San Juan Island Fishing Charters is a family-run charter operation based at the foot of Spring Street in Friday Harbor, Washington, led by Captain Andy Derksema. The business offers seasonal fishing trips for salmon, halibut, and lingcod throughout the San Juan Islands, giving both serious anglers and first-timers a personal, small-group experience on the water.
Trips shift with the seasons, starting with winter king salmon, also known as blackmouth, before moving into lingcod fishing beginning May 1st. Summer and fall bring coho and Chinook salmon fishing, with strong opportunities for silver and king salmon through the warmer months before the season winds down in late September. All fishing gear, a one-day fishing license, and local knowledge of the islands are included in every trip, and complimentary crab pots are dropped along the way for guests interested in bringing home Dungeness crab as well.
Captain Andy keeps every charter limited to six guests or fewer, giving each group the space to fish, take photos, or simply relax and take in the San Juan Islands scenery at their own pace. Reviews consistently highlight his patience with kids and first-time anglers, his deep knowledge of the local waters, wildlife, and island history, and his willingness to fillet and clean the catch at the end of the trip, along with grilling tips to prepare it at home. For those less interested in fishing, wildlife and photography tours are also available aboard the same vessel.
Because the fishery is seasonal and weather-dependent, San Juan Island Fishing Charters typically closes for the winter after the September season ends and reopens the following spring, so booking ahead during peak salmon and lingcod season is recommended. The business has built a loyal following of repeat clients, many of whom describe Captain Andy as feeling like a friend by the end of the trip rather than just a charter captain.
For visitors looking to fish salmon, halibut, or lingcod in the San Juan Islands with a personal, family-run local charter, San Juan Island Fishing Charters offers a small-group experience built around Captain Andy’s local knowledge and hands-on approach.
