FAQ’s – Salmon Limited Sportfishing Niagara

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Frequently asked questions

When a rod fires, it’s not by accident. It’s the result of reading temperature, speed, structure, and timing. — Captain John Mastrandrea

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions, Covered

Everything you need to know before your morning or afternoon on Lake Ontario with Salmon Limited Sportfishing Niagara. We keep things personal, prepared, and hands-on — so you’re part of the experience, not one of a crowd.If you don’t see your question here, just reach out.

What should I bring?

Lake Ontario can feel very different once you’re offshore — especially in the early morning — so layers are always recommended.

We suggest bringing:

• Layered clothing
• Long sleeves and long pants (helpful for sun and insects)
• Comfortable, non-marking shoes
• Sunglasses (polarized are ideal)
• Sunscreen
• A hat
• Bug repellent
• Snacks and drinks
• A valid Ontario fishing licence

During certain parts of the season, insects can be active near shore. Long sleeves and pants make things much more comfortable.

All rods, reels, tackle, lures, and safety equipment are provided. You don’t need to bring fishing gear — everything is set up and ready.

What happens when we arrive?

We’ll meet at the dock at your scheduled time and go through a short safety briefing upon arrival before heading out.

Once we’re underway, we’ll explain the setup and what to watch for. With a smaller private group onboard, you’ll understand the process and be ready when a rod starts moving.

Full meeting instructions and directions are sent in your booking confirmation so everything is clear ahead of time.

Do I need fishing experience?

Not at all. Many guests are brand new to salmon and trout trolling. We explain everything clearly and keep it relaxed.

If you’ve fished before, you’ll appreciate the details behind how we approach these waters. Either way, you’ll be involved — not standing back waiting your turn.

When do you run trips?

Our season runs April through October, following salmon and trout movement through Niagara. We offer structured morning and afternoon trips aligned with productive windows on the lake.

Is the trip private?

Yes — every charter is completely private.

We take a maximum of 3 adults (or 4 if one is a child). That smaller group size keeps the experience comfortable, focused, and hands-on from start to finish.

Do I need an Ontario Fishing License?

In most cases, anglers aged 18–64 require a valid Ontario fishing licence.

You can purchase one online through the official Government of Ontario website:
https://www.huntandfishontario.com/

You can print it or keep a digital copy on your phone. If you’re unsure whether you need one, just ask before your trip and we’ll help clarify.

Charter Experience Questions

How long are the trips?

Our trips range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the charter you book.

We offer:

• Sunrise Salmon & Trout Fishing Escape
• Sunset Salmon & Trout Fishing Escape
• Weekday Sunset Salmon & Trout Fishing Escape

Each trip is structured to give you meaningful time on the water without feeling rushed or crowded.

What species might we catch?

Depending on the season and what’s biting that morning or afternoon, we may target:

• Chinook (King) Salmon
• Coho Salmon
• Atlantic Salmon
• Lake Trout
• Brown Trout
• Rainbow Trout

Lake Ontario changes daily — temperature, clarity, and current all matter. We stay tuned into those details so your time stays focused and productive.

Are kids and families welcome?

Absolutely. Families are welcome and encouraged. Smaller group sizes help everyone feel comfortable and involved.

Safety is always our first priority.

Where do we meet?

We depart from Port Dalhousie Pier Marina

Address:
80 Lighthouse Road
St. Catharines, Ontario L2N7P8

It’s just minutes from Niagara Falls and easy to access. Full directions and meeting details are included in your booking confirmation.

Is there a washroom onboard?

There is no washroom onboard the boat.

We operate a smaller, purpose-built trolling vessel designed for performance, safety, and mobility on Lake Ontario — which means onboard restroom facilities aren’t available.

Clean marina washrooms are available at the Port Dalhousie Pier Marina before departure. We recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early to use the facilities and get comfortable before we head out.

Is all the fishing gear included?

Yes. The boat is fully rigged specifically for Lake Ontario salmon and trout trolling.

All rods, reels, tackle, lures, and safety equipment are included. With fewer guests onboard, there’s no rotation or waiting — when a rod moves, you’re part of it.

Can we keep the fish?

Yes — you may keep your legal catch within Ontario regulations or release fish if you prefer. We’ll review current limits before departure.

What’s the biggest fish ever brought to the net with Salmon Limited Sportfishing Niagara?

Our biggest Chinook Salmon was officially weighed at 36 lb 5 oz (16.56 kg) — one of the largest documented salmon caught on the south shore of Lake Ontario in the past two decades. It was landed in September 2020 by Calvin Austin aboard Salmon Limited Sportfishing Niagara with Captain John Mastrandrea guiding.

That fish didn’t just make memories — it earned Calvin $3,000 in cash, winning the Fall Derby hosted by the St. Catharines Game & Fish Association.

Fish of that caliber are the result of preparation and precision — understanding seasonal movement, staying locked in on speed and temperature, and making the right calls as conditions change.

Every season is different. The next big one that hits the net could be yours!

Booking Questions

What’s your cancellation policy?

We understand that life happens. Weather shifts, plans change, and unexpected things can arise — so we keep our policy fair and straightforward.

7+ Days Before Your Trip
Full refund, including your deposit.

2–6 Days Before Your Trip
The $100 deposit is non-refundable. No remaining balance will be charged.

Within 48 Hours, No-Show, or No Valid Fishing Licence
The remaining balance will be charged to the card on file.

Weather or Operator Cancellation
If conditions aren’t safe, we won’t go. You’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

What if the weather looks questionable?

Lake Ontario demands respect. We keep a close eye on weather patterns and water conditions leading up to every trip, and we make conservative, safety-first decisions. If conditions aren’t right, we don’t go — simple as that. The final call to proceed or reschedule is always made by the Captain to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

How do we pay?

Cash at the dock is preferred to avoid service fees.

We also accept Visa, Mastercard, and e-transfer at the dock if that’s more convenient.

If you’re looking for a smaller, more personal experience on Lake Ontario — where you’re involved from start to finish — you’ll feel right at home here.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions, Covered

Charter Experience Questions

Booking Questions

Contact Details