Thanks again for making 2007 my best season yet!    I'm going to try to keep my rates as reasonable as possible in 2008, despite the quickly rising fuel costs. These rates will be subject to change, but the following rates are what I'm going to try to offer.

A half-day (4 hours) for 1 or 2 people is $210.00. A full day (8 hours) for 1 or 2 people is $305.00.  

Due to heavy requests I have been taking out occasional parties of 3 people for lake trout jigging trips ONLY.   A half-day (4 hours) of lake trout jigging for 3 people is $290.   A full-day (8 hours) of lake trout jigging for 3 people is $385.   

I've heard many horror stories of people spending $400 or more for a guided trip on the Delaware River, or out on the "Outer Banks" in North Carolina or (insert here!) and having very disappointing results - whether fishing-wise or learning-wise.   I don't guarantee fish, but I absolutely guarantee that I will do all I can to put you on fish and YOU WILL LEARN A LOT!  Honestly, it's a pretty rare day that I get skunked.   I usually can put something together - that's the advantage of being a multi-species angler.   Flexibility = excellent chance for success!     

 A $100 deposit is required to secure a date (except during the winter or on short notice). The balance of the payment is due at day’s end.

Due to an increased volume in calls for trips -especially on short notice - I can no longer maintain the "2 day" refund policy.   I AM NOW REQUIRING 7 DAYS NOTICE (1 WEEK) ON ANY TRIP CANCELLATIONS.   I didn't have any problems with last minute cancellations in 2005 or 2006. 

REGARDING THE WEATHER: 

I will make the final call regarding weather conditions. If I call off the trip, you will have the option of rescheduling your trip or a refund on your deposit. In 2005 my two toughest trips were trips where the weather forecast was bad but we took a chance due to limited flexibility.  In 2006 we had one bad trip due to weather, but that was more of a forecast error.  Sometimes the weather forecasts are wrong, but over the past few years they've been pretty accurate.   I don't know about any of you, but I don't enjoy fishing in 25 mph winds and pouring rain;  I don't expect anyone to enjoy fishing in those conditions no matter how they are dressed!   If the weather looks to be that bad, I strongly suggest postponing the trip!

Here are items I recommend you bring on your trip:

• Valid NYS Fishing License (Required!)
• Full Raingear (regardless of weather conditions)
• Polarized Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Lunch/beverages
• Fishing Gear (optional)
• Cooler – esp. in the summertime if you plan on keeping any fish

I will have all the fishing tackle you will need on board, including quality rods/reels, lures and/or flies and so on. You are welcome to bring your own tackle if you choose. Please let me know in advance if you reel left or right-handed and I will have the appropriate outfits ready for you.

A few reminders:

Winter Fishing: I do a lot of winter fishing. Some of the best and most consistent fishing for landlocked salmon, lake trout and large pike is had in the winter. I don’t fish unless forecast highs will be 30 degrees or higher. If you choose to fish in the winter you need to dress accordingly with multiple layers. Full raingear is highly recommended due to any spray we may get from waves/chop. I also require lifejackets to be worn at all times in the winter. Feel free to contact me during any winter thaws if you would like to fish. Deposits are not required in the winter given the unpredictability of the weather. 

"Catch and Release" vs. "Catch 'em and eat 'em" - please check "The Chef" under the "About John" heading. 

See below for some tips on dressing for cold weather fishing.

Alcohol/Drugs: Alcohol is discouraged, however I don’t have a problem with a beer or two. Any inebriation or heavy drinking is unacceptable. I strongly prefer you keep the drinks for AFTER THE TRIP!   Fly-fishing and alcohol on a boat don’t mix at all, especially in the winter. Illegal drugs are strictly forbidden.  Cigarettes or cigars are OK.  

Fish cleaning:   I do get some requests to filet fish.    Upon request I will gladly demonstrate how to filet pike/pickerel bonelessly.   I can also show the proper trimming of lake trout and other fish.    Let me know IN ADVANCE and I will bring a knife, cutting board and other accessories.   If the catch involves a large number of fish, we will most likely head in a little early.  

Tips for comfortable fall/winter fishing:  

Don't let the thought of cool or cold weather keep you off the water!   You will miss some of the best and most unique fishing opportunities in the region!    Northern Pike, Landlocked Salmon, Rainbow trout and Lake trout fishing can be tops in the fall.   Big smallmouth bass and perch are available too.   

I suggest the following:

Purchase some expedition weight long-underwear.   Stores like Bass Pro Shops routinely sell tops and bottoms for $15 a piece!   Cheap!   A layer of this stuff is equal to a few layers of other materials like sweatshirts or sweaters.   I wear the heavy weight stuff on days when highs will be under 50 degrees.    Throw on a pair of jeans, a sweatshirt or two and a down jacket and you'll be golden.   A turtle for the neck can make a huge difference too.

Down is a great material.   Vests or jackets will keep you warm.  

Full raingear is also great to wear.  

You'll be warm and comfortable and this will enable you to focus on the fishing rather than the weather.   I hate being cold, and being prepared makes the late fall/winter/early spring seasons very enjoyable and productive!