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
