Terms of Service

1. Booking & Deposits

A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your charter date. The remaining balance is due on the day of your trip. Deposits are collected securely through Stripe and serve as confirmation of your reservation.

2. Cancellation & Refund Policy

• 7+ days before trip: Full deposit refund
• 3–6 days before trip: 50% deposit refund
• Less than 3 days: No refund
• No-show: No refund; date forfeited

We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule trips due to unsafe weather conditions. In such cases, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule at no additional cost.

3. Weather & Safety

Safety is our top priority. The captain has final authority on all decisions regarding weather and water conditions. If Lake Ontario conditions are unfavorable, we may offer a Niagara River alternative aboard our 25' Tracker at no extra charge. If conditions are unsafe for any boating, the trip will be rescheduled or refunded in full.

4. Assumption of Risk

Fishing and boating are inherently risky activities. By booking a charter, you acknowledge and accept these risks, including but not limited to: slippery surfaces, moving equipment, hooks, rough water, sun exposure, and wildlife encounters. All guests must follow the captain's safety instructions at all times.

Guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be refused boarding without refund. The captain reserves the right to end a trip early if a guest's behavior poses a safety risk to themselves, other guests, or the vessel. No refund will be issued in such cases.

5. Vessel & Equipment

All fishing tackle, rods, reels, downriggers, and onboard equipment are provided by Niagara Big Salmon Charters and remain the property of the company. Guests are expected to handle all equipment with reasonable care and follow the captain's instructions on proper use.

Guests are financially responsible for any damage to the vessel, fishing equipment, electronics, or other onboard property caused by negligence, misuse, or reckless behavior. This includes but is not limited to:

• Broken or lost rods, reels, or tackle due to improper handling
• Damage to electronics, navigation equipment, or vessel interior
• Damage caused by unsecured personal items
• Intentional damage or vandalism

Normal wear from fishing (e.g., a line break during a fight, a lure lost to a snag) is not considered guest-caused damage. The captain will make the final determination on whether damage was caused by guest negligence.

Repair or replacement costs for guest-caused damage will be charged to the payment method on file. Guests will be notified of any charges and provided with documentation of the damage and associated costs.

6. Personal Belongings

Niagara Big Salmon Charters is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of personal belongings brought aboard the vessel or into the tiny home, including but not limited to electronics, cameras, clothing, sunglasses, and personal fishing gear. Guests are advised to secure all personal items and leave valuables at home or in their vehicle.

7. Licensing & Regulations

All guests aged 18 and older are required to hold a valid Ontario fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local retailers. It is the guest's responsibility to obtain a license prior to the charter — trips will not be delayed or refunded due to a missing license. Our captain is fully licensed and the vessel complies with all Transport Canada and Coast Guard regulations.

8. Catch Policy

We practice responsible fishing and adhere to all Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources regulations regarding catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures. We encourage catch-and-release for trophy fish when appropriate.

9. Tiny Home Accommodations

Tiny home stays included in weekend packages are subject to availability. Check-in is at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. The lead guest on the booking is responsible for the condition of the tiny home and the conduct of all guests in their party during the stay.

The following rules apply to all tiny home stays:

• No smoking or vaping inside the tiny home
• No pets unless expressly approved in writing prior to check-in
• No parties, excessive noise, or additional overnight guests beyond the booked party
• No moving, removing, or modifying furniture, fixtures, or appliances
• All garbage must be placed in the designated bins before check-out

A $500 CAD security hold may be placed on the lead guest's payment method at check-in. This hold is released within 7 business days after check-out provided no damage, excessive cleaning, or rule violations are identified.

Guests are financially responsible for any damage to the property, furnishings, or equipment beyond normal wear and tear. Repair or replacement costs will be charged to the payment method on file. In the event of significant damage, Niagara Big Salmon Charters reserves the right to pursue additional recovery.

Niagara Big Salmon Charters reserves the right to terminate a stay immediately and without refund if guests violate these rules or engage in conduct that endangers the property or other guests. Early termination does not entitle the guest to any refund of the accommodation or charter portion of their package.

The tiny home is provided “as is.” While we ensure it is clean, functional, and well-maintained, Niagara Big Salmon Charters is not liable for minor inconveniences such as temporary utility interruptions, wildlife encounters, or other conditions inherent to a rural waterfront setting.

10. Transportation

Packages that include transportation cover pickup and drop-off between the tiny home and the boat launch. Pickup times are communicated the evening before your charter. Please be ready at the scheduled time — late arrivals may result in reduced fishing time.

11. Liability Limitation

Niagara Big Salmon Charters is not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from your use of our services. Our total liability is limited to the amount you paid for the specific charter in question. We carry comprehensive commercial marine insurance for the protection of our guests.

12. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to update these terms at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Continued use of our services after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions about these terms, please contact us: