Alaska's Best Guides
Captain Mike Nichols
It's my distinct pleasure 
to
introduce you to one of Alaska's best fishing guides, Captain Mike Nichols.
The following Q&A format will reveal much about Mike's approach
to providing Tanaku's guests with a world-class Alaska sport fishing
adventure. Steven Moore, CMA of AQMG will be asking each guide a few
questions.
Steven Moore
Mike, how many seasons have you guided in Alaska?
Mike Nichols
I have been working for Tanaku Lodge since it was built. I started out
as a deckhand for the first ten years, and then took over as captain
when Jim and Dennis bought the lodge.
Steven Moore
I understand you are a fishing maniac, and enjoy sport fishing,
as well as, commerical fishing. Tell me a little about that.
Mike Nichols
Yes, I am a 'fishing fanatic', can't deny that! I just like to "KILL
FISH". So, whatever is biting I want to capture it! Fishing is in my
blood.
Steven Moore
What techniques and methods do you use to catch those wily
fish critters?
Mike Nichols
I like to anchor when fishing for halibut. It is quiet and peaceful and
you can take in the surroundings while catching fish. I also troll,
jig, or mooch for salmon. Whatever they are biting on that day or time,
we will use to catch fish.
Steven Moore
What's your approach to making sure your clients are happy?
Mike Nichols
I talk with the guests each day about what they want to do
that day. Whether it is sight seeing, or fishing for a particular
species of fish. I want to do what they want. There will always
be plenty of fish to catch, but what makes the difference is
the whole experience. We will stop and watch whales, sea lions,
and sea otters. Pods of killer whales and humbpacks grace our
waters. It's really thrilling to watch them!
Steven Moore
What other areas do you enjoy sport fishing?
Mike Nichols
I have fished mainly the west coast. Oregon and Washington. I guide for
Steelhead in the Alsea and Silatz rivers in Oregon. So, if you want to
catch a steelhead - give me a call!
Steven Moore
What do you find particularly rewarding about the guiding profession?
Mike Nichols
Catching fish and fulfilling guest's DREAMS!
Steven Moore
Describe what Alaska means to you personally.
Mike Nichols
Alaska has probably save my life. I have an allergy to grass pollens
and fortunately Elfin Cove does not have any pollens.
Steven Moore
How do specific weather conditions impact fishing methods chosen?
Mike Nichols
If it is blowing hard and the Kings are on the coast and not inside, it
is difficult on that day to get to them and target them. We have to do
an alternate plan. There is always a place to fish and catch fish since
we have so much protected fishing areas.
Steven Moore
What is the strangest critter you have caught while fishing in Alaska?
Mike Nichols
Wolf eel and pastisacho. Commercially, I have caught some giant squid.
Steven Moore
Tell me about the biggest fish you have caught in Alaska.
Mike Nichols
I have caught King Salmon weighing sixty and fifty-four pounds. I have
landed halibut in the 200 lb. class, the biggest tipping the scale at
295 pounds. I hope to break into the 300 pound class this season!
Thanks for taking time for the interview
Mike! It was a real pleasure meeting you and good luck on this coming
season. Catch THE BIG ONE FOR ME!