Charter Boats
Halibut, Salmon & More

Homer has staked out the right be to known as "the Halibut Capital of the World." Very few visitors who charter an expedition to fish for these huge flatfish can argue the point.

Full-day halibut charters run daily out of the Homer Harbor from April through September. Costs vary by the size of the vessel and its destination. Although no skipper can guarantee the two-fish limit, they are usually very successful and things can really get exciting if the captain finds a "hot hole" or if someone hooks into a behemoth weighing 200 pounds or more. Plus there's always the chance of nailing a 300-plus pound, "honkin' hawg" freezer-filler that will land the lucky fisherman on the front page of the newspapers.

Charter operators supply all fishing gear and bait, but fishermen need to bring a current Alaska sportfishing license (see related story on fishing rules and regulations). Licenses need to be picked up ahead of time and are available at most tackle shops and some general merchandise stores in Homer. The majority of the charter offices in the area also will have them available.

It's highly recommended that anglers also pick up a Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby ticket before heading out. There are tens of thousands of dollars worth of tagged halibut swimming around out there just waiting to be to be caught. Last year two anglers lost big money when they reeled in what seemed to be relatively small and insignificant fish. Although unimpressive on a scale, the tags they carried in their gill plates would have been worth ten thousand dollars each if the fisherman had just purchased a daily derby ticket. It was an unfortunate way to make the headlines.

Despite a good weather forecast, it can change rapidly, dress warmly and in layers (water proof gear isn't a bad idea). Pack a lunch (don't bring bananas, ask the skipper why) and some beverages. If you have any fears of seasickness, take your favorite antidote before getting onboard and follow the directions of the medication.

Travel time on a full-day charter will vary from a short ride to one several hours long to get to prime fishing grounds. It all depends on the tides, weather and the location of the captain's "secret" spot. Most charters leave early in the morning to take advantage of the tide changes and to allow more fishing time on the water.

Departures as early as 6 a.m. are not unusual, nor are 10-hour days, so prepare for a relative long time on the water. Some charters offer more economical half-day trips for those with time or cost constraints. For visitors seeking a different adventure, there are overnight trips available. These charters leave in late afternoon, fish during the night hours (remember the long days of summer) and into the next morning, then return to the harbor with two days' worth of fish.

Once at the fishing grounds, the deckhands probably will "bait you up" with herring or sometimes octopus as a standard lure. Depending on how the tide is running a certain amount of lead weight will be attached to your line to sink the baited hook to the sea floor. Follow the deckhand's instructions on how begin fishing and then wait for a strike. Don't be shy about asking the crew what to do when you feel a bite or get a halibut on. They are there to try and make sure you have a memorable day of fishing.

Note: Don't forget to reward your hard-working the crew with an end-of-the-trip tip. They'll deeply appreciate it.

Depending on the attitude of your fish, reeling in a halibut can be exciting, not to mention an excellent aerobic workout. Huge flatfish take up to 30 minutes or more to bring to the surface. Getting these monsters aboard is often a rowdy and Wild West experience. Skippers usually carry a small shotgun to subdue a big fish and use a gaff hook or harpoon to pull it aboard along with the help of burly volunteers.

Many of the charters offer "combo" trips when different seasons open. There are opportunities to catch not only halibut but salmon and delicious rockfish as well. These forays usually cost more but are an exceptional way of enhancing your overall experience and bringing a variety of delicacies to your dining room table.

While charters can't guarantee a catch, it is a pretty safe bet they'll provided you with a magnificent once-in-a-lifetime experience.