Alaska boasts some of the most beautiful sport fishing opportunities in the world! What better way to experience Alaska Fishing than with a professional guide. There are many dangers and complexities with navigating the ocean waters off the coast of Alaska. Even though there are self-guided fishing options, for the typical newbie to Alaska, an experienced Fishing Charter is a must have.
You may be an experienced fisherman, but Alaska waters and terrain require a local knowledge in dealing with situations you may be faced navigating Alaska Coastal waters. Finding an experienced fishing charter service can be challenging! Charter Companies vary greatly in the quality of the guides you may happen to have assigned to you. In your quest to find a professional Alaska fishing charter service, remember the following tips and advice in your selection process:
10 Questions to Ask a Fishing Charter or Guide:
- Does the Fishing Charter Allow Guests to Particate at Whatever Level They Wish?
Some Fishing Charters in Alaska only let their customers reel in the fish. This is because they want to assure the fish is hooked well. Because time is money and if you fail to hook a fish or two, then the fishing guide could get frustrated. Also, deepwater fishing equipment is very expensive so they don’t want you breaking their expensive equipment. If you wish to get fully involved baiting your hooks, casting your line, setting down riggers, and netting your fish, then make sure you ask before you book your charter.
- Does the Charter Provide All Fishing Tackle, Bait, and/or Drinks?
Fishing Charter’s provide a varying degree of services. You need to know up front if the fishing equipment, bait and tackle will all be provided. If not, this can add up to a large chunk of change. Some fishing guides also provide water, drinks and snacks on-board for their customers.
- Does the Boat Used by the Charter Have a Restroom (Toilet Closet)?
I don’t need to expound on this one, other than it would be nice to see numerous photos of the boat you will be using and look for a restroom. They are quite common, but just make sure.
- How Many Hours Per Day are you Guaranteed to Fish?
Unless your limit is caught, are you guaranteed to fish your full day at sea (approximately 8 hours). Some charter guides can be lazy and decide they want to head back home short of the 8 hours even though you may be paying for a full day at sea and haven’t caught your limit.
- Does the Charter Provide Rain Gear?
One thing I can guarantee you with Alaska’s Fishing Season is rain! Find out if the Fishing Charter includes quality rain pants and jackets. If not, buy these yourselves as they are vital to enjoying your trip.
- How Long Does it Take To Arrive from the Pier to the Fishing Spot?
Find out from your Fishing Charter how far out their favorite fishing spots are where you may be fishing. Know beforehand this travel time counts toward your fishing time. If you are on a half day fishing trip, then this time adds up very fast.
- How Long Has the Fishing Charter Been in Business?
Due to the inclement weather that can abruptly change your fishing experience, you’ll want to make sure you are fishing with an experienced Alaskan Fishing Guide.
- Do you Accept Credit Card Payments?
Some charter services are fairly remote and not setup to handle credit cards. So make sure you have a sure form of payment for your Charter.
- What is the Fishing Charter’s Refund Policy?
Booking a fishing charter in Alaska can require substantial lead time. And yet, plans can change when unforeseen circumstances come up. Reputable fishing charters in Alaska usually have a minimum fee if you cancel after a certain date because they can easily fill your slot with someone on a waiting list.
- Finally, Ask for References!
The best guides fill up a year in advance with repeat customers. The newer and not as fun guides have the most availability. Ask to speak with a couple of their customers either by email or phone.
Hopefully, if you follow these tips in planning your fishing charter, then your experience should be positive. Best of luck with your fishing trip!