Private Ketchikan Salmon & Halibut Fishing Combo with Whale Watching — 5-Hour Charter
Combine hands‑on salmon and halibut fishing with whale and wildlife viewing on a private 5‑hour Ketchikan charter. Guides supply tackle and local knowledge so families and first‑timers can focus on the catch and coastal spectacle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Expect changing conditions—wind, spray, sun—so wear a waterproof outer layer over insulating midlayers.
Bring motion‑sickness remedies
Even in protected channels some people feel queasy; take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding.
Protect your camera
Use a waterproof case or dry bag and keep a fast zoom lens ready for whale blows and eagle portraits.
Know catch limits
Ask the captain about daily bag limits and size regulations—rules vary by species and season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Creek Street boardwalk for early morning salmon activity and historic shingle‑style buildings
- •Saxman Native Village totems and carving demonstrations across the channel
Wildlife
- •Humpback whales
- •Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Adhere to catch limits and handling best practices—properly releasing undersized fish helps sustain stocks; minimize single‑use plastics and follow captain guidance to reduce disturbance to marine mammals.
Ketchikan sits within Tlingit homeland and grew during the late 19th‑century fishing and timber booms; totem pole art around town reflects cultural continuity tied to marine resources.
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you dry from spray during cooler spring mornings.
Non‑slip deck shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet surfaces while boarding and fishing.
Motion‑sickness medication or bands
Helpful if prone to seasickness in choppy or unfamiliar water.
Telephoto zoom or binoculars
Makes whale blows and distant wildlife easier to spot and photograph.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
For guided charters in Alaskan waters, the guide typically holds the required commercial license and provides the necessary permits—confirm with your operator before the trip.
Are children allowed on the private charter?
Yes—these private tours are family‑friendly and suitable for most ages, though very young children should be supervised and wear life jackets.
What happens to the fish we catch?
Most operators will fillet and bag your catch; many offer packing and shipping services to send your fish home or can store it for pickup.
What wildlife can we expect to see besides fish?
Common sightings include humpback whales, killer whales at times, bald eagles, seals, and porpoises depending on season and location.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ketchikan, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light physical activity: able to stand for periods, handle rod work and climb a small step to board
Ready to Explore Ketchikan?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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