Testimonials

Over the years we have had many satisfied clients come sport fishing with us in Alaska and stay in our fishing lodge, as part of their Alaska fishing package. Below are some of their testimonials to our service and Sitka fishing expertise.

2021 Testimonials


BEST FISHING TRIP in 16 Years!

“WOW! Alaska Premier Charters never ceases to amaze me every year! Following the COVID-BS of 2020, I’ve had the best days of fishing I’ve ever had since I started fishing with APC in 2005. We got our limits of King Salmon, Halibut, Ling Cod, and Rockfish all three days! The most memorable part was our boat catching six kings in the first 15 minutes of our first day. Thank you Theresa, Cpt. Dave, Katri, Lenny, Josh, Colton and the rest of the APC/WSL staff for making our 2021 trip the most memorable one.”

Jeremy Seda (May, 2021)


I have fished many times in Alaska….WSL is right at the top, great fishing, wonderful customer service from the time you arrive until they drop you off at the airport, every detail is taken care of and you lack for nothing. Captain Mike and fist mate Katri were over the top getting us on the fish everyday including one day where the seas looked like an adventure movie! Thank you WSL for a memorable experience!

Larry C. (Yelp, May 2021)


Best Ever Fishing Resort

My brother and I spent five days here with four days of absolute great fishing. Owner Teresa and her team provided the best service in housing, food service, and just plain personal service that one could ever imagine. It was a trip that will never be forgotten. The suite that we were in was immaculate and taken care of every day, the meals served were great from seafood to prime rib, let alone the fresh fruit every morning. All of her staff were very helpful and personable all of the time. The fishing of course was some of the best I have had, limiting out with King Salmon and Halibut. I can’t thank her and her staff enough for the trip of a lifetime. Thank you from my Brother and me.

S. Clark (Tripadvisor, June 2021)


Once again, I can’t thank you all enough for an incredible adventure for my family! You keep out-doing yourselves with wonderful food, service, accommodations, and fishing! Next year can you please ensure the cohos are running when we are there? 

Huge thanks again from my family to yours for a wonderful trip!

Scott and family (July 2021)


I just wanted to take a few minutes to thank all of you for yet another fantastic mini vacation. All of you do a fantastic job and have it running like a fine watch.

Danny M. (August 2021)


Dear Theresa and Staff

Having never caught a fish in her life, I was a bit apprehensive about my wife joining me on our July visit to WSL. Well…the enclosed pictures certainly tell you all you need to know about how much she enjoyed eh experience. (smiles don’t lie) We can’t begin to tell you how much fun we had together!

You and your entire staff were amazing, and we certainly hope we can arrange to return soon!

A sincere thank you!

Bette and Dennis M. (August 2021)

2020 Testimonials


An awesome trip

“This was my second year coming to Wild Strawberry Lodge and fishing with Alaska Premier Charter, and the trip was flawless. Teresa and her staff are so very accommodating, the lodge is clean and has every amenity, and the staff is always friendly and efficient. The food is outstanding, with fresh vegetables, seafood, and non-seafood options.

The fishing, captain, and deckhand were amazing. As a solo client, I was on the boat with five other fishing buddies who were welcoming, friendly, and a blast to spend the day with. We limited on coho, halibut, and rockfish day one and came close on day two.

I will return again next year for my third year, and wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else.”

Karen Thomas (TripAdvisor, September 2020)


Fantastic Fishing Experience

“Absolutely Terrific! I am shocked there are so few reviews. This is a best kept secret apparently. The lodge is door to door professionalism and class. Everyone is so happy and glad to be part of the Wild Strawberry Lodge. Day after day they delivered an unforgettable fishing experience. From the quality and cleanliness of the lodge and its delicious food to the expert crew on our fishing boat we were treated like kings. We limited on King Salmon and Halibut every day plus catching Coho and various rock fish to fill out a huge three day harvest. Our Captain, Dillon, delivered a great fishing experience day after day and the deck hand, David, was a blur of activity. We were less than a minute from engines off to lines in the water. At the close of the day David dressed out the fish and then scrubbed down every inch of the deck of the boat. Theresa has a smooth, well running, and highly manned operation in this business. You will not be disappointed. I am still smiling.”

JABledsoe (TripAdvisor, July 2020)

2019 Testimonials


SE Alaska’s Best Charter Fishing

“I’ve been staying at Wild Strawberry Lodge and fishing with Alaska Premier Charters since 2002. Many of the same captains and crew I first met in ‘02 are still fishing with APC. There is a reason the captains, crew, and myself keep returning to Alaska Premier Charters, they know the waters in and around Sitka better than anybody. When it comes to running a fishing lodge out of South East Alaska there is no substitute for an experienced crew.

Any fishing lodge can show you a great time on the water if you want a casual day of sight seeing and fishing. But, if you go all the way to Alaska you owe it to yourself to make the most of you time on the water and in the lodge. Nobody puts you on the fish better than APC’s lifelong captains, giving you the best chance you’re going find to land big halibut and fill your limits.

The lodge staff is helpful, easy to talk to, and happy to go above and beyond to make your stay outstanding. The kitchen staff is off the charts, preparing the best meals anywhere. If you are looking for the quintessential Alaska fishing experience you’ll be hard pressed to find an outfit that can deliver more consistently than Alaska Premier Charters and Wild Strawberry Lodge!”

Brad Miller (TripAdvisor, August 2019)


Incredible trip!

“We booked this trip for our 25th anniversary and are so glad we did! My husband loves to fish, me not so much. So I didn’t know what to expect. Well, it was just about perfect! We caught so many fish and we are both totally hooked. We ended up extending our 3 day trip to 6 and would’ve done more if we didn’t have to get back to work. Everything was great from the room to the dock and back. Food and hospitality was amazing. We never needed for a thing. We met great people and are currently planning our return trip. Thanks for everything to you and the entire staff.”

Relax90612 (TripAdvisor, September 2019)


FROM THE OCEAN TO THE KITCHEN THIS IS THE PLACE T0 GO

“Theresa at Wild Strawberry Lodge and her lodge staff along with her captains and deck hands are the greatest and most courteous. Wake up in the morning to hot coffee and a great breakfast and a room full of smiles what a day to fish. The best sandwich on the ocean made by the captains fresh every day on the boat. Back to the lodge with a great catch of fish to the same smiles and a great dinner and lot of fish tails. Thank you Teresa and all your great staff for a GREAT VACATION”

Ken C. (TripAdvisor, August 2019)


A Well Kept Secret

“Customer service is the mantra of this family owned fishing lodge based on Sitka Sound and the Gulf of Alaska. You will lack for nothing from the time they pick you up from the airport until the time they drop you off for your flight home with boxes full of fish. A fleet of 6 boats, loaded with weather and fish locating technology, and experienced captains and deck hands will ensure you catch more fish that you could imagine (check out their Facebook page for Catch of the Day photos). You will be treated like an old friend of the family here, and the food and snacks are both tasty and plentiful. This is not a 5 star resort, however; the rooms are rustic and some are small but very well furnished and meticulously clean.. The ‘regulars’ return every year, often booking a year in advance, so do not delay booking. We will return. See you there!”

GardeningFiend (Trip Advisor, August 2019)


This is the place!!!

“Everything is well done. From the airport pick-up, the lodge, the food, the fishing, the processing and then back to the airport, everything is done with exceptional quality. No hidden fees to worry about, just take enough to leave a tip.”

Mark B. (TripAdvisor, July 2019)


AMAZING!!! You Must Visit Wild Strawberry Lodge

“Its an AMAZING place to visit, we have fished Alaska for the last 9 years, our first at Wild Strawberry Lodge. Theresa and the staff are amazing, everyone is friendly and they make sure your trip is one to remember. Everything was PERFECTION from arrival to departure.”

Emilia R. (TripAdvisor, July 2019)


Beautiful Sitka Alaska and premier fishing

“Top notch fishing lodge!!

Theresa runs a tight ship with all the amenities. The lodge is homey, wonderful and at the harbor. Her staff is attentive and caring. Food is superb! Get ready to add a few pounds!!
Her captains and deckhands are knowledgeable and will put you on the fish. The boats are great and well equipped.

Theresa and staff have thought of everything – you are truly taken care of from the time you arrive Sitka airport to your departure with your fish boxes in tow.

4th year fishing with Alaska Premier charters – leaving today and already wanting to rebook for another year.
There is nothing negative about Wild Strawberry Lodge & Alaska Premier fishing.
Superior!!”

mctraveler2011  (TripAdvisor, May 2019)

2018 Testimonials


Professional staff.

“These people worked with me on some difficulties I had regarding our trip. We were very satified with their friendly and professional staff. They did not seem to miss a beat! They communicate well and treat you as a friend, not just a client.”

Dennis O. (Trip Advisor, August 2018)


My son John and I had a great time fishing with Capt. Jeff and deck master Kyle. I have fished Alaska many times as well as other waters of the world. Even though I was a bit disabled from a recent hip injury, Jeff and Kyle made it easy by anticipating every need with finesse and nuance. I can truly say they are the top of the profession. The icing on the cake was ending our 3-day fishing adventure with an epic bite on July 28, 2018 with full limits for the boat. I must also say you entire staff including your kind and intelligent daughters make a very special team that you can rightly be proud. I will certainly recommend your well-named “Alaska Premier Charters” to anyone interested in fishing Alaska. God willing, We shall return.

Best Regards,

Jim Oestreich (August 2018)


Theresa, I just want to send you a quick note sharing that I had a wonderful time with the Nilson group last week. What made it special was the staff.  The young ladies that you hired were so friendly and accommodating.  As I’m sure you have learned it’s the staff that work face to face with the clients that leave the most lasting impression. I know that they had to get up early and get thing going and stay up late to shut things down.  They displayed a great work ethic. Congratulations to you for doing such a great job in your hiring and training. Not to leave the guys out, Kyle was terrific on the boat showing patience and attentiveness. Please share with them how much they are appreciated.

By the way, my fish made it all the way to Phoenix.

Bob Frost (August 2018)


Tim and I want to thank you once again for your fabulous hospitality and incredible fishing expertise.

This trip has been on our list for a long time and was everything we had hoped for… and MORE! We enjoyed meeting all of you and the other guests, really appreciated James and his culinary treats and of course, your beautiful daughters…what a treasure!

We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Ellie and Tim Moore (July 2018)


We want to thank you for another wonderful, fun time.  You and Johnny obviously have a wonderful system going on there.  You are the best and we love you and your family.  I hope you will consider us your friends.  Sam echoed the same.  Sam, Jan and myself have already pretty much said we want to come up again next year.  We have time, no hurry…Hope you finish strong and that the rest of 2018 brings your team with all the best.  I appreciate all the fish I saw when I opened our two boxes.

Brent (July 2018)

2017 Testimonials


Penultimate all inclusive!

My wife and I visited from Idaho in August and it was awesome.

I have fished in the Cook Inlet, and many rivers in the Kenai Peninsula and Cordova. Alaska is all great but this place is amazing. Great staff, from the pickup at the airport, informative staff, great meals, knowledgeable and capable captains and first hands.

They get it right! Theresa does a fabulous job with her staff. This is a well-oiled machine that makes this a true Alaska experience.

I will come back have referred many here and hope Theresa and her staff at Wild Strawberry Lodge change NOTHING!!

C.B. (August 2017)


Epic fishing in Majestic Sitka

Met at airport early am by cheerful host Tamika holding sign with our names. Since we arrived early, Tamika suggested places to sight see and kindly drove us to a salmon run spot, raptor sanctuary, and totem park. Great day trip visiting beautiful mystic Sitka prior to excellent fishing with Captain Dylan and Deckhand Tommy. The all-inclusive facilities, food, and service were first class and we look forward to returning to this very well run outfit by Theresa, Johnny and their friendly team.

-Mr. U (August 2017)


Excellent lodging and meals with very friendly staff!

The room was shared by three men who were part of a fishing trip. The room was actually a suite with two single beds and one double bed in a separate bedroom. The suite also had a television, a full kitchen with microwave, stove, and refrigerator. Silverware, pots/pans and even a wine opener were in the cupboards. Although we did not use the kitchen facilities (we ate in the dining hall), it was obvious that the suite was well prepared for other visitors
My only criticism was the lack of dresser to store your clothes. For five days we lived out of our suit cases and the shelves in the suite.
We ate in the dining hall which provided excellent choice of food for both breakfast and dinner. There was a good variety each day and excellent service from the staff.

Jim D. (August 2017)


We stayed and fished with the Wild Strawberry Lodge for three days of fishing. The staff, captain, and first mate were first class. They treated us like one of the family. Teresa has things so organized, not a need went unfulfilled. Highly recommend.

Joan P. (August 2017)


Excellent in all ways

My family sent my father to the Wild Strawberry to fish 2 years ago with my mom, who doesn’t fish. The lodge took such good care of them both. They took my mom wherever she wanted to go and made sure she had great food even with her food allergies. My dad had the time of his life and “had” to go back. So this year, I went with him and we both fished.
The lodge is wonderful and truly take care of everything. The food is outstanding and plentiful, the rooms are comfortable, the staff is stellar and the location can’t be beat. The fishing part of the operation is outstanding as well. Our captain, Dylan did all he could to find the fish, and the deckhand Tommy was busy taking care of all the fish we had flying into the boat. There were times both of them were running like crazy taking care of us all, but they handled it wonderfully and were a hoot to boot! For two days fishing, we had a total (for the two of us) of 123 lbs of salmon, halibut, rock fish and yellow eye. It was all filleted, packaged, frozen and checked in at the airport for us. The entire staff does a great job making sure the guests have everything they need and are happy as clams. My father has already booked again for next year. I highly recommend this place!

Heather W. (July 2017)


“I can’t fully express my appreciation for you and your staff for a fishing, dining and lodging experience that not only met my greatest hopes, but far exceeded them. You run a top notch, first class business and treat your customers like gold. I can’t wait to come back again…

B. Young (2013)


My wife and I had a vacation of a lifetime and the Wild Strawberry Lodge was a FIVE STAR experience! Thank you all for this outstanding vacation.

J. Keeter (2013)


Your impact on my life has been profound. From work ethic, to integrity, to the importance of treating customers with the highest level of respect, I learned so much from you in our short time together that I use every day. Thank you Theresa for everything you have done for me and for showing my co-workers a true experience of a lifetime.

M. Apel (2013)


We all had such a great time at the lodge and fishing. Your staff at the lodge, boat captains, and deckhands were all top-shelf individuals that you should be proud of. They represented Strawberry Lodge and Alaska Premier Charters in a professional, caring, and down-to-earth manner.”

Ron Reesy (2013)


“Thanks for another great trip. Your hospitality is truly exceptional. I’m already looking forward to 2012. Of course, we came to fish. John you are an amazing guide. I joke with my neighbors that you not only put us on the fish, but described the fish’s attitude. Thanks again for great fishing, great food, great hospitality and Theresa, thanks for your personal attention to the “little things” that make Wild Strawberry Lodge so special.”

Dick Hoover (June 2011)


“Dear Theresa and staff,

Thank you guys for making this trip up to Sitka! It is one I will never forget and hopefully be able to repeat. Staff- you guys are amazing, I never have been taken such good care of. Every single person there helped make this trip memorable. Mike White, the captain of the It’L’Do was awesome, put us on the fish every day, and was a great guy to boot. Dave, our deckhand worked his tail off. Theresa, you run one heck of an operation and we could not thank you enough. Thank you so much.”

Jeremy Smith (June 2011)


“Dear Theresa,

I’ve never before been motivated to compliment a fishing lodge on its service… I expect good service. However, when the lodge reaches a standard of excellence that you folks provided, I’m compelled to comment… Well done!

From the personal attention you provided prior to our arrival, to the packing and delivery of our fish, everything was truly excellent.

We came to fish, and Captain John delivered. I have fished all over the world and have never met a charter captain more concerned or better at putting me on the fish.

From the excellent food to the pleasant atmosphere and helpful staff, the Wild Strawberry Lodge is tops.

Thanks for making this a trip to remember. God willing… see you next year.”

R.D.H. (June 2010)


“I just wanted to let you know how much my husband and I enjoyed our time at the lodge, and the fishing. I have told lots of people about your place, the staff, guides, and the fishing. I love that the personal touch never ends at this place — from check-in to check-out. The fishing is great and everyone is so helpful and pleasant. We will definitely be coming back again to go fishing! Thanks so much for everything.”

Cassandra V.D.K. (June 2010)


“Once again, on behalf of [our group], we’d like to thank you all for a great time. Our trip to [your lodge] was truly a success, and as usual the food and accommodations were wonderful.

As it turns out, it wasn’t until the trip home that we realized how successful we really were. We met parties in the airports in Seattle and in Sacramento returning from Sitka, and found out that they did not limit out in salmon including a threesome that didn’t catch any.

Much of the credit for our success should go to Captain Jeff for his dogged perseverance. And, despite the pesky sea lions, we were able to limit out even with a couple rookies on board. Please offer him special thanks for that and his solicitous concern for the old guy (me). Also thanks to Levi, the deckhand, especially on my behalf as I gave him a thorough refresher course in how to untangle a line and reel.

We’re already talking about our return trip and I gave your name and information to the party from [a different lodge] that got skunked on the salmon.

Thanks again.”

Ralph S. (June 2010)


“I want to thank you again for showing us a wonderful time while staying at your lodge this past week. This was an amazing experience that I will never forget. Thanks to all your staff, we were very comfortable and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A special thank you to [your client coordinator] who was very accommodating and always eager to show us around Sitka, to Captain Mike who made it happen for us, to Dave, our deckhand, who worked tirelessly taking care of us on the boat, to the chef and to the processors and to the kitchen crew for their wonderful desserts. We could not ask for anything more!”

Dennis M. (May 2010)


“I need to thank you ever so much for all the kindnesses you extended to me during my stay at the Wild Strawberry. You made these days some of the best vacation days ever.”

Dan D. (September 2009)


“Thank you for another great vacation here in Sitka, Alaska. The four of us had a wonderful time enjoying great food (you never disappoint us), the perfect accommodations…, and fun fishing. Looking forward to a return trip!”

The Nordykes (August 2009)


“Thanks to Captain Ching and deckhand Levi for their expertise in guiding us to the fishing grounds, helping us land our catch and cleaning our fishes on deck. We truly appreciated all their help, hospitality and kindness. This year was a very fun year for us fishing in Sitka. Thanks to you and your staff for putting up with us at your lodge and the graciousness of catering to our needs. The house was a “home away from home” atmosphere, where everyone enjoyed the company of each other. We could not ask for a better fishing environment and I am sure we will be coming back to your lodge in the future.”

Don Y. (August 2009)


“These folks are good…Really good! If you’ve always wanted to do this but think you don’t have the fishing skills, they’ll take you from wherever you are to a high level, which will translate into success. If you’ve been from Tarpon to Tuna but haven’t tried this, their local knowledge and finesse techniques will give you the extra edge in an already hot fishery. Ya gotta try this at least once. And trust me, Wild Strawberry Lodge is gonna be your best bet all around. Like our Gov. AHnold once said, “AH’ll be Bahck!”

Pete Y. (July 2009)


“Just a quick note to thank you for the great trip Kevin and I had. We really didn’t know what to expect, but everything exceeded our expectations, from the lodge which has a real home feeling, the food which was superb and the great service. The crew on our boat (Johnny, Mike and Eldie) were the best and we would not have caught nearly as many fish without their help. Both Kevin and I agreed even without catching the big Halibut on our 2nd day we would have considered it a great trip, the big catch just made it even more memorable. We grilled halibut and salmon for dinner last night and the fish was superb and we have decided this will be an annual trip, so we look forward to seeing you next year. Thanks again for everything. ”

Andy B. (July 2009)


“I had a wonderful time this past week. Mike (White) was my guide/Captain, and he is tops. I have fished all over the world (Hawaii, Canada, South America, Germany, England, Africa, Australia, New Zealand,) and many more places, but I say this sincerely: I liked your place the best of all. It was greeeeat. The young people working for you were GOOD!!! VERY GOOD.

Thanks for your Hospitality.”

David Bruce F. (July 2009)


“We very much enjoyed your hospitality. The rooms were excellent. Your young help did a great job. Kudos to all; the food was beyond cuisine. Fred and I had great fishing. I would highly recommend Alaska Premier Charters, Inc. and Wild Strawberry Lodge to anybody interested in an Alaska vacation!”

Fred and Joe O. (June 2008)


“I just wanted to let you guys know how much I enjoyed being a guest at your lodge. However, this re-entry in reality is quite brutal. Sitting here in front of my computer watching the market and contacting clients is not even close to being on “The Hunter” as we’re climbing 15 foot swells and slamming into the chop on our way out to the halibut grounds! It was truly an amazing four days up there. Your staff is outstanding and the service is exceptional. I know it’s not easy running such a big operation but the professionalism and attention to detail is very obvious and it’s because of your effort in these areas that clients come back year after year. I hope to come up with my brothers, my children and my wife in the coming years and share the awesome experience with the people closest to my heart.”

Aaron A.


“I wanted to thank you and your employees for providing my son Colton and dad Dave with a wonderful experience. They about had my ears worn out on the drive home from the airport, telling me everything about their trip. Colton talked non-stop about the food, hospitality and especially the crew on the boat… Many thanks to you for providing such a wonderful trip. Dad said it was a top notch operation and I’m sure Colton will be talking about this for years to come.”

Rhonda S.


“I was very impressed at how smoothly everything seemed to run at your lodge, from the housekeeping, to food preparation and service, and especially the fishing and fish handling.”

Dan S.


“Thanks so much for all the nice things your staff did for me during my recent visit to Sitka! Such thoughtful people made my fishing experience most enjoyable. Hoping to see you again next year.”

Leo B.


“Many thanks to you, your staff and the crewmembers for an unforgettable fishing (and dining) experience. I was particularly impressed with the sincere desire to make my stay pleasant that was exhibited by every member of your team.”

Jim Mano


“I’ve been coming to fish with Alaska Premier Charters, Inc. since 2005. Every year, I come home with plenty of fish for my freezer and more memories shared with my father and friends. Sitka and Alaska Premier Charters, Inc. has become my yearly vacation that I share with my father and I know I will continue coming back for years to come! Thanks APC!”

Jeremy P. Seda


“Thanks for making my fishing dreams come true. You’re The Best… To Heck with Disneyland. I’m going back to Sitka!”

Tony “The Truth” Floor


“Thanks again for yet another great trip! You and your staff are to be complimented. You do it right over and over and you do it on the first time which is what counts. Warmest Regards!”

Ron Escue


“Thanks to the great Alaskan hospitality extended by you and the lodge staff, it just couldn’t have been better. I mean everything was great – the fish processing, the meals, housekeeping and assistance from and to the airport.”Bob Linden

“I have added one experience that every American male should have in his lifetime. Seeing New York City; Visiting Washington DC; and fishing in Sitka, Alaska.”

Gene Sivertson


“Thank you, for making a Father’s dream ‘Salmon Fishing Trip’ come true.”

Fred W Jaeger


“Wow! A big thanks to you and to all of your staff for a wonderful experience during our fishing trip this week.”

Mark Fette


“Greg and I really enjoyed ourselves. You have a first class resort! Your crew was very professional. The food was fantastic. Everything was perfect!”

Lonnie Eiseman


“There is no way we can express how much such a special experience means to us. We will remember this day on the water forever. And, of course, thanks for helping make this such a special week for the family.”

Jeff, Barb, Bonnie, Dan


“Hello to everyone at Alaska Premier Charters, Inc.! Our fish made it home on same plane as us, so that made our day. All our friends are enjoying halibut and salmon too. Thank you for your great hospitality and everything!”

Chris and Howard Eichorn


“At age 73 I find that sitting and trolling, with an occasional interruption by a fish, is my speed. I have recommended your organization to my friends, I emphasize the very productive fishing, the fine accommodations, the efficient and friendly help and the first rate captains.”

Jim Vander Stoep