Washington State is the ultimate playground when it comes to outdoor adventures and fishing ranks high on the list of things that Washington is great for. You can fish in lakes, rivers, or off the coast for the freshest catches. River fishing opportunities are abundant throughout the state and with dozens of rivers to traverse it helps to have a guide.
No one knows the rivers better than the guides with Washington State Fishing Guides (WSFG) that offer fishing excursions throughout Washington.
What is guided fishing?
Picture going fishing with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who knows the best spots. With the guided fishing trip, you’ll get a charter boat, captain and guide all in one package.
The boat allows you to go farther out and fish in flat or deep-sea conditions. A captain and experienced crew navigate, set up the gear and run down to get a bite.
All you do is reel it in – a guaranteed great time for all!
Get away from it all and indulge in a day of pure relaxation on a guided fishing trip.
Fishing With A Private Guide Is An Educational Experience
We took a guided river fishing trip with Scott Crawford – owner and operator of Washington State Fishing Guides. We visited the Satsop River in search of coho salmon. It was an enjoyable experience – everyone was able to catch their limit of coho. In process, we learned a lot about river fishing, the local area, and each other.
“I have been a passionate angler since I learned to fish as a child with my mom. I remember the smile that was on my face every time I landed my fish. My passion led me to be a guide and my favorite part of guiding is the smiles and excitement that clients produce when they land their fish,” says Scott Crawford of Washington State Fishing Guides.
A fishing guide is always ready to share a wealth of practical knowledge. Do you know how to tell the difference between male and female salmon? Or the difference between freshwater and saltwater salmon? How about the best rig for catching steelhead? Your guide can answer these questions and more!
It’s All About The Experience
The goal of any type of fishing with the WSFG is to have a good and memorable experience. You will yearn to return – even if the fish don’t bite. The guides offered fishing advice and general knowledge, along with all-around good conversation.
“Everything about the trip was very relaxing, it was a great distraction-free way to connect with my team,” says Nikki B. “It was pretty nice having the guides handle everything for me being that I have never fished before!”
This outdoor, laid back social setting is ideal for getting to know the people that you bring along.
What To Wear
Dressing for the occasion is important when it comes to river fishing – especially during the colder months of the year. This is, after all, the Pacific Northwest, so you should also be mindful of wind or rain in the forecast. Fishing trips typically begin early. Early morning temperatures on the coast tend to be brisk. This combined with the wind-chill from being on the water means that you need to dress warm. Your guide will be able to recommend what to wear for the time of year that you are fishing.
For our outing in November, we layered up. Thick, warm underlayers, combined with a waterproof outer layer made the excursion comfortable. Your guide will be able to recommend what clothing to wear, depending on what time of year you are fishing.
Early morning fishing in the Pacific Northwest landscape is quite the treat! There is something soothing about the predawn air and foggy chill of nature. The stillness is peaceful, a welcome escape – In it, exists both clarity and glee. Your usual responsibilities are exchanged for an idyllic adventure on open waters. A thrilling day trip in Grays Harbor awaits!
Grays Harbor is one of many fishing towns in the Pacific Northwest. Opportunities to catch a variety of local saltwater and freshwater fish abound! The county is famous for its ocean fishing experiences. It also contains diverse ecosystems that are filled with marine life. Grays Harbor is home to hundreds of miles of winding rivers, and many streams. These waterways flourish with world-class Coho salmon, kokanee, steelhead, and trout.
Grays Harbor also boasts over 100 lakes, stocked with trout, bass and crappie.
You may wonder, how do I find a fishing guide? Seabrook’s got you covered! Seabrook’s concierge is here to help you craft a memorable and fulfilling fishing experience – right here on the Washington coast! Thanks to Seabrook’s concierge services, your guided fishing will prove to be as exciting as it is meditative.
Punctuate your idyllic vacation experience by adding on a guided fishing tour! Experience beautiful Washington state with the knowledge of a local, longtime fisherman. A knowledgeable guide can take you around and show you where and when to cast.
No experience? Not to worry! Your guide can walk you through everything that you need to do – they are there for you every step of the way. Our river fishing guide today is a Coast Guard Veteran who has been guiding in the local area for over 8 years. His skill and expertise are evident from the first time you enter his well-kept vessel.
His passion for fishing will take you on an unforgettable experience. His assistant is always standing by and at the ready should you ever need a helping hand. They have special fishing knots and fishing tackle cultivated for your trip so you needn’t bring a thing! He is proof that the right guide makes all the difference.
This experience is great for team bonding, couples, families with older children, or anyone who has a love for fishing. Your guide will show you how to reel in your catch, and will even do the work of netting and bagging the fish. Your fishing guide will bring you to the best fishing spots in the Pacific Northwest.
Your guided fishing experience can be as interactive as you would like. It is fun for all ages and skill levels. The captain and his assistant can help you set up your rods and tackle, or you can opt to DIY your own rigs.
Your Fishing Guide Takes Care Of Everything
No gear? No problem! They bring top of the line, well maintained equipment that they curate for your trip and the type of fish you are trying to catch. Many of their rigs are homemade and cannot be purchased in stores. This is because their years of local expertise enables the guides to always stay ahead of the curve. Looking to catch your first fish? Or are you a seasoned angler? Regardless of skill, your fishing guide will make sure your day of angling is a successful one. By providing helpful hints and tips, gear and guidance, your guide is there every step of the way.
Some anglers choose to sit back and take in the scenery while keeping a watchful eye on their rods for bites. The peaceful sway of the river is melodic and an experience within itself. A guided river fishing adventure is one of the best fishing experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
When a bite comes in, everyone bolts into action. The excitement is contagious. The captain and his assistant are always on the ready. They offer their wealth of knowledge throughout the day. The hours fly by, they know exactly where to go to catch the action. Even the least likely angler enjoys the festivities of the day. The captain provides snacks – which are both helpful and tasty. He also provides a propane heater for warmth as needed. The day is jovial, and free – you are transported into a simpler more leisurely time.
When you take a guided fishing trip with us, you won’t be spending your vacation searching for fish. We’ll take care of the boat and gear while you’re free to relax and try your hand at this wonderful sport. Our captain is one of the most experienced guides in our region, so he’ll know exactly where to go to find the most fish.
If you, like many, are wondering how long do fishing trips last, the answer is simple – not long enough! By the end of the day a mild sadness begins to form. You will miss the scenery, comradery and calm. But don’t fret! There are many more Pacific Northwest charters than can be had. From the Humptulips River, to the Chehalis River and so much more – your next adventure awaits! To continue the fun, Seabrook’s concierge can even charter a guided ocean fishing trip.
As the day ends, you disembark. It’s time to fillet your bounty! The Captain shares with you their secret recipe for cooking your Pacific Northwest salmon.
“It’s just really refreshing to be on the water and so much fun to go fishing,” says Amy P. “I had never been before and they made picking it up easy. Wrestling and catching an especially giant Coho was really exciting, too. A fourth of that one fish fed my whole family at dinner!”
A day on the river is always memorable. And salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest is the pièce de résistance. Our guides know each river and where the fish are biting, so your trip will be a huge success. Are you ready to set out on the most epic fishing adventure of your life? Contact us today to learn about all the available Washington fishing trips we have to offer. Our professional guides will tailor a fishing trip that exceeds all expectations. They will also get you a catch you’ll remember for years!
Seabrook Is The Best Pacific Northwest Adventure Hub
Seabrook’s central location is perfect for exploring the Olympic National Rainforest. Seabrook vacation rentals have the makings of your home away from home. A perfect home-base for exploring famous and hidden fishing gems throughout the region. You may want to rent a larger home and host a fishing retreat with a group of friends. Or, perhaps you’d prefer to book an intimate fishing trip with a friend. Whatever your desire, Seabrook’s well-appointed dog friendly homes are the perfect place to host your getaway. And Seabrook’s concierge can take care of the details required to make it happen!
Do you need a recreational fishing license to fish in Washington state?
Yes you do! The process for getting one is very simple and Seabrook’s concierge can help you through it. You can purchase one through the WDFW Wild System or in town at Bucks Northwest (permanently closed).
Upcoming River Fishing Expeditions in Washington State
Below are some of the guided fishing adventures available to you this season. Be sure to call Seabrook’s Concierge at (360)-276-4108 and schedule your adventure today!
January – March: Duck Lake for oversized rainbow trout
February – April: Winter Steelhead on the Cowlitz
May – Sturgeon on the Columbia River