No matter what kind of fishing you prefer, fishing in southern Alaska is an experience you won't forget. This part of Alaska offers many opportunities to catch very large fish in places surrounded by beautiful scenery. Before you take your fishing trip, however, check out different charter boats, fishing guides and lodges. Make a list of everything you'll need to take along such as warm clothing, sunscreen, food and drinks.
Fishing Locations
Anglers looking for a wide-ranging fishing experience may want to head to Ship Creek, located in downtown Anchorage in the southcentral part of Alaska, which offers a variety of fish. Fishermen who want to go big may find the Kenai River in southcentral Alaska more appealing with its large quantities of trophy-size fish. Other good fishing spots include the southeast Alaska coastline and Iliamna Lake in southwest Alaska. Southwest rivers such as the Kuskowin River and Nushagak River also offer good areas for fishing in clear waters.
Types of Fish
Fishermen can find many types of fish in the southern part of Alaska. The Chinook or king salmon are very large fish with bluish green backs and silver sides. The red snapper has a pinkish red hue on its back and head. This type of fish has a spiny dorsal fin. Ling cod is an ugly fish with fang teeth and can weigh up to 50 pounds. The rockfish is another colorful fish that grows to between 8 and 40 inches long. Take care in handling rockfish, however, as the fins contain a venom, making the fish slightly toxic.
Types of Fishing
Some of the best sport fishing in the area lies in southwest Alaska's Bristol Bay. You can catch ocean-going fish or fish that live mostly in the ocean in the part of the Alagnak River that meets with Kukaklek Lake. For both freshwater and saltwater fishing at rivers, streams and lakes, use the road system in Ketchikan in southern southeast Alaska, which makes it easy to get to these serene spots. Fishermen who want convenience can try the docks at Petersburg, Alaska, located in the center of southeast Alaska in the Inside Passage.
Charter Boats
Charter boats with professional guides can take you to many fishing areas in southern Alaska. Every charter has different features. One local charter takes you out on a boat that has a shrimp and crab puller and radar. Another charter boat takes you fishing on the waters of southern, southeast Alaska in a custom-made 32-foot aluminum boat with fishing gear and fish finding electronics. Choose a charter boat that's suited to your needs and check the charter guide's credentials to ensure he has sufficient fishing and boating experience.
Fishing License
A fishing license is required to fish in southern Alaska in both freshwater and saltwater. All non-residents aged 16 and over and most residents between the ages of 16 and 59 need a fishing license. If you're under 16 years of age, you'll need a harvest record card, which is free. You can take any type of finned fish or shellfish from either freshwater or saltwater, but you need an up-to-date stamp for king salmon. The stamp must be in ink and placed on the back of an Alaska fishing license. Prices for non-resident and resident fishing licenses may be different.
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