In 2020 I bought a Halibut charter Groupon for two from Alaska Gulf Coast Expeditions. Unfortunately, the weather was not safe for the day we were going to launch, delaying the trip, then the pandemic began pushing back the fishing trip into the following year. Anxiety set in throughout the long waiting, and I began to believe my Groupon would be no more. Thankfully, Aaron was very responsive, reassuring me the trip was still good. So finally, in May 2021, my son and I went fishing! The weather was perfect; the water was calm, the sun was out, and the launch from shore was pretty cool. There’s something cool about a big-wheeled tractor pushing a boat into the water. Aaron and his deckhand (son) were fantastic! They prioritized safety and made sure everyone succeeded in limiting out. My son landed the group’s giant halibut, making his day even better.

We had such a good time we bought another trip for July (two months later), but instead of my son, I took my dad. This time, the Inlet was a little more emotional; let’s say a couple of people in the group didn’t feel so great. Thankfully I took some motion sickness pills beforehand. The water eventually simmered down, and my dad landed the giant halibut of the group (I know it’s not a competition, but that’s twice now my family reeled in the largest fish, it sure does feel good, to say). Fishing with this charter has been the best fishing charter experience since living in Alaska. We now have reservations for a Halibut and King combo for this year. I can’t wait to see who brings in the largest fish this time around. Thanks to Aaron and his crew at Alaska Gulf Coast Expeditions for the best fishing experiences the Cook Inlet has to offer!