Alaska Salmon Fishing Charters – Choosing Your Guide and Where to Go

For most of us, booking a charter trip to fish for the famous wild Alaskan salmon is a treat and possibly a once in a lifetime trip. Alaska is a big state and fishing is big business. To make the most of your trip, invest a few hours in some research. You and your captain will be grateful you did.

What type of fish do you want to catch?

Alaska hosts five species of salmon, plus other game fish such as Dolly Varden, Arctic Grayling and Alaska Rainbow Trout. Charter services often specialize in the fishing expeditions they offer, so decide up front the fish you are after. Fishing seasons in Alaska vary from region to region. Check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Sport Fish Division for the yearly sport fishing regulations and seasons for each year. An interactive map is available on their site to find these regulations. Also, check for any emergency orders issued by the departments. These emergency actions may decrease creel limits or close seasons and will always supersede the published regulations.

Be up front about your goals and desires. A conscientious guide will be up front with you about their expertise.

River or Ocean Fishing?

Once you have decided on the type of fish you want to catch, the next question is what type of fishing are you interested in – river or ocean. Some of Alaska’s sport fish are present in both waters and the fishing technique is often a personal choice.

River fishing is generally fly fishing, drift fishing and some trolling. Peaceful and unhurried, this venue allows for wildlife watching and appreciation of the surroundings.

Ocean charters are almost always trolling or “jigging”. This is open water fishing with exposure to the whims of the sea and the weather. Some charter services offer combination trips. For example, one service offers what is known as a “combo” trip in which 2 to 3 hours of trolling for early season salmon is combined with a halibut charter.

Is Gear Provided and What Quality Is It?

Most services provide quality gear. Broken poles and jammed reels make for miserable trips, not to mention terrible advertising. Bad experiences have a way of getting around. If you have your own gear that is adequate for this type of fishing and wish to bring it along, be sure to ask first. If you have never done this type of fishing before, allow the service to outfit you with their gear.

How Much Will it Cost?

Once you have contacted your potential charter service, but sure you mention how many people will be in the party and how long you want to fish. Unless you are a seasoned fisherman used to long days on the water, a full day in a rocking boat in Alaska’s unpredictable elements might be too much. In this case, opt for a half day, which is usually 3 to 5 hours. Come away with pleasant memories instead of exhaustion.

Most rates are around $200.00 to $300.00 per person per day depending on where you fish. Discounts are usually defined on websites. Ask if taxes, meals, port fees or fuel surcharge are included.

Deposits are required and cancellation/refund policies should be made clear.

What Should The Charter Service Provide?

Fast, safe, late model sport fishing boats Friendly, experienced and licensed Captain and crew Top quality fishing tackle with rigging appropriate for the fish species All bait and lures Fish cleaning (not always, but a heavy tip is usually provided to whoever cleans your fish) All instruction necessary to catch fish. Better charters offer vacuum sealing, freezing and shipping.
What Should You Bring With You?

Food and beverages (NOT usually supplied by the charter. Ask.) Rain Gear (Sometimes supplied by the charter. Ask.) Camera Motion sickness Pills Fishing license and king stamp (if fishing kings) **BUY YOUR FISHING LICENSE ON-LINE AHEAD OF TIME (See ADF&G website for details) Cooler or bags to transport cleaned fish in your car Weather appropriate clothing (dress in layers) Sunglasses Sunblock Bug Repellent Rubber Boots
Other Things to Consider

Does the charter have a private head (bathroom)? This might make for a more enjoyable trip. Find out a definite departure time and Be On Time! Find out in advance what the cancellation policy is. The fishing season is limited and each day counts for these businesses. On the other hand, Alaskan weather can be unpredictable and no reputable service should insist that customers endure harsh conditions.

Following the above guidelines should connect you with the captain and service that will help you land that trophy fish of a lifetime.

By: Jeff Craft

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