Whether you are a die-hard fly-fishing purist or just fancy yourself as an avid angler, make sure to pin Alaska as your next fishing destination, as the waters here are one of the best places on earth to cast a line in.
We’ve done the “when, where, and how” legwork for your dream Alaska fishing trip, so read on to find out more!
Before You Go (Research, Research!)
There are multiple types of fishing in different Alaskan locations throughout the year, so deciding on the species you want to catch is a good way to start.
Fishing charters and guided tours get booked very early, so do a research to find the one you are looking for and plan your trip well in advance.
Fishing charters for salmon and halibut can also be boarded for various ports of call on an Alaskan cruise, as well as freshwater fishing on overland cruise trips, for those willing to pay the price. Cruise guests also get to sample the diverse wild wonders of the 49th state, often just minutes away from where the cruise ship leaves port.
Types Of Fish In Alaska
From halibut and rainbow trout to grayling and more, Alaska certainly has some of the best fishing in the world, with the obvious trophy contender for most being the most sought after being wild salmon, one of the tastiest fish on planet Earth!
There are five species of salmon found in Alaska, each of which spawn typically from late Spring To Fall. So, do your research on the best time to pursue whichever fish is your main target.
- Chum (Dog) Salmon
- Sockeye Salmon
- Coho Salmon
- Chinook Salmon
- Pink Salmon
Never waste a fish! If you catch a fish that is outside the size limits, or something you simply don’t want to keep, release it gently and quickly.
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Seasons Of Popular Alaskan Fish
Alaska is home to a plethora of fish species. Below is a list of the top 5 you may choose to pursue, as well as the best times of year to catch them.
- Salmon: May to September
- Halibut: March to October
- Rainbow Trout: June to September
- Rockfish: Round the year
- Dolly Vardenf Trout: July to October
While peak season runs from May to September, you can fish year-round in Alaska, providing you are willing to try new species and locations. In addition, there is ice fishing on the frozen lakes in winter.
You need a fishing license to fish in Alaska, which can be arranged right on board your cruise vessel or online. For more details, visit the website of Alaska Department of Fish & Game.
Best Fishing Locations In Alaska
Whether you’re an avid fishermen or just a casual caster, you can find a place to fish almost anywhere in Alaska where there is water.
Freshwater Fishing Locations In Alaska
Below are some of the locations you should consider for freshwater fishing in Alaska:
1. The Kenai River is considered one of the world’s best sportfishing rivers, and is renowned for chinook (king salmon) runs.
- Species: Chinook (King) salmon, sockeye salmon, silver salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden.
- Accessibility: Multiple access points for bank fishing, boat launches, and established campgrounds.
2. The Nushagak River is an excellent Alaskan fishing location that provides excellent opportunities for both salmon and trout.
- Species: All five species of Pacific salmon (Chinook, sockeye, chum, coho, and pink), along with rainbow trout, arctic grayling, and Dolly Varden.
- Accessibility: Primarily accessible by floatplane, and providing a more remote and wilderness fishing experience.
3. The Kasilof River is a shallow and milky-colored river that offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for fly fishing enthusiasts.
- Species: King salmon, especially during the early season.
- Accessibility: Accessible by road and boat, with numerous access points along the river.
4. The Situk River is a popular river for salmon fishing and is also a popular spot for fly fishing.
- Species: Salmon (Chinook, sockeye, coho), rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden.
- Accessibility: Accessible by road and boat, includng several established campgrounds and other access points.
5. The Innoko River is located in the interior of Alaska and offers a more remote fishing experience with fewer crowds.
- Species: Northern pike, arctic grayling, and other species.
- Accessibility: Primarily accessible by floatplane, requiring a more adventurous trip.
Saltwater Fishing In Alaska
For the best saltwater fishing, The Inside Passage has endless possibilities, while Ketchikan is considered the salmon capital of the world. Juneau, Wrangeli, Haines, Petersburg, Sitka and Skagway are some other key fishing getaways to coastal fishing in Alaska.
Fishing in Interior Alaska and Arctic Alaska is also a consideration, but these regions are primarily accessed only by air and riverboats.
Getting started (The Gear You’ll Need)
Here is some of the essential fishing gear you will need for your Alaska trip:
- Fishing rod, reel and tackle (well, obviously, but don’t forget to bring the appropriate rod/reel and lures for the species of fish you’ll be pursuing! Also, the appropriate type of fishing line).
- Alaska fishing license
- Clothing you can layer (this would include synthetic long underwear, long-sleeve shirts, and waterproof outer layers).
- Rain gear (no one wants to be wet and cold, right?)
- Wool socks (keep those feet and toes warm!)
- Cold weather hats (much of your body heat escapes from the head)
- Gloves
- Polarized sun glasses
- Waterproof bag (especially for your video equipment, if you plan to do any filming of your trip)
- Pocket knife (you never know when you’ll need one!)
- Insect repellant (yes, even Alaska has bugs, and you’ll want to have repellant, especially in the Summer months)
Now, Go Fish!
Alaska boasts not only some of the best fishing opportunities in the United States, but also some of the most majestic wildlife and scenery in the world. Do your research, gear up and go fish! Oh, and be sure to send us some fishing pictures!