Homer Rock Fish Charter Sweet Action Inshore

Homer Alaska Rock Fish Fishing Charter

When halibut season takes a break, that doesn't mean your fishing has to stop. This 6-hour salmon and rock fish combo trip keeps you on the water during those mid-week closures, especially popular on Wednesdays and select Tuesdays from June 20 through August 15. Based out of Homer - Alaska's halibut fishing capital - this charter gives you the perfect alternative when the big flatfish are off-limits but your fishing itch needs scratching. Sweet Action Charter has designed this trip for families, small groups, and anyone who wants to make the most of Alaska's prime fishing season without missing a beat.

What to Expect on the Water

Your 6-hour adventure starts with salmon trolling in Homer's productive waters before switching gears to bottom fishing for rockfish. The boat accommodates up to 6 guests, so you'll have plenty of room to move around and won't feel crowded when the action heats up. All your gear comes included - rods, reels, tackle, and most importantly, on-the-water instruction from experienced guides who know these waters like the back of their hand. Whether you're a seasoned angler or this is your first time dropping a line in Alaskan waters, the crew will get you dialed in on technique and help you understand what you're seeing on the fish finder. The timing works perfectly for visitors who want to fish multiple days during their stay - hit the halibut grounds one day, then come back for this combo trip when regulations require a break from targeting the big flatfish.

Trolling Tips & Bottom Tactics

The morning typically starts with salmon trolling using downriggers and flasher-and-hoochie setups that have proven deadly on Homer's kings. You'll learn how different lure colors and trolling speeds affect your success, and why certain depths produce better than others depending on tide and time of day. The guides will show you how to read the electronics, spot bait schools, and recognize the telltale signs of salmon moving through the area. When it's time to switch to rockfish, the approach changes completely. You'll move to rocky bottom structure where these colorful fish hang out, dropping jigs and bait rigs down to depths where the big yelloweye and black sea bass live. Bottom fishing requires a different touch - feeling the weight hit bottom, recognizing bites versus snags, and knowing when to set the hook versus when to just reel steady. The crew will teach you how to work the current, stay in contact with your gear, and maximize your time in the productive zones.

Top Catches This Season

Black sea bass are the workhorses of Homer's rockfish scene, and they're always ready to bite when you find the right structure. These chunky fighters typically run 2-4 pounds and love rocky reefs and kelp edges where they can ambush smaller fish. They're not picky eaters - cut herring, jigs, and even salmon eggs will get their attention. What makes them special is their willingness to bite consistently throughout the day, making them perfect for keeping kids and new anglers engaged. The meat is excellent - firm, white, and mild-flavored that works great in fish tacos or simply grilled with lemon.

Yelloweye rockfish are the prize of the rockfish world, and Homer's deep waters hold some beautiful specimens. These bright orange and red fish can live over 100 years and grow to impressive sizes, with fish over 10 pounds not uncommon in local waters. They prefer deeper rocky areas and drop-offs where they can hold tight to structure. Yelloweye are more selective feeders than black sea bass, but when you find a productive spot, you might pull up several in a row. Their prehistoric appearance and vibrant colors make for amazing photos, and the meat quality rivals halibut for taste and texture.

Chinook salmon are the kings of Alaska fishing, and Homer's waters see strong runs from June through August. These powerful fish can exceed 30 pounds and provide heart-stopping fights that test your gear and technique. Kings feed actively during the early morning and evening hours, making them perfect targets during the first part of your combo trip. They're following bait schools and feeding aggressively before heading to spawning streams. The thrill of seeing your downrigger release pop and feeling the weight of a big king on the other end never gets old, whether it's your first or fiftieth fish.

Time to Book Your Spot

At $450 per trip plus Homer's local tax, this charter delivers serious value for a full day on some of Alaska's most productive fishing waters. The 6-hour format gives you time to really learn the techniques and maximize your chances at multiple species without feeling rushed. Sweet Action Charter's experienced crew knows exactly where to find fish during different conditions, and their instruction will make you a better angler by the end of the day. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly, but also know that this trip runs rain or shine during the prime summer season. Book early for the best selection of dates, especially if you're planning around halibut closures or want to fish multiple days during your Homer visit.