Known as the "Halibut Capital of the World," the town of Homer, Alaska, also offers salmon fishing on the Kenai Peninsula. Homer is a coastal fishing village about 222 miles southwest of Anchorage. In addition to salmon fishing, Homer has vistas of the Kenai Mountains that surround Kachemak Bay.
Tours
Several experienced anglers offer chartered boat and guide services out of Homer. While each captain's fishing expedition can vary, options usually include half-day or full-day fishing tours. A chartered fishing tour often includes fishing gear, bait, onboard restroom, complimentary fish filleting and a free lodging booking service.
Types of Salmon
All five major types of Pacific salmon can be found in the Homer area, including king, sockeye, coho, pink and chum. King salmon can be caught all year and this fish peaks from May to August. Sockeye and pink salmon run in the Homer area from May to July, while the peak season is in June. The best time to catch coho or silver salmon is July to September and they peak in August. Chum salmon run the same time as coho, and normally peak in July.
Fishing Licenses
A fishing license is required to fish in Alaska if you are between 16 and 59 years of age. Short-term fishing licenses are valid for one, three, seven or 14 days. Separate stamps must be purchased and affixed to the back of your fishing license if you are fishing for king salmon. These stamps can be purchased for one, three, seven, 14 or 365 days.
Rules
Regulation booklets are available in Homer at grocery stores, tackle shops and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game office. The booklet provides a quick reference if questions arise later. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game's phone number is also included in these booklets.
Considerations
Boat is the primary way to fish in Homer, although a 4.5-mile finger of land called the Homer Spit extends into Kachemak Bay. A fishing guide or chartered expedition will provide you with an experienced captain who knows the area and understands salmon fishing laws. A fishing expedition in Homer also offers the chance to see bear, moose, seals, whales, sea otters, dolphins, puffins and eagles.
Member Comments