This fall I traveled to woodland, Wa and hired a fishing guide for fishing the columbia river for salmon.  for the September 11.  The name of the guide service was columbia river fishing guide service ran by Christian Witt.  I paid $370 for a day of fishing.  The day before my trip I was called and told the boat was broke and I could not fish.  When I asked for my money back I was told I could reschedule or forfeit the full dollar amount.  Tough to do when you live in Minnesota.  I am currentyly trying to get my money back via my credit card company.  Meanwhile I am out the money and didn't get to fish. 

NAFC life member since 1992, NAHC life member since 2005, lifetime Oregon resident. Central Oregon region.

rswanson74,

This is not a good thing.  Most of the guiides will attempt to re-schedule before offering a refund of your "deposit".  Most cancellations are based on weather and river conditions (on the Guides side of things) and should be noted up front in their policy statement.  In Oregon, if a Guide requires a deposit of more than $75, they must post a bond to be able to cover disputes.  You may be able to contact the state of Washington Dept of Fisheries to inquire if there is any recourse available to you.  There are many many guides working the Columbia River with impecable reputations.  There are some however that may not be highly recommended by local fishermen.  I am not familiar with Mr Witt, but I am not familiar with a lot of the guides on the river.  How was it you found him to book your trip?

JustDave