We also did some bottom fishing and mooching, which can be particularly effective when the fish are holding deeper. The variety kept things interesting, and it paid off. The highlight of our day was landing a beautiful 31-inch Chinook Salmon. That's a solid catch that had everyone on board grinning from ear to ear. We wrapped up the trip with great memories and a cooler full of fresh salmon.

Offshore fishing in Sooke is something special, and days like this remind me why I love guiding these waters. The mix of techniques we used – from trolling to bottom fishing – really showcases the versatility needed to be successful out here. It's not just about dropping a line; it's about understanding the water, the fish behavior, and adapting to what works best on any given day. That 31-inch Chinook was a testament to our efforts and the richness of these fishing grounds.

For those of you thinking about your next fishing adventure, I can't recommend the waters off Sooke BC enough. Full Melt Charters specializes in Vancouver Island Fishing Charters, with a focus on thrilling salmon trolling trips. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, our Salmon Trolling Trips offer something for everyone. We provide all the gear and expertise you need for a successful day on the water. From early morning departures to the thrill of hooking into a big Chinook, every trip is an opportunity for an unforgettable experience. Our offshore excursions give you the chance to test your skills against some of the most sought-after game fish in the Pacific Northwest. If you're looking to discover the excitement of salmon fishing or want to hone your trolling techniques, give us a call. We'll set you up with everything you need for a day of world-class fishing in the beautiful waters of Vancouver Island. Don't miss out on the chance to create your own fishing stories and maybe even land that trophy Chinook. Book your trip with Full Melt Charters, and let's make some waves together!

Guide

Discover Sooke's offshore bounty: 31-inch Chinook and thrilling salmon action!

Sooke Salmon Success: 31" Chinook Caught Offshore

Air fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix fee

Extra Guest

Fish the coastal waters with Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters while trolling for Chinook and Coho salmon as they travel through the area. The moving boat keeps lures working through different depths and gives anglers the chance to experience the sudden pull of a salmon taking the line. Wayne provides professional guidance throughout the outing, making the experience approachable for first-time guests while still offering seasoned anglers an enjoyable day on the Pacific. The charter includes the boat, guide service, and necessary fishing equipment, so guests can concentrate on the action and surrounding coastal scenery. Depending on current regulations and personal preference, salmon may be harvested or released. Each participant must obtain a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing licence before departure.

Coho Salmon

Full Melt Charters

6947 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1, Canada

Crab Shack Store - Tackle and Seafood Sales

8.00hour

4.00hour

5.00hour

2.00hour

Vancouver Island Salmon on the Move

Experience Epic Chinook Action in Sooke's Offshore Waters!

Sooke BC: 31-inch Chinook Landed on Top-Rated Salmon Trolling Trip

Captain Wayne is ready to show you the beauty of Vancouver Island and its world-renowned fisheries on Full Melt Charters. Based in Sooke, BC, you’ll be positioned within minutes from massive salmon and halibut, ready for the taking.You can expect a welcoming environment, full of positivity and encouragement. Captain Wayne is very personable, and you’re sure to love fishing with him! On these trips, it’s common to troll for salmon, or jig bottom fish such as halibut. Fish caught during the trip are yours to take home, so long as they're within the legal limit. Wayne will offer to clean your catch for you, or to have it taken to a processor for shipping within Canada. Now that's dinner! Trips with Full Melt Charters are open to the whole family and children of all ages, so get 'em offline and onto the water! Captain Wayne has a long history of outdoor leadership with children, and will always have a supportive, enthusiastic and encouraging attitude with your kids.&nbsp; You'll be casting lines from a 23 foot Grady-White fishing boat with room for 5 passengers. It has electric down-riggers and all the essentials. You can always expect a clean boat, outfitted with top of the line fishing gear and navigational equipment. There's a toilet on board for your convenience. Your captain will provide all the help and equipment you’ll need to catch fish, and you’ll notice his desire and willingness to spread his knowledge.&nbsp; Captain Wayne will offer instruction and direction on how to land the fish, but the rod will be in your hands! There may be a First Mate on board to help your trip run smoothly. A 10–20% tip is customary to show your appreciation for their hard work.&nbsp; You will need to buy a local fishing license before the trip. This information is available online, or you can ask the captain.&nbsp; It's always wise to bring extra layers, sunscreen, a hat, bottled water, and sunglasses. Alcohol is allowed in moderation. Now, come aboard with Full Melt Charters and get hooked!

EPSG:4269

Two anglers fishing in Sooke, a scenic coastal town

A person fishing at Sooke, with the text 'Best, great'

Three rainbow trout caught while fishing in Sooke

Chinook Salmon caught during fishing in Sooke

A group of 3 people fishing in the beautiful location of Sooke

Make your next fishing adventure unforgettable with Full Melt Charters in Vancouver Island—where expert guidance and incredible catches come together. Reserve your spot today and experience the excitement of reeling in world-class salmon and halibut with Captain Wayne!

Captain Wayne is a generational fisherman, extremely familiar with local fishing techniques and honey-holes. He is constantly researching the movements of salmon and halibut in the area, always updating maps and communicating noted changes with fellow fisherman. Wayne is committed to widening his understanding of salmon and halibut lifecycles and habits, and is always looking to deepen his understanding of local waters. Wayne has a history of outdoor leadership, having lead all-age, long term canoe trips for over 10 years. Wayne is uniquely able to exude infectious feelings of confidence and positivity while fishing, encouraging celebration and excitement while on board. Wayne is fantastic with children of all ages, and is able to get kids safely involved in fishing activities if they desire. Wayne volunteers at a local Salmon hatchery, and is avidly familiar with salmon lifecycles, habits, feeding preferences, and migratory movements. Wayne is always keen to spread this knowledge to his customers, and will implement his research in an effort to catch more, bigger fish. Captain Wayne is a certified Charter Captain as per Skilled Trades BC guidelines, and carries the following official credentials: - MED A 3 now called SDV-BS (small domestic vessel basic safety course) - ROC-M radio (Marine restricted radio) - Wilderness First Aid - Marine Basic First Aid - CPR Level C - SVOP (Small Vessel Operator Proficiency course) - Sport Fishing Institute of BC Registered Certified Tidal Angling Guide . - Fully insured vessel, and as a captain, for liability and damages. - Boat is fully certified by Transport Canada to ensure it's sea worthiness, stability and safety, and receives consistent maintenance. - Boat is fully equipped with all safety and live saving gear recommended by Transport Canada. Captain Wayne is ready to show you the beauty of Vancouver Island and its world-renowned fisheries on Full Melt Charters.Based in Sooke, BC, you’ll be positioned within minutes from massive salmon and halibut, ready for the taking.You can expect a welcoming environment, full of positivity and encouragement. Captain Wayne is very personable, and you’re sure to love fishing with him!On these trips, it’s common to troll for salmon, or jig bottom fish such as halibut. Fish caught during the trip are yours to take home, so long as they’re within the legal limit. Wayne will offer to clean your catch for you, or to have it taken to a processor for shipping within Canada. Now that’s dinner!Trips with Full Melt Charters are open to the whole family and children of all ages, so get ‘em offline and onto the water! Captain Wayne has a long history of outdoor leadership with children, and will always have a supportive, enthusiastic and encouraging attitude with your kids. You’ll be casting lines from a 23 foot Grady-White fishing boat with room for 5 passengers. It has electric down-riggers and all the essentials. You can always expect a clean boat, outfitted with top of the line fishing gear and navigational equipment. There’s a toilet on board for your convenience. Your captain will provide all the help and equipment you’ll need to catch fish, and you’ll notice his desire and willingness to spread his knowledge.Captain Wayne will offer instruction and direction on how to land the fish, but the rod will be in your hands!There may be a First Mate on board to help your trip run smoothly. A 10–20% tip is customary to show your appreciation for their hard work.You will need to buy a local fishing license before the trip. This information is available online, or you can ask the captain.It’s always wise to bring extra layers, sunscreen, a hat, bottled water, and sunglasses. Alcohol is allowed in moderation.Now, come aboard with Full Melt Charters and get hooked! PLEASE CALL NUMBER AT TOP OF SCREEN BEFORE BOOKING TO ENSURE THE DAY IS OPEN

Find clear answers to common questions about Full Melt Charters fishing trips, covering everything from trip details and gear to what to expect on the water.

Guide Wayne Sarak’s connection to fishing runs deep, rooted in generations of anglers who passed down their passion and respect for the water. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, Wayne developed an early fascination with the behavior and patterns of local fish species. Over the years, he’s transformed that passion into a lifelong pursuit of understanding the ocean’s rhythms, making him one of the most trusted names in the region’s sportfishing community. Wayne’s dedication to his craft goes far beyond the rod and reel. He’s committed to continuous learning—constantly studying fish migration, tides, and weather patterns to stay ahead of the game. His involvement with a local salmon hatchery highlights his hands-on approach to conservation and his genuine care for the ecosystems he fishes in. Beyond his technical skills, Wayne’s background in outdoor leadership—guiding multi-day canoe expeditions—shows his ability to lead with calm confidence, ensuring every guest feels safe, supported, and inspired on the water. Those who fish with Captain Wayne quickly notice his natural ability to connect with people. Whether he’s helping a child land their first fish or sharing stories from years of guiding experience, he creates an atmosphere that’s welcoming and fun. His knowledge of techniques like trolling and jigging helps anglers of all skill levels learn something new while improving their chances of success. It’s this mix of expertise, patience, and enthusiasm that makes fishing with Wayne not just productive, but truly enjoyable. About the BoatThe Full Melt Charters vessel is a 23-foot 1991 Grady-White cabin cruiser that has been fully restored for comfort and reliability. Powered by a Yamaha 300HP engine and capable of reaching up to 40 knots, it offers a smooth, steady ride even in offshore conditions. The cozy cuddy cabin provides space for up to five guests, giving anglers plenty of room to relax between bites. Refurbished in 2024, this vessel blends classic craftsmanship with modern performance—perfectly suited for exploring the productive fishing grounds of Vancouver Island alongside Captain Wayne.

Meet Guide Wayne Sarak Of Full Melt Charters

Common QuestionsIs Vancouver Island good for fishing?Vancouver Island is a premier destination for saltwater angling, specifically for Chinook and Coho salmon. Full Melt Charters, operating out of Sooke, BC, provides guided trips that capitalize on the high concentration of salmon and bottom fish along the rugged coastline. The region is known for consistent seasonal runs and diverse marine environments, making it suitable for both sport and harvest-focused fishing. Do I need a fishing license for Vancouver Island?Yes, all anglers must possess a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing license to participate in offshore trips. You can purchase these online through the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website. While the license must be obtained by the guest, Wayne Sarak can provide guidance on the specific salmon or halibut tags required for your scheduled charter. How much does it cost to fish in BC?Pricing for guided charters depends on the trip duration and specific target species. Full Melt Charters offers several options for guests:<ul><li>Half Day (4 Hours): Rates start at $244.</li><li>Full Day (8 Hours): Rates start at $803.</li></ul>These rates typically cover the vessel, guide expertise, and professional-grade tackle. Costs for licenses and gratuities are generally additional.

PLEASE CALL BEFORE BOOKING TO ENSURE AVAILABILITY 

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Extra Guest 

Join Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters for a focused halibut outing built around fishing productive offshore grounds near Vancouver Island. Rather than covering water by trolling, this trip places bait and tackle near the seafloor, where Pacific Halibut feed. The anticipation of a bite followed by the challenge of bringing a powerful flatfish up from deep water makes this a distinct coastal experience. Wayne offers hands-on assistance for beginners and knowledgeable support for experienced anglers who want to refine their approach. The charter includes the boat, fuel, and the essential fishing gear and tackle needed for the outing, allowing guests to arrive ready to fish. Every participant must obtain a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing licence before departure.

Pacific Halibut

Drop Deep for Vancouver Island Halibut

Air Fee

Nitrox Fee

Trimix Fee

Explore several productive fishing grounds with Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters while trolling for Chinook and Coho salmon along the Vancouver Island coast. The route may take you through waters near Sooke Harbour, Secretary Island, Beechey Head, and Race Rocks, offering more variety than an outing focused on a single area. Guests can also request crabbing, with traps set during the trip to add another classic Pacific Northwest experience to the day. While traveling between locations, keep watch for local marine life, including Steller sea lions. Wayne welcomes anglers of every skill level and provides the fishing equipment and guidance needed throughout the outing. All anglers must obtain a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing licence before departure.

Pink Salmon

Troll for Chinook and Coho with Optional Crabbing Around Vancouver Island

This dedicated halibut trip with Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters gives anglers the opportunity to travel beyond nearby waters and reach deeper, more productive areas around Vancouver Island. Once positioned over suitable habitat, bait is lowered to the seafloor, where Pacific Halibut feed. A solid bite can lead to a demanding fight as the fish is brought up through the water column, making every hookup a memorable test. Wayne provides patient instruction for newcomers and technical guidance for experienced anglers, creating a comfortable experience for every skill level. The charter includes the vessel, professional guide service, rods, and necessary tackle. Guests interested in harvesting their catch must follow current regulations, and every participant must obtain a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing licence before departure.

Go Farther Offshore for Vancouver Island Pacific Halibut

Join Wayne Sarak of Full Melt Charters for a focused outing built around locating and harvesting Pacific Halibut in the offshore waters of Vancouver Island. Instead of trolling across the surface, anglers lower bait toward the seafloor where these powerful flatfish feed. The real challenge begins after the bite, as guests work to bring their catch up from deep water. Wayne concentrates on productive sections of the coastline to keep the trip centered on halibut fishing while providing clear instruction for beginners and technical support for experienced anglers. The vessel, professional guide service, rods, reels, and tackle are included, allowing participants to arrive prepared for the experience. Every angler must secure a valid British Columbia tidal waters fishing licence before the trip begins.

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