WINTER CRAB & KING SALMON
Kings & Pinchers — cold water, hot fishing!
Homer's Best-Kept Secret: Winter Crabbing & King Salmon
While the legendary summer crowds pack up and head south, the pristine, snow-capped waters of Kachemak Bay remain a hive of activity for those in the know. Our Winter Crab and King Salmon charter is one of the most exclusive and rewarding fisheries in all of Alaska, running primarily from October through April.
For years, the local Tanner Crab commercial fishery was closed, making this a rare and highly sought-after experience for sport fishermen now that the limits have reopened.
What to Expect on a Winter Charter
Because winter weather in the Gulf of Alaska can be unpredictable, we purposely design these trips to take place within the calm, protected waters of Kachemak Bay right here in Homer.
- Setting the Pots (Tanner Crab): Our trips begin by running heavy commercial-style crab pots out to deep ravines within the bay. We bait them heavily with fish frames from the summer season and drop them to soak. Drawing up these massive pots and sorting through huge, clicking Tanner Crab (also known as snow crab) is a truly visceral \"Deadliest Catch\" style experience.
- Trolling for 'Feeder' Kings: While the crab pots are soaking, we drop the downriggers and slowly troll flashers and spoons through bait balls. Winter King Salmon (often called \"Feeder Kings\") spend their time aggressively feeding in the bay before their spawning runs, making them incredibly hard-fighting and some of the richest, best-tasting salmon you will ever eat.
- The Scenery: Words cannot describe Kachemak Bay in the winter. Expect towering, snow-covered mountains reflecting off calm glassy waters, bald eagles scavenging near the shores, and absolute peaceful isolation from the usual summer boat traffic.
The Ultimate Winter Feast
Nothing beats returning to the Homer Harbor and immediately boiling fresh, legally-sized male Tanner Crab legs right on the dock. Paired with thick slabs of fresh Winter King Salmon, this charter provides the absolute ultimate Alaskan winter feast.
*(Note: Winter weather dictates everything. We operate strictly within safe conditions, and our heated vessel cabs ensure you stay warm and comfortable while we hunt for your dinner.)*
Where & How We Fish
Kachemak Bay — protected waters close to Homer harbor. Winter conditions mean shorter runs and calmer seas in the bay.
Crab pots for tanner crab, jigging and trolling gear for king salmon. All provided.
Trip Pricing
2026 Limit Rules
- Tanner Crab: 5 per day (males only, must meet minimum size)
- King Salmon: 2 per day, no annual limit on feeder kings
- Seasons and limits subject to ADF&G emergency orders
Get to Know Your Catch
- Tanner crab (Chionoecetes bairdi) are also known as snow crab or bairdi crab.
- They're closely related to the famous opilio snow crab of Deadliest Catch fame.
- Winter king salmon are 'feeder kings' — actively feeding in the bay, which makes them aggressive biters and excellent eating.
- The winter fishery is one of Homer's best-kept secrets — far fewer crowds and stunning winter scenery.
- Homer recently re-opened winter crab harvesting — this is a rare fishery you won't find at many other charters.