FAQ

Presented here are a number of the most common questions asked by our guests. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please get in touch on our Contact Page. For more generalized Tofino-related questions, perhaps try Tourism Tofino’s FAQ Page.

Fishing FAQ

What types of fishing do you offer and when?

Fishing Species and Dates:

  • PACIFIC HALIBUT (April – September)
  • LINGCOD (April – September)
  • ROCKFISH (Year Round)
  • CHINOOK SALMOM (Year Round)
  • COHO SALMON (June – September)
  • PINK SALMON (July – August)
  • CHUM SALMON (July – September)
  • SPOT PRAWNS (December – June)
  • CRAB (Year Round)

Can we keep our catch?

Definitely.  Your guide will explain more about this during your charter but provided you have a fishing license each angler is allowed to retain a limited number daily as long as it passes the legal restrictions set by the Federal government.

Does everyone need a fishing license?

It depends.  Anyone who wants to catch anything in the ocean must have a license.  You must also ensure you purchase a salmon conservation stamp when you pick up your license.  Saltwater licenses are free for children 15 and under.  For more details please visit the licensing branch of the Department of Fisheries & Oceans.

What do you mean by (fish) processing?

Fish processors are licensed to portion out your catch and can even flash freeze it.  There are other options available such as smoking and shipping of the fish which we can go into more detail during our charter together.

What happens if we've caught our allowable limit?

If you’re happy with your catch and with your day on the water then we will head back to mainland.  We can clean your fish for you as per transport regulations set out by the DFO or if you choose to you can have them professionally processed and individually packaged for your trip home.  If you choose to not have them professionally processed we will assist you with putting them on dry ice if necessary but we recommend you bring a cooler!

Other FAQ

What is your cancellation policy?

A full refund will be issued if WardoWest Fishing Charters receives written notice outside 30 days prior to your charter date.  If we receive notice within 30 days of your charter, a refund will be issued if WardoWest Fishing Charters are able to fill your cancelled charter dates less a $50 administration fee.

Motion sickness does not warrant a refund.  We recommend all guests who have not been on the ocean before to prepare by bringing the proper medication.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask us before your charter date.

How far in advance should I book my trip?

The more time in advance the better.  Usually at the start of the season in April and near the tail end of the season in September we have more availability, but during the summer months we are sometimes booked solid.  However, we will do our best to get you in the water no matter the circumstances!

What should I bring with me?

  • rain gear and rubber boots
  • warm layered clothing
  • food and beverages
  • coolers for transporting your fish
  • motion sickness remedy if necessary such as Transderm V (speak with your pharmacist)
  • tidal fishing license w/ Salmon stamp
  • sunglasses
  • camera

What is the ideal number of guests per charter?

While we do accommodate larger groups, we ideally like to keep charters to three adults per boat. This allows the guide to move around the boat freely while attending to rods and gear, as well as guests to enjoy more seating room.

Do you accept Gratuities or Tips?

While not compulsory, our guides work especially hard to make sure your experience is one you remember fondly for years to come. The current industry baseline for gratuities is 10%, but feel free to add as desired.

Can you customize my fishing adventure?

Of course! We’re happy to include any one of a number of different activities with your fishing experience. Whale watching, hot springs, hiking the Lone Cone, Breedom RMT, photography, and even a private chef for breakfast and dinners. If you can imagine it, we can likely make it happen for you. Please let us know your particular requests using the Booking Request Form.

I've gotten sea sick before or have a feeling I might get sick, should I be worried?

We manage sea sickness / motion sickness  through Gravol or a Scopolamine patch (Transderm V). Both are effective, but we’ve increasingly found the patches to work better. There is an option to purchase these at the Tofino Pharmacy once you arrive.

What is your bad weather policy?

What’s special about Tofino is the ability to fish the inlets if bad weather or seas arise offshore. We also have a full range of rain gear, and both our boats have canopies to protect you from bad weather. You can almost guarantee we’ll have a charter adventure for all types of weather and ocean conditions.