Summer in Homer, Alaska: Top Fishing, Dining & Sights with Heaven’s Gate Charters

Exploring Homer, Alaska in the Summer: A Heaven’s Gate Charters Guide

Welcome to Homer, Alaska—the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World and our home base here at Heaven’s Gate Charters! Summer in Homer is nothing short of magical, with long, sunlit days, bustling energy, and a world of adventure waiting just beyond the harbor. Whether you’re joining us for a day on the water reeling in halibut or simply soaking in the charm of this seaside gem, there’s so much to see, do, and taste in Homer during the summer months. Let’s dive into what makes this season unforgettable in our little corner of the Kenai Peninsula.

Why Summer in Homer Shines

Summer transforms Homer into a vibrant hub of activity. The days stretch long—think 18+ hours of daylight—giving you plenty of time to explore after a fishing trip with us. The wildflowers bloom, the bald eagles soar, and Kachemak Bay sparkles under the midnight sun. It’s the perfect time to experience Homer’s unique blend of rugged wilderness, artistic soul, and mouthwatering cuisine. From our dock at the Homer Spit, you’re steps away from some of the best the town has to offer.

Sightseeing Highlights

When you’re not out on the water with Heaven’s Gate Charters chasing trophy halibut, Homer’s got plenty to keep you busy. Here are a few must-see attractions:

• The Homer Spit: This 4.5-mile stretch of land jutting into Kachemak Bay is the heart of summer action. Stroll the boardwalk, watch fishing boats unload their catch (maybe even yours!), and keep an eye out for sea otters and eagles. The Spit’s a great spot to feel the pulse of Homer—busy, but with that laid-back Alaskan vibe we love.

• Kachemak Bay State Park: Just a short water taxi ride across the bay, this park is a wilderness wonderland. Hike the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail for jaw-dropping views of icebergs floating in a glacial lake, surrounded by towering peaks. It’s an easy-to-moderate trek that’s a favorite among our guests looking to stretch their legs after a day on the boat.

• Islands and Ocean Visitor Center: Want to dive deeper into the marine life we fish among? This modern center near Old Town Homer offers interactive exhibits about Kachemak Bay’s ecosystem. It’s free, fun for all ages, and a perfect rainy-day stop. Bonus: the trail out back leads to Bishop’s Beach, where low tides reveal tide pools teeming with starfish and anemones.

• Halibut Cove: Hop on a ferry (like the Danny J) for a day trip to this picturesque village across the bay. Boardwalks connect artist studios and homes perched over the water, and the peaceful vibe feels a world away from the Spit’s bustle. It’s a postcard-worthy escape that’s just 20 minutes from our dock.

• Pratt Museum: For a dose of local history and culture, this small but mighty museum in town covers everything from Native Alaskan traditions to Homer’s fishing heritage. The outdoor forest trail and homestead cabin add a hands-on touch to the experience.

Dining Delights

After a day hauling in halibut with us, you’ll be ready to refuel. Homer’s dining scene punches way above its weight, with fresh seafood and cozy spots that showcase the best of Alaska. Here are some local favorites:

• The Chart Room at Land’s End Resort: Right at the tip of the Spit, this spot offers killer views of the bay and mountains alongside dishes like grilled halibut and Kachemak Bay oysters. It’s a perfect place to unwind post-fishing, with indoor and outdoor seating that lets you soak in the scenery.

• Fat Olives: A Homer staple on Pioneer Avenue, this place serves up wood-fired pizzas and hearty Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their seafood options—like the halibut special when it’s in season—are a hit with our crews and guests alike. Pair it with a glass of Alaskan wine for a treat.

• AJ’s Oldtown Steakhouse & Tavern: Craving something hearty? AJ’s in Old Town has been a local go-to for over 70 years. Their steaks are top-notch, but the seafood—think crab legs or a salmon fillet—steals the show. The supper club vibe and friendly service make it a cozy spot to recount your fishing tales.

• Salty Dawg Saloon: No trip to Homer is complete without a stop at this iconic Spit watering hole. Built in 1897, it’s one of the town’s oldest cabins, now adorned with thousands of dollar bills pinned to the walls. Grab a beer, a souvenir hoodie, and soak in the quirky history—non-alcoholic options are available too!

• Two Sisters Bakery: Near Bishop’s Beach, this gem is a must for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. Freshly baked pastries, killer coffee, and daily soups draw locals and visitors alike. Check their hours ahead, as they’re limited, but it’s worth the stop for a sweet treat after a morning on the water.

Fishing with Heaven’s Gate Charters

Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the star of the summer show: fishing! Homer’s nickname isn’t just hype—our waters teem with halibut, salmon, and rockfish, and we’re proud to take you right to the action. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, our experienced captains and comfy boats make every trip a blast. Summer’s peak season (May to September) means prime fishing conditions, and we’ll even help you prep your catch for one of those local restaurants to cook up. There’s nothing like tasting your own fresh-caught halibut after a day with us!

Tips for Your Summer Visit

• Book Early: Homer gets busy in summer, so secure your fishing charter with us and your lodging ASAP. The Spit’s campgrounds and hotels fill up fast!

• Pack Layers: Even in summer, the breeze off the bay can be chilly—bring a jacket for your time on the water.

• Stay Awhile: One day’s not enough. Plan at least 2-3 days to fish with us and explore Homer’s sights and flavors.

From the thrill of the catch to the taste of fresh seafood and the stunning views of Kachemak Bay, summer in Homer is an adventure you won’t forget. At Heaven’s Gate Charters, we’re here to make your trip epic—on the water and beyond. So, come join us, cast a line, and discover why Homer’s the cosmic hamlet by the sea we’re proud to call home. See you on the boat!

Tight lines,

The Heaven’s Gate Charters Crew

Homer, Alaska

A day on the water: chasing halibut and alask’s wild wonders

There’s something magical about waking up in Homer, Alaska, with the salty breeze rolling off Kachemak Bay and the promise of a day on the water ahead. Here at Heavens Gate Charters, we live for these moments—when the sun peeks over the horizon, the Dream Catcher II fires up her engines, and we set out to explore the wild beauty and bounty of Cook Inlet and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of chasing halibut, salmon, and rockfish in what we proudly call the Halibut Capital of the World.

Last year, we had a group join us for one of our signature combo trips—Targeting halibut with a side of king salmon. Captain Seth Ellis, with over 16 years of guiding under his belt, knew just where to take us. The ride out from the Homer Spit was smooth, with sea otters bobbing in the harbor and bald eagles soaring overhead. It’s a reminder that out here, the fishing is only part of the adventure.

Once we dropped anchor, the lines hit the water, and it didn’t take long for the first shout of “Fish on!” to echo across the deck. Halibut are the stars of the show in these waters—big, powerful flatties that test your strength and patience. This trip didn’t disappoint; we hauled up a few beauties, including a 60-pounder that had everyone cheering. The combo aspect kicked in when we switched gears to troll for king salmon. These fish fight like they’ve got somewhere urgent to be, and landing one is a rush that never gets old. We rounded out the day jigging for rockfish—colorful, feisty, and a tasty bonus for the cooler.

What sets us apart at Heavens Gate Charters isn’t just our knack for finding fish (though we’re pretty darn good at that). It’s the personal touch. With only six anglers on board, our six-pack boat feels more like a private outing with friends. Seth and the crew are right there with you—baiting hooks, sharing tips, and swapping stories—making sure everyone, from beginners to pros, has a blast. The Dream Catcher II’s heated cabin and private restroom don’t hurt either—comfort matters when you’re out on the water all day!

But it’s not all about fishing. For those who want to soak in Alaska’s wild side without a rod in hand, our Wednesday eco-tours are a must. Picture this: cruising past glaciers and steaming volcanoes, spotting whales breaching in the distance, and pulling into Halibut Cove or Seldovia for a picnic or a scoop of ice cream at Perry’s Cafe. It’s a chance to see the Alaska most people only dream about, and we love tailoring these trips to what you’re craving—whether it’s wildlife, scenery, or just a peaceful day on the bay.

As we cruised back to the harbor last week, with the cooler full and the group buzzing about their catches, it hit me how lucky we are to call this place home. Homer’s not just a dot on the map—it’s a gateway to some of the best fishing and natural wonders on the planet. And at Heavens Gate Charters, we’re here to make sure you experience it all.

Ready to join us? Whether you’re after a trophy halibut, a king salmon to brag about, or a front-row seat to Alaska’s wild beauty, we’ve got a trip for you. Book your spot today and let’s make some memories on the water!

Tight lines,

The Heavens Gate Charters Crew  

How i became a fishing charter captain inhomer,ak

Fishing in Alaska has been a dream of mine ever since I can remember. I grew up in Maine and learned my water activities (boating, swimming, fishing, etc.) on a small lake outside of Lincoln, ME. In Maine we call cabins “camps” and our family camp was the biggest contributing factor to the direction of my life and future career.

Eventually I was accepted to the University of Idaho where I focused my studies on Outdoor Recreation and Tourism. I had a good friend who spent his summers in Bristol Bay Alaska, commercial fishing sockeye salmon. He would return to school with remarkable and fantastic stories of his fishing adventures. I was fascinated with the heroic stories of braving the Alaskan weather, the determination of long work hours and the bountiful reward at the end of a tough season.

I made up my mind and after studying all of the “Deadliest Catch” episodes I was ready to go fishing! I retired my textbooks and bought a pair of Xtra Tuffs boots and Grundens bibs. My first experience fishing in Alaska was on a Long-Liner targeting pacific cod and pollock, headed to the Bering Sea from Seattle.

My initial season commercial fishing was an awakening experience. I thought that I had prepared enough for what was to come. The reality is there is no preparation for the men and women choose to become greenhorns without ocean experience. But, as with everyone who sticks with it, I grew accustomed to the life-style and made a little money in the process.

At this time I had also been working for a hunting outfit in Idaho during the fishing off-seasons. This was a period of time in between fishing and hunting season when I was visiting my family in Troy, Oregon. Troy is a town in Eastern Oregon with a population of about 40 people. The impressiveness of Troy is the Grande Ronde River whice runs though the single general-store town. If your an avid steelhead fisherman in the Northwest, you have probably heard of Troy.

One morning, while my brother and I were fishing on the river, we met a steelhead guide named Bob Murphy. During our conversation he mentioned he worked for a halibut-fishing charter company in Ninilchik, Alaska. He also mentioned the company was looking for a couple of deckhands for the upcoming season. A couple of weeks later Zac and I had our bags packed and we started our first, but not our last, road trip through Canada up to Alaska.

Charter fishing for halibut was a dream job. I met interesting people, my boss was extremely knowledgeable and instrumental and I got to teach people how to fish everyday! With his guidance it was at the end of my second summer when he offered me a job as a captain on one of his four boats.

I worked for this company for 10 years. I rose through the ranks to “senior captain” and took on the responsibilities of keeping the operation running smoothly, training new employees and, of coarse, showing customers a great day on the water. Realizing I had reached the furthest tier of success working for “the man”, I decided to buy a boat of my own and hunt down a 3A Charter Halibut Permit.

The time before my first season on my own was extremely daunting. Would I have enough money to stay in business? What if people didn’t book with me? Is my boat going to break down half way through the season? All questions in the realm of worry to all new business owners. Luckily my reputation on the water led me to hook up with a very prominent charter company in the area. I was offered their “overflow” and “sub-contract” customers. I will say, my first couple of seasons on my own was a success and I’m hopeful for the good fortune to continue!

I am now doing what I love to do, I can say that I’m good at what I do and taking people on their trip-of-a-lifetime is an extremely fulfilling and rewarding occupation.

If anybody has any questions about my journey or if you have a dream to be a fishing charter captain in Alaska yourself, please feel free to reach out! hgcfish@gmail.com

Cheers :)

Getting the Fish you Catch from AK, Home to your Freezer

I can speak for most fishing guides around the world when I ask “what are these guys going to do with all of this fish?” Being a successful fishing guide usually means being a successful angler. People from all over the world have come to retain your knowledge and learn from your expertise. All of the years honing your skill and studying your environment has gained you an absolute edge over the “weekend warrior” fisherman. And customers want to see results!

A high quality fishing guide will also know his body-of-water and it’s ecosystem better than almost anything in his/her life. They will spend countless hours/days/years studying, worrying, discussing, dreaming about their, and yes they will consider it theirs, aquatic playground. Prowess becomes payoff and a guide will market that mastery to people who will pay for the wisdom without putting in the effort. To most guides, it is the gratitude from a group of folks after a successful day of fishing that keeps us enthusiastic about the next day… smiles on faces and photos in phones!

So, back to the topic. How do I get the fish that I just caught home and in the freezer!? If money isn’t a concern, the easiest solution is to simply ship it. Many people choose to just hand off their processed fish to the Post Office. You can’t, however, put a whole salmon in a priority mail package and expect it to arrive at your home. You will need to prepare it and keep it fresh. Fish is perishable after all.

Any good guide will be an artisan with a fillet knife. Thousands of fish have been practiced on before he cuts into your catch. The fillets will be beautiful!

I recommend to all of my customers, whether they ask or not, that they have a professional process their newly acquired fish fillets. Most places will vacuum pack and freeze fish in approximately one lb. chucks. I cringe when I hear “I don’t have a vacuum packer, but I want to do it myself.” Guides want every bite of fish that they helped harvest eaten and enjoyed. Waste is unacceptable.

So you have 100 lbs. of halibut? If an angler knows they will not be able to consume all of their fish, I will encourage them to donate some of it to a charitable organization in the area.

Okay, so now your week-long fishing adventure to Alaska is over and it’s time to go home. The fish that you’ve had processed is ready to be picked up and lets say you have 55 lbs of frozen, chunked and packaged fish. Give 5 lbs away, or better yet, take 5 lbs to a local restaurant and have them cook it for you to share around the table. A lot of restaurants in Alaska will be eager to show you what they can do for your fresh fish.

Why shave the weight down to 50 lbs? Well, a checked bag on an airplane can be up to 50 lbs without paying an oversized bag fee. It should be easy to find a “fish box” which is essentially a styrofoam cooler inside a cardboard box. Stuff your 50 lbs of fish in the cooler, tape it up, and check it like any other checked bag on an airline. The Anchorage Airport can actually receive your checked fish-box the night prior to your departure. Leave it to Alaska to have ample freezer space at an airport.

A question I get often is “will my fish thaw during the plane ride?” My answer is “well, maybe.” Most of the chucks, especially in the middle, will stay completely frozen. The truth is, the quality of the fish will not be compromised if a couple of pieces aren’t rock hard when you transfer them to your freezer.

My favorite way to prepare salmon is simple. Put a little salt and pepper on it and cook via your preferred method. Cooking halibut isn’t any more difficult. Because of its non-fishy and mild flavor it can be cooked in a wide variety of dishes. I like my halibut beer-battered, but that is for another blog.

Comment below if you have any questions or have a fishy travel story of your own. Enjoy your fish and check out our website! www.hgcfish.com

Cheers!