Homer Halibut-Rockfish Charters
Our Most Popular Fishing Charter
Halibut Only Charters
Halibut Combo Charters
Multispecies Charters
Overnight Charters
Among our diverse charter offerings, the Full Day Homer Halibut-Rockfish Charters stand out as our most popular and productive option, consistently delighting our guests each summer. This trip combines the thrill of hunting the mighty halibut with the excitement of reeling in the vibrant rockfish. Crafted for both novices and experienced anglers, these full-day excursions not only promise a bountiful catch but also immerse you in the stunning natural beauty of Alaska’s waters. Join us for an unforgettable day where the adrenaline rush of halibut fishing meets the diverse allure of rockfish angling, all set against the backdrop of Homer’s picturesque seascapes.
Our Homer HaliBut-rockfish Charter fishing grounds
Our Homer halibut-rockfish fishing charters, typically spanning 7 to 8 hours, as we fish for both rockfish and halibut, two of the most popular and product fish we target out of Homer. We will split our time for the day fishing part time for rockfish and part of the time for Halibut. When we get into the rockfish, limits have a tendency of showing up quickly! We usually are able to spend the majority of the day targeting halibut.
Our fishing grounds on these trips cover an entire 4,000 square mile area. Where we go will depend on the time of year, weather, recent fishing conditions, tides and winds.
Halibut-rockfish Charter Meeting Times and Location
All of our homer halibut fishing charters meet at The Homer Harbor boat launch 6:30AM and target a departure of time 7:00AM.
This boat launch is easy to find, as you walk down to meet the boat there are public bathrooms, and parking is located just a few minutes walk from the boat launch right behind the bathrooms.
As you are coming onto the Homer Spit, make a left at Freight Dock Road. You will see the boat launch ramp on your right. You will see a public bathroom facility at the top of the ramp and convenient day parking is located right behind the public bathrooms. Grab your belongings and walk down to meet your boat and crew. Its time to go fishing!
The Homer Spit is easily accessible from the city and is a hub of activity, especially during the summer months. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, known for its fishing opportunities, scenic views, bird watching, and an array of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. The Spit also houses the Homer Harbor, which is a key location for boating and fishing activities in the area, and where to meet our boats!
Regulations, Limits & Restrictions
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Regional Administrator, Alaska Region (RAM), typically announce halibut regulations, including those for Area 3A, early in the year. These regulations are often finalized and published around late February or early March. This timing allows for the consideration of the most recent scientific data and stock assessments, and for public input and regulatory processes to be completed.
Each year there are typically restrictions limiting each angler to 2 fish per day as well as restrictions on how big the 2nd fish can be. Additionally, it has been normal for every Wednesday to be closed to halibut fishing and then each spring we will get guidance on how many Tuesdays will also be closed.
The limits on our Homer Halibut-Rockfish Charters is as follows:
2024 Halibut Limits(expected):
- 2 Halibut: one halibut can be any size and the second halibut must be 28 inches or less, which is approximately a 10 lb fish. No annual limit
- No charter halibut fishing allowed(expected):
- On Wednesdays and Tuesdays from June 18 – August 13 (9 Tuesdays) without special permit – which we have!
2024 Rockfish Limits(expected):
- 3 per person per day
- Only 1 may be a nonpelagic rockfish (yelloweye, tiger, copper, quillback, silvergray, china)
rockfish Fishing TEchniques
When targeting rockfish we’ll swap out our stiff rods, heavy reels, and even heavier weights and shift into far more light-weight rods and reels with good action. We’ll also swap out our halibut weights, which can be as heavy as 4 pounds at times, into a variety of smaller streamlined jigs designed to penetrate the water quickly. Bullet shaped and weighing only a few ounces you’ll feel the rockfish aggressively strike these lures.
Kenai Sportfishing uses a lot of different types of jigs and lures for our Homer halibut-rockfish charters and we really like the sassin jigs from p-line. Adding a small piece of herring or salmon to the hook is all that’s needed to entice any of the 30 different species of rockfish found around our waters of Alaska to strike!
Even though we’ve switched to lighter rods and reels to target rockfish, since lingcod are often in the same area things get very exciting when you get a 50+ pound lingcod on this light tackle! The only thing better than the fight will be enjoying it on the dinner table at home.
Lingcod Fishing
In Homer, Alaska, lingcod fishing presents a unique aspect of the angling experience, particularly given the challenge of specifically targeting this elusive species.
At Kenai Sportfishing, while we don’t offer dedicated lingcod trips due to the fact these fish are a little harder to target specifically, the probability of encountering lingcod is high on our Homer halibut-rockfish charters.
Lingcod, known for their predatory behavior, often inhabit the same rocky underwater terrains as rockfish. This serendipitous overlap in habitats means that while fishing for rockfish, anglers frequently have the exciting opportunity to hook a lingcod as well. One of the most exciting things is to be pulling up a 12 pound yelloweye and looking down only to see it being chased to the surface by a 50 pound lingcod! This happens a lot more frequently than you might imagine.
It’s important to note that, in accordance with Alaska’s fishing regulations, lingcod can only be legally retained after July 1st each year. This regulation is a key part of sustainable fishing practices, ensuring the health and longevity of the lingcod population. Thus, while our rockfish charters may not specifically target lingcod, they offer a thrilling chance to potentially catch and keep these formidable fish, adhering to the regulated season.
Processing and Shipping Your Catch
How to process the fish and get it home is a common question. These Homer halibut-rockfish charters are usually incredibly productive so having a processing plan is a good idea. And, there is no need to stress about this one as we take care of this for several hundred customers ever summer.
There are two companies located in Homer that do an excellent job: Coal Point Seafood Company and Homer Fish Processing. Both companies portioning, vacuum seal, freeze, and store fish. Coal Point Seafood Company, located on the Homer spit, is open daily during summer from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering early pickup arrangements if needed. Homer Fish Processing, at the entrance to the Homer spit, operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM starting May 14.
Shipping your catch is another crucial aspect, with two main options: as checked baggage or through shipping services. The most economical and easiest way is to take your catch home as checked baggage in “fish boxes,” available in different sizes and airline-approved. These boxes are designed to keep your vacuum-sealed and frozen fish secure during travel. In cases where shipping is the only option, such as when continuing a vacation elsewhere, the same fish boxes are used, but they are dropped off at FedEx or UPS for 2-day shipping.
Also, if you are fishing with us on the Kenai or Kasilof Rivers following your halibut fishing charter we can absolutely take care of processing, freezing, storing your fish, and getting it boxed up and ready for the journey home with you.
Our Boats
Every vessel in the Homer Halibut Hunters’ fleet is outfitted with state-of-the-art electronics, advanced navigation systems, and comprehensive safety equipment. Beyond these technical essentials, our boats boast heaters, cozy cabins, restrooms, and high-quality fishing gear to enhance your comfort and experience. Our seasoned captains, licensed by the US Coast Guard, helm these well-equipped and fully insured boats, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience on the water.
Our fishing season kicks off in mid-May and extends through October. We venture out daily into Kachemak Bay, Cook Inlet, and the proximate regions of the Gulf of Alaska. Thanks to our consistent summer schedule, our crews have a deep understanding of these waters and know precisely where the fish are. For a seamless trip, all you need to pack are warm, comfortable attire, rain gear, your preferred snacks and food, and a valid fishing license. For more comprehensive guidelines, be sure to visit our ‘How We Halibut Fish’ and ‘What To Bring’ pages.
We provide all necessary bait, gear, and tackle, and also take care of filleting your catch. Our charters can comfortably accommodate groups as large as 18, making us an ideal choice for both small and large gatherings seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Ready to Visit Homer & go Fishing?
Homer, Alaska, stands as a premier destination for saltwater fishing, offering a unique blend of abundant marine life, breathtaking natural beauty, and a welcoming community steeped in fishing tradition. From the novice angler to the seasoned fisherman, Homer’s waters provide an unmatched fishing experience, teeming with halibut, various salmon species, rockfish, and lingcod. The town’s diverse range of fishing charters, led by experienced crews, ensures that every trip is both rewarding and memorable, regardless of your skill level.
Beyond fishing, Homer enchants visitors with its scenic vistas, from the majestic mountains and glaciers framing Kachemak Bay to the charming allure of the Homer Spit. The local culture celebrates fishing as a way of life, adding depth and authenticity to your Alaskan adventure. Whether you choose the rustic experience of camping by the water or the comfort of a fisherman-friendly lodge, Homer caters to all preferences, further enhancing its appeal as a fishing haven.
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich fishing culture of Homer, Alaska. Book your trip with Homer Halibut Hunters and cast your line into the pristine waters of this angler’s paradise. It’s more than a fishing trip; it’s an adventure that calls to the heart of every fishing enthusiast.