Ketchikan Salmon & Halibut Fishing Charter — 4–6 Hour Family-Friendly Adventure
Board a small private charter from downtown Ketchikan and spend 4–6 hours angling for salmon and halibut under the guidance of an experienced captain. Family-friendly and all gear provided, this tour puts you on productive Southeast Alaska fishing grounds with pick-up from the cruise ship dock.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress waterproof and in layers
Weather changes quickly on the water—bring a waterproof shell, insulating mid-layer, and a hat to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring seasickness prevention
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding—the captain can help with calmer areas but conditions vary.
Follow handling and limit guidance
Listen to the captain’s instructions for landing and handling fish to protect meat quality and comply with regulations.
Secure non-slip footwear
Decks can be wet and slippery—wear supportive, rubber-soled shoes to maintain grip and comfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Piles of old cannery pilings near the head of the channel that attract feeding seabirds and provide good photo ops
- •Slipways and shorelines where brown bears sometimes forage in early summer—view from a distance with guidance from the captain
Wildlife
- •bald eagles
- •harbor seals
Conservation Note
Local charters follow Alaska Department of Fish and Game limits and encourage sustainable catch practices; avoid single-use plastics and respect wildlife viewing distances.
Ketchikan grew around the fishing and canning industries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; Tlingit communities have long managed salmon runs in the region.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat looking aft toward town and forested ridges
- • When a fish is landed—tight shots of hands and trophies
- • Near shallow reefs where surface activity highlights salmon runs
What to Bring
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Keeps wind and spray off you during cool, wet spring outings.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet boat surfaces and protect feet during landing and filleting.
Motion-sickness medication or bandsEssential
Helps ensure comfort for those prone to seasickness on choppy afternoons.
Insulated mid-layer
Retains warmth between gusts in cooler shoulder seasons.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
No—charter operators typically hold a group license that covers guests, but the captain will confirm local rules and limits onboard.
Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes—this is a family-friendly charter; infants must sit on laps and the crew will help children with gear and safety instructions.
What species can I expect to catch?
Common targets are Pacific salmon species (depending on season) and halibut; the captain adjusts locations and gear to the season’s best prospects.
What if the weather is bad?
Operators may cancel for unsafe conditions and offer refunds if cancelled at least 24 hours prior; they run in a wide range of weather but safety is the priority.
Are rods, bait, and tackle provided?
Yes—everything needed for fishing is supplied, and the captain provides hands-on instruction for all skill levels.
Where do tours depart from?
Most charters meet at the downtown cruise-ship dock in Ketchikan—pickup and drop-off from the pier are included in the tour.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–6 hours
Location
Ketchikan, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic mobility for stepping on/off the dock and steady footing on deck recommended.
Ready to Explore Ketchikan?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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