Alaska's Best Guides
Captain Roger Paddock
It's my distinct pleasure 
to
introduce you to one of Alaska's best fishing guides, Captain Roger Paddock.
The following Q&A format will reveal much about Roger'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
Roger, how many seasons have you guided in Alaska?
Roger Paddock
I have been fishing in Alaska the last seventeen years. I have worked
as a commercial troller for Salmon and have done some commercial halibut
fishing too. I really enjoy fishing. What can I say? It's in my blood!
Steven Moore
I understand you are a fishing maniac, and enjoy sport fishing,
as well as, commerical fishing. What's your favorite fish to
target in Alaska's fertile waters?
Roger Paddock
Yes, I am a 'fishing fool'. That's for sure! My favorite fish to catch
is the King Salmon. I really enjoy the fight and challenge of landing
those magnificently strong fish, and it is really a treat watching
our guests fight and catch those mighty fish! There simply isn't anything
more enjoyable.
Steven Moore
What do you enjoy about working for Tanaku Lodge?
Roger Paddock
Tanaku is a great place to work! I especially enjoy the spirit of team
work that characterizes Tanaku. We all 'pull together' to create a memorable
fishing and lodging experience for our guests. When we are fishing and
someone gets into a bite, we let each other know what is working and
where the fishing is particularly good. There are many days when we release
a lot of fish, but we are having fun catching them.
Steven Moore
What's your approach to making sure your clients are happy?
Roger Paddock
My approach to taking care of the guests is to talk with them
about what they want to fish for and then target them so the
guests really enjoys their trip. We can fish for many species
in the same day. Having such a wide assortment of fish makes
day-today fishing success easier to attain.
Steven Moore
What other areas do you enjoy sport fishing?
Roger Paddock
I have fished a lot of the water in Oregon. Both fly-fishing and spin
casting.
Steven Moore
What do you find particularly rewarding about the guiding profession?
Roger Paddock
I really enjoy being part of the excitement of catching fish! There is
no bigger thrill than watching a client catch a big salmon or halibut!
Steven Moore
Describe what Alaska means to you personally.
Roger Paddock
Alaska is a beautiful state. The weather changes constantly, the scenery
is fantastic, and there are no crowds, traffic, or sirens! It's very
peaceful! What's not to like?
Steven Moore
What are your favorite fishing techniques to catch those wily fish critters?
Roger Paddock
I use whatever fishing methods and techniques that prove to be effective
on any particular day. Herring, plugs, secret lures... You have to be
adaptive to the conditions. What works one day, may not work the next.
I just enjoy catching fish!
Steven Moore
What is the strangest critter you have caught while fishing in Alaska?
Roger Paddock
Wolf eel and octopus.
Steven Moore
Tell me about the biggest fish you have caught in Alaska.
Roger Paddock
I have caught King Salmon weighing 60.2 pounds and 50 pounds. I have
caught lots of halibut in the 200 lb range, with the biggest tipping
the scale at 298 pounds. My goal, this season, is to break the 300 pound
barrier!
Thanks for taking time for the interview
Roger! It was a real pleasure meeting you and good luck on this coming
season. Catch THE BIG ONE FOR ME!