North Shore Charters runs private sport fishing and family adventure trips throughout the San Juan Islands, departing from Deer Harbor and Rosario Resort on Orcas Island, Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor on San Juan Island, and Fisherman’s Bay on Lopez Island. Based in Eastsound, Washington, the business is built around both experienced anglers and first-timers, with a stated goal of not just taking guests fishing but teaching them how to fish along the way.
Trips are led by captains with more than 25 years of experience fishing the San Juan Archipelago, using top-of-the-line gear from brands like Avet, Shimano, Okuma, and Lamiglas, with all bait and tackle provided. Because the boats are based right in the islands, travel time to the fishing grounds is short, often within 10 minutes of Orcas Island and never more than 30 to 45 minutes from the main departure points. Both boats are outfitted with a marine head and built for comfort on trips ranging from three to six hours.
The seasonal lineup covers lingcod and general bottom fishing from May through November, halibut season in the spring, and salmon charters for sockeye, coho, and Chinook depending on the time of year. Private sightseeing and family adventure trips are also available for groups who want to explore the islands without fishing. North Shore Charters accommodates up to six people per boat and offers custom charters built around a group’s specific interests, whether that’s serious sport fishing or a scenic wildlife tour.
Common fishing methods used depend on the target species and include trolling, drift fishing, mooching, casting, and bottom jigging. Departure times are set based on tides, which the crew adjusts day to day to give guests the best chance at a successful trip, and guests are welcome to bring their own cooler, food, and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, aboard.
For anyone looking to fish or explore the San Juan Islands with an experienced local crew, North Shore Charters offers a flexible, education-focused approach across lingcod, halibut, salmon, and sightseeing trips throughout the season.
