FAQ's
1. When should I be on the boat?
Check in at the office at least 30 minutes prior to the time of departure. You’ll be directed to the boat from there. Boarding time is listed on your confirmation letter and varies for each type of fishery. Arrive at the office promptly for check in. This allows you to check in and purchase a fishing license (if needed) before departure. Be aware that if you arrive late for boarding the boat may leave without you and you will not be entitled to a refund in most circumstances.
One-day Tuna trips meet at the boat at 2:30a.m. Check in can be done via phone the afternoon prior to departure if you cannot arrive in Westport before the office closes for the day.
2. When will we return?
Return time depends on the type of trip you are taking. No definite return times are absolute. Sometimes, you may be in sooner than expected. Many factors come into play when determining return back to port such as the number of fishermen on board, number of fish allowed for the trip booked and the distance to the fishing grounds as well as weather conditions.
Check out our Trip Types page for more details on your specific trip.
3. What Should I Bring?
ALWAYS Dress in layers. Even the sunniest day on the ocean can bring a crisp wind or turn to rain. You can always shed a layer, but you can only wear what you bring. Gloves, face coverings, sunglasses, sunscreen are just a few items you may want to remember. Some of these items may be available for purchase in our storefront.
Rain gear is important. We live in a coastal area and rarely experience temperatures above the mid-60’s. Wear waterproof boots. Wet feet for 8-12 hours hardly make for an enjoyable day. Even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain, light rain gear is always good to have on hand. Open toe shoes are NOT recommended.
Food & water. Boats have limited ammenities; water and coffee are usually available but not most do not have microwaves or a means to heat food. Small hand coolers are great. If you’re with a group, consolidate your food items and drink into one or two coolers. This helps to eliminate clutter and keeps the deck space clear for fishing.
4. What Type of Fishing License Do I Need?
A one-day charter stamp can be purchased when you check in.The cost is $10 for 15 and older. Young people 14 and under to not require a license. This one-day license is only valid for your charter trip only and does not include shellfish for clamming or crabbing. It’s a great option if you are from out of state or just need one for the charter. Catch record cards are available on the boat. Halibut fishing requires an additional tag if you purchase your license from the WDFW website.
Derby Tickets
Being a member of Westport Charterboat Association allows us to participate in the daily derby contest. Tickets must be purchased PRIOR to fishing in order to qualify. Every person must hold their own ticket – they cannot be shared. Beginning 2024, the derby ticket is included in the price of your trip.
Prizes can be a daily prize, weekly prize and end of season prize – sometimes you can win all of these! (Depends on date). A link to the Westport Weighmaster can be found on a link on the front page of our website.
Fillet Fees
As a rule, your deckhand(s) will fillet your catch for a nominal fee: usually between $10 and $20. The Cost varies by boat. Please have cash on hand to pay the deckhand for these fees. If you want to take your fish home whole be sure to let the deckhands know promptly. Fillet fees are not optional and are not included in the price of the trip. In addition, please tip your deckhand for a job well done (typical of what you would tip a waitress). Fillet fees for tuna is $6.00 per fish.
Sea Sickness
Even the most seasoned fisherman can experience sea sickness. Most people take an over-the counter remedy and there are also natural remedies available (such as ginger) as well as a prescription patch that can be very helpful. A few helpful hints when it comes to avoid ruining your trip due to motion sickness:
- Arrive well-rested and nourished. Avoid greasy foods.
- Arrive sober.
- If being in an enclosed cabin starts to make you feel queasy, get back out into the fresh air.
- If taking a sea sickness remedy such as Meclizine, start it at least the evening before. (We usually sell this in the office).
5. What is the cancellation policy?
ALL CANCELLATIONS MUST BE DONE VERBALLY with an office employee at (360) 505-2139 to avoid any miscommunication.
If for any reason someone in your party cannot keep their reservation, please let us know within 72 hours of departure (30 days for Halibut and 60 days for Tuna), and their deposit will be refunded less a 10% cancellation fee. If you cancel late, there is no refund unless we can get the spot(s) refilled.
If WE cancel your trip due to weather or other reasons beyond our control, we will gladly refund your money in full or issue rain checks for another date. We reserve the right to charge customer’s credit cards for any fees left owing at the end of your trip. Prices are subject to change at any time.
6. Are there guarantees?
We can only guarantee the “opportunity” to catch fish. Not every trip will yield full limits due to ocean and weather conditions and lack of participation. Anglers are generally very pleased with their daily catch.
7. Is there an age limit?
We feel a minimum age of at least 7 with some “on the water” experience is best. Sea sickness can be very hard on all ages and especially the younger people; we want everyone to enjoy the experience. Please be aware that the boat will not turn back to port for the unfortunate bout of sea sickness.
8. What species of fish do we target?
Lingcod, Rockfish, Salmon, Halibut, and Albacore tuna.
Deep Water Fishing
Halibut and deep water Ling cod bottom fishing trips require a fishing rotation to avoid lines being tangled due to the depth of water the species we are targeting reside in. This means only a certain amount of lines in the water at a time. Not all vessels do this but for some it is necessary to avoid tangled fishing lines that have to be cut apart.
9. Where can I get more information on trip types?
10. Where Should I Park?
There is a no cost parking lot for anglers one block off the main marina dirve. Street parking is limited to 3 hours! Please avoid getting a parking ticket!
Restrooms?
Deep Sea Sportfishing has NO public restrooms on premises! Parks and Recreation maintain the facilities in the free parking lot or you can use the facilities on your fishing vessel after you board for your trip.