Ketchikan Fishing Charters
Ketchikan fishing charters give anglers unmatched access to Southeast Alaska's pristine backcountry waters and world-famous deep sea salmon runs.
Top Rated Charters in Ketchikan
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Ketchikan, AK Fishing Guide
Ketchikan is widely known as Alaska’s gateway for salmon fishing, offering anglers a diverse fishery that blends accessible inshore runs, deep sea excursions, and remote backcountry fishing adventures. Charters typically run half-day and full-day trips, focusing heavily on salmon during peak runs, along with productive bottom fishing opportunities offshore. The area’s fishery is structured around deep channels, fjords, countless islands, and secluded bays, providing shelter and rich feeding grounds for gamefish.
Local ramps like Knudson Cove and Bar Harbor provide easy launches with short run times—often less than 30 minutes—to prime fishing spots. Inshore and backcountry fishing focus primarily on salmon, halibut, and rockfish. Trolling with downriggers using cut-plug herring or artificial hoochies is the go-to method, especially for salmon. Bottom fishing charters, running further offshore, often anchor or drift-fish near deep underwater pinnacles and reefs, dropping baited rigs or metal jigs for large halibut, lingcod, and various rockfish species.
Seasonally, Ketchikan sees its most intense fishing action from May through September, with peak salmon runs dictating much of the charter activity. King salmon fishing peaks in late spring to early summer, followed by coho in late summer through early fall. Halibut and bottom fish remain steady throughout the warmer months but offer excellent catches from late spring into early fall. During shoulder months, local captains often shift techniques, targeting deeper structures and sheltered bays for rockfish and lingering salmon. Whether you’re looking to troll the productive channels, jig offshore reefs, or drift in quiet backcountry waters, Ketchikan has a charter experience tailored to every angler’s preference.
Fishing Seasons in Ketchikan
Spring
Spring fishing in Ketchikan signals the beginning of the king salmon season, drawing anglers eager for the year’s first runs. Trolling near shorelines, channels, and river mouths becomes particularly productive, with bait and artificial rigs both proving effective. Halibut and rockfish fishing starts heating up offshore, offering consistent action on jigs and bait rigs. The cooler waters keep fish active near the surface, allowing for shorter run distances and plenty of action close to town.
Summer
Summer is prime time in Ketchikan, with prolific king salmon runs early in the season and an abundance of coho salmon moving in by midsummer. This is also the ideal season for offshore bottom fishing, targeting large halibut, lingcod, and rockfish around deeper reefs. Full-day charters often venture further offshore to maximize catches, while inshore trips capitalize on robust salmon action around islands and passages, employing downriggers and troll rigs extensively.
Fall
Fall in Ketchikan sees the final surge of coho salmon alongside steady halibut and rockfish fishing. As salmon runs taper off, charters focus more on bottom fishing and exploring quieter backcountry areas. Drifting bait along underwater structures or jigging deeper reefs for lingcod and rockfish becomes the primary strategy. Shorter daylight hours and changing weather conditions mean charter captains choose closer, sheltered spots offering productive fishing without long runs offshore.
Winter
Winter fishing is quieter but still rewarding around Ketchikan, focusing primarily on resident species like rockfish, lingcod, and occasional winter kings. Charters typically run shorter trips, staying close to town and targeting sheltered, productive waters. Jigging deeper structure, fishing cut bait near underwater ledges, and slow-trolling for winter salmon in calm bays are common practices, making winter a peaceful yet productive season for dedicated anglers.
Gamefish in Ketchikan
- King Salmon – 15–50 lbs Caught May–July trolling cut-plug herring or hoochies along channel edges, shorelines, and river mouths.
- Coho Salmon – 8–20 lbs Targeted July–September using trolling gear and downriggers near islands, passages, and tidal rips.
- Lingcod – 10–60 lbs Caught May–October jigging heavy metal lures or fishing cut bait near rocky underwater pinnacles and ledges.
- Rockfish – 3–15 lbs Year-round species targeted near rocky structure, reefs, and kelp beds, typically using jigs and bait rigs.
Ketchikan Fishing FAQs
What’s the best month for king salmon fishing in Ketchikan?
King salmon peak from late May through June, offering the most consistent action around local islands and channels.
Do Ketchikan charters provide all fishing gear?
Yes, fishing charters in Ketchikan typically include all necessary gear, bait, tackle, and safety equipment.
Where do Ketchikan fishing charters usually depart from?
Most charters launch from Bar Harbor or Knudson Cove Marina, offering easy access to local fishing grounds.
Are fishing licenses required on Ketchikan charters?
Yes, all anglers over 16 need an Alaska fishing license, available online or from local tackle shops in Ketchikan.
What types of fish can you catch offshore in Ketchikan?
Offshore charters primarily target halibut, lingcod, and rockfish, especially from May through September.
Is Ketchikan suitable for inexperienced anglers?
Absolutely—local charter captains cater to all skill levels, ensuring beginners have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can you fish in winter in Ketchikan?
Yes, winter fishing is available and focuses on resident species like rockfish, lingcod, and occasional winter king salmon in sheltered areas.
How long do typical fishing charters last in Ketchikan?
Charters usually run half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (8–10 hours), depending on targeted species and trip preferences.
Are Fort Bragg fishing charters suitable for beginners and families?
Trolling with downriggers is best for salmon, while jigging and bait fishing are ideal for halibut, lingcod, and rockfish.
