Bordered by the Arctic and the Pacific Ocean, Alaska is teeming with different types of fish. Although the state is prized for its wildlife and scenery, fishing is one of the most popular Alaskan adventures among tourists.
For one, Alaska is home to Ketchikan, nicknamed the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This fishing village boasts of some of the best international anglers who have been coasting the waters for decades.
With its reputation, many fishers dream of visiting the state to experience the thrill of an Alaskan catch. Whether you’re a long-time angler or a newbie, the best way to ensure a great haul is to plan your trip thoroughly.
First, you need to make sure you’re fishing legally before drive up to any lake.
Nonresidents over the age of 16 are required to have a sport fishing license, even if you’ll just be fishing for personal use. Plus, it’s a good idea to get a king salmon stamp if you’re planning to score some of the pink-fleshed fish. You never know when you’ll chance upon this sought-after fish, so it’s best to come prepared.
These laws apply for fresh and salt waters. You can easily apply for licenses and stamps online and have them delivered to your home. Purchase them before your trip to avoid any delays. But if you need a license at the last minute, they’re also available in sporting goods stores and Fish and Game offices in Alaska.
After securing your permits, decide which fish you plan to bring home. Whether you want halibut or salmon will determine the timing of your trip.
Chinook or king salmon, silver salmon, pink salmon, lingcod, yelloweye rockfish, and Pacific halibut are some of the common game in the salt waters of Ketchikan. These fish, however, have different active periods. Schedule your trip according to the season of your desired fish.
Below are the peak seasons of different kinds of fish, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:
From the list, you can see that the best time for an Alaskan fishing adventure is from July to August, which are the warmest summer months in Ketchikan. This period is when many types of fish are active, giving you better chances of a good haul.
Finally, choose your lure or bait depending on the fish you’re after to maximize your catch.
Different kinds of fish are attracted to different scents, determining the kind of bait you use. Long-time anglers give reliable, research-backed advice as to what lure works best for which fish. For example, the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service found out that herring aren’t good baits for halibut. The softness of the fish makes it crumble quickly.
Fresh salmon makes the best bait for halibut. Its scent is very attractive, allowing you to quickly lure game. But it’s also tough enough to last for several line casts. For freshwater salmon, salmon eggs are the top bait option.
Lastly, remember to check the weather on the day of your trip. This ensures that you can get in and out of fishing locations, especially the remote ones. Cover all of your bases – ice fishing boots, gear, equipment, and your fishing skills – and you can count on a bountiful catch.
