Freshwater fishing is an enjoyable, affordable outdoor activity that you can enjoy on your own without expensive guides, chartered boats or fancy equipment. You can fish in any body of freshwater where fishing is legal, which gives you many options from which to choose. With its epic salmon runs, giant halibut and plentiful trout, Alaska is a top choice among anglers. The Last Frontier state offers many types of freshwater fishing, including ice fishing and fly fishing.
Where To Fish
When deciding where to fish, there are a number of factors to take into consideration such as the weather, distance and type of fish for which you are looking. Southeast Alaska is one of the state's most popular freshwater fishing areas. The climate is comparatively mild due to the effect of warm ocean waters along the coast. Here you will find glaciers, deep fjords and lots of fish. Lakes, rivers and streams abound here, and many are stocked with fish by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Southcentral Alaska is also a popular fishing destination, particularly at the famous Kenai River and Ketchikan, home to one of the largest salmon fisheries in the state.
When To Fish
Many fish found in Alaska are migratory, and populations tend to swell at certain times of the year. While you will find fish anywhere in Alaska at any time of year, it is a good idea to find out the peak season for the particular area and type of fish you are after. Many fishing lodges get very crowded at certain times of year, which is something to consider if you want to avoid the crowds. The best salmon fishing is between August and early October.
Available Species
Alaska is home to a wide range of freshwater species, each of which prefers certain habitats, foods and fishing styles. Cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, steelhead or sea-run rainbow trout, arctic char, northern pike, sheefish, grayling, chinook salmon, coho salmon and sockeye salmon are among the most common freshwater species. Some species, like the salmons and certain trout, are also found in saltwater but migrate through rivers, lakes and streams.
Licensing
A fishing license is required for all fishermen in Alaska, regardless of the duration of the fishing excursion. Licenses are available through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website and can also be purchased at many outdoor retail and bait shops throughout the state, including Anchorage Mountain View Sports Center. Pricing is determined by the duration of the license. For example a one-day license for non-residents is $10, and an annual license costs $100. The annual license is "good from the date of purchase through December 31 of the license year."
Alaska Fishing Rules
Alaska imposes a number of freshwater fishing rules regarding the type of fishing and quantity of fish kept. For example, freshwater fish may not be caught using a spear, unless it is permitted by local regulations, nor can you use live bait while fishing. Fixed or weighted lures are also prohibited. Fish that are snagged unintentionally anywhere but the mouth must be released. The intentional destruction or wasting of any fish caught while sport fishing is strictly prohibited, meaning you must consume or return all fish or face heavy fines.
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