ABOUT
Gage Bates: Tour Guide
For Gage Bates, guiding is more than a profession—it's a lifelong dedication to the unique terrain and dynamic waters of the Pacific Northwest. Raised chasing Chinook and calling waterfowl across the Whatcom County flats, his expertise is born from two decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for ethical hunting and angling. Gage holds all necessary licensing and is committed to providing every client with a safe, fully-outfitted, and memorable day, ensuring they not only find success but also gain a deeper appreciation for Washington's wild traditions.
Licensed Guide, Waterfowl Expert, River Angler, Conservation Ethic
Guiding is more than a profession—it’s a passion born on the rivers and in the fields of the Pacific Northwest. I was raised chasing Chinook and calling waterfowl across the Whatcom County flats, and my expertise is the product of two decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for ethical hunting and angling.
I am a fully licensed and insured Washington Outfitter, holding certifications in advanced wilderness first aid and the necessary US Coast Guard endorsements for safe operation on our waters. My commitment is simple: to provide every client with a safe, fully-outfitted, and memorable day, ensuring you not only find success but also gain a deeper appreciation for Washington's wild traditions.
TOURS
Chinook (King) Salmon Trips
Join us for a thrilling, fully-guided trip targeting the ultimate prize of the Northwest: the Chinook Salmon, or King. Known as the largest and hardest-fighting salmon species, these powerful fish offer a truly challenging battle that requires specialized heavy tackle and expert boat positioning. We focus on prime runs in the Nooksack and Skagit Rivers during peak migration, ensuring you have the best opportunity to hook into a trophy-sized King and experience the sheer adrenaline of landing Washington's most coveted salmon.
If you are seeking fast-paced action and acrobatic excitement, our guided Coho (Silver) salmon trips are for you. We track these dynamic fish during their peak migration windows in our local river systems, providing non-stop rod-bending action. Coho are known for their aggressive takes and aerial displays that make every hookup a thrilling battle. These trips offer fantastic opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to experience the excitement of chasing one of the Pacific Northwest's most spirited game fish.
Coho (Silver) Salmon
If you are seeking high-volume action and the thrill of a limit catch, our guided Sockeye salmon trips are for you. We target these abundant fish during their peak migration windows in our local river systems, providing non-stop fishing excitement. Sockeye offer a unique challenge with their strong runs and distinctive fighting style, creating memorable experiences on the water. These trips offer fantastic opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the reward of a successful day with a full cooler.
Sockeye Salmon
Join us for a world-class waterfowl experience in the heart of the region's prime flyways. We specialize in expert-led, pre-scouted field and water setups designed for high-volume success. Our hunts utilize professional calling, extensive decoy spreads, and comfortable blinds to target Mallards, Wigeon, and diverse duck species, with opportunities for Canada and Snow Geese when the flight is on. Whether you’re chasing a limit bag or a technical instructional outing, we provide the elite gear and expertise for an unforgettable day in the blind.