Charter Boat Fishing in Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, is well-known for Pike Place Market and its stalls brimming with freshly caught fish. In nearby Puget Sound, visitors can catch their own salmon or rockfish on one of many charter boats and enjoy the beauty of the area. Depending on the time of year, sea lions, porpoises and whale sightings are possible.
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Duration and Cost
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Most charter companies offer both full- and half-day trips. The morning charters last about six hours and can leave as early as 4:30 a.m., although some are offered at 6:30 a.m. For a shared charter, where multiple groups are combined, the cost ranges from $165 to $180 per person. Afternoon trips are usually private charters and last about four hours. The cost of an afternoon charter ranges from $135 to $150 per person. Because the sound is generally calm, charters go out rain or shine; however, high winds can cause trip cancellations. Cancellation polices vary by company.
What is Provided
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All the necessary equipment for fishing is provided, including the poles, bait and tackle. A Washington State Fishing License is required for all guests over the age of 15. Some charters include the price of a one-day fishing license, while others will charge an additional fee. Most charters sell one-day licenses on board for $8 to $10. Annual licenses can be purchased online through the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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What to Bring
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The weather in Seattle changes quickly, so it is recommended that you layer your clothing and plan for rain. Other items to bring include sunscreen, sunglasses and a camera. Many charters provide water and coffee, but suggest that you bring your own lunch and snacks.
Types of Fish and Seasons
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The Puget Sound is known for salmon and each species has a prime season. The best time to fish for king salmon is June through August; blackmouth, which are juvenile king salmon, October through April; silver salmon, July through October; sockeye salmon, July through August; and chum salmon, October through December. Pink salmon runs only in odd years, for example 2011 and 2013, and is best caught July through September. Puget Sound is also known for bottom fish such as lingcod, in season May through June, and Rockfish, which is in season year-round.
Fishing Method
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Charters generally operate 26- to 28-foot vessels with a restroom and heated cockpit. Most use a combination of sonar, radar and GPS to navigate and locate fish. They fish using a method called trolling with downriggers, where a weighted wire is mounted to the boat and attached to the fishing line. The weight is "trolled" at the depth where the fish are and pulls the bait and line along with it. When the fish bite, the downrigger is released and the fisherman "fights" the fish with just the rod and line.
Getting the Fish Home
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The captain will gut and fillet the fish at the end of the trip, but you need to find a way to get those hard-won fish home if you are not from the surrounding area. There are several companies in Seattle that pack and ship fish for a fee, such as City Fish Co. at Pike Place Market or Jensen's Smokehouse. Many hotels offer free cold storage during your stay and the frozen fish can be carried on or checked for your flight home.
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References
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- Photo Credit Alki beach view of Seattle image by jwhitemedia from Fotolia.com
