Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke 

4.9
(243 reviews)
 West Coast Road 6971, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1, Canada–

Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke 

Sooke, BC, Canada
–
26 ft
5
4.9
(243 reviews)

When it comes down to the finest Salmon and Halibut fishing right at your doorstep, Top Rods Guide Service is your number one choice.

Explore the clear waters of Vancouver Island. The area needs no introduction: it is blessed with some of the hottest fishing grounds and honey holes on the west coast. You can test your angling skills, learn a new technique, and come back to shore with your ice chest full of outstanding catches. You will be able to go for bottom fishing, jigging, and trolling. Those tried-and-true methods produce the best results.

With Top Rods Guide Service, you can enjoy a year-round opportunity to fight with Chinook Salmon, huge Halibut, and even Cod. Capt. Al will provide you with all the necessary rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and lures for your trip.

Top Rods Guide Service will take you out aboard a 26' Northwest Aluminum fishing. This boat comes powered by a 300 HP Mercury engine and a kicker motor to get you to the grounds quickly and safely. The boat is fitted with an ice-box for the catch, along with a trolling motor, outriggers, and top-notch electronics.

Capt. Al caters to anglers of all skill levels and can accommodate even younger fishermen. Bring your kids with you and show them the prolific waters of Vancouver Island.

When it comes down to the finest Salmon and Halibut fishing right at your doorstep, Top Rods Guide Service is your number one choice.

Explore the clear waters of Vancouver Island. The area needs no introduction: it is blessed with some of the hottest fishing grounds and honey holes on the west coast. You can test your angling skills, learn a new technique, and come back to shore with your ice chest full of outstanding catches. You will be able to go for bottom fishing, jigging, and trolling. Those tried-and-true methods produce the best results.

With Top Rods Guide Service, you can enjoy a year-round opportunity to fight with Chinook Salmon, huge Halibut, and even Cod. Capt. Al will provide you with all the necessary rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and lures for your trip.

Top Rods Guide Service will take you out aboard a 26' Northwest Aluminum fishing. This boat comes powered by a 300 HP Mercury engine and a kicker motor to get you to the grounds quickly and safely. The boat is fitted with an ice-box for the catch, along with a trolling motor, outriggers, and top-notch electronics.

Capt. Al caters to anglers of all skill levels and can accommodate even younger fishermen. Bring your kids with you and show them the prolific waters of Vancouver Island.

Al Kennedy
Captain
Al Kennedy
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Almost there...
Half Day Trip (PM)
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 12:30 PM
Crab
Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)
Salmon (Pink)
+1
US $351
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Half Day Trip (AM)
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Cod
Crab
Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)
+2
US $386
Entire boat: up to 4 people
3/4 Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Cod
Crab
Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Coho)
+2
US $474
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Full Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Cod
Halibut
Crab
Salmon (Chinook)
+3
US $632
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Halibut fishing
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 PM
Halibut
Crab
US $842
Entire boat: up to 5 people
There are 10 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
243 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (284)

What anglers say

98%
Great experience
96%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
97%
Recommended
94%
Caught fish

Reviews (243)

  • Joanie Lamoureux
    Joanie Lamoureux
    Repeat angler
    ca
    Québec, Canada
    Member since 2023
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Lots of fish and lots of fun !

    3/4 Day Trip on September 5, 2026 • 3 adults

    We absolutely loved our three days of fishing with Captain Al! On our first day, we went salmon fishing and caught some truly beautiful (and big) salmon. Our second day was dedicated to bottom fishing, and the variety of species we were able to catch made the experience absolutely incredible. For our third day, we did a mix of salmon and bottom fishing, and once again, the fishing was diverse and plentiful. Captain Al made the whole experience even better with his knowledge, professionalism, and passion for fishing. Every day was different, exciting, and full of action. We couldn’t have asked for a better fishing experience during our time in Sooke. Three amazing days on the water that we won’t soon forget. We highly recommend fishing with Captain Al!

  • Dongjun Shin
    Dongjun Shin
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    The most Epic Experience

    Half Day Trip (PM) on August 27, 2026 • 4 adults

    We had an absolutely incredible fishing trip in Sooke with Captain Al yesterday, and I honestly can’t say enough good things about the experience. My brother-in-law and I ended up catching three salmon and a cod, which already made for an amazing day, but what really made the trip special was Captain Al himself. The boat was spotless, everything was extremely well organized, and from the moment we got on board, we felt completely taken care of. Captain Al was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and friendly. He guided us throughout the entire trip and made everything easy and enjoyable for us. You can also immediately tell that he is genuinely well-loved and respected by everyone around him. Everywhere we went, people seemed to know and love him, and after spending the day with him, it was very easy to understand why. After we caught our fish, he even took care of cleaning and preparing everything for us. Every little detail was handled perfectly from beginning to end. One thing that really touched us was at the end of the trip. We realized we hadn’t brought enough cash and asked if we could leave him a tip by credit card. He simply wouldn’t take it\. After everything he had done for us that day, his kindness and generosity really stayed with us. This was so much more than just a fishing charter. It was genuinely one of the best experiences we’ve ever had and a memory my brother-in-law and I will never forget. Captain Al, thank you for such an unforgettable day. If you’re looking for a fishing charter in Sooke, I couldn’t recommend him more highly. We will absolutely be back!

  • Nathalie Noel
    Nathalie Noel
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing trip

    Half Day Trip (PM) on July 19, 2026 • 5 adults

    Al was amazing from start to finish! We had an incredible day on the water. His knowledge, professionalism, and years of experience with both salmon fishing and crabbing really showed. The boat was spotless, and all of the equipment was top-notch and well maintained. He made sure we were well taken care of the entire trip, and we were spoiled from beginning to end. We caught beautiful salmon and so much crab that we had enough to feed a family of 20! We couldn't have asked for a better experience and will absolutely be booking with Al again. If you're looking for an unforgettable fishing charter with someone who truly knows what they're doing, we highly recommend Al!

  • Justin Betts
    Justin Betts
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Best Canada Day ever!

    Half Day Trip (PM) on July 1, 2026 • 2 adults

    Top Rods is Top Notch!! Great half day on the water. Captain Al was nothing but the best, even got a hold of me the day before for a weather update and we changed gears and went out the next morning instead of afternoon. What a choice that was! Nothing but sunny skies, dropped of the coined deadliest catch crab pot, then headed to catch some Coho, after meeting quota haha went for some of the big spring kings. Wife landed catch of her life! 14lb spring! after the best 4+ hours, the wind came in as we were leaving the fishing grounds. When arrving back, picked up the cab pot and hit the marina. little did we know the day wasn't over. Captain Al put on a fillet n seal show! Tubby 2 was the best. Patient hungry boy that got his fill. Highly recommend! Best Canada Day yet! Fresh caught crab over the fire to top it all off!

  • Linda Mclellan
    Linda Mclellan
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Best captain ever

    3/4 Day Trip on September 17, 2026 • 2 adults

    Captain al was awesome...he worked hard for us and new all the hot spots...we caught alot of fish...we were very happy with this charter and overall first time experience...the captain was very enthusiastic and patient with us...will definitely book again...al is an awesome guy with great knowledge of his fish and the ocean.

  • Salvatore Puccio
    Salvatore Puccio
    us
    New York, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    The perfect day on the water!

    Half Day Trip (AM) on December 29, 2025 • 2 adults

    Capt Al came down ill, but set us up with his pal Capt Jesse on the Sea Leggs. This was one of my best fishing trips of all time, and I fish quite a bit at home. I had my 3 boys with me, ages 10, 9, and 6, for a winter salmon trip. started at 33 degrees, but we dressed warm and the 23 Grady kept the wind at bay. the weather was perfect and Capt Jesse had us on fish within 10 minutes. his positivity was great and we ended up catching our limit in no time. We saw a bald eagle, humpback whales, and school of porpoises. all in all, a perfect day on the water. thank you again Captain Al for setting us up and thanks to Capt Jesse for taking us out. a trip my boys and I will always remember. I've been waiting to do the trip for over 10 years, we had the best day for it. looking forward to next time with Capts. Al and Jesse. great trip for kids, good learning experience. oh, and the dungeonous crab was so good. glad we snagged a few of those too.

  • Andrei Balashou
    Andrei Balashou
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    This was an excellent trip!!!

    Full Day Trip on August 28, 2026 • 4 adults

    Had a phenomenal trip out of Sooke with Captain Al. He is an incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and hardworking guide who knows the local BC waters inside out. He put us right on the action, and his boat and gear are top-of-the-line and spotless. Beyond his expertise, Al is just a great, patient guy to spend the day with. Highly recommend booking with him if you want an amazing day on the water!

  • Peter Gidzak
    Peter Gidzak
    ca
    Manitoba, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Better than I could have imagined!!!

    Half Day Trip (PM) on August 5, 2026 • 2 adults

    I booked this for my wife's birthday as she loves fishing. Captain Al made this trip! What a wonderful guy to spend a day with. Great personality, funny, knows his stuff. Al kept us laughing the entire trip, and you could tell he wanted to make sure we had a great time, which we did. We both caught lots of fish which I would attribute to Al's knowledge. I can't wait to do this again

  • David Sommer
    David Sommer
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2022
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    One of our very best fishing trips ever!

    3/4 Day Trip on October 13, 2025 • 3 adults

    Al put on quite a fishing show for us today. Boat was very comfortable, and we started catching Coho salmon by 07:30 am. There were a lot of throwbacks due to small fish & various BC rules - but we still wound up with 9 total fish and easily 20+ pounds of gorgeous reddish salmon fillets. Including a chunky 14 pounder. Al had a lot of enthusiasm which my 16 and 13 year olds enjoyed - they are avid fishermen and were very satisfied with the equipment used. He even talks American football an expert level. So an easy 5 stars!!!

  • Carson Seidel
    Carson Seidel
    ca
    British Columbia, Canada
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fabulous couple days on the water!

    Full Day Trip on July 3, 2026 • 4 adults

    Spent two days on the water with Al and we had an awesome time. Caught plenty of springs and coho while trolling through beautiful areas. Al was everything you could want from a guide. This was a unique charter experience full of laughs and good times. Highly recommend, can't wait to be back! On the behalf of all of us, thanks a bunch captain!

Rating

4.9
243 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (284)

What anglers say

98%
Great experience
96%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
97%
Recommended
94%
Caught fish

All reviews (243)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 243 reviews
Joanie Lamoureux
Joanie Lamoureux
Repeat angler
ca
Québec, Canada
Member since 2023
3 trips
5.0
Verified
New
Lots of fish and lots of fun !
3/4 Day Trip on September 5, 2026 • 3 adults

We absolutely loved our three days of fishing with Captain Al! On our first day, we went salmon fishing and caught some truly beautiful (and big) salmon. Our second day was dedicated to bottom fishing, and the variety of species we were able to catch made the experience absolutely incredible. For our third day, we did a mix of salmon and bottom fishing, and once again, the fishing was diverse and plentiful. Captain Al made the whole experience even better with his knowledge, professionalism, and passion for fishing. Every day was different, exciting, and full of action. We couldn’t have asked for a better fishing experience during our time in Sooke. Three amazing days on the water that we won’t soon forget. We highly recommend fishing with Captain Al!

Reported catch:
Cod
Crab
Chinook Salmon
Coho Salmon
Al Kennedy
Response from Captain

thanks, Joanie for your review. I also had a great three days with you guys. That was lots of fun. I was glad we could get a good bunch of salmon and bottom fish for you to take home. Hopefully, we can get you out again another time down the road thanks again for the delicious salmon and skate. That was very delicious. You guys have a good rest of the summer and have a safe trip back home and tell mom to enjoy her golfing. Take care and thanks again tight lines and happy faces. Al

DongJun Shin
DongJun Shin
ca
British Columbia, Canada
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
The most Epic Experience
Half Day Trip (PM) on August 27, 2026 • 4 adults

We had an absolutely incredible fishing trip in Sooke with Captain Al yesterday, and I honestly can’t say enough good things about the experience. My brother-in-law and I ended up catching three salmon and a cod, which already made for an amazing day, but what really made the trip special was Captain Al himself. The boat was spotless, everything was extremely well organized, and from the moment we got on board, we felt completely taken care of. Captain Al was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and friendly. He guided us throughout the entire trip and made everything easy and enjoyable for us. You can also immediately tell that he is genuinely well-loved and respected by everyone around him. Everywhere we went, people seemed to know and love him, and after spending the day with him, it was very easy to understand why. After we caught our fish, he even took care of cleaning and preparing everything for us. Every little detail was handled perfectly from beginning to end. One thing that really touched us was at the end of the trip. We realized we hadn’t brought enough cash and asked if we could leave him a tip by credit card. He simply wouldn’t take it\. After everything he had done for us that day, his kindness and generosity really stayed with us. This was so much more than just a fishing charter. It was genuinely one of the best experiences we’ve ever had and a memory my brother-in-law and I will never forget. Captain Al, thank you for such an unforgettable day. If you’re looking for a fishing charter in Sooke, I couldn’t recommend him more highly. We will absolutely be back!

Reported catch:
Chinook Salmon
Al Kennedy
Response from Captain

thanks DongJun for your review. That was awesome. Thank you very much. I was lots of fun getting you guys into some king salmon and coho. i’m glad the weather was nice also for the afternoon trip  it was cool to get your brother-in-law out for his first salmon trip all the way from Korea you guys have a good rest of the summer and thanks again, tight lines and happy faces Al

Nathalie Noel
Nathalie Noel
ca
British Columbia, Canada
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Amazing trip
Half Day Trip (PM) on July 19, 2026 • 5 adults

Al was amazing from start to finish! We had an incredible day on the water. His knowledge, professionalism, and years of experience with both salmon fishing and crabbing really showed. The boat was spotless, and all of the equipment was top-notch and well maintained. He made sure we were well taken care of the entire trip, and we were spoiled from beginning to end. We caught beautiful salmon and so much crab that we had enough to feed a family of 20! We couldn't have asked for a better experience and will absolutely be booking with Al again. If you're looking for an unforgettable fishing charter with someone who truly knows what they're doing, we highly recommend Al!

Reported catch:
Crab
Coho Salmon
Al Kennedy
Response from Captain

thanks for your review Nathalie i’m glad you had a good time. It was nice to get you some fish and some crab for a nice dinner. Had lots of fun with you guys. That was a good birthday gift. Thanks again. You guys have a good summer and hopefully we see you again tight lines and happy faces Al

Justin Betts
Justin Betts
ca
British Columbia, Canada
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Best Canada Day ever!
Half Day Trip (PM) on July 1, 2026 • 2 adults

Top Rods is Top Notch!! Great half day on the water. Captain Al was nothing but the best, even got a hold of me the day before for a weather update and we changed gears and went out the next morning instead of afternoon. What a choice that was! Nothing but sunny skies, dropped of the coined deadliest catch crab pot, then headed to catch some Coho, after meeting quota haha went for some of the big spring kings. Wife landed catch of her life! 14lb spring! after the best 4+ hours, the wind came in as we were leaving the fishing grounds. When arrving back, picked up the cab pot and hit the marina. little did we know the day wasn't over. Captain Al put on a fillet n seal show! Tubby 2 was the best. Patient hungry boy that got his fill. Highly recommend! Best Canada Day yet! Fresh caught crab over the fire to top it all off!

Reported catch:
Crab
Coho Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Al Kennedy
Response from Captain

thanks for the review, Justin that's awesome. I'm glad you guys had a great time. I had a super good time with you guys. I'm glad it all worked out and you got some Nice seafood for dinner. That's awesome. Thanks again. You guys have a great summer and hopefully we see you again Al

Linda McLellan
Linda McLellan
ca
British Columbia, Canada
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Best captain ever
3/4 Day Trip on September 17, 2026 • 2 adults

Captain al was awesome...he worked hard for us and new all the hot spots...we caught alot of fish...we were very happy with this charter and overall first time experience...the captain was very enthusiastic and patient with us...will definitely book again...al is an awesome guy with great knowledge of his fish and the ocean.

Reported catch:
Cod
Crab
Coho Salmon
Al Kennedy
Response from Captain

thanks Linda for your review. I’m glad that I could get you and Mike some salmon and bottom fish. I had a great time with you guys. Enjoy your catch and hopefully we see you down the road next year have a good fall and winter. Thanks again tight lines and happy faces Al

FAQs about Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke

Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke offers the following trips to customers:
  • CA $500 per group, additional CA $75 per person after 4 guests - Half Day Trip (PM) (4 hours)
  • CA $550 per group, additional CA $75 per person after 4 guests - Half Day Trip (AM) (5 hours)
  • CA $675 per group, additional CA $75 per person after 4 guests - 3/4 Day Trip (6 hours)
  • CA $900 per group, additional CA $75 per person after 4 guests - Full Day Trip (8 hours)
  • CA $1,200 per group - Halibut fishing (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Washroom is enclosed and private electric washroom very clean
  • GPS Garmin
  • Fishfinder Garmin
  • Bed
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Outriggers
  • Ice box
  • Radar Garmin
Trips booked with Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (No, we don't use live bait)
  • Lures
Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (Up to 15 miles)
Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Jigging
Top targeted fish species with Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke include:
  • Cod
  • Crab
  • Halibut
  • Salmon (Chinook)
  • Salmon (Chum)
  • Salmon (Coho)
  • Salmon (Pink)
  • Salmon (Sockeye)

Your captain

Al Kennedy
Al Kennedy

Sooke, British Columbia, Canada

25 Fishing Reports
309 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since June 2017

Captain Al Kennedy has been fishing and guiding for the past 3 decades. Al especially loves the fact that he gets to work outdoors. He enjoys introducing his clients and friends to those productive waters and showing them all the beauty of the surrounding nature. Capt. Al simply loves when his customers catch fish, especially when it's Halibut and Salmon. Those two offer the best fight!

Al Kennedy
Al Kennedy
25
reports
309
reviews
2017
member since
~1h
response
Captain Al Kennedy has been fishing and guiding for the past 3 decades. Al especially loves the fact that he gets to work outdoors. He enjoys introducing his clients and friends to those productive waters and showing them all the beauty of the surrounding nature. Capt. Al simply loves when his customers catch fish, especially when it's Halibut and Salmon. Those two offer the best fight!

The fish you can target

Cod
Cod
Crab
Crab
Halibut
Halibut
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Chum Salmon
Chum Salmon
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
Pink Salmon
Pink Salmon
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye Salmon
Cod
Cod
Crab
Crab
Halibut
Halibut
Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon
Chum Salmon
Chum Salmon

Real catches by this captain

  • Best captain ever
    Linda M.
    Linda M.
  • Very nice one day trip.
    Ross S.
    Ross S.
  • Great trip
    Brad O.
    Brad O.
  • Great trip
    Steven L.
    Steven L.
  • Wonderful experience!
    Paul R.
    Paul R.
  • Had a wonderful morning fishing.
    Albert H.
    Albert H.
  • This was an excellent trip!!!
    Andrei B.
    Andrei B.
  • Great trip and guide
    Ed B.
    Ed B.
  • The most Epic Experience
    Dongjun S.
    Dongjun S.
  • Wow! What a day!
    Brendan M.
    Brendan M.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
5 persons
Boat length
26 ft
Year built
2016
Boat manufacturer
North west
Boat type
Sportfishing
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
40 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Jigging

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Washroom is enclosed and private electric washroom very clean
GPS
Garmin
Fishfinder
Garmin
Bed
Wireless trolling motor
Outriggers
Ice box
Radar
Garmin
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
No, we don't use live bait
Lures

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup agreed upon reservation

Transfer to/from departure site may be available and included in price depending on your location and distance from the dock.

Child friendly
No limitation on age for kids
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Visa

 Mastercard

 American Express

When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 2% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Sooke right now

CrabCrab
HalibutHalibut
Salmon (Chinook)Salmon (Chinook)
Salmon (Chum)Salmon (Chum)
Salmon (Coho)Salmon (Coho)
Salmon (Pink)Salmon (Pink)
Salmon (Sockeye)Salmon (Sockeye)

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Top Rods Guide Service - Sooke
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4.9
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26 ft
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+6
4 hour trip • 5 persons
US $350