Never Monday Charters ( Ken Gross )

Situated in Haines, Alaska, Never Monday Charters, operated by Captain Ken Gross, offers saltwater fishing excursions that have garnered consistently high praise from its clients over many years. The business provides a specialized service focused on small-group outings, aiming to deliver a comprehensive Alaskan maritime experience that extends beyond just fishing. An analysis of its operations, customer feedback, and the background of its proprietor reveals a service with distinct advantages and some inherent considerations for potential customers planning Alaska fishing trips.

The Captain and the Operation

The central figure of Never Monday Charters is Captain Ken Gross, whose extensive experience is a cornerstone of the business's reputation. According to his company's history, Ken Gross has been navigating and fishing in Southeast Alaskan waters since the mid-1970s, starting with commercial salmon and halibut fishing before transitioning to charter services. His background includes not only decades of hands-on fishing but also captaining larger passenger vessels in Glacier Bay National Park, a role that required expertise in spotting and safely approaching marine wildlife. This deep, long-term familiarity with the local marine environment is a significant asset, frequently cited by customers who value his knowledge. The operation appears to be a small, likely family-involved business, with reviews mentioning crew members like Stephanie, Lucy, and Dylan who contribute to a personalized and welcoming atmosphere on board.

Interestingly, the business maintains a presence in both Haines and Skagway, operating out of Slip #A3 in the Skagway Small Boat Harbor as well. This dual-location approach allows them to cater to clients from different points of entry, including cruise ship passengers looking for independent shore excursions. The company explicitly states that by operating independently of cruise lines, they can offer more competitive pricing. The listed 24/7 opening hours should likely be interpreted as constant availability for bookings and inquiries via phone or their website, rather than round-the-clock charters.

The Onboard Experience: Vessel and Amenities

A recurring theme in client feedback is the quality of the vessel, the "NEVER MONDAY." Patrons describe it as modern, clean, and well-equipped. One detailed review from a decade ago highlighted its "state of the art tech," including fish finders and plotters, which contribute to locating fish effectively. The boat is designed for client comfort, featuring a heated cabin, a fully functional restroom (head), and a spacious back deck—noted as being 12.5 feet wide—that allows multiple anglers to fish simultaneously without feeling crowded. The inclusion of a flying bridge with seating for six offers elevated, unobstructed views, enhancing opportunities for sightseeing and photography. These amenities suggest a focus on providing a comfortable and civilized day on the water, regardless of the famously unpredictable Alaskan weather.

What They Offer: More Than Just Fishing

While the primary service is guided fishing excursions, Never Monday Charters consciously integrates other elements into their trips. They are positioned as a multi-faceted marine tour provider.

• Fishing: The main draw is saltwater trolling for salmon, particularly King (Chinook) Salmon. Haines and the surrounding Lynn Canal area offer opportunities to catch all five species of Pacific salmon, as well as halibut, Dolly Varden, and various cod species. The company leverages the long King Salmon season in this specific region, which can extend from May through September, a key selling point. Captain Ken also provides fish processing and shipping arrangements, a critical logistical service for travelers wanting to take their catch home.
• Wildlife Viewing: Customer accounts are filled with mentions of significant wildlife encounters. Humpback whales, orcas, seals, and various sea birds are commonly sighted. A particularly unique mention is an eagle known as "Fred," suggesting the crew has an intimate knowledge of local fauna. This focus on wildlife makes the charter appealing to mixed groups where not everyone is a hardcore angler. Captain Ken's membership in the Alaska Audubon Society underscores a commitment to responsible wildlife observation.
• Photography and Scenery: The trips are promoted as scenic cruises, capitalizing on the dramatic landscape of Alaskan fjords, mountains, and waterfalls. The stable, spacious boat provides a good platform for photography, a point confirmed by a client who, despite a slow fishing day, rated the experience as excellent due to the incredible photo opportunities.

Analyzing Customer Feedback: The Good and The Not-So-Good

The public sentiment for Never Monday Charters is overwhelmingly positive. The high rating is built on several key strengths that consistently appear in reviews spanning over a decade.

Key Strengths:

• Exceptional Service and Adaptability: The most prominent positive attribute is Captain Ken and his crew's ability to create a positive experience even when circumstances are not ideal. Multiple reviews state that when fishing was slow due to weather or natural factors like "bait balls," the crew's efforts ensured guests still had a memorable time. This adaptability is crucial for any business dependent on nature and speaks to a high level of professionalism.
• Expertise and Knowledge: Clients repeatedly praise the captain's skill in finding fish and his deep knowledge of the area. This confidence in the captain is a major factor for those investing in what can be a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska adventure tour.
• Vessel Quality: The clean, comfortable, and well-equipped boat is a frequently mentioned highlight, ensuring a pleasant experience for families and individuals who may not be accustomed to long periods on the water.

Potential Downsides and Considerations:

No business is without areas for consideration, and for a prospective client, it's important to understand the full picture.

• The Unpredictability of Fishing: The most significant "con" is not a fault of the charter itself, but a reality of the pursuit. As evidenced by customer reviews, catching a trophy fish is never guaranteed. Factors like weather, salmon runs, and water conditions can impact success. One client noted they "didn't catch much," while another was "unable to fish much due to the weather." While the company excels at mitigating disappointment with sightseeing and excellent service, those whose sole objective is a guaranteed catch must temper their expectations. This is a universal consideration for all salmon fishing charters.
• Cost and Booking Policies: A private charter is a significant investment. The rates listed on their website are per person for small groups, with an option to book the entire boat for a private trip at a higher cost. Their cancellation policy is also something to note: cancellations for weather, illness, or mechanical issues on their end result in a 90% refund (10% is held for expenses). However, if a client cancels for any other reason within 30 days, there is no refund. They strongly recommend travel insurance, which is prudent advice for anyone booking this type of excursion.
• Small Operation Scale: Being a small, captain-owned operation is a double-edged sword. It allows for highly personalized trips but may also mean limited availability, especially during peak season. Spontaneous, same-day bookings are unlikely, so advanced planning is essential.

Conclusion

Never Monday Charters, under the guidance of Ken Gross, presents itself as a premium private boat charter service in the Haines/Skagway area. Its strengths lie in the immense experience of its captain, the quality and comfort of its vessel, and a proven ability to deliver a holistic and enjoyable Alaskan experience that transcends simply catching fish. The operation is well-suited for families, small groups, and serious anglers who appreciate a personalized approach and understand the realities of fishing in the wild.

The primary consideration for potential clients is managing expectations regarding the catch and being aware of the financial commitment and booking policies. The evidence strongly suggests that even on days when the fish aren't biting, the combination of spectacular scenery, potential wildlife encounters, and a skilled, amiable crew provides substantial value, making it a reliable choice for those seeking high-quality fishing vacation packages in Southeast Alaska.