Fish with an Authentic Alaskan Fisherman
At Alaska Wide Open Charters, we are a small, locally owned and operated business, dedicated to providing exceptional fishing experiences in the beautiful waters of Prince of Wales Island, Alaska. Our team is led by Captain Joel Steenstra, a well-respected and experienced guide with over 20 years of fishing expertise in the Craig area. With over 1200 guide days under his belt, Captain Joel has developed a deep understanding of the local waters and fish populations, ensuring that our guests have the best possible chance of catching a variety of species, including king salmon, coho salmon, halibut, and lingcod.
Our Philosophy
At Alaska Wide Open Charters, we believe that fishing should be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone. We take the time to ensure that our guests feel comfortable and confident on the water, and we take pride in providing exceptional customer service. We strive to offer a unique and personalized fishing experience, tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each angler.
Our Fleet
We are proud to operate two high-quality, 26-28ft welded aluminum boats, carefully maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience. Our boats are equipped with the latest electronics and safety gear, and are powered by twin 150 HP outboards. We believe that our boats are key to our success, and we take great care to ensure that they are always clean, well-maintained, and ready for the next fishing trip.
Our Team
Captain Joel Steenstra is a United States Coast Guard veteran and has been guiding and commercial fishing in the Craig area for over 20 years. He is joined by his wife, Leanne, who helps with the daily operations of the charter business, including cutting and packaging fish for our guests. Together, the Steenstra family works tirelessly to ensure that every guest has an unforgettable fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Prince of Wales Island.
Our Fishing Techniques
We employ a range of fishing techniques, including mooching for salmon, trolling for salmon, drifting for halibut, anchoring for halibut, and jigging for lingcod and yelloweye. Our experienced team is knowledgeable about the local fish populations and can adapt their techniques to suit the specific fishing conditions and the preferences of our guests.
Our Goal
At Alaska Wide Open Charters, our goal is to provide exceptional fishing experiences that combine the thrill of reeling in a trophy catch with the warm hospitality and personalized service of a small, family-owned business. We strive to offer the best value in the Craig area, while providing world-class fishing that is unmatched in the region.
Why Choose Us
There are many reasons why Craig is considered the premiere charter fishing destination in Alaska, and we believe that Alaska Wide Open Charters is the best choice for your fishing adventure. Our location directly on the outer coast of Prince of Wales Island allows us to access areas that are not open to commercial fishing, ensuring a truly unique and exclusive fishing experience. We proudly operate a small fleet of boats, ensuring that every guest receives personalized attention and service. And with over 20 years of guiding experience, Captain Joel has the knowledge and expertise to put you in the best possible position to catch a variety of species.
Join Us for Your Next Fishing Adventure
At Alaska Wide Open Charters, we are committed to providing exceptional fishing experiences that will leave you with lasting memories of your trip to Craig, Alaska. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, we invite you to join us for a fishing adventure that you will never forget.
Exceptional Service and Fishing Experience
All four reviewers have had an exceptional experience with Captain Joel and Alaska Wide Open Charters. They have praised his professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm for fishing. Captain Joel takes care of all aspects of the trip, from providing comfortable accommodations to processing and packaging the caught fish. The reviewers have mentioned that they have caught a wide variety of fish, including King Salmon, Halibut, Yellow Eye, and Black Rockfish.
Detailed Service and Expertise
Captain Joel provides exceptional service, including recommending restaurants, providing rain gear and boots, and offering homemade lunches and snacks. He is knowledgeable about the fishing areas and has over 16 years of experience guiding and fishing in the waters. The reviewers have mentioned that they have learned a great deal about fishing from Captain Joel, and have praised his expertise in marine water fishing.
Recurring Themes
Several reviewers have mentioned that they have had a great time fishing with Captain Joel and would highly recommend him to others. They have praised his personable nature, sense of humor, and devotion to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The reviewers have also mentioned that Captain Joel is genuinely excited to go fishing and find the best fishing areas each day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Captain Joel and Alaska Wide Open Charters provide an exceptional fishing experience, with a focus on exceptional service, knowledge, and expertise. The reviewers have all had a great time fishing with Captain Joel and would highly recommend him to others.

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