Meet Captain & Deckhand Bristol Confer
Captain Bristol Confer originates from Alaska, specifically The Kenai Peninsula during summers and Palmer during winters.
Her family has deep roots in Alaska’s fishing industry, with a long-standing involvement in commercial fishing, particularly on Salamatof Beach along the Cook Inlet.
Growing up, she learned the ropes of commercial fishing, mastering tractor driving and boat operation, and gaining knowledge about various fish species.
Under her grandmother’s guidance, she also developed culinary skills, assisting in meal preparation for the fishing crew.
Salamatof Beach holds sentimental value for Captain Bristol, being more than just a workplace but a cherished location filled with meaningful experiences.
Alongside her role as a deckhand for Homer Halibut Hunters, Captain Bristol also serves as a captain for Kenai Sportfishing, leading bear flyout trips and Kenai River Salmon fishing expeditions, showcasing her expertise in Alaska’s fishing industry.
Alaska Born & Raised
2024 will be Captain Bristol’s second year as part of the sport fishery on the Kenai River and our halibut team in Homer.
In 2023, armed with a filet knife, a skill honed through years of fishing with her family, she found joy in preserving the harvest. Fishing is not just an experience; it’s a fusion of excitement on the water, the awe of Alaska’s nature, and the crisp air of the Kenai Peninsula.
One of the most rewarding aspects of fishing is the sense of community. The thrill of the catch is magnified by the diverse people she meets. Each sharing their own stories and life adventures
Guided by the wisdom of her parents and grandparents, she has been fortunate to gather knowledge about the areas I fish. Local insights, understanding weather patterns, and adapting to seasonal variations are the keys to successful fishing. Different fish species respond to specific bait and lures, and every day is a chance to learn something new.
Beyond fishing, her love for the outdoors extends to snowboarding at Alyeska Ski Resort during winter. Camping in the summer allows her to connect with nature and relish the simplicity of outdoor living.
Off Season
During the winter months, Captain Bristol trades her fishing gear for a barista apron, working in our small-town coffee huts. Engaging with people, building connections, and providing excellent customer service is something she take pride in.
Bristol is always eager to deepen her knowledge and provide our guests and clients with the best fishing experience possible. Every day on the water brings new techniques, different tackle, and the opportunity to understand the lives of King Salmon, Sockeye, and Coho in their natural habitat.
Bristol divides her time between our halibut operations in Homer and our river operations on the Kenai. Somedays you may find her guiding on the Kenai River and other days she might be working on our halibut boats in Homer, Alaska. There’s even a chance given the right schedule she’ll fish both of those amazing places with you.
We’re thrilled Bristol is an important part of Kenai Sportfishing and continues to pursue her passion for Alaska.