FAQs

Gratuities?

This is a frequently asked question which can be a sensitive topic. Over the years it has become standard practice for anglers to tip their guides. The average amount of tip varies but is generally between 10-15% of the charter price. The decision of how much to give, however, is entirely up to each guest and should reflect their perception of the success of the charter and expertise of their guide. Tips are never expected but always appreciated!

Where and how do we fish?

We spend our Spring / Summer trolling for Salmon and Trout on Lake Ontario. This is the most productive way to target the sport fish in these waters. Trolling is a method of fishing where a moving boat pulls one or more lines with baited hooks / lures to draw fish in and encourage them to strike!

In the fall / winter we put our trolling gear away and switch over to conventional tackle. With this gear we bottom bounce, cast, and jig on the Niagara River!

You are encouraged to call us before you book your next fishing trip to obtain a recent fishing report. Our goal is to put fish in the boat and send you home with a sore arms!

What can we expect to catch?

We target the following species throughout the year:

  • Chinook salmon (King salmon)

  • Coho salmon

  • Atlantic salmon

  • Rainbow trout (Steelhead)

  • Brown trout

  • Lake trout

  • Smallmouth Bass

  • Walleye

What should we bring on our trip?

  • Valid fishing licenses* **

  • Food and beverages (no glass bottles)

  • Seasickness medication (gravol / dramamine)

  • Sunglasses (very important!)

  • Sun protection

  • Soft soled shoes (no work boots)

  • Appropriate clothing for time of year (will advise)

  • Cooler with ice to take home your catch (we will clean and bag your Lake Ontario catch)

  • Child sized life vest for kids 12 and under (for anyone 16yrs or younger a life vest is required by-law and must be worn the entire time on the boat)

  • No bananas!

* A valid Ontario fishing license is required for EVERYONE between the ages of 18 - 64 years old. 

** During the months of April / May we may travel across the CANADA / US border to catch fish in NY State waters. To do this everyone onboard must hold a valid NY State fishing license. A 1-day license can be purchased online in advance or on the day of the charter (+/- $15 CAD). A passport is NOT REQUIRED to fish in NY State waters. If a member of your party cannot cross the border please let us know in advance.

Buy Ontario fishing license here: https://www.huntandfishontario.com/

Buy NY State fishing license here: https://decals.east.licensing.app/

St. Catharines Marina

Our home port is the St. Catharines Marina in St. Catharines, ON. Our marina is located 10 minutes from the QEW, 15 minutes from Niagara Falls and 1 hour from the GTA.

 

Winter Fishing Niagara River

During the Fall / Winter we offer fishing trips on the lower Niagara River from the Queenston Boat Launch (see below). We spend the colder months targeting Steelhead, Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass and Salmon in and around the mouth of the lower river. We use conventional tackle to bottom bounce, cast, and jig! During winter trips inflatable PFDs will be provided and must be worn at all times while on the water.

** During the winter months we will travel across the CANADA / US border to catch fish in NY State waters. To do this everyone onboard must hold a valid NY State fishing license. a 1-day license can be purchased online in advance or on the day of the charter (+/- $15 CAD). A passport is NOT REQUIRED to fish in NY State waters. If a member of your party cannot cross the border please let us know in advance.

Buy Ontario fishing license here: https://www.huntandfishontario.com/

Buy NY State fishing license here: https://decals.east.licensing.app/

Queenston Boat launch

The boat launch is located 5 minutes from highway 405 / Queenston Lewiston boarder crossing, 10 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls and 1 hour from the GTA.