Baxter's Guided Fishing Charters in Washington
Salmon, steelhead, trout, and sturgeon trips on Lake Stevens, Puget Sound rivers, and the Columbia River. Gear provided. Up to 8 guests.
Meet Your Guide — James
James has been putting anglers on fish across Washington State for years. Whether you’re chasing salmon on the Columbia River, targeting kokanee or Trout throughout Snohomish County, or reeling in sturgeon on the river — he knows the water, the seasonal patterns, and the techniques that produce fish.
Every trip is tailored to your group. First-timers, families with kids, experienced anglers — everyone’s welcome. He runs a 24-foot Alumaweld rigged with downriggers and all the gear you need. You just show up ready to fish.
What We Fish For
Chinook (King) Salmon
Summer: July – August
Fall: September – October
Coho (Silver) Salmon
August – November
Kokanee
April – October
Trout
Yellow Perch
Sturgeon
Where We Fish
Lake Stevens
Our home water. Trout, perch, and family-friendly trips on Snohomish County’s largest lake. Minutes from Marysville and Everett.
Snohomish County Rivers
Salmon and steelhead on the Snohomish, Skykomish, and Stillaguamish rivers. Some of the best runs in the Pacific Northwest.
Columbia River
Big water, big fish. Chinook salmon and sturgeon trips in the Columbia River Gorge, Skamania County.
What clients say
Real words from people who’ve been out with us
Posted on Aaron LehnenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an awesome day fishing on Lake Sammamish with Captain Baxter (James). He was very knowledgeable and easy to get along with, and we had a great time sharing stories throughout the day. We caught our first fish before we could even get all the rods set out, and the action stayed steady until we finished out our limit. It was a fantastic experience all around, and we can’t wait until we’re back in Washington to see what else we can catch with him!Posted on Kelsey HackneyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Baxters is pretty much the only guide I use. Very comfortable boat, always on time, great guide if you have kids you want to get hooked on fishing. James will put you on fish every time…enough fish for your family to enjoy a fresh fish dinner!Posted on Wes BennettTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James is the man. I’ve been on multiple salmon trips with him. We had a blast and put fish in the boat every time. I plan to go out with him on many more trips. He’s also been a great resource helping me sharpen my skills as a fisherman. His boats are awesome and his gear is top shelf. Book a trip with him.Posted on Darren KnowlesTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great time, been out with James a couple times. Always pleasant, professional and knowledgeable. 👍Posted on Nitai KleinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great expirience fishing on the Snohomish River for some Pink Salmon. James took and his son showed us new techniques and put us in some great spots, 100% will book again next time.Posted on Jack GangbarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James is an amazing guy and great guide! He went out of his way to make sure we caught lots of salmon - we all ended up with at least three - and was tons of fun to chat with. I highly recommend booking with him it’ll be a 10/10 experience.Posted on Eli KleinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James is awesome great experience!Posted on Paul LevyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great time fishing with James on Lake Stevens. Caught a bunch of Kokanee, learned a lot and had a great time. He has the lake and technique tuned in, the boat is spacious, comfortable and well equipped and he's generally a great host/captain. Also had a a bunch of laughs. Looking forward to our next trip with him.Posted on thao xiongTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Came up to Washington to visit some friends and fish. Captain James was great! 1000/10 would recommend. He really does have the whole thing broken down and understands the lake, the fish, all of it. Incredibly helpful dude for all fishers of all experiences. Hilarious. Just all around amazing guy. Absolutely coming back up for another trip with James soon! Thank you again, James!
Check out more Google Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you cast off
Top-of-the-line fishing poles, tackle, bait — everything needed to catch fish.
A fishing license and catch card when needed.
Yes. Let us know ahead of time for kids so we bring the correct sizes.
Weather changes quickly in the PNW. Layers are a great option.
A small ice chest and anything else you need to stay comfortable for a day on the water.
Cancellations due to unsafe weather require a 3-day notice to receive a full deposit refund. Cancellations made later than 3 days will forfeit the deposit.
A bucket and poncho are available. James is always willing to go ashore, but an actual bathroom isn't always an option.
Yes, fish are filleted and placed in zip-lock bags.
Absolutely
No
Yes, at time of booking
We try for 8 hours but depends on fishery, limits can come quick or not.
8
