What species can you catch fishing with Still Water Charters in Homer, Alaska?

Depending on the season, anglers may target Pacific halibut, lingcod, Pacific cod, over 30 species of rockfish, and all five Pacific salmon species: king (Chinook), coho (silver), sockeye (red), pink (humpy), and chum.

When is the best time to fish for halibut in Homer, Alaska?

Halibut fishing in Homer is typically best from June through August, when access to productive grounds and weather conditions are most consistent.

What is the best time of year to fish for salmon in Kachemak Bay?

King salmon are sporadic throughout the summer. Sockeye, pink, and coho salmon are most common from late June through mid-August, with coho fishing strongest later in the season.

Do I need fishing experience to book a fishing charter in Homer, Alaska?

No experience is required. Still Water Charters welcomes beginners and experienced anglers alike and provides gear, instruction, and a trip pace tailored to your group.

How long are fishing charters out of Homer, Alaska?

Half-day halibut trips are typically 4–5 hours, 3/4-day halibut trips are 5–6 hours, full-day trips are 6–8 hours, and long-range full-day trips often run 8–12 hours depending on conditions.

What fishing license and stamps are required for halibut fishing in Alaska?

All anglers must have a valid Alaska fishing license. Anyone targeting halibut must also purchase a $20 Alaska halibut stamp, which is required in addition to the license.

What is a full day combo fishing trip in Homer?

A full day combo trip typically targets halibut with the option to add rockfish or salmon depending on conditions and regulations. Halibut-only full day trips are also available by request.

What is the Long Range Full Day or Captain’s Choice fishing trip?

Captain’s Choice is a long-range fisherman’s trip designed for extended range, long days, and targeting multiple species. This trip is priced by the boat for up to six anglers.

Can you see whales or wildlife during Homer fishing charters?

Wildlife sightings such as whales, sea otters, seals, and seabirds are common in Kachemak Bay, especially on longer trips, though sightings are never guaranteed.

How many people can fish on a Still Water Charters trip?

Still Water Charters operates small-group fishing charters and can accommodate up to six anglers depending on the trip type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the season, regulations, and trip type, anglers may target Pacific halibut, lingcod, Pacific cod, and over 30 species of rockfish, along with all five species of Pacific salmon—king (Chinook), coho (silver), sockeye (red), pink (humpy), and chum.
Halibut fishing in the Homer area is typically best from June through August, when weather and access to productive grounds are most consistent. Regulations and opportunities may vary year to year.
Salmon timing varies by species:
- King salmon: Sporadic opportunities throughout the summer
- Sockeye and Pink Salmon: Late June through mid-August
- Coho (silver): Most consistent from mid-July into August
No experience is required. Still Water Charters welcomes first-time anglers, families, and experienced fishermen, providing all gear and instruction and tailoring the trip to your group.
Trip lengths vary by charter:
- ½ Day Halibut: ~4–5 hours
- ¾ Day Halibut: ~5–6 hours
- Full Day Combo / Rockfish & Salmon: ~6–8 hours
- Long Range Full Day: ~8–12 hours
  Actual trip length may vary due to conditions and fishing opportunities.
All anglers age 16 and older are required to have a valid Alaska sport fishing license when fishing for halibut. In addition, most halibut anglers must also have a Halibut Stamp, which is separate from the fishing license.
The Halibut Stamp is a $20 fee required for anyone targeting or retaining Pacific halibut and helps support fisheries management and conservation. While anglers are responsible for the cost of the stamp, charter operators are required to purchase and register the halibut stamp prior to each trip. This ensures compliance with state and federal regulations and allows the trip to legally target halibut.
A full day combo trip typically focuses on halibut, with the option to add rockfish or salmon depending on conditions, seasons, and regulations. Guests may also inquire about a halibut-only full day trip if they prefer to focus exclusively on halibut.
The Long Range Full Day—also known as Captain’s Choice—is a fisherman’s trip designed for long days, extended range, and maximum flexibility. The goal is to target multiple species based on what is fishing best that day. This trip is priced by the boat for up to six anglers.
While fishing is the primary focus, guests—especially on longer trips—often have opportunities to see whales, sea otters, seals, porpoises, seabirds, and other marine wildlife. Sightings are common but never guaranteed.
Still Water Charters runs small-group fishing charters, typically accommodating up to six anglers depending on the trip. Smaller groups allow for a more relaxed pace and personalized experience.

Four men standing on a boat with fishing gear, displaying their catch of various fish on the deck, with a body of water and forested mountains in the background.

Optimizing Your Time in Homer, Alaska

Homer offers an incredible range of fishing opportunities, but timing, weather, and trip selection play a big role in making the most of your time on the water. If you’re working within a short visit or trying to balance fishing with other plans on the Kenai Peninsula, choosing the right trip length and target species can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Shorter trips are often a good fit for travelers with limited schedules or families, while longer trips allow more flexibility to adapt to tides, conditions, and fish behavior throughout the day. Seasonal timing also matters—certain species are more consistent during specific windows, and longer trips generally provide more opportunity to adjust plans and explore productive water when conditions change.

For guests looking to maximize opportunity, longer or more flexible trips can offer access to a wider range of fishing grounds and species, as well as a more relaxed pace. If you’re unsure which option best fits your schedule or goals, reaching out ahead of time can help ensure your fishing day aligns well with the rest of your time in Homer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Optimizing Your Time in Homer, Alaska

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