Hoonah Half-Day Fishing and Whale-Watching Charter in Icy Strait
Board a heated 32-foot charter out of Hoonah and spend 2.5–3 hours chasing salmon, halibut—and the blows of humpback whales in nutrient-rich Icy Strait. This hybrid fishing and whale-watching trip pairs local knowledge with close-up marine encounters on a small, six-passenger vessel.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for variable weather
Temperatures and ocean spray change quickly; wear a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof shell.
Bring motion-sickness medicine
Rough channels and tide-swept currents can make even calm days choppy—take medication at least 30 minutes before departure if you’re susceptible.
Pack a telephoto and binoculars
A 200–300mm equivalent lens and compact binoculars will help capture blows and flukes without crowding wildlife.
Respect wildlife distance
Follow your guide’s instructions—never pursue whales or approach haulouts; patience yields better, safer sightings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hoonah Totem Park and waterfront walk—short, informative stops with cultural markers
- •Quiet coves east of Icy Strait Point where sea otters commonly raft in kelp beds
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Steller sea lion
Conservation Note
Operators follow established whale-watching guidelines and local rules—keep distance, limit noise, and avoid litter to protect feeding grounds and fragile shorelines.
Hoonah is a Tlingit community whose economy shifted from subsistence and canneries to tourism; many local operators maintain intergenerational ties to the water.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow for wide ocean compositions
- • Heated cabin doorway for framed wildlife shots
- • Approach routes near shallow feeding flats for whale blow rises
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and blocks wind spray while on deck.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)Essential
Insulation for cool mornings and damp conditions.
Binoculars or compact spotting scope
Helps locate distant whales and seabirds without crowding wildlife.
Sea-sickness remedyEssential
Prevents nausea in swell-prone channels—take before boarding.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
Tours run approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from boarding to return.
Is fishing gear provided?
Yes—guides supply rods, tackle, and instruction for the species targeted during your trip.
Can children and those with mobility limits join?
Yes—the operator notes the boat is accessible to small wheelchairs and suitable for all fitness levels, but stepping aboard requires balance.
Will we see whales for sure?
No wildlife can be guaranteed, but Icy Strait’s currents make sightings likely during the main season—guides know where to search and maximize opportunities.
What happens if weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for safety; the operator will notify you and all sales are final according to their policy, so consider travel insurance.
Where do we meet and is pickup available?
Meet at the Harbor Master parking lot or at the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point; pickups from cruise docks are coordinated—confirm your pickup point when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5–3 hours
Location
Hoonah, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity; guests should be able to step on/off a boat and move around a small cabin.
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