Ocean Explorer Sportfishing

Ocean Explorer Sport Fishing FAQs

What is included in my fishing trip?
Your all-inclusive sportfishing trip includes roundtrip airfare to and from the vessel, all meals, single cabin accommodation, use of fishing skiffs, bait and tackle, guiding services and/or fishing instruction, fish care and packaging, rain gear and boots.

How do I get to the Ocean Explorer?
Private charter flights to Bella Bella aboard a King Air with Pacific Coastal Airlines leave the South terminal of the Vancouver Airport at noon on the first day of your trip and return by 5:30pm on the final day. Travel to and from Bella Bella to the Ocean Explorer's anchorage is by a Grumman Goose float plane. Please see Location & Directions page for further details.

What should I bring?
You need bring nothing more than a change of clothes, warm jacket or sweaters, sunglasses, camera and your lucky fishing hat. There is a washer and dryer onboard.

Is there alcohol available onboard the Ocean Explorer?
Alcohol is not included in your trip. You can purchase beer, wine and spirits previous to your departure, or fill out our liquor order forms and pre-arrange with our reservations staff to have your supply on board when you arrive.

How many fishermen are on the boat during a trip?
We can accommodate a maximum of 9 guests per trip. Our fishing skiffs can take 4-5 people with or without a guide.

What are the sleeping accommodations and washrooms like?
Each guest will get their own private stateroom with either a single or double bunk. There are 4 shared washrooms and showers throughout the boat.

When is the best time to come fishing?
Our season runs from June to September. It's a short season, but we operate when the fishing is at its hottest. Depending on which type of fish you would like to catch, Chinook salmon fishing starts in June and run through August, while Coho fishing begins in mid-late July and run through September.

Do I need to know how to fish?
Definitely not, you are in professional hands. Our guides have been fishing for so long that they can bait a hook with their eyes closed. They can take you out on the water or instruct you in boat handling and fishing techniques. Plus, catching a salmon is easier than you may think; experience is certainly not a prerequisite to success!

How much fishing time do I get each day?
Like we said, we don't waste any time! We head out immediately following an early breakfast and only return for lunch and dinner. This can be altered upon requests and special occasions. The first and last day (arrival and departure) will be limited to about 6 hours of fishing.

What do I do with my fish?
Your catch is cleaned, filleted, packaged and frozen on your return to the boat after each fishing outing. At the end of your trip your catch is boxed and sent home with you as carry-on luggage. We can also arrange to have your fish canned or smoked, and sent home to you at a later time for an extra cost.

How many fish can I catch? What is the limit?
You can take home 8 salmon on your trip, with a maximum of 4 being Chinook. On top of this, you may return with 3 halibut, 6 ling cod and 10 rockfish. This makes for a heavy load and a very successful haul.

How many staff are on the boat with us?
The Ocean Explorer is staffed with a certified Sea Captain, alongside 2 experienced fishing guides and deckhands. We also employ an executive chef and a hostess/housekeeper.

Call toll-free now to check availability, 1-877-3-GO-WEST or request a quote online.

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