Everything You Need to Know About Ketchikan, Alaska Fishing
Ketchikan fishing is some of the best anywhere in the world, and certainly amongst the best in the entire state of Alaska.
This picturesque fishing town is the perfect launching spot for an Alaskan fishing charter, whether you are flying in just for the fishing or stopping off during an Alaska cruise.
Five varieties of salmon are found in the waters around Ketchikan: king, sockeye, silver, chum, and pink salmon.
In addition to the plentiful salmon, there is great halibut fishing too.
The seasons for each variety of fish are:
king salmon - mid-May through late July
silver coho salmon - late June through September
chum salmon - late June through the end of August
pink salmon - late June through the end of August
sockeye salmon - July through the end of August
halibut - June through the end of August
In Ketchikan, the king (or chinook) salmon run 20-70 lbs and are a challenging fish to catch. In early summer, there are feeding frenzies as the fish feast in the waters around Ketchikan on their spawning migration.
During these frenzies, double or even triple hookups are commonly reported by fisherman.
Of course, in this region of lower Alaska, with its breathtaking scenery and abundance of wildlife, the fishing is only half the fun. I've seen everything from bald eagles to brown bear to orca in this region.
If you are heading to Ketchikan specifically for the fishing, you can get there via the Alaska ferry system, which starts in Bellingham, Washington (about 90 minutes north of Seattle).
But perhaps the easiest way to get there is via a flight from Seattle. Alaska Airlines services this route, and the flights take only 90 minutes.
Maybe the best time for Ketchikan fishing is in July and August, when all 5 salmon species and halibut abound.
Whenever you go, you are sure to have a blast in the amazing area. The fish are incredible, and the scenery is even better.
During these frenzies, double or even triple hookups are commonly reported by fisherman.
