Charter Fishing

Homer calls itself the halibut fishing capital of the world, with commercial fishers often landing more halibut here than at any other port. Sportfishing attracts droves of enthusiasts every day of the summer, not only for halibut but also for king and silver salmon. Wear warm, layered clothing topped by rain gear, and soft-soled shoes. Binoculars are a definite plus, since seabirds and marine mammals are usually viewable.

Half-day fishing charters typically cost $105 per person, with all-day charters for $225–260. Rates are a bit lower on the larger boats that carry up to 18 people (versus 6 on most boats), and during the shoulder seasons. Add $50 or so for a trip that combines halibut and salmon fishing. You can have your catch vacuum-packed, frozen, and shipped home for additional fees, but they add up quickly.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to enter the summerlong Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby (www.homerhalibutderby.com) if you go fishing. First prize tops $45,000, with additional monthly prizes. Sob stories abound of people who saved $10 by not entering, then caught potential prizewinning sea monsters. Don’t let this happen to you!

Homer has dozens of fishing charter boats to help you go out and bag a big halibut. An easy way to find one is through one of these chater agencies:

• Central Charter Booking Agency

907/235-7847 or 800/478-7847
www.centralcharter.com

• Homer Ocean Charters

907/235-6212 or 800/426-6212
www.homerocean.com

• Inlet Charters

907/235-6126 or 800/770-6126
www.halibutcharters.com

• Tacklebuster Charters

800/789-5155
www.tacklebuster.com

• North Country Charters

907/235-7620 or 800/770-7620
www.northcountrycharters.com

In addition to charter fishing, all of these can set up sea kayaking, water-taxi service, flightseeing, bear-viewing, and lodging for the area.

Once you do catch a big halibut or salmon, how do you get it back home? Coal Point Seafood (907/235-3877 or 800/325-3877, www.welovefish.com) offers processing and flash-freezing, and will FedEx the fish to your home. If you’re going to be flying out and can take the fish with you, be sure to get the specially coated cardboard box (sold in grocery stores and at Redden Marine) and pack it with blue ice. Freezers are available at the Anchorage airport (fee charged).