For explorers seeking exciting new adventures in the waters around Nanaimo and the Gulf Islands, Reel Time Fishing Charters & Marine Tours is the company to call. Conveniently located at the Seair Seaplane Terminal, steps from the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal, great local restaurants and Nanaimo’s Seawall, Reel Time offers the ultimate fishing and touring packages while investing in salmon restoration projects throughout British Columbia.
Take in the stunning beauty, take on world class salmon fishing of Vancouver Island. Experience the Wonder, Invest in its Future!
Reel Time Fishing & Marine Tours is steered by Owner/Operator Captain Turk. With over ten years of experience fishing and exploring the West Coast, Andrew Turkstra is also a certified Transport Canada Fishing Guide. Captain Turk relays valuable advice, in addition to fantastic fish tales; he’s got a great ear too. You’ll soon be hooked on Reel Time and return for another unforgettable journey.
With his capable hands at the helm, Captain Turk brings his skill and sense of adventure with him on the boat. He knows the best fishing spots and how to maneuver the waters. With a lifetime passion for fishing and respect for nature, Andrew says “It’s also why we fish sustainably, tread lightly, and donate 5% of every trip to help our natural resources remain healthy and beautiful for generations to come.”
“Ever since I can remember, I have enjoyed the natural beauty and wildlife found within our forests, rivers, lakes and oceans. Moving from the mainland to Vancouver Island in 2006, I discovered the possibility of sharing my passion. After working for several charter companies on the coast of Ucluelet, I started my own. Within 5 years, we added another vessel to the fleet to fish in both Nanaimo and Ucluelet. However, when new fishing regulations were implemented in the spring of 2019, I knew the time had come to reimagine the business. Today, with 13 years of experience, I look forward to helping others experience the wonder of our natural resources.”
Naturally, guests want to know about the 26-foot Hourston Glascraft Command Bridge boat.
Safe, stable and spacious, Friendship is a fully licensed and insured commercial vessel with everything you need to tour and fish.
Additionally, the boat is fully outfitted with appropriate safety gear and equipment. With a galley (fridge, sink and dining table), a private (enclosed) stand-up head (bathroom), cabin heat and a command bridge for ultimate viewing, “Friendship” is well equipped to serve both the fishing and sight-seeing enthusiasts all year round.
With the challenges facing our oceans and marine life today, Reel Time Fishing Charters & Marine Tours now offers scenic and wildlife tours as a way of bringing their guests to a closer and deeper appreciation of nature’s grandeur and importance.
“I believe we now live in a time where sport fishing in BC needs to shift our thinking from simply ‘taking’ of these amazing resources to how we can ‘invest’ in it for future generations to enjoy.”
Ethical and environmentally sound, we’ll respectfully go where marine mammals dwell (such as orca whales). Bring your cameras for amazing photo opportunities. You’ll have a safe, sustainable encounter as Captain Turk ensures a safe distance.
Beauty, richness of life, and history found in the local waters around Nanaimo and the Southern Archipelago.
The vast number of Islands with their turquoise bays, sandstone sculptures, breathtaking cliffs and unique culture and history combined with the richness of flora, sea birds, and marine life is simply astounding and life giving.
Andrew says that “After years of chartering, I’ve discovered that guests who come looking for the experience of taking in what nature gives them rather than the expectation of taking home a limit of fish or chasing down a pod of killer whales are those who often benefit and enjoy our fishing and marine charters the most.”
Your trip to experiencing spectacular nature and world-class fishing awaits. Be sure to check out our other pages for further information, such as our new Water Taxi Service. Also check out our photo gallery for impressive fishing photos!