Frequently Asked Questions

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Our weather is much different than the weather inland.  If it is 90-100 degrees in Portland, it is likely to be foggy and cool here.  It is best to layer your clothing.  We recommend wearing loose fitting pants or sweats with a T-shirt, sweatshirt, and light jacket

YES, YES, YES, YES!! We highly recommend wearing clean rubber boots and high-quality rain gear. Offshore weather can be unpredictable—we often encounter wet, foggy conditions and rain squalls, even in the summer.

The boats are also a very wet environment—between water sloshing from the bait tanks and the deck being hosed down, you will get wet! Being prepared to stay dry will make your experience much more enjoyable.

The deck is constantly wet, and regular shoes or sneakers will soak through fast. Waterproof rubber boots keep your feet dry and warm while providing excellent traction on the deck, helping you stay comfortable and stable throughout your trip.

Dress for the conditions, stay dry, and enjoy your adventure!

Yes, a Washington or Oregon fishing license is required.  Halibut and Salmon also require a catch card that you can purchase with your license.  Daily charter licenses will also be available on the morning of your trip.  No, this cost is not included with your trip

Yes, you are welcome to bring food and drinks on the boat. We just ask that your group consolidates your food into 1 bag or soft-sided cooler.  Both boats have beverage coolers to put drinks in.  We provide plenty of water on board

At Gambler Charters, our deckhands work tirelessly to make sure your fishing trip is safe, successful, and unforgettable. From the moment you step on board, they’re hustling to give you the best experience possible.

Keep Your Gear Ready – They bait hooks, rig tackle, and untangle lines so you can focus on fishing.
Help Land Your Catch – From gaffing fish to netting salmon, they make sure you land the big one!
Keep the Boat Clean & Safe – They’re constantly washing down the deck and keeping things organized.
Work Hard in All Conditions – Rain or shine, rough seas or calm waters, they’re out there making your trip better.

A tip is the best way to show your appreciation for their hard work. 20% of the trip cost is standard for great service. If they went above and beyond to make your trip a success, a little extra goes a long way!

Tight lines and generous tips keep the good vibes rolling! 

We will let you know as soon as possible if your trip will be canceled due to weather.  We will wait as long as possible if the weather is questionable.  The Captains will determine if it is safe the evening before or the morning of the scheduled Charter

 We understand that seasickness can be tough, and while we do our best to ensure everyone has a great experience, we are unable to return to port due to one person feeling unwell. Our priority is to provide the best possible trip for the entire group, and we encourage anyone prone to seasickness to take precautions before departure. We appreciate your understanding and will do everything we can to make the trip as comfortable as possible for everyone on board 

CUSTOMER CANCELLATIONS

Please contact us as soon as possible if there is any change in your initial reservation. If you

cancel within 1 week of your scheduled charter, a charge of 50% of the trip fee will be applied. If

you cancel the day before your scheduled trip or you do not SHOW the day of your charter, a

charge of 100% of the trip fee will be applied.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS

Cancellations due to the weather will be made the afternoon before or the morning of your trip.

Our weather changes dramatically with short notice, and our captains like to be sure that the

weather is unfishable before canceling your charter.

Please Note: Fishing charters that are cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues will be fully refunded for the amount already paid to Gambler Charter.

BOAT CANCELLATIONS

Just like your car, boats can experience mechanical issues! If one of our boats has a problem, we will call you as soon as it is determined the vessel is unfit for chartering the day of your trip.

Please Note: Fishing charters that are cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues will be fully refunded for the amount already paid to Gambler Charter.

Yes! You get to keep your catch! 

We take the utmost care of your fish while it's on board to ensure the highest quality table fare. From proper bleeding and icing to careful handling, we do everything possible to preserve freshness so you can enjoy your catch at its best.

At the end of the trip, our crew will transport your fish to the processor, where you can decide how to have it processed, packaged, and ready to take home and enjoy.

We permit beer and wine on our vessels, provided that consumption remains reasonable. Intoxication is not allowed, as it poses a safety hazard to oneself and others. Anyone displaying signs of intoxication onboard may be asked by the captain to stop participation and will not receive a refund.

No, we have sponsors that have provided us with the best gear on the market for you to enjoy while fishing with us.

Both boats have a toilet available if needed.

Depending on your carrier and the trip you choose, you may have cell service.  However, we don't recommend looking at your phone much as it may induce seasickness.

While we do everything possible to put you on the fish, we cannot guarantee a catch. 🎣

Fishing is an exciting sport, but it comes with no guarantees—some days the bite is hot, and other days the fish just aren’t cooperating. Our experienced crew will work tirelessly to give you the best possible chance of success by using top-quality gear, expert techniques, and knowledge of the best fishing grounds.

Because we dedicate our time, fuel, and resources to providing you with a full offshore fishing experience, we do not offer refunds if fish are not caught. However, we are committed to making your trip enjoyable, educational, and full of adventure—whether it’s battling a trophy fish or simply taking in the incredible offshore environment.

That’s fishing! The thrill is in the chase, and when the bite is on, it’s unforgettable! 

Unfortunately, there is no public fish processing facility in Ilwaco.  We have partnered with Sportsmen's Canning to process your fish.  You can check out their pricing at www.sportsmencanning.com