About Joe Hanes

My name is Joe Hanes, owner of the Fish Magnet Guide Service. I was born in Anchorage Alaska in 1962.

My parents bought land on the Kenai River in 1972. “As long as I got good grades,” every Friday I headed for the river with my dad.

When I was fifteen I caught my first 70 pound King Salmon and placed third in Field and Stream’s annual fishing contest. These certifications bring back old memories. Click on the following images which remind me of being a kid.

I graduated from high school and attended University of Idaho. During high school and college I guided to pay for schooling. After graduating with a teaching degree in 1986, I received my Coast Guard license and began guiding for my father and other guide services.

My own clientele grew to the point where I was guiding all the time. I had many clients in May and September, which were school months, so I decided to teach people how to fish full-time. I really enjoy guiding. Especially with youngsters. Fishing can change a young person’s perspective on life.

I purchased land along the Kenai in 1995 and built my log cabin. Soon after friends and I built three log guest cabins. The first thing we built was a big rock fire pit that is still here today. Many stories have been told around that fire and many fine meals served. When time allows I try to cook up some fresh fish for the clients. That way they know how to prepare their fish when they get home.

I think we have as much fun off the water as on it. Read more about my guides: alaska fishing.

I became very involved in fishery politics in the 1990’s. I served as the President of the Kenai River Guides Association for 5 years. I also was appointed to the Governor’s task force to alleviate guide issues on the Kenai River. Today I continue to be involved with both fishing and hunting issues on the statewide level.

I donate several fishing trips a year to many local and nationwide charities including Make a Wish Foundation and American Diabetes Association. I also donate my time to the University of Alaska’s Guide Academy teaching the “guide ethic’s” portion of the class.

Everyday I try to give my clients a little fishing tip for life so they actually learn more about fishing and have something to take with them. I also really enjoy pointing out the wildlife interaction that goes on around us everyday while on the water. It really adds to the trip. I take great pride in guiding my clients both on and off the water.

Please contact me today if I may help answer questions or to reserve your next fishing trip.

Joe Hanes

Team Fish Magnet

Telephone: 1.907.262.6388 (day or night)