Get ready for a full day of prime fishing action on the Credit River! This private 8-hour drift fishing charter puts you right where the salmon and steelhead are biting. Whether you're new to fishing or have been casting lines for years, our expert guides will make sure you have an awesome day on the water. We'll float you through some of the river's best fishing spots that most folks never get to see. Our team knows all the local tricks to help you land the big one, and we'll provide all the gear you need. It's just you, your guide, and miles of scenic river packed with fish – the perfect recipe for an unforgettable day of angling.
Picture this: You're drifting down the Credit River, surrounded by lush trees and the sounds of rushing water. Your experienced guide is at the helm, sharing local knowledge and pointing out prime fishing spots as you go. We'll take you to secluded sections of the river where the salmon and steelhead love to hang out. You'll have plenty of time to perfect your cast and try different techniques throughout the day. Don't worry if you're new to this – our guides are patient teachers and will help you get the hang of it in no time. And for you seasoned anglers, we know just the spots to challenge your skills and potentially land that trophy catch you've been after.
Drift fishing is one of the best ways to cover a lot of water and find where the fish are biting. We'll be using a mix of techniques, from float fishing to bottom bouncing, depending on the conditions and what's working that day. Your guide will set you up with the right gear – typically a medium-action rod with a quality spinning reel, loaded with 8-10lb test line. We'll use a variety of lures and bait, from roe bags for salmon to small jigs for steelhead. As we drift, you'll learn to read the water, identifying the riffles, pools, and seams where fish like to hold. It's a hands-on way to fish that keeps you engaged and gives you the best shot at hooking into something big.
The Credit River is home to some seriously impressive fish. Let's break down what you might catch on your trip:
Chinook Salmon: These monsters of the salmon world can tip the scales at over 30 pounds! They start running up the Credit in late August and peak in September and October. Chinooks are known for their powerful fights – when you hook one, hold on tight! They love to hang out in deeper pools and around structure.
Coho Salmon: A bit smaller than Chinooks but no less exciting, Cohos typically range from 5-15 pounds. They're often called "silver salmon" because of their bright, silvery sides. Cohos are known for their acrobatic leaps and fast runs when hooked. You'll find them in the river from September through November, with the peak usually in October.
Steelhead Trout: These sea-run rainbow trout are prized for their fighting ability and taste. Credit River steelhead average 5-10 pounds but can get much bigger. We target them in two main runs: fall (October to December) and spring (March to May). Steelhead love fast water and are often found in riffles and runs. When you hook one, be ready for a battle – they're known for their long, powerful runs and spectacular jumps.
The Credit River isn't just any old fishing spot – it's a world-class fishery right in the heart of Ontario. What makes it so special? For starters, the scenery is jaw-dropping. You're surrounded by forests and wildlife, with the bustling city feeling a million miles away. Then there's the quality of the fish – the Credit is known for producing some chunky salmon and steelhead that'll test your skills and your tackle. But what really sets this trip apart is the personalized experience. It's just you and your guide, so you can fish at your own pace, ask all the questions you want, and really dial in your technique. Whether you're after your first salmon or your fiftieth, there's always something new to learn and experience on the Credit.
Ready to get out on the water and try your luck? This private charter on the Credit River is the perfect way to spend a day, whether you're looking to learn the ropes or chase that personal best catch. With all gear provided and an expert guide by your side, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a camera for those "fish of a lifetime" shots). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak salmon and steelhead runs, so don't wait to book. Give us a call or hop online to reserve your date – the fish are waiting, and trust us, you don't want to miss out on this action. See you on the river!
Chinook salmon, also known as kings, are the heavyweights of the salmon world. These bruisers can top 30 pounds, with most falling in the 15-20 pound range. You'll find them hanging out near the bottom in deeper runs and pools. Kings are famous for their powerful fights - be ready for some serious pulls when you hook one. They start running the Credit River in late summer, with peak action in September and October. Anglers love targeting kings not just for the challenge, but also for their rich, flavorful meat. To improve your odds, try drifting roe or large flashy flies near the bottom. A local trick is to use scented soft plastics in pink or chartreuse - kings can't seem to resist them. Just remember to hang on tight when that rod doubles over!
Coho, or silver salmon, are the acrobats of the Credit River. These mid-sized salmon usually run 5-10 pounds and are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Look for them in faster-moving water, often near creek mouths or below riffles. Coho typically show up in the river from mid-September through November, with the best fishing usually in October. Anglers love targeting silvers for their aggressive strikes and wild fights. They're also excellent table fare, with bright orange flesh. To entice a bite, try swinging bright streamer flies or small spinners through likely holding spots. A local secret is to use pink or orange beads above your hook - coho seem drawn to the bright colors. Just be ready for some airborne action when you set the hook on one of these high-flying fish!
Steelhead are the marathon runners of the Credit River, known for their powerful fights and stunning chrome sides. These sea-run rainbows average 5-10 pounds but can reach 20+ pounds. You'll find them throughout the river system, often holding in deeper pools and runs. The fall run kicks off in October and can last through winter, with another push of fresh fish in spring. Anglers prize steelhead for their acrobatic leaps and long, fast runs. They're challenging to catch but well worth the effort. To up your odds, try drifting small egg patterns or swinging flashy streamers through likely holding water. A local tip: when water's high and cloudy, don't be afraid to use larger, brighter flies. Steelhead have excellent vision and can spot a meal even in murky conditions. Just be sure your drag is set - these chrome torpedoes can peel off line in a hurry!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2
Manufacturer Name: Mariner
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90