One Gaf Halibut Combo Trip – Tuesday and Wednesday

One GAF Halibut Combo Trip that includes Salmon

What Is GAF (Guided Angler Fish)?

GAF, or Guided Angler Fish, is a program that allows us to offer halibut fishing on days when halibut retention is normally closed. Puffin Charters uses GAF to help guests whose only chance to fish falls on one of those closed days—so you still get a shot at landing a halibut.

Through the Catch Sharing Plan, commercial halibut quota is transferred to qualified charter operators and issued as GAF. This allows each angler to legally retain ONE halibut, any size, even on closed days, under specific regulations in Area 3A.

GAF trips run on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the season. Depending on the time of year, we’ll often round out the day by targeting rockfish, silver salmon, or king salmon, making for a full and exciting day on the water.

Why Is Halibut Fishing Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays?

Halibut fishing in Alaska is carefully managed to protect the long-term health of the fishery and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities for future seasons.

In Area 3A, halibut retention for charter anglers is limited to specific days of the week by federal regulation. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are designated non-retention days, meaning halibut may not be kept on those days unless the trip is conducted under the Guided Angler Fish (GAF) program.

These midweek closures help:

• Control overall halibut harvest levels
• Prevent overfishing during peak season
• Balance opportunities between commercial and charter fisheries
• Maintain a healthy and sustainable halibut population

What Does Puffin Charters Offer on Closed Halibut Days?

When halibut retention is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Puffin Charters still runs productive fishing trips, including:

• 3/4-day Pacific cod and rockfish trips (Siver salmon when available)
• King salmon trolling combined with rockfish
• GAF halibut trips (limited availability, Siver salmon when available)