San Juan Islands Fishing
San Juan Islands Fishing Charters
Experience world-class fishing in the San Juan Islands — trophy king salmon, halibut, lingcod, and spot prawns in one of the most beautiful archipelagos on Earth.
Location
San Juan Islands
Trip Length
1–3+ Days
Capacity
Up to 8 Guests
Distance
~80 NM from Seattle
The Ultimate Fishing Destination
Where the Big Fish Are
The San Juan Islands archipelago — over 400 islands scattered across the northern reaches of Puget Sound — is the crown jewel of Pacific Northwest fishing. These nutrient-rich waters, where powerful tidal currents funnel through narrow channels, create one of the most productive marine ecosystems on the West Coast.
Our San Juan Islands fishing charters combine the thrill of trophy fishing with the adventure of cruising through one of the world’s most spectacular island chains. Between bites, you’ll spot orcas breaching, bald eagles hunting, and harbor seals sunning themselves on rocky outcrops. It’s a fishing trip and a nature expedition rolled into one.
Multi-day charters allow you to fish dawn and dusk — the prime feeding hours — while spending midday exploring charming island towns like Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor. Sleep aboard the yacht in protected anchorages, wake to misty mornings, and fish until the sun sets behind Vancouver Island. This is fishing the way it’s meant to be.
"
The San Juans are where fishing and paradise intersect. Catch a 30-pound king, then watch orcas from the cockpit. It doesn't get better.
— Captain Dave, San Juan Fishing Specialist
Target Species
What Swims Here
King Salmon (Chinook)
June – September
The San Juan Islands sit directly in the migration path of massive chinook runs. Fish averaging 20–35 lbs with trophy potential over 50 lbs.
Pacific Halibut
May – September
The rocky channels between islands hold excellent halibut habitat. Fish in the 20–80 lb range are regularly caught, with occasional barn-door fish exceeding 100 lbs.
Lingcod
Year-round
Aggressive predators that ambush prey around rocky reefs. San Juan lingcod grow large — 20 lb fish are common, with giants over 40 lbs possible.
Rockfish
Year-round
The islands’ underwater terrain is perfect for copper, quillback, and yelloweye rockfish. Beautiful fish that fight hard on light tackle.
Coho Salmon
August – November
Silver salmon flood the channels in late summer, providing incredible topwater action and spectacular aerial displays.
Spot Prawns
May – September
Drop pots in deep water for the sweetest, most prized prawns on the West Coast. A delicious addition to any fishing trip.
Charter Packages
San Juan Fishing Packages
Day Trip – San Juans
- 12 hours
- Up to 8
- ✓ Full day in the islands
- ✓ Multi-species targeting
- ✓ All gear & bait included
- ✓ Fish cleaning & packing
$5,000
2-Day Expedition
- 2 days / 1 night
- Up to 6
- ✓ Overnight on the yacht
- ✓ Full meals included
- ✓ Extended fishing time
- ✓ Explore Friday Harbor
$9,500
3-Day Grand Slam
- 3 days / 2 nights
- Up to 6
- ✓ Maximum fishing time
- ✓ Island hopping
- ✓ Prawn potting included
- ✓ Chef-prepared meals
$14,000
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to the San Juan Islands?
From our Kirkland marina, it’s approximately 3–4 hours cruising to reach the southern San Juan Islands. For day trips, we depart early to maximize fishing time. Multi-day charters allow a more leisurely pace.
What makes San Juan fishing different from Puget Sound?
The San Juans offer access to bigger king salmon, halibut, and lingcod that you won’t find in southern Puget Sound. The islands’ deep channels and strong currents create an incredibly productive marine ecosystem.
Can we keep halibut?
Yes, when halibut season is open. WDFW regulates halibut fishing with specific openers. Our captains stay current on all regulations and will advise on what you can keep.
What about whale watching while fishing?
Orca sightings are common in San Juan waters, especially from May through October. We frequently see humpback whales, minke whales, and porpoises while fishing. It’s not unusual to have orcas surface near the boat.
What's included on multi-day trips?
Everything — sleeping accommodations on the yacht, all meals, fishing gear, bait, tackle, fuel, captain and crew, fish cleaning, and packing your catch for transport home.