Fishing in Alaska's fruitful streams, rivers, lakes, and in the ocean, can be both a relaxing and physically challenging sport. However, before taking your pole out to the nearest waterway know the rules and regulations of fishing in Alaska. Regulations range from federal to state to area to specific body of water, so check requirements every time you fish somewhere new.
Fishing Licenses
As of August 2010, residents and nonresidents can purchase Alaskan fishing licenses. If you have lived in Alaska for the past 12 consecutive months or are stationed in Alaska for the U.S. military for 12 months, you qualify as a resident and may purchase a one-year license for $24. Nonresidents can buy passes for one, three, seven or 14 days, or an annual sport fishing license. Fishing licenses can be bought in a package with hunting and trapping licenses.
If you are under the age of 16, you do not have to purchase a fishing license.
Fish Species Regulation
Most specific fish regulations vary by region. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game divides Alaska into 5 regions: Arctic-Yukon-Kuskokwim, Bristol Bay, Southcentral, Kodiak/Aleutian Area and Southeast. For example, in most waters of the Southeast region, anglers may bag one freshwater steelhead and possess two per year.
Statewide, fishing for King Salmon requires a specific King Salmon stamp on your license. In all Alaskan saltwater, only two sharks are allowed per angler. Halibut is protected by the federal government. Unguided anglers are allowed two halibut per day, four total in possession.
Fishing Equipment Regulations
Equipment regulations are largely dependent on how you use it. Gaffs are illegal if you intended to release the fish you used it on. In most areas, only single lines are permitted. One plug, spoon, spinner, series of spinners, two flies or two hooks can be attached. No explosives or toxic substances are allowed to be used to catch fish.
Freshwater fish may not be caught with a spear or an arrow unless permitted by the area.
Some streams and rivers are fly fishing only, like the Copper River. These rivers and streams may only be fished using fly fishing equipment.
Fishing with Bears
Wildlife is abundant in Alaska, especially as you head out into the wilderness for fishing. Be aware of safety precautions when fishing in bear country. When you catch a fish you intend to keep, immediately kill the fish. Then bleed the fish by cutting the gill arches. Let the blood drain into the water. This will decrease the chance of bears smelling blood from the fish or on your clothes.
After bleeding, keep fish on stinger, close to you in the water. Do not keep bled fish on the bank as it will attract bears.
Only clean fish at designated fish-cleaning areas or at home. Dispose entrails in the deep, fast moving water.
Boat Regulations
If you intend to use a boat while fishing, you will also want to know Alaskan boating regulations.
Motorized boats must be registered with the DMV or the USCG. Many lakes, lagoons and creeks have restricted motorboat access. Other lakes, like Sand Lake, have a wake limit during certain hours of the day.
Throwable devices, such as a throw ring or seat cushion, must be carried on board any boat between 16 and 65 feet.
Children under 13 must wear a life jacket.
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