Cruising the San Juan Islands

[forfun1960]

Hi All,
Will be chartering a Ranger 25 first week of June from Anacortes. Have been boating Ohio and Mississippi rivers for years in Cruisers will be my first taste on west coast in a tug. 😛 Looking for input on locations to visit, fishing, do's and don'ts, pointers on reference materials or websites etc. (already have 2011 Waggoner Guide). Would be happy to hear from anyone willing to give input. Thanks in advance.

 

[Auklet]

Big question about a big area. First would be to find what information the boat owner can furnish. Such as charts, weather sites, currents and tides, anchorages, parks, and towns to visit. Waggoner's is a very good start. I also use a book called "The Burgee" for info on public docks and parks. Maptech chart book for San Juans is essential. As to fishing, check wdfw.wa.gov. Keep asking questions, we will do what we can to answer. --- Cary

 

[forfun1960]

Can anyone give me info on fishing while we are anchored?

 

[Trinity]

There is a huge amount of information on: www.c-brats.com. That is where we started to explore the San Juans and the information is great. Pay close attention to the posts about tides and currents. There are resorts and wilderness areas at your fingertips!

Charts are important as there are many rock hazards to be aware of.

We like to anchor out for a couple of days and then hit a resort for a shower and to restock. I would stay away from the state park docks as they get pretty noisy during the summer.

c-brats should have information on fishing and crabing.

Sucia is a must and the book you have gives good information on the different options. We like Fossil Bay, but it can get crowded.

 

[norbhat]

forfun, we can't disclose our favorite place, but . . . Fossil Bay at Sucia Is., Prevost Harbor at Stewart Is., Friday Harbor, of course, west side of San Juan Is. for Orcas, Roche Harbor. How much time do you have? Victoria is great if you're bringing your passort.

Norb and Ruth Hattendorf
"Two If By Sea"
Ranger Tug 25'
Boulder, Colorado
norbhat@comcast.net