SPORT FISHING
Perhaps the single most well-known and important activity that exists in Alaska is recreational sport fishing. Alaska offers some of the most spectacular fishing in the world. Over 386 species inhabit Alaska's salt and fresh waters, including: salmon, trout, halibut, cod, perch, char, rockfish, sablefish, mackerel, pollock and shark. However, Alaska is famous for its salmon. Whether it be king, coho, sockeye, chum, or pink, the worlds largest pacific salmon are found in the streams, rivers and waterways of this great state. You could even come away with a world record, the Alaska record for king salmon was set by a fish weighing over 97 pounds. Before you drop that line in the water, check with the Alaska Visitors Center for the current Alaska Department of Fish & Game regulations.
Sport Fishing Licenses for nonresidents:

  • 1 day $20

  • 3 day $35

  • 7 day $55

  • 14 day $80

  • Annual $145

Special harvest stamps are required for king salmon at additional expense.
 
Charters
CHARTER FISHING TIPS
  1. Fishing trips are usually either half day (4 hrs), full day (6 to 8 hrs.) or multi day adventures.
  2. Fishing trips can leave in the morning or afternoon. All full day trips are going to leave early in the morning, 5 to 8am.
  3. If you are really serious about catching fish, choose a full day charter. This gives the boat time to reach the major fishing areas and spend some time there.
  4. Unless part of the package, you will be expected to provide your own transportation to the boat launch or harbor.
  5. Not all fish are available at all times of the year. Many species of fish are seasonal in nature or by regulation. Most salmon are not available year round but during certain seasons. For instance, in Southcentral Alaska, king salmon are usually available from May through July, sockeye salmon from late June through August, and coho and pink salmon from late July through September. Check before you make your reservations as to the species in season.
  6. Charter boats for fishing will usually have a limit of 6 passengers but larger boats can accommodate groups of 10, 16 or even 25 passengers. Small, open boats will usually have a limit of 3 or 4 passengers.
  7. Most charters have a minimum number of passengers, usually 2 but depending on the size of boat, which must be met before the charter will go out.
  8. You can choose to share a boat with other passengers if your party does not meet the tour minimum.
  9. Space on the boat is limited. If you want to go with your party but are not interested in fishing, you will be expected to purchase your space for the charter price.
  10. Private charters reserve the whole boat for the exclusive use of you and your group.
  11. Your charter guide is a great source of suggestions and information. They are there to help you and they want you to be successful in catching fish. They cannot catch fish for you but can provide you with tips and technique suggestions.
  12. Most charters will expect you to bring something...lunch, warm clothes, waders, rain gear, sunglasses etc. Check before you make your reservations.
  13. Most charters will clean and bag (field dress) your catch. Boxing, freezing and shipping are not included in the charter price but are usually available for additional charge.
  14. All persons, 16yrs and older, who are fishing, will be expected to have in their possession a valid Alaska Fishing License.
Call the Alaska Visitors Center & Activities toll free
RESERVATIONS CALL TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4020
VISITORS INFORMATION CALL: 1-907-929-2822
E-MAIL TO: avc@alaska.net

Alaska Visitors Center
733 West 4th Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska 99501
 
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