Trip Information

Here is some vital and recommended info when planning your trip:

Where are we fishing?

The North Branch of the Susquehanna River begins in Cooperstown, NY, and flows through Northeast Pennsylvania, ending at the confluence of the West Branch in Sunbury, PA. We will be fishing the North Branch anywhere from Tunkhannock in Wyoming County, North to the New York State border in Sayre, Bradford County PA. Where we launch from and where we fish will be based on time of year, current fishing success, river levels and weather conditions.

We will meet at a pre-arranged spot and either launch the boat there or drive North or South to an accessible public or private launch site.

What are we going to catch?

We are going to primarily target Smallmouth bass. The North Branch is noted for its excellent numbers of QUALITY smallmouth. However, the North Branch is blessed with a multitude of fish species including; Walleye, Northern Pike, Muskellunge, Rock Bass, Carp and Catfish. You could catch anyone of these species at any time during your charter.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

No, in order to protect the resource NBO practices Catch, "Photo" and Release fishing only.

Smallmouth bass can take many years to reach trophy size (16 inches plus) on the North Branch. A trophy smallie may be 9 years old or more by the time they reach 16 or 17 inches in length. Usually these trophy fish are the breeding females.

Our goal is to protect those fish so everyone can enjoy the thrill and joy of catching a trophy fish now and in the future.

What do I need to bring?

If you do not have fishing equipment I will provide it. However, feel free to bring your own fishing tackle. I would suggest a spinning reel spooled with 8 or 10lb test (new) line. I will provide all plastic baits, hooks, jigs, and other baits free of charge. If we use hard baits or spinner baits, I will also provide these free of charge.

I would recommend you bring a hat, rain suit, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, appropriate clothing based on weather conditions and a valid PA fishing license. Please remember to dress warmer than you would normally anticipate during the Spring and Fall months as the river temperature makes it feel colder than it really is.

When is the best fishing?

Although we can catch smallies all year, If you are looking for trophy fish and numbers, usually the months of April, May, September and October are the best. The absolute Best time to fish is Mid-April through Mid-May and the month of October. However, all other months we run charters (April Through October) offer excellent fishing.

How long do Charters usually last?

A full day charter will usually last 8 to 9 hours (boat time). We usually start in the am. Earlier in the summer time and later in the morning in the spring and fall. Half day charters usually last 4 hours (boat time). Evening Charters typically last 3 hours hours, from 4:30 to 7:30.

What are we fishing out of?

You will be fishing out of my 18' Tracker Sport Jet. A jet drive boat is imperative to traverse the shallow waters and access certain areas of the North Branch. I can safely run in less than 10 inches of water.

The boat has adequate room for 2 adult guests and myself. I do not take more than 2 adult guests due to weight limitations on the boat. I can take 2 children and one adult.

I do, however, have the capability of hosting more than 2 or 3 adults by adding another chartered jet boat and permitted guide. So if you are considering a trip with multiple adult anglers, please contact us for details!

Is lunch provided?

Yes, I do provide lunch and beverages. I feel that a good shore lunch is part of the overall trip experience. I will discuss the menu and any dietary concerns you might have at the time of trip scheduling.

What if I don't know how to fish?

Don't worry! I enjoy teaching basic fishing techniques and you will be catching fish in no time! If you are an experienced or expert angler, I can recommend certain baits, presentations and location to enable you to better catch fish and fully enjoy your trip.

Do you (the guide) fish?

This is your charter and I don't expect to fish on "your" time. I will, however, fish if you request it, for instruction or sometimes to find our what lure presentation will work if the fish are not biting on a particular bait. I feel this is "your" trip, not mine, and I want you to enjoy it and be as successful as possible.

Weather Conditions

We will fish rain or shine, windy or not and regardless of temperature or river clarity. If it's cold we may start later in the day. If it's hot we may start at "O" dark thirty (early am). You can catch fish on the river in any condition and the river changes daily. That is why it is a challenging, rewarding experience. If the weather is deemed as unsafe (severe weather, river levels or flooding) and NBO cancels your trip, every effort will be made to reschedule your trip or your deposit will be refunded.

Can I take my children?

Absolutely! NBO encourages children to get involved in the sport. Even if they have never fished before I can offer personalized attention and instruction. We require children 12 years and younger to wear provided PFD's at all times.

What about Safety?

Safety comes first. The river can be a dangerous place due to the moving current, rocks and obstructions. The Jetboat is equipped with all required PAFBC safety devices including PFD's. All charters begin with a safety briefing. All children 12 and under are required to wear a PFD at all times during the charter. Customers are also encouraged to wear PFDS but are not required to do so.