World-Class Salmon Charters on Vancouver Island

Full Day Wildlife & Fishing Adventure on Vancouver Island

Get ready for an epic day out on the water with Guide Wayne Sarak and Full Melt Charters. This full-day trip combines the best of Vancouver Island's fishing and wildlife viewing into one unforgettable package. You'll cruise through some of BC's most stunning coastal waters, have a chance to reel in prized salmon, and get up close with incredible marine life like Steller sea lions. It's the kind of day that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and itching to get back on the boat.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll kick things off bright and early, meeting up at the dock in Sooke. Wayne's a pro at reading the water and weather, so he'll have a game plan ready to go. First up, we'll likely cruise out to check out the local sea lion hangouts. These massive pinnipeds are a sight to behold – they can weigh up to a ton! After some wildlife viewing, we'll hit the prime fishing spots. Sooke Harbour, Secretary Island, Beechey Head, and Race Rocks are all on the menu. Wayne knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for some top-notch fishing action. And if you're keen, we can even drop a crab trap to see if we can't catch some extra dinner while we're at it!

Trolling Techniques & Gear

On this trip, we'll be focusing on trolling for salmon. It's a tried-and-true method that works wonders in these waters. We'll set up with downriggers to get our lures down to where the fish are hanging out. Wayne's always got the latest intel on what's working, so we might be using spoons, hoochies, or maybe even some cut-plug herring if that's what's hot. Don't sweat it if you're new to this – Wayne's a patient teacher and he'll have you dialed in on the technique in no time. The boat's equipped with quality rods and reels, so all you need to bring is a good attitude and maybe a lucky hat.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as Kings, these are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. They can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, and the fight they put up is legendary. Chinooks are prized for their rich, fatty meat that's perfect for grilling or smoking. In our waters, you can target them pretty much year-round, but late summer to early fall is often prime time. When a Chinook hits your line, hold on tight – it's gonna be a wild ride!

Pink Salmon: Don't let their smaller size fool you – Pinks (or Humpies) are a blast to catch. They typically run 3-5 pounds and are known for their acrobatic fights. We see big runs of Pinks in odd-numbered years, usually peaking in August and September. Their meat has a milder flavor that's great for smoking or canning. Pinks are often more aggressive biters, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels.

Coho Salmon: If you're after a fish that'll make your reel sing, Cohos are your ticket. These silver bullets are famous for their spectacular jumps and blistering runs. We usually start seeing them show up in July, with the action really heating up in August and September. Cohos typically range from 6-12 pounds, and their bright orange flesh is a favorite among seafood lovers. When a school of Cohos moves through, the action can be non-stop!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing these waters. It's not just about what ends up in the cooler (though that's pretty awesome too). It's the whole package – the stunning scenery of Vancouver Island's coastline, the thrill of watching your rod tip suddenly dip when a salmon strikes, and the chance to see incredible wildlife like orcas or sea lions. Wayne's got a knack for making sure everyone on board has a great time, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod. And there's nothing quite like firing up the grill with some fresh-caught salmon at the end of the day. It's the kind of experience that'll have you checking your calendar to see when you can come back before you even get off the boat.

Top Catches This Season

This year's been a good one so far. We've been seeing some nice-sized Chinooks, with a few topping 25 pounds. The Coho fishing has been on fire lately too – lots of limits being filled with those silver bullets. And for the crabbers out there, the Dungeness have been plentiful. Nothing beats ending the day with some fresh crab to go along with your salmon fillets!

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. If you're looking for a day on the water that combines world-class salmon fishing with incredible wildlife viewing, this is the trip for you. Wayne's knowledge of these waters is second to none, and he'll put you on the fish while making sure you have a blast doing it. With room for up to 5 guests, it's perfect for a group of buddies or a family outing. Just remember to bring a camera – between the potential for monster salmon and the guaranteed wildlife sightings, you're gonna want proof to back up your fish stories. So what are you waiting for? Give Full Melt Charters a shout and let's get you out on the water. The salmon are calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss this!