Salmon Fishing in Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World. You'll see why on this exciting half-day fishing charter - a half day you'll talk about for years!

After meeting your representative on the pier, a short walk will take you to your waiting fishing boat, which holds no more than six guests. The boats that are used range in size from 28 to 40 feet in length and have a very basic head.

Setting out from Ketchikan, your crew will get you your fishing license and any additional stamps you may want, as you head to the nearby sheltered waters. During this Ketchikan fishing tour, enjoy the hospitality of your experienced Coast Guard-licensed captain who will relish the opportunity to show you, your family, and your friends the breathtaking beauty of Ketchikan from our "local viewpoint" - on the water, pursuing the king, silver, pink, and chum salmon runs that abound in the sheltered waters of Clover Passage.

The fishing on this Ketchikan port tour incorporates trolling and downriggers. The line on the fishing pole is attached to a cable with a clip that allows the captains to get the bait (or lures) down to the depth of water where the fish are located. The poles stay in rod holders (guests do not hold the poles) so that any movement will take the line off of the downrigger cable. The captains will vary the depths on all of the lines to increase the probability of catching fish. When the fish hit, the line comes off of the downrigger automatically (sometimes it may need to be pulled off of the cable). At this point, the guest takes the pole out of the rod holder and starts reeling in their catch! It is sometimes difficult for guests to feel they are fishing when they are not holding a pole, however, this is the only way to fish for salmon in the ocean.

Glimpses of our local mammals and birds - whales, seals, sea otter, porpoise, sea lions - may also be on the excursion agenda; don't be surprised when a majestic bald eagle swoops down near your boat, fishing for its own catch of the day, and allowing you a stellar photo opportunity.

Please Note: This is a catch and release tour until June 7, 2022. Starting June 8, 2022 you will have the option to ship your catch home for an additional fee. Fishing gear, tackle, and bait are included. Mandatory fishing licenses and king salmon tags must be purchased directly from your captain on the charter vessel on the day of your tour. All customers must bring $15 US in cash to purchase a fishing license and $15 US in cash to purchase a king salmon tag from the captain in order to participate. King salmon availability varies, from May 1st to July 1st. The purchase of the king stamp is a requirement if you are fishing for king salmon. If the king stamp is not required you will not have to get one (From July 2nd to September 30th). Not having the King Stamp purchased before the fishing trip means you will not be able to keep a king salmon if caught. Please see the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website for current retention regulations for non-resident charter fishing. All guests ages 16 and older must have a license.