It’s no secret that Gustavus has the largest and most abundant halibut fishing in the state of Alaska (Source – Alaska Department of Fish and Game). Imagine the excitement, even though you’re waking before dawn. As you approach the harbor and see your ship, the crew is busy preparing every detail as you struggle to become a little more lucid. The captain humors and comforts you for the adventure ahead with his stories and instruction.

As you relax with your pole, still half asleep, you feel a couple of bumps, small tugs, on the line. You set the hook and the fight is on! The struggle continues for what feels like an hour, as you have to bring in the catch from the bottoms of the ocean. On again, off again, the battle continues for 15 minutes as you’re feeling little progress in bringing the halibut to the surface. Finally, after 20-25 minutes, you look in the shadows of the darkness, and notice a image becoming clearer. There’s always that element of surprise--it could be a number of different creatures.

As you struggle and physically endure the final bringing in of your trophy halibut, you enjoy the emotional satisfaction of a test won. It could be a 40 pounder or a 300 pounder. But the care and assistance of the ships crew make the final portions of the experience easier to complete. There’s never a dull moment with the professionals at the Great Chinook Lodge!

"Having worked as a charter boat captain in some of the worlds hottest fishing destinations, I can tell that Gustavus is not to be missed!   The fun and excitement never stop! Something is always happening (or about to) and we like to keep it that way."

Captain John Young