FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where’s the boat?
The Foxfire can be found by heading down Ramp 1 next to the Salty Dawg Saloonand heading straight onto C Dock. Slip 7 is on your right about ⅓ of the way down the dock. The Salty Dawg's address is 4380 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603.
Where do I park?
There are free gravel parking lots located both north of Ramp 3 and south of Ramp 1 by the seafarers memorial. Also, paid parking is available closer to the ramp and in the gravel lot directly adjacent to the Salty Dawg. Pay attention to the signs. The street parking is limited to 3 hours, so do not park there!
What time do we board the boat?
You can board the Foxfire starting at 6:30am. That will give you plenty of time to stow your things, meet the crew, and get settled in. Seating is first come first served. The boat leaves promptly at 7:00 am, so don’t be left behind!
What do I need to bring?
There is a checklist provided here. Generally you should bring layers of clothes suitable for wet or cold weather, lunch, drinks, and snacks. We highly recommend a camera, and waterproof shoes. Some folks like using fishing gloves - inexpensive ones can be found at the Kachemak Gear Shed or Ulmer’s. And of course, don’t forget your Alaska fishing license!
Is there a restroom on shore?
Yes! There are well maintained public restrooms near the top of Ramp 2. Many folks make a pit stop there before coming down to the boat. There is also a ‘head’ (the nautical term for restroom) on the boat.
What if it’s raining?
We fish rain or shine–the fish are already wet! Weather conditions can change quickly so bring rain gear as well as clothes that can layer if temperatures fluctuate.
What if the weather is rough?
The Captain will assess the weather conditions for the day and let you know what to expect during the safety briefing. On the rare occasion he deems the conditions to be unsuitable, he will let you know before departure and you can reschedule or receive a refund. This is mother nature at work, not a Disney ride! On a rougher day, you likely will experience up to 3-4 foot seas.
What if I get seasick?
That’s a bummer! The crew can offer you tips to help avoid seasickness. But you should also ask your doctor for a prescription medicine, take an over the counter motion sickness medicine, or try some natural products like ginger or wrist pressure bands. Staying outside the cabin watching the horizon often helps, as well as eating a light breakfast with very little acid (think english muffin and tea). Goldfish crackers can be stomach-settling also.
Do I need to tip?
Tipping the crew is customary if they have provided you with good service. Wind and waves can tip the boat but only you can tip the crew! A common rule of thumb is 15-20% of your ticket price per person. Tips are shared, so any of the deckhands can accept them.
What should I NOT bring?
Pets, children under 6 unless discussed ahead of time, marijuana or drugs, firearms, bulky coolers, things that can’t get wet.
Will my cell phone work?
Typically, we will have cell coverage for the beginning and end of the trip. Depending on the fishing spots, we may be out of coverage for a few hours.
What happens to the fish I catch?
Your fish will be tagged with your unique tag, and join the others in the fishbox during fishing. Once the fishing is over, you will have a chance to take photos with your fish before it is filleted by the deckhands on board while running back to the dock. The fish processor, Homer Fish Processing, will meet us at the dock, and take it to their plant to be portioned, vacuumed packed, and frozen for pickup the next day for a small fee per pound. You can also opt out of processing and take the filets home in a plastic bag that we provide.
Homer Fish can also arrange for shipping boxes of frozen fish home, or you can pick it up and check it as baggage on a plane. You can find more details regarding processing and shipping prices at Homer Fish Processing’s website.
Where do I get a fishing license?
All anglers ages 16 and older will need to purchase a state of Alaska fishing license. A license can be purchased online at Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
For more detailed information, visit our Fishing License page!
All anglers ages 16 and older will need to purchase a state of Alaska fishing license. A license can be purchased online at Alaska Department of Fish and Game
url: https://store.adfg.alaska.gov/
What if I have a medical condition?
Please make sure you bring all of your necessary medications with you on the trip. We recommend that you alert the crew of any conditions that may affect your mobility while onboard or ability to safely handle a fishing pole with 15 pounds or more on the line. You can also put a note in your booking reservation, or alert your booking agent.
Why can I only keep two halibut?
The International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) establishes halibut regulations each year. For 2025, in Area 3A, the daily bag limit is two halibut, with one of them less than 27 inches. (many cooks will tell you that the best tasting halibut are the ones less than 27 inches!)
What if I’m running late in the morning?
Ack! Hurry! The boat leaves promptly at 7am and the captain has calculated the timing needed to hit the fishing spots at the appropriate times for the tides and weather. Plan your travel time to arrive by 630am. Please call if you think you might be running late so we can adjust accordingly.
What is this RQE program fee I see on my Receipt?
Charter boats are required by Federal Law to collect this fee for all anglers 18 and older intending to catch halibut. The monies are intended to help with fisheries management.For more information visit the NOAA website.
Update: This program has been delayed until 2026.
My plans changed. Can I cancel and get a refund?
Life happens! You can cancel up to 60 days before your trip. After 60 days, if you let us know, you will receive a full refund only IF we can rebook the seat. However, if you are a no call/no show, there are no refunds.