Raven Fishing Adventures
Year-round salmon and crab fishing within a one-hour drive from downtown Victoria!! Experience a Salmon fishing charter like no other! Fish and sightsee in comfort aboard my beautifully maintained, spacious classic 40’ retired commercial fishing vessel, ‘Raven’. Ideal for family or group outings (up to 6 persons) or the most diehard and serious anglers.
Make an adventure out of your next trip to Sooke or Victoria. No need to feel rushed or to get up early, Raven does one leisurely trip per day, usually with a late morning departure, and if you are lucky, it could be you!
Skipper Al Crow will be your guide, allowing you to benefit from his more than 45 years of commercial and recreational fishing experience. Al is highly regarded among his peers as one of the most friendly, knowledgeable, and successful sports fishermen on the South Island.
As well as being an experienced mariner and fisherman, Al is also an extraordinary marine naturalist and can answer all your questions about the area’s marine life and natural history as you ply the biologically diverse and near pristine shorelands of Vancouver Island’s southernmost tip where a typical trip often includes Whale and/or Sea Lion sightings.
From November to April, the Winter Chinook fishing is steady, and the crabbing is excellent. May to September is prime time for large Summer Chinook, Coho, and Pink Salmon, while September and October offer fantastic Fall Coho fishing. Every trip offers spectacular scenery and something for everyone.
All fish processing is included, and if you like, Al will set out the crab traps so you can enjoy some fresh Dungeness Crab.
Those planning to fish in your group will need to purchase a local fishing license (one-day licenses are available). For those planning on spectating, a licence is not required. This information is available online: Google "BC Tidal Water Sports Fishing Licence" and follow the prompts.
Make your next fishing trip a memorable one. :)
Customer reviews
Rating summary
Photos & videos by reviewers (41)
+38Angler rating
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Appropriate for children
94%
Friendly captain
95%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Caught fish
96%
Aug 12, 2025
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab
Perfect fishing Day!
Captain Allan took us out yesterday. Two of us are very knowledgeable and have fished the area many, many times. One of us used to live in the area and Captain Allan still managed to teach us all a thing or two. We have hired multiple charters in the past and had fun but, this was different. We still had fun but, Captain Allan went above and beyond to accommodate some of our mobility issues and let us fish ourselves. It was a great experience with great weather. We limited out on Chinooks all had a blast. Unfortunately we are unable to load pictures. A perfect fishing day!
Captain Allan took us out yesterday. Two of us are very knowledgeable and have fished the area many, many times. One of us used...
Aug 11, 2025
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab
An Unforgettable day on the water
If you’re looking for the real deal in salmon fishing, look no further than Captain Al. From the moment we stepped aboard his classic old-school fishing boat, we knew we were in for a great day on the water. Stepping onto The Raven is stepping onto a boat with a story in every scratch on the rail and a captain who’s spent a lifetime reading the water. Captain Al’s know-how is unreal. He’s knowledgeable about the ecosystem, the area, and the minds of the fish; he’s got years of experience and passion to back it. Because of his expertise, we were catching more salmon than anyone else on the water. As soon as we cast our first line, it was nonstop action all day. It’s a hands-on experience on this boat, a ‘working boat,’ he calls it. Al gives you an overview of the equipment and then it’s up to your crew to set up, reel, and catch. Thankfully, Captain Al guts the fish for you. The boat had such a comfortable setup with a well to sit in and reel from; the weighted stabilizers were a game-changer—it felt like we were on a dock with hardly any rocking. The view is unbeatable, just glorious. Mountains, rugged coastline, gulls, and open ocean provided the backdrop for our trip, like being part of a watercolour painting. We were lucky enough to have a flat calm day for looking out over the Juan de Fuca Strait and Secretary Island on such a storied fishing vessel. Al got us out at the peak time for fish—midafternoon, after everyone who’d come for the cold early morning left empty-handed. We were also fortunate enough to max out our catch for our group, netting pinks, chinook, and coho, all due to Al’s savvy positioning of the boat. By the time we headed back to the dock, the cooler was full, our arms were sore, and we had memories worth far, far more than the trip’s price tag. If you want a no-nonsense, high-action, soul-satisfying day of salmon fishing with a captain who’s the real thing, book a trip with Captain Al. This is the kind of fishing experience that sticks with you forever.
If you’re looking for the real deal in salmon fishing, look no further than Captain Al. From the moment we stepped aboard his...
Captain replied
Aug 9, 2025
Rock cod, Ling cod and Crab
Fish on! All day long!
If I could give Al more stars I would. I chose this charter because I found the retired commercial vessel interesting and wanted to fish on a larger boat. After hearing from other anglers how seasick they got from smaller vessels, I was glad I made the choice I did. Al gave an incredible history of the local fisheries as well as providing impressive knowledge of the aquatic ecosystem. His past as a commercial fisherman, diver and guide was invaluable in landing the 4 species we targeted today. Within 10 minutes I caught a 16lb chinook and later that day we had success with pink salmon and copper rockfish. The dungeness crab we brought up from the traps on the way back to the dock was an added bonus. Al’s the type of guy you could easily hang out with all day because while he has a laid back nature, he’s extremely confident in his vocation. He’s just cool. Al was incredibly accommodating and respectful of my timeline and had me back to the dock on time. I will 100% convince my girlfriends to join me next time with Al. His charter is the kind you want to give a 5 star review because you were so impressed but also you don’t want the word to get out so much because you know he’s going to book up fast when people experience his charter. Come on the rising wind We’re going up around the bend. Thanks Al! You’re awesome!
If I could give Al more stars I would. I chose this charter because I found the retired commercial vessel interesting and wanted...
Captain replied
Aug 3, 2025
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab
A 5+ Star Charter ! 此船出色，到Sooke的首選 ... 이 보트는 훌륭하고 Sooke의 첫 번째 선택입니다
First, Captain Allan is such a honest, "true" professional. Before running a fishing charter, he was a commercial fisherman for 30+ years. He can really read the weather and current. Having been a diver by occupation, he knows the Sooke waters and geography also from below. He told me ahead the big fishing action will not happen until 10am that day. He was right on the nail ! Unlike many fishing charter captains who don't want you to touch their equipment or would simply fish for you until the fishes got hooked, Allan goes an extra mile to teach you in a patient and systemic way how to fish and successfully catch fishes yourself. Second, his boat Raven is a spacious vintage boat full of character. It is also equipped with stabilizer so that it is very stable and calm. For those who wants to fish very comfortably and those who are afraid of getting sea-sick, this is the prime choice. Also, great choice for families and bigger parties. Third, Captain Allan knows better where the Dungeness crabs are ! His crab traps are full of exciting surprises, far more productive than those of the other charters. We fished 3 days in a row in Sooke with 3 different fishing charters of different boat configurations. My group unanimously voted Raven to be the best charter. We caught many chinooks and pinks. More importantly, we had a great time onboard the Raven filled with great chats with Allan. Even during the many days after the charter, our group still talks so much about our fishing experience with Captain Allan. Any time we are back to Sooke, booking the Raven will be out of question.
First, Captain Allan is such a honest, "true" professional. Before running a fishing charter, he was a commercial fisherman for...
Captain replied
Jul 8, 2025
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab
Most Immersive charter fishing in Sooke!!
Captain Allan was the man!! We had an epic day on fishing on the Raven, an incredible old commercial fishing boat turned charter. The Raven has space for a whole family including a cabin with a warm stove for those colder days. She is built to hand rough water and has great operational space for fishing! Captain Allen has been on the water for a long time and knows what he is doing! He is informative about the history and ecology of the local waters. We caught 8 king Salmon including one over 15 lbs. We had our limit of crab by the end of the day and memories we won't forget! If you are looking for a genuinely authentic fishing experience in Sooke Captain Allan and the Raven are the best option!! Can't recommend enough!
Captain Allan was the man!! We had an epic day on fishing on the Raven, an incredible old commercial fishing boat turned charter....
Captain repliedTrip availability and prices
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Customer reviews
Rating summary
Photos & videos by reviewers (41)
+38Angler rating
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Appropriate for children
94%
Friendly captain
95%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Caught fish
96%
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
Perfect fishing Day!
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab on August 12, 2025
Captain Allan took us out yesterday. Two of us are very knowledgeable and have fished the area many, many times. One of us used to live in the area and Captain Allan still managed to teach us all a thing or two. We have hired multiple charters in the past and had fun but, this was different. We still had fun but, Captain Allan went above and beyond to accommodate some of our mobility issues and let us fish ourselves. It was a great experience with great weather. We limited out on Chinooks all had a blast. Unfortunately we are unable to load pictures. A perfect fishing day!
Captain Allan took us out yesterday. Two of us are very knowledgeable and have fished the area many, many times. One of us used to live in the area and Captain Allan still managed to teach us all a thing or two. We have hired multiple charters in the past and had fun but, this was different. We still had fun but, Captain Allan went above and beyond to accommodate some of our mobility issues and let us fish ourselves. It was a great experience with great weather. We limited out on Chinooks...
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
An Unforgettable day on the water
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab on August 11, 2025
If you’re looking for the real deal in salmon fishing, look no further than Captain Al. From the moment we stepped aboard his classic old-school fishing boat, we knew we were in for a great day on the water. Stepping onto The Raven is stepping onto a boat with a story in every scratch on the rail and a captain who’s spent a lifetime reading the water. Captain Al’s know-how is unreal. He’s knowledgeable about the ecosystem, the area, and the minds of the fish; he’s got years of experience and passion to back it. Because of his expertise, we were catching more salmon than anyone else on the water. As soon as we cast our first line, it was nonstop action all day. It’s a hands-on experience on this boat, a ‘working boat,’ he calls it. Al gives you an overview of the equipment and then it’s up to your crew to set up, reel, and catch. Thankfully, Captain Al guts the fish for you. The boat had such a comfortable setup with a well to sit in and reel from; the weighted stabilizers were a game-changer—it felt like we were on a dock with hardly any rocking. The view is unbeatable, just glorious. Mountains, rugged coastline, gulls, and open ocean provided the backdrop for our trip, like being part of a watercolour painting. We were lucky enough to have a flat calm day for looking out over the Juan de Fuca Strait and Secretary Island on such a storied fishing vessel. Al got us out at the peak time for fish—midafternoon, after everyone who’d come for the cold early morning left empty-handed. We were also fortunate enough to max out our catch for our group, netting pinks, chinook, and coho, all due to Al’s savvy positioning of the boat. By the time we headed back to the dock, the cooler was full, our arms were sore, and we had memories worth far, far more than the trip’s price tag. If you want a no-nonsense, high-action, soul-satisfying day of salmon fishing with a captain who’s the real thing, book a trip with Captain Al. This is the kind of fishing experience that sticks with you forever.
If you’re looking for the real deal in salmon fishing, look no further than Captain Al. From the moment we stepped aboard his classic old-school fishing boat, we knew we were in for a great day on the water. Stepping onto The Raven is stepping onto a boat with a story in every scratch on the rail and a captain who’s spent a lifetime reading the water. Captain Al’s know-how is unreal. He’s knowledgeable about the ecosystem, the area, and the minds of the fish; he’s got years of experience...
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
Fish on! All day long!
Rock cod, Ling cod and Crab on August 9, 2025
If I could give Al more stars I would. I chose this charter because I found the retired commercial vessel interesting and wanted to fish on a larger boat. After hearing from other anglers how seasick they got from smaller vessels, I was glad I made the choice I did. Al gave an incredible history of the local fisheries as well as providing impressive knowledge of the aquatic ecosystem. His past as a commercial fisherman, diver and guide was invaluable in landing the 4 species we targeted today. Within 10 minutes I caught a 16lb chinook and later that day we had success with pink salmon and copper rockfish. The dungeness crab we brought up from the traps on the way back to the dock was an added bonus. Al’s the type of guy you could easily hang out with all day because while he has a laid back nature, he’s extremely confident in his vocation. He’s just cool. Al was incredibly accommodating and respectful of my timeline and had me back to the dock on time. I will 100% convince my girlfriends to join me next time with Al. His charter is the kind you want to give a 5 star review because you were so impressed but also you don’t want the word to get out so much because you know he’s going to book up fast when people experience his charter. Come on the rising wind We’re going up around the bend. Thanks Al! You’re awesome!
If I could give Al more stars I would. I chose this charter because I found the retired commercial vessel interesting and wanted to fish on a larger boat. After hearing from other anglers how seasick they got from smaller vessels, I was glad I made the choice I did. Al gave an incredible history of the local fisheries as well as providing impressive knowledge of the aquatic ecosystem. His past as a commercial fisherman, diver and guide was invaluable in landing the 4 species we targeted...
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
A 5+ Star Charter ! 此船出色，到Sooke的首選 ... 이 보트는 훌륭하고 Sooke의 첫 번째 선택입니다
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab on August 3, 2025
First, Captain Allan is such a honest, "true" professional. Before running a fishing charter, he was a commercial fisherman for 30+ years. He can really read the weather and current. Having been a diver by occupation, he knows the Sooke waters and geography also from below. He told me ahead the big fishing action will not happen until 10am that day. He was right on the nail ! Unlike many fishing charter captains who don't want you to touch their equipment or would simply fish for you until the fishes got hooked, Allan goes an extra mile to teach you in a patient and systemic way how to fish and successfully catch fishes yourself. Second, his boat Raven is a spacious vintage boat full of character. It is also equipped with stabilizer so that it is very stable and calm. For those who wants to fish very comfortably and those who are afraid of getting sea-sick, this is the prime choice. Also, great choice for families and bigger parties. Third, Captain Allan knows better where the Dungeness crabs are ! His crab traps are full of exciting surprises, far more productive than those of the other charters. We fished 3 days in a row in Sooke with 3 different fishing charters of different boat configurations. My group unanimously voted Raven to be the best charter. We caught many chinooks and pinks. More importantly, we had a great time onboard the Raven filled with great chats with Allan. Even during the many days after the charter, our group still talks so much about our fishing experience with Captain Allan. Any time we are back to Sooke, booking the Raven will be out of question.
First, Captain Allan is such a honest, "true" professional. Before running a fishing charter, he was a commercial fisherman for 30+ years. He can really read the weather and current. Having been a diver by occupation, he knows the Sooke waters and geography also from below. He told me ahead the big fishing action will not happen until 10am that day. He was right on the nail ! Unlike many fishing charter captains who don't want you to touch their equipment or would simply fish for you until the...
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
Most Immersive charter fishing in Sooke!!
Prime time Summer Chinook and Crab on July 8, 2025
Captain Allan was the man!! We had an epic day on fishing on the Raven, an incredible old commercial fishing boat turned charter. The Raven has space for a whole family including a cabin with a warm stove for those colder days. She is built to hand rough water and has great operational space for fishing! Captain Allen has been on the water for a long time and knows what he is doing! He is informative about the history and ecology of the local waters. We caught 8 king Salmon including one over 15 lbs. We had our limit of crab by the end of the day and memories we won't forget! If you are looking for a genuinely authentic fishing experience in Sooke Captain Allan and the Raven are the best option!! Can't recommend enough!
Captain Allan was the man!! We had an epic day on fishing on the Raven, an incredible old commercial fishing boat turned charter. The Raven has space for a whole family including a cabin with a warm stove for those colder days. She is built to hand rough water and has great operational space for fishing! Captain Allen has been on the water for a long time and knows what he is doing! He is informative about the history and ecology of the local waters. We caught 8 king Salmon including one over...
FAQs about Raven Fishing Adventures
The fish you can target
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