Fishing Capital in Alaska

Fishing Capital in Alaska
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Alaska is known for its beautiful scenery and fabulous fishing. Thousands of anglers flock to Alaska every year for the amazing fishing opportunities here. Homer, Alaska, is known as the "halibut fishing capital of the world." For a wilderness adventure boasting the finest halibut fishing in the world, you will not soon forget a fishing trip to Homer, Alaska.

Halibut Fishing

In Homer, Alaska, you will find halibut fishing at its finest. The Homer Chamber of Commerce hosts the Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby. Anglers in this tournament have caught halibut weighing over 300 lbs. Halibut can range in size from 10 to 400 lbs. To catch halibut, it is best to fish along the ocean floor during the smaller tides. Halibut are one of the most sought-after fish in Alaska because of the moist and flaky texture of the fish.

History

The history of the Kachemak Eskimos, the first known settlers of the area, dates back over 5,000 years. Artifacts of the Eskimos found by anthropologists are featured in museums around the world. Russians inhabited the area in the 1700s, when Alaska was a Russian colony, drawn by the lure of furs and fishing. Coal mining was established here in the 1800s. Homer was named for Homer Pennock, who came here looking for gold. The town was established on October 3, 1896, and it was incorporated in 1964.

Geography and Climate

Homer, Alaska, is a unique little fishing village located at the southern end of the Kenai Peninsula about 220 miles south of Anchorage. Many rivers and lakes are located on the Kenai Peninsula, including the Kenai RIver, Kasilof River, Anchor River, Russian River, Skilak Lake, Tustumena Lake and Kachemak Bay. The Kenai Mountains run along the southeast peninsula on the Gulf of Alaska. The coastal climate is mild with ample rainfall.

Fishing Licenses

Anglers fishing for halibut in Homer, Alaska, between the ages of 16 and 59 must obtain a sportfishing license. A license for one year costs $24 for residents and $145 for nonresidents. Special fishing licenses are also available for tourists: a one-day license is $20; a three-day license is $35; a seven-day license is $55; and a 14-day license is $80. Fishermen can find fishing regulation books at sporting goods shops and at the Fish and Game Office in Homer.

Fishing Charters

Homer, Alaska, has a variety of fishing charter trips available for halibut fishing. Most charter packages include experienced guides who will help make your fishing trip a success. Fishing gear and lodging options are included in charter fishing trips. Average prices range from around $800 for a three-day fishing-only charter to $2,000 for a six-day fishing trip, including six nights of lodging and five days of fishing.

References

Article reviewed by Paul State Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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