Reviving this thread.

I was forced to take a hiatus in my trip preperation, as both my parents went into the hospital at the same time for different reasons. Now I am way behind, and have to quickly come up with a plan.

So far, I only have the basic plans made:
Saturday: Getting on the boat, food shopping, spending money and contributing to the local economy.

Sunday: Navigating it northward towards the San Juan area. Need to pick a place to stay. I was thinking somewhere in/around Lopez Island area at a marina, so that we can get anything we did not think of getting when in Seattle. Any recommendations?

Monday: No plans other to look for whales for my wife. This is the primary reason for coming out. We got a super zoom lens - 300-500mm, so she is ready to get some good pictures yet keep our distance from them. (We will not be one of "those people".) Hope to anchor somewhere and spend the night.

Tuesday: No plans – Tues night – Planning to stay at Friday Harbor - any “Must see/must do” things? We are not into history, but love old buildings and craftsmanship. Restaurant recommendations?

Wed, meeting up with friends at Friday harbor who are going to stay on the boat with us until Saturday. Wed night – Anchor somewhere, and have a great time away from the world.

Thursday Night: Stay in the deception pass area – but do not know where – Any recommendations? Someone mentioned “Coronet or Bowman Bay (essentially one is on each side of the bridge/pass). Bowman Bay is shallower and is more exposed but is usually fine. If you do hang out there for a night, take a walk up to the bridge and check the sunset from up there. Top notch.” I will look into those places more, but if anyone had any more recommendations, they are welcome!

Friday: Navigate slowly south toward Seattle.

Sat - Drop the boat off, and head back to reality.


Modifications to my original plans:
I am not going to crab – going buy them – easier and quicker. Same with oysters.
Are the oyster fishermen/crabbers approachable on the water and at the docks? On the east coast, crabbers and lobstermen I have found to be very generous if you hail them on the way in. I do not know if it is the same up there.
Fishing – Still need to find a travel rod, and get some lures. Sounds like buzz bombs, and bright spinners are my best bet. I am not out to target specific fish – just any fish. I have to keep it simple. So I think these are my best bets. Also, If there are rods on the boat, does everyone need a license? No one else has the slightest interest in wetting a line, and won't - but I do not know the rules. Here, unless you are holding a rod, you do not need license.

CNCFish – You mentioned: “I could maybe ride from Shilshole to Edmonds or Everett with you. and show you the stuff” Is that offer still on the table? If so, I might take you up on it!