About Captain Steve
Homer, Alaska Fishing & Hunting Charters
Fishing isn't just part of my life—it is my life. I come from one of the largest fishing families on the West Coast, with generations of captains running some of California's most well-known sportfishing boats.
My dad, Jim Smith, owned and operated the Mr. Bass and Happy Hooker out of Pt. San Pablo and Berkeley Marina. My brothers, nephew, and family continue that tradition today with the California One, California Two, the Happy Hooker, and the California Dream. All are premier sportfishing vessels operating out of Berkeley, California.
That same passion for the water brought me north to Alaska. My son, Steven Hunter Smith ("Hunter"), is also a captain here in Alaska, operating a vessel for his mother, who owns Captain Steve's Fishing Lodge in Ninilchik. My daughter's family is also heavily involved in the outdoor industry, running Keyo's Guide Service in Ninilchik.
A Lifetime on the Water
I started my fishing career at age 11, working full-time as a deckhand for my dad. Even back then, I knew exactly what I wanted to do—fish.
I earned my 100-Ton Master License in 1988 and moved to Alaska that same year. Today, I'm entering my 38th year fishing the Cook Inlet and the Gulf of Alaska, guiding anglers for halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish, and more.
Upgrading to a Premier 50' Delta Marine Charter Vessel
To continue offering top-quality Alaska fishing and hunting trips, I'm upgrading to a premium vessel—the former Aloha Spirit, a highly respected 50' Delta Marine boat known for its performance in the Channel Islands of California.
Once it arrives in Homer, Alaska, it will proudly carry its new name: Bad Influence.
This vessel allows me to:
- Run long-range fishing charters to remote, highly productive waters
- Offer overnight fishing trips in the Gulf of Alaska
- Provide boat-based hunting transport services for Kodiak Island Blacktail Deer, Mountain Goats, Brown Bear, Sea Ducks, Fox, and Spring Coastal Black Bear
With more range, comfort, and capability, this vessel opens up fishing and hunting opportunities most operators simply can't access.
Why Fish with Captain Steve's Charters
Clients choose Captain Steve's Charters because they want:
- A captain with nearly 40 years of Alaska fishing experience
- A family legacy committed to professional, safe, high-quality trips
- A comfortable, long-range vessel built for serious fishing and hunting
- Access to remote waters and hunting grounds others can't reach
- Personalized service, small groups, and real local expertise
Every trip is designed to be safe, memorable, and full of adventure—for my customers, my crew, and myself. I look forward to taking you out.
– Captain Steve