FREQUENTLY ASKED
Got questions? We've got answers.
Summer charters meet at 6:30 AM at the boat in Homer Harbor. Winter charter times fluctuate based on available daylight — your captain will confirm exact times when you book.
Dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable. Typical attire looks like a moisture wicking t-shirt or long sleeve, with a fleece or sweater, topped with a waterproof/wind resistant layer. For bottoms, leggings or hiking pants should do just fine although water resistant or a water proof layer is best. Sometimes, it can get a bit messy on the deck, which means a successful trip! Bring your own seasickness medication if you're prone, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera! We provide all the fishing gear.
Weather can be lots of things day to day. Our captains make 95% of weather calls the morning of your charter based on the most current weather information. If the forecast is bad enough, on rare occasions, we’ll call the trip the night before. Please keep in mind that our captains have different locations that can be fished depending on the weather patterns. All trips cancelled by your captain due to weather are fully refundable.
Our captains do their best to gauge clients. Sometimes sea sickness happens and they are able to go to a different location to find calmer water. The conditions that are in the harbor can be quite different than 20+ miles into the Cook Inlet.
Yes! All fishing gear is included with your charter — rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Your fishing license is also included. Just show up ready to fish!
No. Prior to leaving the harbor we need to satisfy all Fish & Game regulations according to your trip type.
Legally, you have to set the hook. If you are struggling, you may ask for help from your teammates or the captain, but do keep in mind the captain has to manage the boat and ensure safety. You will not be judged for receiving help, but you may lose some bragging rights! If you have a serious medical condition (heart condition, prone to seizures) this excursion may not be for you.
Your catch is filleted for free by Buttwhackers (located by Ramp 1). Fish haulers grab the catch directly from the boat.
For additional processing, Homer Fish Processing (HFP) picks up directly from Buttwhackers for vacuum sealing, flash freezing, and overnight shipping. Rates typically run $1.35/lb for same-day refrigerated to $1.85/lb for flash frozen storage.
Want to eat your catch right away? Captain Patties and Harbor Grill will cook your fresh fillets!
Fully refundable if canceled 30+ days prior to departure. Also fully refundable if the captain cancels due to weather. Non-refundable within 30 days of your scheduled departure date.
Our boats accommodate up to 6 guests per charter. You can book individual seats or reserve the entire boat as a private charter for your group.
While we do like to start them young in Alaska, we don’t recommend bringing young children on the boat. These are long range trips that offer no space for naps or diaper changing space. If you cannot find a sitter, you may need to book a private charter for flexibility. Call us and we can chat more!
If you're prone to motion sickness, we strongly recommend taking medication before the trip. Over-the-counter options like Bonine or Dramamine work great — take them the night before and morning of your trip. The waters of Kachemak Bay are generally calmer than open ocean, but it's always best to be prepared.
Yes! Both M/V Early Riser and M/V Bait Ball have a stand-up head with a flushing marine toilet in a private room. Guests frequently comment on how clean and comfortable they are. Just please avoid using the toilet while the boat is in high-speed motion.
You may bring beer and wine in cans (no glass bottles are allowed on board). Please drink responsibly — safety on the water is our top priority. Note: There is a zero-tolerance policy for marijuana on the boats. Despite state laws, charter boats are federally regulated vessels.
Always. Our captains work very hard to give you a fun and safe fishing trip. Please be kind and always courteous to them!
We recommend a 15–25% gratuity for your captain and crew. A great trip deserves a great tip — and our crew works hard to make your experience exceptional!