FAQ
Before you book.
Everything you need to know before your first, or fifteenth, trip with On The Mark Guide Service.
- Montesano, Washington
- 15’ Stealth Craft drift boat
- Up to 3 anglers
- All gear included
Everything else
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to book?
No. Griffin regularly fishes complete beginners and seasoned steelheaders in the same boat. He shows you how to read the water, watch the float, set the hook and land your fish, at whatever level you bring.
How much does a guided trip cost?
Full day steelhead and full day salmon trips are $300 per angler. The trophy wild steelhead catch and release trip is $350 per angler. Every trip is about eight hours on the water with all gear included.
Do I need a Washington fishing license?
Yes. Every angler needs a valid Washington fishing license, plus a Catch Record Card for salmon and steelhead. Buy them online from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at wdfw.wa.gov before your trip.
What gear do I need to bring?
No fishing gear. Rods, reels, tackle and terminal gear are all in the boat. Bring rain gear and warm layers, polarized sunglasses, a hat, non-slip footwear, and food and drinks for an eight-hour day.
Where and when do we meet?
Meeting time and launch spot change with river flows, weather and where the fish are. After you book, Griffin confirms the details with you by phone so you are always fishing the best water that day. Trips usually start around 6:00 AM.
How many anglers fit in the boat?
The 15-foot Stealth Craft Super Fly fishes up to three anglers plus Griffin. The full day steelhead trip is set up for two anglers for the most personal day possible.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Steelhead and salmon fishing happens in rain, wind and cold, and grey days are often the best. If conditions are unsafe or the river blows out, Griffin will move your date or work out a fair solution with you.
What is the deposit and cancellation policy?
A deposit holds your date and the balance is due on the day of your trip. If you need to cancel more than 7 days out, Griffin will move you to another open date. Inside 7 days, payments are forfeited. If Griffin has to cancel for weather, safety or anything on his end, you are rescheduled or refunded.
Can we keep fish?
Hatchery salmon and steelhead can be kept within Washington regulations and the limits for the day. Wild steelhead are always released. The trophy wild steelhead trip is 100% catch and release.
When is the best time to come?
Fall is salmon season, winter is prime for winter steelhead, and summer brings summer-run steelhead. Popular winter and fall dates book up early, so reach out as soon as you know your dates.
Is a drift boat comfortable for beginners and kids?
Yes. You fish from a stable seat in a quiet drift boat with no motor, and Griffin handles the oars all day. It’s one of the easiest ways for a first-timer to catch a steelhead or salmon.
Do you offer gift trips?
Yes. Plenty of trips are booked as gifts for a birthday, a wedding or a best friend. Call or text Griffin to set one up.
Are gratuities expected?
Never expected, always appreciated. A tip of 15 to 20% for a great day is common across the guiding industry.
Let’s get a bobber down.
Pick your trip, choose a date and hold it online in a couple of minutes. Rods, reels and all the tackle are in the boat.